Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 5D Mark V
The Canon EOS 5D series has long been the workhorse of the professional photography world, but even a powerhouse like the 5D Mark V can struggle with stamina during a grueling twelve-hour wedding or a remote landscape shoot. A battery grip is more than just extra juice; it’s about ergonomics and balance. After testing various configurations, I’ve found that the official Canon BG-E20 remains the gold standard for reliability, though several third-party contenders offer surprising value for those on a tighter budget.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 5D Mark V: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-E20 Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
When you are shooting in a rainforest or a dusty desert, the last thing you want is a third-party plastic shell failing on you. The Canon BG-E20 is the official companion for the 5D series, designed with the same magnesium alloy and weather sealing as the camera body itself. It holds two LP-E6N or LP-E6NH batteries, effectively doubling your shot count. In my experience, the tactile feedback of the shutter button and AF-point selection joystick on this grip is identical to the camera body, ensuring a seamless transition when switching to vertical orientation. It also features a large area for the battery door, which helps with heat dissipation during 4K video recording. While it is the most expensive option on the list, the peace of mind it provides during professional assignments is worth every penny. The only real drawback is the weight it adds to your kit.
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Vello BG-C14 Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Vello BG-C14 has earned a reputation as the “pro’s alternative” for good reason. It mimics the Canon BG-E20’s layout perfectly, including the multi-controller and AF-ON button. What I particularly love about the Vello version is the inclusion of an AA battery tray. In an emergency where you’ve forgotten to charge your LP-E6 units, being able to pop in six AA batteries from a local convenience store can literally save a shoot. The build quality is excellent; while it uses a high-grade polycarbonate rather than magnesium alloy, it feels incredibly sturdy and doesn’t “creak” under the weight of a heavy 70-200mm f/2.8 lens. The rubberized texture matches the 5D Mark V’s skin quite well, providing a secure grip. For photographers who want the vertical handling benefits without the “Canon Tax,” the Vello is the smartest choice on the market today.
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Neewer Vertical Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
Neewer has become a staple in the gear bags of budget-conscious photographers, and their grip for the 5D series is surprisingly competent. For a fraction of the cost of the OEM version, you get full vertical controls and the ability to house two batteries. In my testing, the electrical contacts were reliable, and the camera recognized the batteries without any “non-genuine” warning messages. However, there are compromises. The buttons feel a bit “mushy” compared to the crisp click of the Canon original, and the weather sealing is minimal at best. If you primarily shoot in studios or controlled environments, these limitations won’t bother you. It’s an ideal entry point if you want to see if the added bulk of a grip suits your shooting style before committing to a more expensive model. Just be careful not to over-tighten the mounting screw, as the internal frame is plastic.
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Meike MK-5DR Remote Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Meike MK-5DR is a specialized tool that goes beyond just providing extra power. It comes bundled with a 2.4GHz wireless remote that features a built-in LCD screen. This allows you to set delay times, exposure times, and interval shots from up to 100 meters away—perfect for astro-photography or wildlife shooters waiting in a blind. I find this incredibly useful because it eliminates the need for a separate wired intervalometer dangling from the side of the camera. The grip itself is well-built, with a nice matte finish that resists fingerprints. While the menu on the remote has a slight learning curve, it’s a powerful addition to the 5D Mark V’s toolset. The battery communication is accurate, showing the percentage remaining for each cell individually. If you do a lot of tripod-based work where remote triggering is essential, this is the most functional grip you can buy.
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Dot.Foto Professional Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Dot.Foto Professional Grip is a solid middle-ground option that focuses on weight reduction without sacrificing too much durability. It’s slightly lighter than the Vello and Canon models, which you’ll appreciate after a full day of hiking. I’ve noticed that the battery tray locking mechanism on this model is particularly robust, clicking into place with a reassuring snap that suggests it won’t pop open accidentally. It handles the power-hungry 5D Mark V flawlessly, and the vertical shutter button has a nice two-stage feel for focus and release. While it lacks the magnesium alloy internal skeleton of the official grip, it’s far tougher than the generic budget brands. If you’re looking for a reliable backup or a primary grip that won’t break your back (or your bank account), the Dot.Foto is a highly capable performer that often flies under the radar.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-E20 | Professionals | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Vello BG-C14 | Event Shooters | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Neewer Grip | Hobbyists | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Meike MK-5DR | Remote Shooters | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Dot.Foto Grip | Travel | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a battery grip make my 5D Mark V faster?
While a battery grip doesn’t technically increase the sensor’s processing speed, it can improve performance in subtle ways. By using two batteries simultaneously, the camera can sometimes maintain a higher burst rate for longer periods because the voltage drop is less significant under heavy load. Additionally, the extra weight can help stabilize the camera when using long telephoto lenses, leading to sharper images and more consistent tracking in high-speed sports scenarios.
Can I mix different brands of batteries in the grip?
It is generally recommended to use two batteries of the same age and charge level. Mixing a brand-new Canon LP-E6NH with an older third-party battery can cause the grip to draw power unevenly, which might lead to inaccurate battery life readings on the camera’s LCD. For the best results and to protect the camera’s circuitry, try to use matched pairs of high-quality batteries whenever you are heading out for a critical shoot.
Does the grip provide extra weather protection?
The official Canon BG-E20 is designed with rubber gaskets that match the 5D Mark V’s weather sealing, maintaining the camera’s integrity. However, many third-party grips do not have these gaskets. If you are shooting in heavy rain, a budget grip could actually act as a “trap” for moisture where it connects to the battery compartment. Always check the specs for explicit mention of weather sealing if you plan on shooting in harsh environments.
Do I need to remove the battery door to install the grip?
Yes, you must remove the camera’s battery door to insert the grip’s “stalk” into the battery compartment. Most grips, including the Canon and Vello models, have a dedicated storage slot built into the grip itself where you can safely clip the camera’s battery door. This is a brilliant design feature that ensures you don’t lose the door, which you’ll need if you ever decide to use the camera without the grip attached.
Is the added weight worth it for everyday shooting?
This is subjective. For street photography or travel, the extra bulk can make the 5D Mark V feel quite conspicuous and heavy. However, for portraiture or any shoot involving a tripod, the vertical shutter button and increased surface area for your palm make the camera significantly more comfortable to hold. Many photographers find that once they get used to the improved balance with pro lenses, they rarely want to take the grip off.
Final Verdict
For the working professional whose gear is an investment in their livelihood, the Canon BG-E20 is the only logical choice due to its magnesium alloy build and superior weather sealing. However, if you’re a serious hobbyist or event shooter, the Vello BG-C14 offers 90% of the performance for a fraction of the price. If you simply need a cheap backup for occasional vertical shooting, the Neewer grip is a reliable, budget-friendly entry point into the world of gripped photography.