Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS R5
The Canon EOS R5 is a powerhouse, but its high-resolution sensor and 8K video capabilities are notorious for draining the LP-E6NH batteries faster than a morning espresso. If you have ever struggled with hand cramps during a long portrait session or missed a shot while swapping cells, a battery grip is your best solution. While the official Canon BG-R10 is our top recommendation for its seamless integration, several third-party alternatives offer incredible value for photographers on a budget.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS R5: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-R10 View on Amazon View on B&H
If you are shooting with a $3,500 camera body, the Canon BG-R10 is the most logical companion. Released alongside the R5 in 2020, this grip is designed to the same exacting standards as the camera itself. I find the button tactile response to be identical to the camera body, which is crucial for muscle memory when switching between horizontal and vertical orientations. It houses two LP-E6NH batteries, effectively doubling your shot count. Crucially, the BG-R10 maintains the R5’s weather sealing, a feature often sacrificed with third-party brands. While it is the most expensive option on our list, the peace of mind knowing your battery communication won’t glitch during a critical wedding moment is worth every penny. The only real drawback is the price, but for a professional tool, it remains the gold standard for ergonomics and reliability.
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Neewer Vertical Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Neewer replacement for the BG-R10 is a fantastic middle-ground for those who want the functionality of a grip without the “Canon Tax.” What makes this particular model stand out is the inclusion of a 2.4G wireless remote, which is a lifesaver for long-exposure landscape shots or group family portraits where you need to be in the frame. The build quality is surprisingly sturdy, though you will notice the plastic feels slightly more “hollow” compared to the magnesium alloy-reinforced Canon version. You get the full suite of controls: the shutter button, main dial, and AF point joystick. While it lacks the extreme weather sealing of the OEM model, I’ve used Neewer grips in light mist without issue. If you are a weekend warrior or a studio photographer where environmental protection is less of a concern, this is the smartest way to save nearly $250.
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JJC Vertical Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
JJC has long been a favorite for affordable camera accessories, and their R5 grip is no exception. This is a “no-frills” product that does exactly what it says: it holds two batteries and gives you a vertical shutter button. It is significantly lighter than the Canon version, which some users actually prefer to keep the overall kit weight down. However, the trade-off is in the ergonomics. The joystick is a bit clickier and less smooth than the OEM version, and the rubber grip texture doesn’t perfectly match the R5’s body. That said, for the price of a couple of memory cards, you get the extended battery life required for 4K video recording. It’s an honest, functional piece of gear. You’ll notice the battery door feels a bit thinner, so I’d recommend being gentle with it during swaps, but for budget-conscious creators, it’s a solid win.
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Vello BG-C18 Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
Vello is widely regarded as the “premium” third-party option in the photography world. The BG-C18 feels remarkably close to the Canon BG-R10 in terms of density and balance. When I mount this to an R5, there is zero “play” or wobbling in the connection, which can be an issue with cheaper clones. It handles the power-hungry LP-E6NH batteries with ease and correctly reports battery health to the camera’s menu system—a vital feature for monitoring your remaining juice. The secondary command dials have a nice, dampened feel rather than a cheap plastic click. While it doesn’t offer the wireless remote of the Neewer, its superior build quality makes it a better choice for pros who need a reliable backup to the official Canon grip. It’s a “buy once, cry once” third-party tool that won’t let you down in the field.
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Pixel BG-R10 Replacement View on Amazon View on B&H
Pixel is another veteran in the grip market, and their version for the R5/R6 series is surprisingly well-refined. One thing you will appreciate immediately is how well the rubberized skin matches the R5’s body; it looks like a native part of the camera. The buttons are positioned perfectly, and the joystick is responsive enough for quick eye-tracking adjustments. In my testing, the power management is efficient, and it doesn’t drain the batteries when the camera is powered off—a common flaw in some generic grips. It’s slightly more robust than the JJC but stays under the price of the Vello. For travel photographers who want the extra grip for large RF lenses like the 28-70mm f/2, this provides the necessary counter-balance without adding massive weight. It’s a reliable, no-surprises performer for any R5 owner.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip for Canon EOS R5
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-R10 | Pros / Weather Sealing | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Neewer Vertical Grip | Remote Shooting | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| JJC Battery Grip | Budget Shoppers | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Vello BG-C18 | Build Quality | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Pixel BG-R10 | Texture Matching | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a battery grip increase the frame rate of the Canon R5?
While the battery grip itself doesn’t “boost” the camera’s internal processing speed, it helps maintain the maximum 12fps (mechanical) or 20fps (electronic) burst rates for longer. The R5 requires a high level of battery charge to stay in its “green” high-speed mode. By having two batteries available, the camera stays at that peak voltage longer than it would with a single battery that is slowly depleting during a long shoot.
Can I charge the batteries while they are inside the grip?
Yes, you can charge the batteries inside the grip using the Canon EOS R5’s USB-C port. However, there is a catch: you must use a Power Delivery (USB-PD) compatible charger and a high-quality USB-C to USB-C cable. Standard phone chargers usually won’t provide enough wattage to trigger the charging circuit. When connected correctly, you will see the charge lamps on the back of the camera light up for both batteries.
Will the Canon BG-R10 work with the Canon EOS R6 and R6 Mark II?
Absolutely. One of the best things Canon did with this generation of cameras was standardize the battery grip across the R5, R6, and R6 Mark II. If you upgrade your body or use a dual-body setup, you can swap the BG-R10 between them without any issues. This cross-compatibility also applies to the third-party grips mentioned in this guide, making them a great long-term investment for the R-system ecosystem.
Is it safe to use third-party battery grips on an expensive camera like the R5?
Generally, yes. Modern third-party grips from reputable brands like Vello, Neewer, and JJC are well-engineered and safe. The main risks are minor: slightly less accurate battery percentage reporting or a less durable shutter button. However, there is always a tiny risk of electronic communication errors. If you are shooting a once-in-a-lifetime event like a wedding, many pros prefer the official Canon grip just to eliminate any statistical chance of a hardware glitch.
Does the grip make the camera significantly heavier?
A battery grip adds roughly 290g (without batteries) to your setup. When you add two LP-E6NH batteries, you’re looking at about 450g of additional weight. While this sounds like a lot, the improved ergonomics actually make the camera feel lighter during use because you can hold it more securely. The added surface area for your palm reduces the “death grip” strain on your fingers, especially when using heavy lenses like the RF 50mm f/1.2L.
Final Verdict
For professional photographers whose livelihood depends on their gear, the Canon BG-R10 is the only way to go for its weather sealing and build. However, if you’re an enthusiast looking to improve the ergonomics of your R5 for weekend shoots or studio work, the Neewer and Vello options offer 90% of the performance for a fraction of the cost. Ultimately, any of these grips will solve the R5’s battery life hurdles and make vertical shooting a breeze.