For years, battery grips for Canon cameras often lacked reliable control and enough battery capacity. That’s why I was excited to finally test the Canon Battery Grip BG-R20. It immediately impressed me with its seamless integration and sturdy build. The ability to hold two LP batteries and the improved multi-controller really lifts portrait shooting to a new level, offering better grip and stability. It’s smooth, responsive, and feels like it was designed for serious photographers who need long-lasting power without sacrificing comfort.
Compared to other options, the BG-R20 focuses on real-world usability—quick access controls and robust construction. Although some grips, like the Hersmay models, offer similar battery capacity, they lack the refinement and ergonomic polish of Canon’s own grip. I found it superior in handling heavy lenses and prolonged shoots thanks to its proven durability. If you want a battery grip that combines genuine quality, reliable performance, and thoughtful features, Canon Battery Grip BG-R20 is the best choice I’ve tested and recommend wholeheartedly.
Top Recommendation: Canon Battery Grip BG-R20
Why We Recommend It: This grip stands out for its ability to hold two LP batteries, providing extended shooting time without added complexity. The enhanced multi-controller and vertical-shooting controls offer a more natural feel, especially in demanding situations. Its solid construction and seamless compatibility with Canon cameras make it a trustworthy choice that outperforms others like Hersmay or third-party options on durability and real-world performance.
Best battery grip canon: Our Top 5 Picks
- Canon Battery Grip BG-R20 – Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS
- Hersmay EOS R8 Battery Grip Vertical Power Battery Grip for – Best for Mirrorless Cameras
- Hersmay BG-R10 Vertical Battery Grip for Canon R5/R6 Cameras – Best for DSLR Cameras
- R5 Mark II Battery Grip for Canon EOS R6 Mark III/II, R5 II – Best for Canon EOS R Series
- Mcoplus Vertical Battery Grip for Canon EOS RP R8 – Best Value for Canon Mirrorless
Canon Battery Grip BG-R20
- ✓ Dual LP battery capacity
- ✓ Improved multi-controller
- ✓ Comfortable vertical grip
- ✕ Adds bulk to the camera
- ✕ Price is high
| Battery Capacity | Supports 2 LP batteries for extended shooting time |
| Vertical Controls | Includes controls for vertical (portrait) orientation shooting |
| Multi-controller Position | Improved multi-controller placement over BG-R10 for better ergonomics |
| Brand Compatibility | Designed specifically for Canon cameras compatible with BG-R20 |
| Build Material | Constructed to withstand professional use (implied durable build) |
| Power Source | Requires LP batteries (specific capacity not specified) |
Unlike other battery grips I’ve handled, the Canon BG-R20 feels immediately solid and well-balanced in your hand. The grip has a sleek, matte finish that doesn’t slip, even after hours of shooting.
When you attach it, you notice how seamlessly it integrates with your camera, almost like an extension of it rather than an add-on.
The real standout is the ability to hold two LP batteries. It’s a game-changer for long shoots where swapping batteries isn’t an option.
The grip’s design makes changing batteries quick and easy, with a sturdy latch that stays secure during vigorous use.
The controls are another highlight. The improved multi-controller feels more precise, making vertical shooting smoother.
The placement of buttons is intuitive, so you don’t fumble around when you need to switch settings on the fly. Plus, the vertical shutter button is comfortably placed, mimicking the main shutter for natural handling.
Using it feels natural, especially when shooting in portrait mode for extended periods. The grip adds weight, but it’s balanced well, so fatigue doesn’t set in quickly.
It also feels durable enough to withstand outdoor shoots without worry.
On the downside, the grip adds some bulk, which might be a concern for those who prefer lightweight setups. Also, the price is a bit steep, but considering the features, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.
Hersmay EOS R8 Battery Grip Vertical Power Battery Grip for
- ✓ Doubles battery capacity
- ✓ Comfortable vertical grip
- ✓ Easy tripod attachment
- ✕ Batteries not included
- ✕ Slightly bulky for compact setups
| Battery Capacity | Holds 2x LP-E17 batteries, doubling recording time |
| Battery Type Supported | LP-E17 Li-ion batteries |
| Power Switch | Yes, on/off switch for power control |
| Compatibility | Canon EOS R8 and EOS-RP DSLR cameras |
| Mounting Interface | 1/4 inch screw hole for tripod attachment |
| Material and Build | Not specified, but designed for durability and secure attachment |
As I unboxed the Hersmay EOS R8 Battery Grip, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-made it felt in my hands. The textured grip surface gave me confidence it wouldn’t slip, even during long shoots.
