Chin Mount v Side Mount v Top Mount - Helmet Camera Mounting Comparisons

After receiving a message asking why I use the chin bar mount over a side or top mount for my camera, I thought I'd put 3 cameras (2x GoPro 4 Silver's, 1x Sony X1000V) on my helmet and record at the same time, flicking between each view on my XVS/V Star 1300. If you would like to support the channel & buy any of the gear I use or own for motovlogging, Amazon links are below:
Camera Gear
Main: GoPro Hero 4 Silver: amzn.to/1afLop3
Main: iPhone 5s Mic: amzn.to/1Tp4WdK
Main: Rode SmartLav Plus: amzn.to/1PdQH9V
Rode SC3 Adapter: amzn.to/1PdQOlZ
Sony FDR X1000V 4K: amzn.to/1L1uUMA
Main: Zoom H2N: amzn.to/1LHgVQy
Zoom H1: amzn.to/1FGukBq
GoPro Blackout Housing: amzn.to/1OorBCm
GoPro Battery BacPac: amzn.to/1O5ERK7
Sandisk Extreme 64GB SD: amzn.to/1L0pHp5
Clothing
Schuberth C3 Pro: amzn.to/1djB2q5
Richa 9904 Winter Gloves: amzn.to/1PFFPxT
Richa Cold Protect GTX Gloves: amzn.to/1dosoax
Dainese Fulcrum C2 Boots: amzn.to/1FFMg5x
Furygan Titan Jacket: amzn.to/1GcE8Yk
Furygan Duke Trousers: amzn.to/1T19eaD

[@jamesnickel4748]

Hey man! Really great assessment of the various possibilities. Just what I needed! Thanks for sharing your experience. Much better idea what to do now. Safe riding!

[@fall3nang3ll95]

Thanks heaps for all these explanations Dean!! If only I had found your channel first I could have saved myself SOOO much time watching a barrage of other useless videos. Such great content and everything is explained really well. Cheers again, all the way from sunny QLD, Australia.

[@robertsalyers1351]

Thanks for the information and video 📹 My gopro is mounted on the top of my Helmet 🪖

[@__tim]

One nice thing I have noticed about a top mount is it seems easier for other to see. If I had a nickel every time a moron saw my camera and then stopped be a moron...

[@user-nf1ty7bc1m]

Thx for giving real opinions and not just shilling an affiliate link ;)

[@avatarquinn]

Mr. Dean, the audio for this video (the motorcycle engine noise), was captured using what? The mic inside your helmet? Or do you have a mic ran towards the exhaust?

[@venzlester]

Go pro can still record the muffler sound or the engine sound

[@Ash-qs4qw]

Really needed this right now. thanks for posting!

[@CVODean]

+Ash k you're welcome.

[@dennisheath4734]

Thanks Dean. Very timely. I was given a GoPro for Christmas and was wondering the best way to capture my forthcoming motorcycle tour of New Zealand. I'll look for a chin mount kit. If I can't find what I need here in Singapore, I'll just stick it on the top, which also looks pretty good in your great quality video.

[@deemac2576]

Great vid, came in very handy as I’ve just bought a camera to use on the bike and I think I’m sold on the chin bar mount location. Cheers

[@temple8005]

Intresting video, good tips , i have also decided on the chin mount, also on top of helmet and the side is a problem with streamline.

[@robgutteridge1649]

Really appreciate this evaluation. I have a flip-helmet so the chin and top mounting positions are out. I have a GoPro mounted on the side which is ok but I agree with your comments about seeing the helmet. I'm going to try the chest mount that I have as on my GSA it might be high enough to give a frame similar to the chin mount which is the best in my opinion. Many thanks again.

[@nerychristian]

Why not just buy a different helmet?

[@BodybuildingSteve]

@@nerychristian depends what you do when you ride, for touring flip ups are really nice

[@sardonicspartan9343]

this is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you

[@AutomaticRider]

i tried this 3 mounting.. but for me chin mount is the best.. it really looks natural when watching.. and doesn't block the wind.

