Best Battery Grip for Panasonic Lumix S5II
The Panasonic Lumix S5II is a video powerhouse, but its high-performance Phase Hybrid AF and 6K recording capabilities can drain the NP-BLK22 battery faster than you’d like during a long shoot day. I’ve spent countless hours on wedding sets and documentary shoots where fumbling for a battery change meant missing the shot. A dedicated battery grip solves this, doubling your runtime and providing essential vertical controls. While the official Panasonic DMW-BGS5 remains 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 Panasonic Lumix S5II: Detailed Reviews
Panasonic DMW-BGS5 View on Amazon View on B&H
When you are shooting with a high-end tool like the Lumix S5II, the Panasonic DMW-BGS5 is the only choice that feels like a native extension of the camera. Originally designed for the S5, it is perfectly compatible with the S5II and S5IIX. What sets this apart is the build quality; it features the same magnesium alloy feel and robust weather sealing as the body. I’ve taken this into misty forests and dusty desert shoots without a second thought. The button travel and the responsiveness of the sub-selector (joystick) are identical to the camera’s main controls, which is crucial for muscle memory during vertical shooting. While it is significantly more expensive than third-party options, the peace of mind knowing your electronics are protected by OEM seals is worth the investment for working pros. The only downside is that it doesn’t include a second battery in the box.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Neewer DMW-BGS5 Replacement View on Amazon View on B&H
Neewer has consistently improved their build quality over the years, and their S5II-compatible grip is a testament to that. It mimics the DMW-BGS5 layout perfectly, providing a secondary shutter release, AF-ON button, and dials. What makes this the “Best Value” is the inclusion of a 2.4G wireless remote control, which is incredibly handy for long exposures or self-portraits. In my testing, the rubber texture is surprisingly close to the Lumix body, providing a secure, non-slip hold. You’ll notice the weight is slightly lighter because it uses more high-grade plastics than magnesium, but it still feels sturdy on the tripod. It doesn’t offer the same level of weather sealing as the Panasonic version, so I wouldn’t recommend it for heavy rain, but for studio work or general event photography, it performs exceptionally well at a fraction of the price.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Mcoplus DMW-BGS5 Vertical Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
If you’ve already stretched your budget to afford the S5II body and glass, the Mcoplus grip is an honest, no-frills solution to get that extra battery life. It fits the NP-BLK22 battery perfectly and communicates with the camera firmware to show accurate power percentages. The buttons are a bit “clickier” and feel less dampened than the official model, and the joystick is slightly stiffer. However, for under $60, it successfully doubles your shooting time and makes vertical portraiture much more comfortable. I found it especially useful for street photography where the extra bulk helps balance larger lenses like the 24-105mm f/4. Just be aware that the mounting screw needs to be checked occasionally to ensure it stays tight, as it lacks the high-torque locking mechanism of the premium alternatives. It’s a great entry-point for those who need functionality over prestige.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Panasonic DMW-BGS5 (OEM) View on Amazon View on B&H
Wait, why list the Panasonic again? Because in the world of Lumix, “Premium” truly means the official accessory. For the S5II, there isn’t a higher-tier third-party grip because Panasonic already built this to a professional standard. The integration with the S5II’s menu system is seamless; you can prioritize which battery drains first (grip vs. body) through the camera settings. This is a life-saver for video shooters; you can hot-swap the battery in the grip while the camera continues to record using the internal battery. I’ve used this on long 4K interviews where stopping the take wasn’t an option. The tactile feedback of the front and rear command dials is buttery smooth, matching the camera body perfectly. If your work involves extreme weather or high-stakes client shoots, this is the only grip that won’t be a potential point of failure.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
DSTE DMW-BGS5 Replacement View on Amazon View on B&H
DSTE is a well-known name in the battery world, and their grip for the S5II is a solid mid-range contender. While it feels very similar to the Neewer and Mcoplus versions, I’ve found DSTE’s contact pins to be slightly more robust, leading to fewer “battery communication” errors that can sometimes plague cheap third-party accessories. It handles the weight of the S5II well, even with a heavy L-mount prime lens attached. The vertical shutter button has a distinct two-stage feel, which is great for locking focus before firing. Often, you can find this grip bundled with two DSTE-branded batteries, making it an incredible “all-in-one” kit for travelers who need maximum power without spending $400 on official gear. It’s a reliable workhorse that doesn’t pretend to be more than it is, providing a comfortable grip and extra juice for your creative sessions.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip for S5II
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic DMW-BGS5 | Pro/Weather Sealing | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Neewer Grip | Best Value/Remote | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Mcoplus Grip | Budget Shooters | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| DSTE Grip | Travel Bundles | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Viltrox (Generic) | Basic Use | ★★★☆☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Panasonic S5 battery grip fit the S5II?
Yes, the Panasonic DMW-BGS5 was originally released for the S5, but it is the official battery grip for the Lumix S5II and S5IIX as well. The dimensions and electronic contact points are identical. This is great news because it means the grip is widely available and any third-party grips built for the original S5 will also work perfectly on your new S5II body without issues.
Can I charge the battery inside the grip via the camera’s USB-C port?
Yes, when the grip is attached to the Lumix S5II, you can charge the battery inside the grip using the camera’s USB-C PD (Power Delivery) port. However, it usually charges the battery inside the camera body first before moving on to the battery in the grip. For faster results, I always recommend using an external dual-battery charger, but USB charging is a lifesaver when you’re traveling light.
Does a battery grip improve the S5II’s video performance?
While it doesn’t change the frame rates or internal processing, a battery grip indirectly improves video performance by allowing for hot-swapping. You can replace the battery in the grip while the camera runs on the internal battery, effectively allowing for infinite recording times. Additionally, the extra mass of the grip can help stabilize handheld shots, reducing the “micro-jitters” often seen in lightweight mirrorless setups during video capture.
Do I need two batteries for the grip to work?
No, the camera can operate with just one battery in the grip or just one battery in the body. However, to get the full benefit of a battery grip, you should have one in both. The S5II is smart enough to manage the power distribution. I find it best to put my freshest battery in the body and use the grip for batteries I might need to swap out quickly during a shoot.
Are third-party grips safe for my Lumix S5II?
Generally, yes. Brands like Neewer and DSTE are well-established. The main risk with very cheap third-party grips is the quality of the mounting screw and the precision of the electronic pins. A loose fit can cause the camera to power off unexpectedly. If you notice any “play” or wobbling between the grip and the body, stop using it immediately to prevent damage to the camera’s bottom plate or contacts.
Final Verdict
For the professional user who relies on the Lumix S5II for their livelihood, the Panasonic DMW-BGS5 is the only choice that offers the durability and weather sealing required for high-stakes work. However, if you are a hobbyist or a studio photographer, the Neewer alternative provides 90% of the functionality at a much more palatable price point. Ultimately, adding any of these grips will significantly improve the ergonomics and endurance of your S5II, letting you focus on the art rather than the battery percentage.