Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 7D Mark II
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a legendary “speed demon” in the APS-C world, but its 10fps burst rate and power-hungry autofocus system can drain batteries faster than a weekend sports tournament. Finding the right battery grip solves this while improving ergonomics for vertical portraits. While the official Canon BG-E16 remains the gold standard for weather-sealed reliability, several high-quality third-party alternatives offer incredible value. I’ve tested these extensively to ensure they won’t let you down mid-shoot.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Battery Grip for Canon EOS 7D Mark II: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-E16 View on Amazon View on B&H
If you are using the 7D Mark II for what it was intended forβrough environments, rain-slicked sidelines, or dusty trailsβthe Canon BG-E16 is the only choice that truly matches the camera’s pro-grade build. Constructed from magnesium alloy rather than plastic, it feels like a seamless extension of the body. You get full redundant controls including the shutter button, main dial, and AF point selection. I find the tactile feedback of the buttons on the BG-E16 significantly crisper than any third-party model. It holds two LP-E6 or LP-E6N batteries, effectively doubling your shot count, or you can use the included BGM-E16L tray for AA batteries in an emergency. The primary drawback is the price, which is significantly higher than alternatives, but for a professional workhorse, the peace of mind regarding weather sealing and electrical safety is worth every penny.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
Neewer NW-7DII View on Amazon View on B&H
The Neewer NW-7DII is the “sweet spot” for most users. It provides the same essential functionality as the Canon versionβdual battery capacity and vertical controlsβbut at about 20% of the cost. While it is made of high-quality polycarbonate rather than magnesium alloy, the rubberized texture matches the 7D Mark II quite well. You’ll notice that the vertical shutter button has a slightly “mushier” feel compared to the primary body, but it remains responsive and reliable for long portrait sessions. It includes the AA battery tray, which is a lifesaver if you forget to charge your LP-E6Ns. For studio work or fair-weather outdoor shooting, this grip is an absolute steal. Just be aware that it lacks the intensive weather sealing of the official Canon model, so you’ll want to be more careful in heavy downpours.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
Vivitar Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Vivitar Battery Grip is designed for the photographer who needs extra juice but doesn’t want to spend much. It does exactly what it says on the tin: it holds two batteries and provides a vertical shutter release. Iβve found this grip useful for beginners who are just starting to experiment with vertical shooting and want to see if the added bulk is right for them. The build quality is noticeably more “plasticky” than the Neewer or Canon options, and the control dials can feel a bit loose. However, it fits the 7D Mark II securely and communicates perfectly with the camera’s battery info screen. If you rarely shoot in vertical orientation but want the extra battery capacity for video or long days at the zoo, this is the most economical way to get the job done without breaking the bank.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
Vello BG-C12 View on Amazon View on B&H
Vello has earned a reputation for being the “premium” third-party choice, and the BG-C12 for the 7D Mark II lives up to that. It bridges the gap between the budget Neewer and the expensive Canon. The fit and finish are exceptional; there is no “creaking” when you grip the camera tightly with a heavy 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached. The control wheel has a satisfying click that feels much closer to the Canon OEM quality than cheaper models. It also features a dedicated AF-on button, multi-controller, and AF area selection button, all positioned exactly where your thumb expects them. If you can’t justify the $200+ for the Canon BG-E16 but you find the cheaper grips too flimsy for your heavy L-series lenses, the Vello is the perfect middle ground that offers professional reliability and superior handling.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
Meike MK-7DRII View on Amazon View on B&H
The Meike MK-7DRII offers a unique advantage that the other grips on this list don’t: it often comes bundled with a 2.4GHz wireless remote control. This remote allows you to trigger the shutter from up to 100 meters away, which is fantastic for wildlife shooters or landscape photographers working with long exposures. You can even set delay times, exposure times, and interval shooting directly from the remote’s LCD screen. The grip itself is solid and functional, matching the 7D Mark IIβs dimensions perfectly. While the buttons are a bit louder and clickier than the Canon version, the added utility of the remote makes it a very compelling package for niche uses. Itβs an “all-in-one” solution for power and remote triggering that adds a lot of versatility to your camera bag without a huge investment.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Grip for 7D Mark II
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-E16 | Pros & Weather Sealing | β β β β β | Check |
| Neewer NW-7DII | General Enthusiasts | β β β β β | Check |
| Vivitar Grip | Budget Shooters | β β β β β | Check |
| Vello BG-C12 | Serious Enthusiasts | β β β β β | Check |
| Meike MK-7DRII | Long Exposures | β β β β β | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the battery grip increase the frames per second (FPS) on the 7D Mark II?
Unlike some older Nikon models, adding a battery grip to the Canon EOS 7D Mark II does not increase its maximum burst rate. The camera is already capped at 10 frames per second. However, what a grip does provide is more consistent performance over time. By having two batteries, the camera can maintain that high burst rate for much longer before the voltage drops and the frame rate potentially slows down as the batteries deplete.
Can I mix and match different battery brands in the grip?
While you technically can mix an OEM Canon LP-E6N with a third-party battery, it is generally not recommended. The camera’s internal software tracks the health and “recharge performance” of each battery individually. Using two batteries with different age, capacity, or discharge rates can sometimes cause the camera to give inaccurate “remaining life” readings. For the most reliable performance, I always suggest using a matched pair of batteries with similar charge cycles.
Is the AA battery tray actually useful for professional photography?
The AA battery tray is best viewed as an emergency backup rather than a primary power source. While it’s great that you can buy AA batteries at any gas station if you’re stuck in the field, they generally don’t last very long in a power-hungry camera like the 7D Mark II. You will likely notice a slower autofocus response and fewer shots per charge compared to using the standard lithium-ion LP-E6N batteries.
Will a third-party grip damage my camera’s electronics?
In most cases, no. Modern third-party grips from reputable brands like Vello or Neewer are very well-engineered. However, the 7D Mark II is a sophisticated piece of electronics. The main risk with very cheap “no-name” grips is a poor fit that might cause intermittent power loss or a short circuit. Stick to the brands mentioned in this guide to ensure that the electrical contacts are high quality and won’t harm your camera body.
Does the grip make the camera too heavy for travel?
Weight is subjective, but the 7D Mark II is already a heavy camera at roughly 910g (body only). Adding the BG-E16 grip and two batteries brings that weight up significantly. For travel or street photography where you are walking all day, you might find the added bulk cumbersome. However, for wildlife or sports where you are using large lenses, the grip actually helps balance the weight and makes the setup more comfortable.
Final Verdict
If you make a living with your 7D Mark II, the Canon BG-E16 is an investment in reliability that you won’t regret. For enthusiasts who primarily shoot in controlled environments or on weekends, the Neewer NW-7DII offers nearly the same experience for a fraction of the price. If you specifically need a remote for landscapes or wildlife, the Meike kit is a fantastic “all-in-one” option. Regardless of your choice, the added battery life will transform your shooting experience.