Best Battery Grips for Canon EOS 7D Mark II
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a legendary speed demon, but its 10fps burst rate and dual processors can drain LP-E6N batteries faster than a sports photographer can yell “clear!” If you’re tired of the awkward “claw grip” during vertical portraits or running out of juice mid-game, a dedicated battery grip is your best solution. While the Canon BG-E16 is my definitive top pick for its rugged weather sealing, there are fantastic third-party alternatives that won’t break the bank.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Battery Grips for Canon EOS 7D Mark II: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-E16 View on Amazon View on B&H
When you’re shooting in the rain at a muddy football game, the last thing you want is moisture seeping into your battery compartment. The Canon BG-E16 is the only grip on this list that truly matches the 7D Mark II’s legendary “tank-like” build quality. Constructed from magnesium alloy, it feels like a seamless extension of the camera body. I’ve found the tactile feedback of the shutter button and the AF area selection lever to be identical to the main body, which is crucial for muscle memory. It holds two LP-E6/LP-E6N batteries or six AA batteries via the included tray. While it is significantly more expensive than third-party options, the peace of mind you get from the dust and water resistance is worth every penny for pros. The only downside is the price, but you’re paying for a tool that won’t fail when the conditions get rough.
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Neewer NW-7DII View on Amazon View on B&H
The Neewer NW-7DII is the “smart” choice for photographers who need the extra battery life and vertical controls without the Canon price tag. What I really appreciate about this unit is that it often comes bundled with a 2.4GHz wireless remote, making it a dual-purpose tool for long-exposure tripod work. The plastic construction is surprisingly sturdy, and the rubberized grip surface provides a secure hold that mimics the 7D II’s texture quite well. You’ll notice the buttons are a bit “clickier” and less damped than the OEM version, but they are responsive and reliable. It handles two LP-E6N batteries perfectly, and the camera correctly displays the battery percentage for both. For the price of a single Canon battery, you get a full grip system. It lacks professional weather sealing, so I’d keep it covered in heavy rain, but for studio and fair-weather outdoor work, it’s an incredible value.
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Meike MK-7DR II View on Amazon View on B&H
If you’ve spent all your savings on a nice 70-200mm lens and just need a basic vertical grip, the Meike MK-7DR II is the way to go. It offers the essential functionality: a vertical shutter release, main dial, and AF point selection. While the plastic feels a bit thinner than the Neewer or Vello, the fitment on the 7D Mark II is snug with no noticeable wobbling when tightened down. I’ve noticed that the battery drawer is a bit stiff to slide in, but once locked, it stays put. It’s an honest, no-frills product that doubles your shooting capacity. You might find the scroll wheel feels a bit less refined, but for less than $40, it’s hard to complain. It’s perfect for the hobbyist who wants the professional look and feel of a gripped body without investing in professional-grade gear. Just be mindful of the mounting screw; ensure it’s tight to maintain electrical contact.
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Vello BG-C12 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Vello BG-C12 sits in that “sweet spot” between the cheap plastic grips and the expensive Canon OEM version. Vello is well-known for their quality control, and the BG-C12 features gold-plated contacts which help prevent communication errors—a common frustration with cheaper third-party grips. The build quality is a step up from Neewer; the plastics have a more matte, professional finish and the buttons have a more deliberate “thunk” to them. It feels remarkably solid even when mounting a heavy lens like a 100-400mm on a tripod via the grip’s 1/4″-20 socket. It includes the standard AA battery tray, which is a lifesaver if you’re traveling and your chargers fail. I find this to be the most reliable third-party option for those who don’t want to spend $200+ but still need a grip that can handle daily professional use. It’s a very balanced, high-performance accessory.
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Pixel E16 Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The Pixel E16 is another formidable contender that often gets overlooked. What sets this apart is the depth of the grip; I find it slightly more comfortable for those with larger hands compared to the Meike or Neewer. The rubber coating is “tackier,” providing excellent friction even when your palms are sweaty. It replicates all the functions of the BG-E16, including the multi-controller and the AF area selection button. In my testing, the battery communication was seamless, showing individual health levels for each LP-E6N inserted. One minor gripe is that the scroll wheel is a bit stiffer than the original, but it loosens up with use. It’s a very rugged third-party option that feels closer to the OEM experience than most. If you find it on sale, it’s a fantastic alternative that balances ergonomic comfort with robust functionality for long shooting days.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a 7D Mark II Battery Grip
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-E16 | Pro Durability | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Neewer NW-7DII | Value/Features | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Meike MK-7DR II | Strict Budgets | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Vello BG-C12 | High Reliability | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Pixel E16 | Large Hands | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a third-party grip damage my camera?
Generally, no. Modern third-party grips from reputable brands like Neewer, Vello, and Meike are designed to interface safely with the 7D Mark II. However, you should always ensure the mounting screw is tight. A loose grip can cause intermittent electrical contact, which might cause the camera to restart or fail to recognize the batteries. I recommend checking the tightness of the mounting wheel periodically during a long day of shooting to prevent any communication errors.
Can I mix different brands of batteries in the grip?
It is technically possible, but I strongly advise against it. For the best performance and accurate battery percentage readings, you should use two identical batteries—ideally of the same age and brand. Mixing an old LP-E6 with a brand new LP-E6N can cause the grip to draw power unevenly, which might lead to shorter overall shooting time. If you’re using the AA tray, always use six identical, freshly charged NiMH or alkaline batteries.
Does the grip increase the frames per second (FPS)?
Unlike some older Nikon models, adding a battery grip to the Canon EOS 7D Mark II does not increase the burst rate. The 7D II is already capped at its mechanical maximum of 10fps. What the grip *does* provide is a more consistent power supply, which ensures the camera can maintain that 10fps speed for longer bursts without the voltage dropping as the batteries get low, especially in cold weather conditions.
How much weight does the grip add to the setup?
The Canon BG-E16 weighs about 11 ounces (310g) without batteries. When you add two LP-E6N batteries, you’re adding roughly 1.2 lbs to your setup. While this sounds like a lot, it actually balances the camera better when using heavy “L” series glass like the 100-400mm or 70-200mm f/2.8. The counter-weight of the grip makes the whole kit feel more stable and less “front-heavy” when shooting handheld.
Is the AF area selection lever functional on third-party grips?
Yes, all the grips recommended here include the dedicated AF area selection lever (the “nub” near the shutter button). This is a critical feature of the 7D Mark II for switching between single-point and zone AF quickly. On the Canon OEM and Vello versions, the tactile feel is very close to the camera body. On cheaper budget models, it may feel a bit “mushy,” but it will still perform the function accurately.
Final Verdict
For the professional whose 7D Mark II is a daily workhorse, the Canon BG-E16 is the only logical choice to maintain weather integrity. However, if you’re a student or an enthusiast shooting portraits or local sports, the Neewer and Vello options offer 90% of the performance for 25% of the cost. I personally keep a Vello in my bag as a backup because the build quality is high enough to trust during a long wedding day without the OEM price tag.