Attaching it to my Canon EOS R8 was straightforward, thanks to the solid screw mechanism that fit perfectly into the tripod mount.
The dual battery compartment is a game-changer. I popped in two LP-E17 batteries (which I had on hand), and the grip instantly doubled my shooting time.
Switching between single and double battery use was simple with the dedicated button, making it convenient during shoots without interrupting my workflow.
The vertical grip function feels natural—buttons are well-placed, so I can hold the camera comfortably for portrait shots. The power on/off switch is easy to access, and I appreciated the small design that doesn’t add bulk.
The grip’s weight balanced my camera nicely, especially when using larger lenses.
One feature I really liked is the 1/4 inch tripod screw hole at the bottom. It made mounting on my tripod seamless, and I didn’t worry about stability.
The build quality is solid, and the price point feels fair given how much extra runtime it provides. Overall, this grip made my photography sessions less stressful and more flexible.
Hersmay BG-R10 Vertical Battery Grip for Canon R5/R6 Cameras
- ✓ Comfortable vertical grip
- ✓ Doubles battery capacity
- ✓ Easy to use and switch
- ✕ No batteries included
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small hands
| Battery Compatibility | Supports up to two LP-E6, LP-E6NH, LP-E6N Li-Ion batteries |
| Battery Capacity | Double recording time compared to single battery setup (specific mAh not provided) |
| Power Source | Can operate as a primary or backup power source for Canon EOS R5, R5C, R6 |
| Control Buttons | Vertical grip includes shutter-release, AF-ON, multi-function, main dial, and on/off switch |
| Build and Handling | Professional-grade with enhanced vertical handling and stability for portrait and still life photography |
| Dimensions and Weight | Not specified; inferred to be compatible with camera dimensions for ergonomic handling |
Unlike many battery grips that feel bulky or overly complicated, the Hersmay BG-R10 slips onto your Canon R5 or R6 with surprising ease. It’s lightweight but solid, fitting snugly without adding unnecessary weight to your setup.
The first thing I noticed is how comfortable it feels in hand. The vertical grip mimics the main shutter release and buttons perfectly, making vertical shooting just as natural as horizontal.
It’s a game-changer for portrait shots or extended shoots where comfort matters.
Handling two batteries at once is a huge plus. I tested with a pair of LP-E6N batteries, and the extended shooting time is noticeable.
No more frantic swaps mid-shoot, especially during long sessions or events.
The build quality is impressive for the price. The grip feels durable and well-made, with a nice matte finish that doesn’t slip.
The multifunctional buttons, including AF-ON and main dial, respond smoothly, giving you full control without needing to reach for the camera body.
Switching between power sources is simple with the on/off toggle. Plus, it doubles as a backup power source, which adds peace of mind during critical shoots.
The handle adds stability, especially in portrait mode, and makes handheld shooting more secure.
At $84.99, this grip offers fantastic value. It’s a practical upgrade for anyone wanting to extend their shooting time and improve ergonomics without breaking the bank.
Overall, it feels like a smart, reliable accessory that enhances your camera’s versatility.
R5 Mark II Battery Grip for Canon EOS R6 Mark III/II, R5 II
- ✓ Doubles battery capacity
- ✓ Comfortable vertical grip
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Pricey at $159
| Battery Capacity | Supports two LP-E6P battery packs for extended shooting time |
| Compatibility | Canon EOS R5 Mark II, R6 Mark II, R6 Mark III |
| Mounting Options | Standard 1/4-inch screw hole for tripod mounting |
| Vertical Shooting Features | Vertical shutter release button, quick control dial, main dial for seamless portrait photography |
| Construction Material | High-quality durable materials |
| Additional Features | Ergonomic design for comfortable grip, secure fixation with precise positioning holes |
The first thing that caught me off guard was how effortlessly this R5 Mark II Battery Grip transformed my shooting experience. I expected it to be just another accessory, but the way it seamlessly doubled my battery life completely changed my outdoor photography game.
Fitting it onto my Canon EOS R6 Mark III was a breeze. The precise positioning holes and sturdy screw thread made installation feel secure, with no wobbling or fuss.
It’s hefty but well-balanced, giving a solid feel in your hand without feeling awkward.
The dual battery setup is a real winner. I managed to shoot all day without worrying about running out of power, even during long shoots in remote locations.
The ability to accept two LP-E6P packs is a smart move for anyone serious about extended sessions.
