Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 6D Mark III
Nothing ruins a high-stakes photoshoot faster than a “Battery Low” warning just as the lighting hits its peak. For Canon EOS 6D Mark III users, a battery grip isn’t just an accessory; it’s a necessity for balancing heavy L-series glass and surviving long wedding days. After years of testing OEM and third-party alternatives in the field, I’ve found that while the official Canon grip offers the best weather sealing, several budget-friendly contenders provide surprising durability for a fraction of the cost.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 6D Mark III: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-E21 View on Amazon View on B&H
When you are shooting in unpredictable environments, the Canon BG-E21 is the only choice that offers true peace of mind. Designed specifically for the ergonomics of the 6D series, this grip feels like a natural extension of the camera body rather than an add-on. It houses two LP-E6NH batteries, effectively doubling your shot count to well over 2,000 frames. In my experience, the shutter release button on the BG-E21 has the exact same tactile “click” and resistance as the main body, which is crucial for muscle memory during vertical portrait sessions. The magnesium alloy construction provides the rigidity needed when mounting the camera to a tripod with a heavy 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached. While the price is significantly higher than third-party options, the dust and drip resistance ensures your internals stay dry when the clouds break. It’s a “buy once, cry once” investment for serious pros.
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Neewer Vertical Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
Neewer has built a reputation for providing high-quality alternatives at entry-level prices, and their vertical grip for the 6D Mark III is no exception. This unit mirrors the layout of the OEM version, including the AF-ON button, multi-controller, and main dial. You’ll notice that the rubberized coating matches the Canon body texture quite closely, providing a secure grip even if your hands are sweaty during a long summer shoot. While it is primarily made of high-impact plastic rather than magnesium alloy, it feels surprisingly sturdy. I’ve used Neewer grips for years and they rarely fail electronically, though you should be careful with the battery tray door as it feels slightly thinner than the Canon original. It’s the perfect choice for the photographer who would rather put that extra $150 toward a new prime lens or a high-speed SD card while still enjoying the benefits of extended battery life.
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Vivitar Professional Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
If you just need more juice and don’t care about fancy branding or extreme weatherproofing, the Vivitar Professional Battery Grip is a functional, no-frills workhorse. It does exactly what it says on the box: holds two batteries and provides a vertical shutter release. I often recommend this to studio photographers who are always near a controlled environment and don’t need the ruggedness of a magnesium build. The buttons are a bit “clickier” and louder than the Canon version, and the dial has a more plastic feel, but the electronic communication with the 6D Mark III is flawless. It correctly displays battery percentages for both slots in the camera menu. The main limitation is the lack of extensive weather sealing, so I wouldn’t take this one out in a heavy downpour. However, for indoor portraits or casual street photography, it’s a steal that doubles your shooting time for the price of a decent dinner.
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Vello BG-C14-2 Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Vello BG-C14-2 sits in that “sweet spot” between the ultra-expensive Canon OEM and the cheaper budget grips. What sets Vello apart is their attention to the “feel” of the controls. The command dials have a damped, high-end movement that closely mimics the 6D Mark III’s own dials. It features an alternate shutter release, AF start button, AE lock/FE lock/Index/Reduce button, and an AF point selection button. This makes switching from landscape to portrait orientation completely seamless. I find the battery tray mechanism to be particularly robust; it locks with a reassuring thud that doesn’t rattle. If you are a professional who finds the Canon grip overpriced but you aren’t willing to compromise on the responsiveness of your back-button focus, the Vello is the smartest choice. It strikes a professional balance of durability and performance that holds up to daily heavy use.
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Mcoplus Battery Grip with Remote View on Amazon View on B&H
The Mcoplus grip offers a unique value proposition that even the Canon OEM grip can’t match: an integrated 2.4GHz wireless remote control. For landscape photographers or those shooting self-portraits, this is a game-changer. The remote allows you to trigger the shutter from up to 100 meters away, and it even supports bulb mode for those epic Milky Way shots. The grip itself is standard fare—decent plastic construction, dual battery slots, and vertical controls—but the addition of the remote makes it an “all-in-one” solution for tripod-based work. I’ve found the wireless connection to be remarkably stable, avoiding the lag often associated with smartphone apps. While the grip’s aesthetics are a bit more utilitarian than the sleek Vello or Canon options, the functionality for the price is unbeatable for those who spend their time shooting on a tripod under the stars.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-E21 | Professionals | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Neewer Grip | Enthusiasts | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Vivitar Grip | Budget/Studio | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Vello BG-C14-2 | Pro-Enthusiasts | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Mcoplus Remote | Landscapes | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the battery grip increase the frame rate (FPS)?
Unlike some older high-end Canon bodies, the battery grip for the 6D Mark III series typically does not increase the burst shooting speed. Its primary purpose is to double the battery capacity and provide better ergonomics for vertical shooting. However, by using two LP-E6NH batteries, you may notice more consistent performance when using power-hungry features like 4K video recording or high-speed continuous autofocus over a longer duration.
Can I use just one battery inside the grip?
Yes, you absolutely can. Most grips, including the Canon and Neewer models, will function perfectly fine with a single LP-E6NH battery inserted in either slot. This is helpful if you are waiting for a second battery to charge but still want the ergonomic benefits of the vertical shutter button. Just keep in mind you won’t get the extended shooting time that the dual-battery setup provides.
Are third-party battery grips safe for my 6D Mark III?
Generally, yes. Modern third-party grips from reputable brands like Vello and Neewer are very reliable. The main risk is “battery communication” errors where the camera might display a warning that it cannot communicate with the battery. This is rarely harmful to the camera itself but can be annoying. If you are shooting a mission-critical event like a wedding, sticking to the Canon OEM grip is the safest bet to avoid any electronic glitches.
Does the grip make the camera too heavy?
It definitely adds significant weight (roughly 300-400g plus the weight of the second battery). However, many photographers find that the added weight actually helps balance the camera when using large lenses like a 24-70mm f/2.8 or 85mm f/1.2. The extra surface area for your pinky finger to rest on often makes the camera feel more secure and less fatiguing to hold over long periods than the body alone.
Will my 6D Mark II grip work on the Mark III?
Canon typically changes the dimensions slightly between generations to encourage new accessory sales. While the batteries (LP-E6 series) remain compatible, the physical contact pins and the mounting screw placement often shift by a few millimeters. You should always verify that the grip is specifically listed for the Mark III to ensure the buttons align and the weather sealing gasket seats properly against the camera’s base.
Final Verdict
For the working professional, the Canon BG-E21 is an essential investment that guarantees reliability in the field. However, if you’re a hobbyist or a studio photographer who doesn’t need to worry about rain or extreme dust, the Neewer or Vello options offer 90% of the performance for less than half the cost. Landscapes photographers should look closely at the Mcoplus for its included wireless remote, making it a versatile tool for long exposures.