Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 5D Mark III
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a legendary workhorse, but its professional-grade sensor and high-resolution screen can chew through LP-E6 batteries during a long wedding day or a weekend wildlife trek. I’ve found that a dedicated battery grip is more than just a power extension; it transforms the camera’s ergonomics for vertical shooting. While the official Canon BG-E11 remains the gold standard for build quality, several third-party alternatives offer incredible value for photographers on a tighter budget.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 5D Mark III: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-E11 View on Amazon View on B&H
If you make your living with a 5D Mark III, the Canon BG-E11 is the only choice that truly matches the camera’s rugged DNA. Constructed from magnesium alloy and featuring the same weather-sealing gaskets as the body itself, this grip feels like a natural extension of the chassis rather than an add-on. It doubles your battery capacity using two LP-E6 packs or six AA batteries via the included tray. In my experience, the buttons—especially the multi-controller joystick—have a tactile “click” that third-party models often fail to replicate. It’s heavy, yes, but that weight balances out large L-series glass like the 70-200mm f/2.8 perfectly. The only real drawback is the premium price tag, which is significantly higher than clones, but for peace of mind in a rainstorm or a dusty environment, it’s worth every penny.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Vello BG-C8 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Vello BG-C8 is widely considered the best “clone” on the market. While it opts for a high-grade plastic shell instead of magnesium alloy, the rubberized texture is almost indistinguishable from the Canon body. You get all the essential controls: shutter release, main dial, AF point selection, and an AF-ON button. I’ve found the Vello to be remarkably reliable over long-term use, rarely suffering from the connection drops that plague cheaper budget grips. It’s an ideal choice for the enthusiast who wants the vertical handling and extra juice for portrait sessions but doesn’t plan on dragging their gear through a monsoon. It handles two LP-E6 batteries efficiently, and the battery door feels secure. Just be aware that while it is sturdy, it won’t survive a hard drop onto concrete as well as the OEM version might.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Neewer NW-5D Mark III View on Amazon View on B&H
For those who only occasionally need a battery grip—perhaps for a one-off event or a long timelapse—the Neewer NW-5D Mark III is incredibly affordable. At a fraction of the cost of the original, it provides the extra battery slot and vertical controls you need. The build is definitely “plasticky” and lacks the refined weather sealing of the BG-E11, but for indoor shooting or fair-weather travel, it gets the job done. You’ll notice the shutter button feels a bit springier and less “pro” than the Canon, and the AF joystick can be slightly stiff. However, it includes the AA battery tray, which is a lifesaver if you ever run out of charge in a remote location. It’s an honest, no-frills tool for the budget-conscious photographer who prioritizes function over form.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Meike MK-5DR View on Amazon View on B&H
The Meike MK-5DR stands out because it adds a layer of functionality that even the official Canon grip lacks: a built-in wireless remote system. The included 2.4G remote allows you to trigger the shutter from up to 100 meters away, and it even features an LCD screen for setting delay times, exposure times, and interval shooting. This makes it an absolute gem for landscape photographers or those shooting star trails who want to avoid camera shake. The grip itself is solid, with a nice rubberized coating and reliable contacts. While the remote feels a bit lightweight, the utility it provides for long exposures is fantastic. You’re getting a battery grip and a professional intervalometer in one package, making it a very smart purchase for specific creative niches.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Pixel Vertax E11 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Pixel Vertax E11 is another high-quality alternative that focuses heavily on fit and finish. It’s designed with basic weather sealing that exceeds the Neewer and Meike models, making it a “middle-ground” choice between budget clones and the OEM Canon. In my testing, the Vertax has a very low failure rate regarding battery recognition—a common issue where the camera might think a third-party battery is “counterfeit.” The buttons are firm and don’t feel mushy, and the attachment screw locks the grip to the body with zero wiggle. If the Vello is out of stock, the Pixel Vertax is my immediate second choice. It provides that essential “pro” look and feel while doubling your frame count for long days in the field without breaking the bank.
Check Price on Amazon → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-E11 | Professionals | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Vello BG-C8 | Enthusiasts | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Neewer NW-5D III | Budget | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Meike MK-5DR | Landscape | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Pixel Vertax E11 | Travel | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these grips fit the Canon 5DS or 5DS R?
Yes! The Canon 5D Mark III shares the exact same body chassis as the 5DS and 5DS R. Any battery grip designed for the 5D Mark III, including the BG-E11 and the third-party alternatives listed here, will fit perfectly and provide full functionality on all three camera models. This makes it a great investment if you plan on upgrading or side-grading within that specific generation of Canon’s full-frame lineup.
Does the battery grip increase the frames per second (FPS)?
Unlike some older Nikon models or the Canon EOS 7D Mark II, adding a battery grip to the 5D Mark III does not increase the maximum burst rate of 6 frames per second. The grip purely provides additional power capacity and ergonomic benefits for vertical shooting. It allows you to shoot longer without swapping batteries, but the internal mechanical speed of the camera remains the same regardless of the power source.
Can I use just one battery in the grip?
Absolutely. You can operate the camera with a single LP-E6 battery in either of the grip’s slots. However, the main benefit of the grip is using two batteries simultaneously to double your shots per charge. The camera will automatically draw power from one and then switch to the other. Using the AA tray (if included) usually requires all six batteries to be present to meet the voltage requirements.
Are third-party grips safe for my camera’s electronics?
Generally, yes. Modern third-party grips from reputable brands like Vello, Meike, and Pixel are designed to match the voltage and pinouts of the original. The main risk with very cheap “no-name” grips is poor fitment or loose contacts, which could cause the camera to restart. To be safe, always turn the camera off before attaching or removing the grip, and ensure the mounting screw is tightened securely to prevent contact arcing.
Should I remove the battery grip for long-term storage?
I always recommend removing the grip if you aren’t going to use the camera for several weeks. Even when the camera is off, there can be a very slight “parasitic drain” on the batteries. Furthermore, if you are using AA batteries in the backup tray, they are prone to leaking over time, which can corrode the contacts of the grip. Removing it ensures both the camera and the accessory stay in pristine condition.
Final Verdict
For professional photographers whose gear is exposed to the elements, the Canon BG-E11 is the only logical choice to maintain the system’s integrity. However, if you’re an enthusiast looking for better vertical ergonomics and extended battery life for events or portraits, the Vello BG-C8 offers about 90% of the performance for a fraction of the cost. Landscape shooters should seriously consider the Meike MK-5DR for its invaluable built-in wireless remote functionality.