Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a legendary workhorse, but its appetite for power—especially when shooting 4K video or utilizing Live View—can leave you swapping batteries at the worst possible moments. Beyond just extra juice, the camera’s ergonomics for vertical portraits can be a strain on the wrist during long wedding days. After years of field testing, I’ve found that while the official Canon BG-E20 is the gold standard for weather sealing, several third-party alternatives offer incredible value for photographers on a budget.
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Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-E20 View on Amazon View on B&H
If you make your living with a 5D Mark IV, the Canon BG-E20 is the only choice that truly matches the camera’s professional pedigree. Constructed from magnesium alloy, it feels like a seamless extension of the body rather than an add-on. I’ve found the weather sealing to be the primary selling point; when you’re shooting in a downpour, you need to know your battery compartment won’t short out. The button tactile feedback is identical to the camera body, including the essential AF area selection button and the joystick. It houses two LP-E6N batteries, effectively doubling your shot count, which is vital for long wedding days or video shoots. While it is significantly more expensive than third-party options, the peace of mind regarding electrical safety and durability justifies the investment for any pro who puts their gear through the ringer daily.
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Vello BG-C14 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Vello BG-C14 hits the “sweet spot” for most photographers. It offers about 90% of the Canon experience at a fraction of the cost. While the chassis is high-grade polycarbonate rather than magnesium alloy, it still feels incredibly sturdy in the hand. You get the full suite of vertical controls, including the shutter release, main dial, and AF-ON button. One thing I particularly appreciate about Vello is the inclusion of an AA battery tray; in an emergency where you’ve forgotten to charge your LP-E6Ns, being able to pop in six AAs from a local convenience store can literally save a shoot. The fit against the 5D Mark IV body is tight with no noticeable “flex” when mounted. However, keep in mind that its weather sealing isn’t quite on par with the OEM version, so I’d be more cautious in extreme environments.
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Neewer Vertical Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
For those who only need a battery grip for the occasional weekend trip or a family reunion, the Neewer Vertical Battery Grip is an absolute steal. It provides the same basic functionality as the expensive Canon unit—holding two batteries and providing vertical controls—for about the price of a nice dinner. You’ll notice the build is lighter and more “plasticky” than the others, and the buttons have a slightly “clickier,” less refined feel. However, for the price, it performs surprisingly well. It’s perfect for balancing out a heavy lens like the 70-200mm f/2.8 without breaking the bank. Just be aware that third-party battery communication can occasionally be finicky; stick with high-quality batteries for the best results. If you aren’t shooting in harsh weather and just want the extra battery life and improved vertical handling, Neewer delivers exactly what you need.
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Meike MK-5D4 with Remote View on Amazon View on B&H
The Meike MK-5D4 isn’t just a battery grip; it’s a remote shooting station. What sets this apart is the included 2.4GHz wireless remote that allows for shutter release, timer delays, and intervalometer functions from up to 100 meters away. For landscape photographers or those doing self-portraits, this is a game-changer. I’ve used this for long-exposure star trails where I didn’t want to touch the camera and cause vibration. The grip itself is well-contoured with a rubberized texture that mimics the 5D Mark IV’s skin quite well. It feels more premium than the Neewer but still keeps the price very reasonable. The LCD on the remote is clear and easy to program, even in low light. If you want the extra utility of a remote without carrying a separate dongle, this Meike unit is a brilliant, feature-rich choice.
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Vivitar Pro Series Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
Vivitar has been a staple in the accessory market for decades, and their Pro Series Grip for the 5D Mark IV is a dependable, no-nonsense choice. It lacks the fancy wireless remotes of the Meike or the magnesium alloy of the Canon, but it excels at basic reliability. I’ve found that Vivitar’s contact pins are often slightly higher quality than the “no-name” budget brands, leading to fewer “Battery Communication Error” messages. It fits two LP-E6N batteries snugly and provides a comfortable, deep grip that makes shooting vertical portraits much more ergonomic. It’s an excellent choice as a backup grip to keep in your bag or for photographers who want a simple solution without any extra bells and whistles. The shutter release button has a nice two-stage feel, making it easy to lock focus before firing.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip for Canon 5D Mark IV
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-E20 | Working Professionals | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Vello BG-C14 | Serious Enthusiasts | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Neewer Grip | Budget Shoppers | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Meike MK-5D4 | Landscape/Remote Use | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Vivitar Pro | Reliable Backup | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a battery grip increase my frames per second (FPS)?
Unlike some older Canon models (like the 7D Mark II) or the Nikon D850, a battery grip on the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV does not increase the burst rate speed. The camera remains at a maximum of 7 FPS. The grip’s primary benefits are strictly limited to doubling your battery capacity, providing better ergonomics for vertical shooting, and improving the balance of the camera when using large lenses.
Can I use just one battery inside the grip?
Yes, absolutely. All of the grips mentioned, including the official Canon BG-E20, can function perfectly with just a single LP-E6 or LP-E6N battery installed. The camera will simply show the charge level for that one battery. This is useful if you have three batteries: two in the grip for a long session, and one on the charger, allowing you to rotate them without ever powering down.
Are third-party grips safe for my 5D Mark IV?
Generally, yes. Major third-party brands like Vello, Meike, and Neewer have been making grips for years with very few reported issues. However, the electronics in third-party grips are rarely as robust as the OEM version. There is a slightly higher (though still low) risk of battery communication errors or slight drain when the camera is off. For mission-critical work, I always recommend the official Canon grip.
Do third-party grips have weather sealing?
While some third-party grips claim to be “weather resistant,” they rarely match the comprehensive rubber gaskets and tight tolerances found on the Canon BG-E20. The 5D Mark IV is a highly weather-sealed camera, but its sealing is only as good as its weakest point. If you frequently shoot in rain, dust, or sea spray, the investment in the original Canon grip is definitely worth it to protect your camera’s internals.
Does the grip come with batteries included?
Typically, no. Most battery grips are sold as the housing only. You will need to purchase your LP-E6N or the newer LP-E6NH batteries separately. Some “bundle” deals on sites like Amazon might include generic batteries, but be cautious with those, as the 5D Mark IV is quite picky about battery communication and might display a warning if the batteries don’t have a legitimate chip.
Final Verdict
If you are a professional photographer who relies on your 5D Mark IV in all weather conditions, don’t cut corners—the Canon BG-E20 is the definitive choice for reliability. However, for the majority of enthusiasts, the Vello BG-C14 offers nearly identical performance and build quality for a much more palatable price. Landscape shooters should strongly consider the Meike for its built-in remote, while casual users will find the Neewer perfectly adequate for occasional vertical shooting needs.