What shocked me most was how similar the vertical shooting experience was to horizontal. The vertical shutter button, control dial, and main dial are perfectly placed, making portrait shots feel natural and comfortable—no awkward hand stretches or clumsy movements.
The ergonomic design is evident—grip is secure, and controls are intuitively positioned. It feels like an extension of the camera rather than an add-on.
Plus, the tripod mount support at the bottom means I can set up for stable shots without removing the grip.
Overall, this grip is a solid upgrade. It’s durable, easy to use, and genuinely boosts your camera’s endurance.
Whether you’re shooting events or long outdoor adventures, it keeps you going longer and handles well in all scenarios.
Mcoplus Vertical Battery Grip for Canon EOS RP R8
- ✓ Adds extra battery life
- ✓ Improves camera stability
- ✓ Comfortable vertical grip
- ✕ Not compatible with R5/R6
- ✕ Slight increase in weight
| Compatibility | Canon EOS RP and R8 cameras |
| Battery Capacity | Supports 1 or 2 LP-E17 batteries |
| Vertical Shooting Functionality | Enables vertical shutter release with connect cable |
| Tripod Mount Compatibility | Standard 1/4 inch screw hole at the bottom |
| Remote Control Pairing | Supports remote control pairing with handle switch activation |
| Additional Features | Increases stability and balance for telephoto lenses |
Pulling this battery grip out of the box, I immediately noticed how solid and well-built it feels in your hand. The matte black finish and textured grip surface make it easy to hold, even during extended shoots.
Fitting it onto my Canon EOS RP R8 was straightforward—no fiddling required. The grip perfectly matches the camera’s contours, adding a bit of extra weight that instantly boosts stability.
I tested it with a telephoto lens, and the added balance made a noticeable difference, especially when shooting handheld.
Installing the batteries was a breeze. It holds one or two LP-E17s, which means longer shooting sessions without frequent pauses.
The grip also has a 1/4 screw hole at the bottom, so I easily mounted it on my tripod for steady shots or time-lapse setups.
Vertical shooting feels natural, thanks to the included connect cable. The shutter button and control wheel mimic the camera’s main functions, so switching to vertical orientation is seamless.
I also tried pairing the remote control—pressing the focus and shutter buttons on the handle worked smoothly, which is handy for studio or macro work.
While the grip adds some weight, it’s a fair trade-off for the extra power and stability. The only downside I found was that it’s not compatible with EOS R or R5/R6 models, so double-check your camera before buying.
Still, at this price point, it’s a solid upgrade for outdoor and extended shoots.
Why Do You Need a Battery Grip for Your Canon Camera?
A battery grip for your Canon camera offers several advantages that enhance your photography experience.
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Extended Battery Life: The primary function of a battery grip is to house one or more additional batteries, allowing for longer shooting sessions without the need to frequently replace or recharge batteries.
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Improved Handling: Battery grips often feature a more substantial grip, making it easier to hold larger lenses and providing a better ergonomic experience, especially during prolonged shoots or at awkward angles.
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Vertical Shooting Comfort: Many battery grips come with additional controls, such as shutter release buttons and dials positioned for vertical shooting. This setup helps maintain a natural grip while taking portrait-oriented photos.
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Reduced Fatigue: The enhanced ergonomics can help minimize hand fatigue during extended shooting sessions, beneficial for events like weddings or sports where you might be shooting continuously for hours.
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Weather Sealing: Many high-quality battery grips are designed to be weather-resistant, providing added protection to your camera’s electronics when shooting in challenging conditions.
Incorporating a battery grip can significantly augment both functionality and comfort for Canon camera users.
How Can a Battery Grip Enhance Your Photography Experience?
A battery grip can significantly improve your photography experience by providing extended battery life and enhanced handling.
- Extended Battery Life: A battery grip typically accommodates multiple batteries, which can effectively double the shooting time compared to using a single battery. This is particularly beneficial for photographers who engage in long shoots or events, reducing the need to frequently change batteries and allowing for uninterrupted shooting sessions.
- Improved Ergonomics: Most battery grips are designed to provide a more comfortable grip, especially when shooting in portrait mode. This added bulk can help stabilize the camera, making it easier to hold for extended periods and reducing fatigue during long photography sessions.
- Additional Controls: Many battery grips come equipped with extra buttons, dials, and controls that mirror the camera’s settings. This allows photographers to access essential functions quickly, enhancing workflow and making it easier to adjust settings while shooting in different orientations.
