Best Battery Grips for Canon EOS 5D Mark V
The Canon EOS 5D Mark V is a powerhouse, but its high-resolution sensor and advanced video features can chew through LP-E6NH batteries faster than you’d expect. If you’re tired of swapping cells mid-shoot or find the body a bit cramped during vertical portraits, a battery grip is your best investment. While the Canon BG-E20 remains the gold standard for build quality, several third-party options offer incredible value. I’ve tested these extensively to find the perfect balance of ergonomics and reliability.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Battery Grips for Canon EOS 5D Mark V: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-E20 View on Amazon View on B&H
When you are shooting a high-stakes wedding or a dusty outdoor commercial, the last thing you want is a third-party accessory failing. The Canon BG-E20 is the definitive choice for the 5D series. It doubles your battery life by housing two LP-E6NH batteries and provides a duplicate set of controls—including the shutter button, main dial, and AF point selection—specifically positioned for vertical shooting. I’ve found that the magnesium alloy build perfectly matches the 5D chassis, providing a seamless, “tank-like” feel. The weather sealing is top-tier, ensuring that rain or humidity won’t seep into your battery compartment. While it is significantly more expensive than generic alternatives, the tactile feedback of the buttons is identical to the camera body, which is crucial for muscle memory. The only downside is the price, but for a professional tool, the peace of mind is worth every penny.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Neewer Vertical Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
Neewer has built a reputation for providing “good enough” gear for a fraction of the OEM cost, and their grip for the 5D series is no exception. In my testing, the Neewer grip fits the camera base snugly without any of the “wobble” often found in cheaper clones. It replicates all the essential controls, and the shutter button has a surprisingly decent two-stage feel. You’ll notice the material is high-quality plastic rather than magnesium alloy, so it doesn’t offer the same level of impact protection as the Canon original. However, for most shooters who aren’t dragging their gear through extreme environments, the value here is unbeatable. It handles the power communication flawlessly, accurately reporting battery percentages for both slots. If you want the ergonomic benefits and extended runtime without spending hundreds, this is the smart choice for your kit bag.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Powerextra Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Powerextra grip is the “bang-for-your-buck” champion. Not only does it provide the standard dual-battery capacity and vertical controls, but it also frequently ships with an LCD wireless remote. This is a game-changer for landscape photographers or those doing long-exposure astrophotography, as it allows for shutter release and intervalometer settings from up to 100 meters away. On the downside, the build quality is noticeably more “plasticky,” and the buttons lack the satisfying “click” of the Canon or Vello models. I’ve also noticed that the battery door hinge feels a bit delicate, so you’ll want to handle it with care during swaps. However, for the price of a nice lens filter, you get a fully functional grip and a remote. It’s an ideal entry-point for hobbyists who want to try the vertical shooting experience without a major financial commitment.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Vello BG-C14-2 View on Amazon View on B&H
Vello has long been the favorite of B&H shoppers for a reason: they strike the perfect balance between third-party pricing and professional ergonomics. The BG-C14-2 feels remarkably close to the official Canon grip. The rubber texture is “grippy” and matches the 5D Mark V’s skin almost perfectly, making it look like a native part of the camera. What I appreciate most about the Vello is the AF-ON button; on cheaper grips, this button often feels mushy, but here it has a definitive snap. It also includes an alternate tray for AA batteries, which can be a literal lifesaver if you’re in a remote location and your LP-E6NH chargers fail. While it lacks the full magnesium internal frame of the Canon version, it’s significantly sturdier than the Neewer or Powerextra options. It’s the “pro-sumer” choice for those who demand reliability but have a budget to respect.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Meike MK-5D4 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Meike MK-5D4 is a specialized beast. Unlike the others, this version often comes with a built-in LCD screen on the back of the grip itself. This allows you to set up time-lapse sequences, delay timers, and exposure counts directly on the grip without needing an external intervalometer. For studio photographers or those who do a lot of product work, having these controls integrated into the handle is incredibly convenient. The build quality is decent, sitting somewhere between Neewer and Vello. I did notice that the LCD screen can drain the batteries slightly faster if left on, so it’s something to keep an eye on during long shoots. The grip adds a significant amount of weight and bulk, which actually helps balance out larger lenses like the 70-200mm f/2.8 IS III. If you need functionality beyond just “more power,” the Meike is a fantastic utility tool.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip for your 5D Mark V
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-E20 | Professional Work | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Neewer Vertical Grip | Daily Use | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Powerextra Grip | Budget/Remote | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Vello BG-C14-2 | Pro-sumer Balance | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Meike MK-5D4 | Intervalometer/Studio | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a battery grip improve my camera’s frames per second (FPS)?
While some older Canon models saw an FPS boost with a grip, the 5D Mark V primarily benefits from increased power stability. Using a grip with two LP-E6NH batteries ensures the camera can maintain its maximum burst rate for longer periods without throttling due to voltage drop. It won’t technically “overclock” the sensor, but it keeps the performance consistent during heavy workloads, which is vital for sports and wildlife photographers.
Can I mix different brands of batteries inside the grip?
Technically, yes, but it is not recommended. For the most accurate battery life reporting and consistent power delivery, you should use two batteries of the same age and brand. Mixing a high-capacity LP-E6NH with an older LP-E6 can cause the camera to misread the remaining life, potentially shutting down unexpectedly. I always suggest “pairing” your batteries—marking them as Set A and Set B—and charging them together.
Does the grip make the camera too heavy for travel?
It definitely adds bulk. A 5D Mark V with a grip and two batteries will weigh nearly 3 pounds before you even add a lens. However, many photographers (myself included) find the weight trade-off worth it because the added surface area makes the camera easier to hold securely. If you are hiking miles, you can always remove the grip, but for general travel photography, the extra juice is a lifesaver.
Is third-party weather sealing as good as Canon’s?
In short: No. While brands like Vello and Neewer use rubber gaskets, they are rarely as precisely fitted as the OEM Canon BG-E20. Canon uses a specific silicone compound and magnesium mating surfaces designed to withstand professional abuse. If you frequently shoot in monsoons or sea spray, stick with the official Canon grip. For light drizzle or dusty environments, most high-quality third-party grips will perform just fine.
Do I need to remove the battery door to install the grip?
Yes, you must remove the camera’s internal battery door to insert the “stalk” of the grip into the battery compartment. Most people worry about losing the door, but Canon cleverly designed the 5D series so that the removed door can be clipped into a dedicated storage slot on the battery grip itself. This ensures you always have the door with you if you decide to go “slim” and remove the grip mid-trip.
Final Verdict
For professional photographers where failure isn’t an option, the Canon BG-E20 is the only choice. Its magnesium alloy frame is designed to take a beating. However, if you are an enthusiast looking to improve the handling of your 5D Mark V or need extra power for a weekend event, the Neewer or Vello options provide 90% of the performance for a fraction of the cost. Landscape shooters should specifically look at the Powerextra or Meike for their integrated remote and timer functions.