[@user-up8th6hc8b]

I like chin mount its like you really in it, what i mean is your the guy whoose vlogging or doing it

[@swebster4325]

Nice comparison there. I'm thinking about getting the GITUP GIT2 for my helmet (when I can afford it), the are like the GoPro but for A LOT LESS. It will use the GoPro microphone adapter for a standard plug on most mics. I watch another guys vlog here KZbin called Dave's Vlog and he also uses the chin mount. I really like the view from the chin mount over the side and top mounts not that I have seen your side by side by side views. Thanks so much for this review. I'm just wondering, what are those two things on the top of your windshield? That is the one drawback to the chin mount is those things act like you're lining up a shot an a weapon or something. Nothing really big, I just know that it would start bugging me if it was on my bike.

[@CVODean]

+Scott Webster which ever camera you can afford will be good, then in time if you feel you need to, you can save and upgrade. Those black bits was connected to a second deflector (previous owner), since then I have got rid of that screen and have a new tall one but it's too tall so need it cutting soon. I love the chin mount but the side mount is more practical, especially with a flip helmet.

[@thecreativearcadebyhiro]

For me: 1. Chin View 2. Top View 3. Chest View 4. Side View

[@CVODean]

I’ve never got on with chest mount. I’ve tried since buying my Harley, but still can’t get on with it.

[@deearezee]

very helpful. thank you.

[@JEEPIMPACT]

outstanding video sir, thanks!

[@CVODean]

thanks

[@docexplorer9597]

Thanks man! Very much helpful.

[@andrewl5095]

You deserved my sub for this vid

[@herrs497]

Great Video

[@cross117]

Thanks man

[@arnabasu]

thank you sir for the comprehensive comparison. it was essentially helpful to see all 3 pov's. it helps me in choosing where will it be optimal for my liking. However, real quick, for a side mount, would you say the left would be better or the right ?(I live in India and we have the traffic directions like in UK, Left lane driving)

[@CVODean]

You're welcome. Honestly I prefer the left mount, but my bluetooth headset is on the left so that got in the way. All depends on your point of view. Traffic here we ride on the left, same as you, so have a look on KZbin for Royal Jordanian, he mounts his gopro on the left and lives in the UK, then you can decide that way.

[@arnabasu]

Understood. Narrowed down on the left. Got my mount attached. Thanks a lot. Will check out his videos too.

[@dcefedutyphone8817]

Good reviews. Thanks.

[@arcadearnie]

Ye I agree, when using the gopro the chin is the best place. I will be using the sony action cam so no real choice than to mount it on the side of my helmet. What mic are you using?, as the sound quality is very good. :)

[@CVODean]

+ThatBM Guy Thanks mate. I'm using the iphone headphones mic, believe it or not lol. With the x1000v is records very loud for this helmet so no mic I tried with it recorded very well. Here's the mic explanation vid kzbin.info/www/bejne/gH60n4Vndp52j6M

[@arcadearnie]

Thank pal :)

[@venomdank965]

Top mount best for recording 360 videos....

[@CVODean]

Not had the chance to try a 360 yet. I quite like them when they’re mounted to an extended stick out the front of the bike.

[@FlecheDeFer]

Sad to say, but the plain top mount still rules.

[@superawesome4885]

I was convinced the chin mount was the best, but unfortunately my helmet isn’t that round in that area. So im gonna go with the side mount. Thanks

[@CVODean]

I personally prefer the chin mount view but as I wear an open face mainly now, I have to have a side mount.

[@HyPeDCommando]

Do you have a video or example of how you have your gopro mounted on the open face? I am running a half helmet so was looking for some ideas

[@cG-es8mb]

I am curious. Why do people mount on the right side of helmet instead of left side?

[@CVODean]

In the UK we drive on the left, on the right is a better view of everything. States on the right so left mount works better. That’s my assumption anyway.

[@cG-es8mb]

@@CVODean yeah. I going to try the left side of helmet. I am in USA. But, thinking maybe on top of helmet. Not too sure

[@canalandrecuritiba]

Very Nice!

[@CVODean]

Thanks

[@PhilipWing]

Hey Dean, great video. I've got a question: I have a gopro mount on the top of my helmet, but haven't filmed too much yet. My question is, when I go on rideouts how should I activate it and know that it's definitely filming? When having it on the handlebar it's easy to see if it's filming or not, but when it's on top of your helmet this isn't very easy. I don't like having my camera running all the time for battery and memory purposes. I'd love to hear your feedback!

[@CVODean]

two ways are, 1, with the remote (but battery dies faster), 2, set the gopro's quick capture on, then when you hit the record button, you'll hear it turn on and start recording. If you make sure all the led's are turned on in the menu, you can alway just look down into your mirror to see if theyre flashing. apart from that youve just got to hope. I change my battery every hour. if it needs it or not, that way I know I'll have a solid hour recording regardless.