- Increased Stability: The extra weight provided by a battery grip can help stabilize the camera, particularly in windy conditions or when using heavier lenses. This added stability can result in sharper images, especially during handheld shooting at lower shutter speeds.
- Vertical Shooting Support: Battery grips often include a vertical shutter release button, allowing for comfortable shooting in portrait orientation. This feature is crucial for sports and event photography, where quick transitions between landscape and portrait framing are common.
- Weather Sealing: Many high-quality battery grips offer additional weather sealing, providing extra protection against moisture and dust. This feature is essential for photographers who often shoot in challenging environmental conditions, ensuring that the camera remains safe and functional.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Canon Battery Grip?
When searching for the best battery grip for Canon cameras, several key features should be considered.
- Compatibility: Ensure the battery grip is compatible with your specific Canon camera model, as different models may have varying designs and electrical connections.
- Battery Capacity: Look for grips that allow the use of additional batteries, effectively doubling your shooting time and reducing the need for frequent changes during long sessions.
- Ergonomics: A good battery grip should enhance the handling of the camera, providing a more comfortable grip, particularly during vertical shooting, which can greatly improve stability and reduce fatigue.
- Controls: Many battery grips come with additional controls such as shutter release buttons, AF point selection, and exposure compensation dials, allowing for more intuitive operation without having to adjust your grip.
- Build Quality: A durable construction is essential for a battery grip, especially if you plan to use it in challenging environments; look for weather-sealed options for added protection against moisture and dust.
- Weight and Balance: Consider the added weight of the battery grip; a well-balanced grip will complement the camera’s design without making it cumbersome, ensuring that your shooting experience remains enjoyable.
- Price: Battery grips can vary significantly in price, so it’s important to find one that offers the best value for your needs without compromising on essential features.
How Does Battery Capacity Impact Your Photography Needs?
Improved handling is another significant advantage; a battery grip often provides a more robust and ergonomic design, making it easier to hold the camera steady during prolonged sessions. This is particularly beneficial for photographers who often shoot in challenging conditions or need to maintain precise control over their shots.
Vertical shooting convenience is enhanced with battery grips that include dedicated buttons for shutter release and other controls. This feature allows photographers to shoot comfortably in portrait orientation, which can be especially useful for capturing portraits or tall subjects without having to twist their wrists awkwardly.
Enhanced performance in cold weather is a critical consideration for outdoor photographers. Battery grips can help mitigate the effects of cold temperatures, which can cause standard batteries to lose charge more quickly, ensuring that your camera remains operational even in challenging environments.
Lastly, having a backup power source is invaluable during important photography sessions. With a battery grip, you can switch to the second battery seamlessly when the first one runs low, ensuring you never miss a shot due to power loss, which is crucial during pivotal moments in your photography endeavors.
Which Battery Grips Work Best with Canon DSLRs and Mirrorless Cameras?
The best battery grips for Canon DSLRs and mirrorless cameras enhance functionality, increase battery life, and improve handling.
- Canon BG-E20: This grip is compatible with the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and features a weather-sealed design.
- Canon BG-E21: Designed for the Canon EOS 6D Mark II, this grip provides a comfortable vertical shooting experience and holds two LP-E6 batteries.
- Meike MK-5D3: A third-party option for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, it offers additional controls for portrait shooting and a robust build quality.
- Vello BG-C15: This grip works with the Canon EOS 70D and provides a comfortable grip along with extended battery life, accommodating two LP-E6 batteries.
- Canon BG-R10: Specifically made for the Canon EOS R and RP mirrorless cameras, this grip enhances stability and includes additional control buttons.
The Canon BG-E20 is designed for the EOS 5D Mark IV and is built for durability, featuring weather sealing that protects against moisture and dust. It holds two LP-E6 batteries, effectively doubling the shooting time, and includes controls for easy access to camera functions during vertical shooting.
The Canon BG-E21 is tailored for the EOS 6D Mark II, offering an ergonomic design that enhances comfort during extended shooting sessions. It provides a vertical shutter release and additional buttons for seamless operation, while also accommodating two LP-E6 batteries to extend your shooting time.
The Meike MK-5D3 is a popular third-party battery grip for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, known for its affordability and robust construction. It offers a vertical shutter release button and other controls, making it a great option for portrait photographers who benefit from better handling and battery life.
The Vello BG-C15 is compatible with the Canon EOS 70D and provides a comfortable grip for vertical shooting. It can hold two LP-E6 batteries, significantly increasing the camera’s operational time, which is particularly beneficial for events or long shooting days.
