Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS R
The Canon EOS R remains a powerhouse for enthusiasts and pros alike, but its relatively slim body can feel unbalanced when paired with heavy RF glass. If you find your pinky finger dangling off the edge or your battery dying mid-shoot, a battery grip is a mandatory upgrade. I’ve tested several options, ranging from Canon’s robust official unit to surprisingly capable third-party alternatives. While the official Canon BG-E22 is our top pick for its seamless integration, there are excellent budget-friendly ways to double your shooting time.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS R: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-E22 View on Amazon View on B&H
If you are shooting a wedding or a long-form commercial project, the Canon BG-E22 is simply the gold standard. Released alongside the EOS R in late 2018, this grip is the only one that feels like a natural extension of the magnesium alloy body. It holds two LP-E6N or LP-E6NH batteries, effectively doubling your frame count. What sets this apart is the inclusion of a PC terminal for studio flash sync and the ability to charge batteries internally via USB-C (using the PD-E1 adapter). In my experience, the weather sealing matches the camera perfectly, giving me peace of mind in light drizzle. The shutter button and multi-function dials have that distinct, clicky “Canon feel” that third-party grips often fail to replicate. The only downside is the premium price tag, but for mission-critical work, the reliability is worth every penny.
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Neewer EOS R Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Neewer battery grip for the EOS R is the quintessential “bang for your buck” choice. I was pleasantly surprised by the texture of the rubber coating; it mimics the Canon’s grip remarkably well, providing a secure hold even with sweaty hands. While it lacks the internal USB charging circuitry of the official BG-E22, it compensates by often including a 2.4G wireless remote that is fantastic for long-exposure landscape shots or self-portraits. You still get the vertical shutter release, AF-ON button, and selection dials. It feels solid, though the plastic construction is slightly more hollow-sounding than the OEM version. For hobbyists who want the improved ergonomics and double battery life without dropping $300, this is the smartest purchase. Just keep in mind that it isn’t as rigorously weather-sealed as the Canon original, so keep it dry during those stormy shoots.
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DSTE BG-E22 Replacement View on Amazon View on B&H
If you’ve spent all your money on RF lenses and just need a way to stop your pinky from hanging off the camera, the DSTE is your best bet. It’s incredibly affordable—often priced less than a tank of gas. Despite the low price, it does exactly what it promises: it holds two batteries and provides vertical controls. In my testing, the dial feels a bit “mushy” compared to the crisp feedback of the Canon, and the battery door hinge is noticeably thinner plastic. However, the connection to the camera is surprisingly tight with no wobble. It’s an honest piece of kit for the casual photographer who occasionally needs extra juice for a day trip or a family event. You won’t get professional-grade weather sealing or USB charging, but for a fraction of the cost, it’s hard to complain about the added utility.
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Vello BG-C18 View on Amazon View on B&H
Vello has earned a reputation for being the “high-end third-party” brand, and the BG-C18 for the EOS R lives up to that. If you find the official Canon grip too expensive but don’t want to gamble with the cheapest options, this is the perfect middle ground. The build quality is noticeably superior to the Neewer or DSTE models, with a weight and density that feels reassuring in the hand. The buttons have a satisfying travel distance and the control wheels offer good resistance. I particularly appreciate the tripod mount on the bottom, which is reinforced to handle the torque of a heavy tripod head. It supports two LP-E6N batteries and integrates flawlessly with the camera’s battery info screen, showing you the remaining percentage for each cell. It’s a reliable workhorse that I’d feel comfortable using as a primary grip for event photography.
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Vivitar Battery Grip for EOS R View on Amazon View on B&H
Vivitar is a legacy name in the camera world, and their entry for the EOS R is a solid, no-nonsense performer. What I like about this model is its weight—it feels slightly lighter than the Vello or Canon options, which might be a benefit if you’re already hauling around a heavy zoom lens like the RF 70-200mm f/2.8. It provides the standard array of vertical controls, including the shutter release and AE lock. The battery tray slides in smoothly and locks with a positive click. While it doesn’t offer the fancy internal charging or the remote control features of others, it is incredibly consistent. If you find it on sale, it’s a fantastic alternative to the Neewer. It’s perfect for the photographer who wants the ergonomics of a larger body for portrait sessions but doesn’t need the industrial-grade durability of the OEM version.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip for Canon EOS R
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-E22 | Pro Events | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Neewer Grip | Enthusiasts | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| DSTE BG-E22 | Budget Picks | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Vello BG-C18 | Reliable Backup | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Vivitar Grip | Travel | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge batteries inside the grip?
Only the official Canon BG-E22 supports internal charging via its USB-C port, but you must use the Canon PD-E1 Power Adapter or a high-wattage Power Delivery (PD) charger. Third-party grips typically do not include the necessary circuitry for internal charging, meaning you will need to remove the batteries and charge them in an external wall charger as usual.
Will my EOS R weather sealing still work?
The Canon EOS R is weather-sealed, and the official BG-E22 grip is designed to maintain that seal. However, most third-party grips (like Neewer or DSTE) lack the rubber gaskets found on the OEM version. If you frequently shoot in rain or dusty environments, the official Canon grip is the only one that truly guarantees the integrity of your camera’s environmental protection.
Does a battery grip increase the FPS (frames per second)?
Unlike some older DSLR models where a battery grip could boost the burst rate, the EOS R does not see an increase in frames per second when using the BG-E22. Its primary benefits are doubled battery life and significantly improved ergonomics for vertical shooting. It does, however, provide more consistent power delivery, which can help maintain performance as the batteries drain.
Can I use LP-E6 and LP-E6NH batteries together?
Yes, you can mix and match LP-E6, LP-E6N, and LP-E6NH batteries in the grip. However, for the best performance and to utilize the USB charging feature (on the Canon grip), it is recommended to use at least LP-E6N or the newer NH versions. The older LP-E6 (non-N) batteries have a slightly lower capacity and cannot be charged via USB-C.
Is the PC terminal on the BG-E22 useful?
The PC terminal is a specialized port used to connect the camera to external studio strobes via a sync cable. Since the EOS R body itself lacks this port, the BG-E22 is actually an upgrade for studio photographers who prefer wired flash triggers over wireless ones. It’s a niche feature, but for professional studio setups, it’s a very welcome addition.
Final Verdict
If you’re a professional whose livelihood depends on your gear, don’t settle for less than the Canon BG-E22; the weather sealing and internal charging are essential. However, for the majority of EOS R users, the Neewer or Vello grips provide 90% of the functionality at 30% of the price. If you simply want better handling for weekend portrait sessions, the third-party options are more than capable of getting the job done.