[@PhilipWing]

Hey Dean, thanks for the fast response! That's a good idea, I considered adjusting my right mirror so it was easier to see if it was recording or not. When quick capture is on, does the camera turn off when I stop recording? That would be great when it comes to conserving battery... Thanks for the info man!

[@CVODean]

yes mate. camera is off, then you press record, i bleeps on, then starts recording, then when you hit it again, it stops recording then powers off. test it at home first so you can see.

[@rktech7280]

can u make video of your side case

[@bsamizoram8812]

Chin mounted is best i thing, great video. But, i have half face helmet, i want chin mounted, so, how to do chin mounted on half face helmet, any tips for this please???

[@CyrilHelnwein]

They make a go pro mouth mount haha

[@blackpagesfanzine6997]

I have my GoPro on the side of the helmet, does anyone know if it will be possible to have a microphone adapter and microphone? I only see people who have a microphone that have the camera on the front.

[@CVODean]

Yeah that’s fine. I had mine like that for a long time. I have a boom mic in my lid and just taped the gopro mic to that, routed round the back of the helmet.

[@jpslv]

What is your chin mount?

[@aggrobiker2217]

I have the Sony X1000V, but I don't trust the waterproof-ness of it without the case. Have you tried it in the rain without the case yet? Cheers.

[@CVODean]

+Aleks With a K This was my first time with the case. I had used it for a few months, 7 days a week, in some fairly heavy rain and no problems. I still use it as a backup when the gopro isnt recording, and it's out of its case.

[@aggrobiker2217]

+Dean UK Biker Martin Thanks very much, I don't have a backup camera so I just wanted to be sure.

[@CVODean]

I went back to the GoPro because of the audio. The sony was distorting everything with any mic I used. Also I prefer the look from the chin bar. So the sony was my main camera. I have dunked mine under water for a few seconds to try it, with no issues (I wouldnt do it again though as its splash proof, not water proof). All the time in the rain I had a mic plugged in so the mic door was always ope, and have had no issues. I put a rubber band around the jack so when it was fully plugged in, it created a little seal against the body, again no issues.

[@aggrobiker2217]

+Dean UK Biker Martin I'll have to try the rubber band on the mic input jack, I feel like if it did get water damaged somehow, that would be the main culprit. It's a shame the mic jack isn't on the back or something because that would mean it could have the housing on it so it's a bit less likely to break if I fall off my bike (being a new rider).

[@CVODean]

That's another reason I stopped using it as much. Sony dont think about customers. they make, sell then ignore. I've never had an issue with mine as far as rain goes. This video was the first and last time I used it on helmet in the case. If in the case I doubt the camera would break from a fall. if out the case, I think the lens may end up being ruined, and the lcd screen. Only downside, its huge in the case lol. A lot more reliable than a drift though.

[@KB-ke1nt]

I can't use chin mount on my helmet because it's too sharp!! so, what is your opinion about placing the GoPro on the side mount?

[@Quickblood1]

You can use the chin mount if you're creative with the joints.

[@AsianP3rsuAsianist]

Get sugru

[@EngSheng]

Prefer side mount ..

[@davidninnis5832]

Thanks for the post fella. Gotta go for the side mount as I have a MASSIVE.......... screen :) and, er, never wash it :/

[@ucheucheuche]

I'm so used to looking stupid that I don't know when not to. I wear action camera on top. :)

[@TheHappyRiderX]

chin mount for me

[@CVODean]

+TheHappyRider Me also mate. So much so I'm picking up a new lid for motovloging, where it'll let lots of exhaust noise in and be perfect for the chin mount.

[@TheHappyRiderX]

Dean UK Biker Martin i got the RF1100

[@TheHappyRiderX]

Dean UK Biker Martin and the RF1200

[@CVODean]

I currently use the Schuberth C3 Pro. A full faced lid wouldn't be very good for me. Although the Shark Vancore is somewhat a full face. I couldn't use a full face all the time though. Love the visor on the RF1200 though, and emergency access to pads. Was considering the Schuberth S2, but the chin bar wouldnt suit a chin mount.

[@ItsmeCote]

Top makes u look like you a teletubbies no thanks

[@alexandergarcia6588]

It’s not about the looks it’s about safety