The Canon BG-R10 is specifically designed for Canon’s EOS R and RP mirrorless cameras, offering a snug fit that enhances stability during shooting. It includes controls such as a shutter release and dial, allowing for easy adjustments and a more professional feel while shooting in a vertical orientation.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Battery Grip?
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Advantages | Increases battery life significantly, allows for extended shooting sessions without interruptions. |
| Improves grip for portrait shooting | Provides a more comfortable handling experience when taking vertical shots. |
| Faster shooting speed due to dual controls | Enables quicker access to shutter and control buttons, enhancing shooting efficiency. |
| Disadvantages | Adds bulk and weight to the camera, can be expensive compared to standalone batteries. |
| Limited compatibility with some camera models | Not all battery grips fit every camera, restricting options for some users. |
| Possibility of battery drain if not used properly | If left mounted without use, batteries may drain faster than standalone options. |
How Does a Battery Grip Improve Shooting Performance in Various Conditions?
A battery grip can significantly enhance shooting performance by providing additional power and improving ergonomics in various conditions.
- Extended Battery Life: A battery grip allows photographers to use multiple batteries simultaneously, effectively doubling the shooting time before needing a recharge.
- Improved Ergonomics: The additional grip provides a more comfortable hold, which is particularly beneficial during long shooting sessions or when using larger lenses.
- Vertical Shooting Controls: Most battery grips come with dedicated controls for vertical shooting, including buttons for shutter release, AF, and exposure compensation, making it easier to shoot in portrait orientation.
- Enhanced Stability: The added weight and bulk of the grip can help stabilize the camera, reducing camera shake and improving image sharpness, especially in low-light situations.
- Weather Sealing: Many high-quality battery grips are designed to be weather-sealed, providing extra protection against moisture and dust, which is crucial for outdoor photographers.
- Quick Release Feature: Some grips feature a quick-release mechanism, allowing photographers to easily switch between handheld shooting and tripod use without removing the grip.
Extended battery life is crucial for photographers who often find themselves in situations where they cannot recharge frequently, such as during events or in remote locations. By accommodating additional batteries, a grip ensures that the camera remains operational for extended periods.
Improved ergonomics play a vital role in comfort, especially for those who spend hours capturing images. The design of a battery grip often mimics the natural grip of the camera, reducing strain on the hands and wrists.
Vertical shooting controls are essential for photographers who frequently change orientations. Having shutter buttons and other controls at hand when shooting vertically can facilitate smoother transitions and prevent awkward hand positions.
Enhanced stability is particularly beneficial when shooting with longer lenses, as the extra weight can counterbalance the camera’s movements. This stability leads to clearer images, especially in challenging lighting conditions where longer exposure times are necessary.
Weather sealing in battery grips provides photographers with peace of mind when shooting in unpredictable weather. This feature allows for continued shooting without the concern of damaging the camera from rain or dust.
The quick-release feature is advantageous for photographers who frequently switch between handheld and tripod shooting. This seamless transition can save precious time and help maintain the flow of a photoshoot, ensuring that important moments are captured without interruption.
What Should You Keep in Mind Before Purchasing a Canon Battery Grip?
Before purchasing a Canon battery grip, consider the following factors:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the battery grip is compatible with your specific Canon camera model.
- Battery Capacity: Look for grips that can hold multiple batteries to extend shooting time significantly.
- Ergonomics: Consider the grip’s design and how it affects the handling and comfort of your camera.
- Additional Features: Check for extra functionalities such as vertical shooting controls and customizable buttons.
- Build Quality: Assess the materials and construction for durability, especially if you plan to use it in various conditions.
Compatibility: It is crucial to verify that the battery grip you intend to buy is designed for your specific camera model, as not all grips fit all models. Mismatched grips can lead to poor performance or damage to your camera.
Battery Capacity: A good battery grip should allow you to use multiple batteries at once, effectively doubling your shooting time. This is particularly beneficial during long shoots or events where changing batteries frequently is impractical.
Ergonomics: The design of the battery grip should complement the camera’s form factor, enhancing your hold and stability while shooting. A well-designed grip can reduce fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
Additional Features: Many battery grips include features that facilitate vertical shooting, such as additional shutter buttons and dials, which mimic the layout of the camera in landscape orientation. These functionalities can greatly enhance your shooting efficiency and flexibility.
Build Quality: The construction quality of the battery grip is essential for ensuring it withstands wear and tear, especially if you frequently shoot in rugged environments. Look for grips made from high-quality materials that can endure daily use and harsh weather conditions.
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