Best Vertical Battery Grips for Canon EOS R Mark II
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a powerhouse of a mirrorless camera, but for professional workflows, the standard body can feel a bit small, especially when balancing heavy RF glass like the 70-200mm f/2.8. Battery life, while improved, often falls short during long wedding days or wildlife treks. A vertical battery grip is the essential fix, offering doubled endurance and superior ergonomics. While the official Canon BG-R10 is my top recommendation for its seamless weather sealing, several third-party alternatives offer surprising value.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Vertical Battery Grips for Canon EOS R6 Mark II: Detailed Reviews
Canon BG-R10 View on Amazon View on B&H
If you are shooting in demanding environmentsβthink rainy sidelines or dusty trailsβthe Canon BG-R10 is the only grip I fully trust. Built to the same exacting standards as the R6 Mark II and R5 bodies, it features identical weather sealing and a magnesium alloy chassis. What sets it apart is the tactile response; the AF-on button and the multi-controller joystick feel exactly like the ones on the camera body, ensuring your muscle memory isn’t disrupted when flipping to portrait orientation. It houses two LP-E6NH batteries, effectively doubling your shot count to over 1,500 frames in real-world use. You can also charge the batteries via the camera’s USB-C port without removing the grip. The only real downside is the premium price tag, but for a piece of gear that maintains the structural integrity of your $2,500 camera, itβs a worthy investment.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
Neewer BG-R10 Replacement View on Amazon View on B&H
Neewer has consistently improved their manufacturing, and their take on the BG-R10 is remarkably close to the original. For about a third of the price of the Canon version, you get the full suite of vertical controls, including the shutter button, main dial, and AF point joystick. In my hands, the rubber grip texture is slightly less “tacky” than the OEM version, but it still provides a secure hold for heavy setups. It communicates perfectly with the R6 Mark II’s software, displaying individual battery percentages for both slots. While I wouldn’t recommend taking this into a torrential downpourβas the weather sealing is more “splash resistant” than “weatherproof”βit is an incredible value for studio photographers or hobbyists who want that pro-body feel and extended battery life without the “Canon tax.” It handles LP-E6, LP-E6N, and LP-E6NH batteries without any communication errors.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
Mcoplus BG-R10 View on Amazon View on B&H
If you rarely shoot vertically but desperately need the extra battery life for 4K video recording, the Mcoplus BG-R10 is the most cost-effective solution. It is noticeably lighter than the Canon or Neewer versions because it uses a higher percentage of polycarbonate in its build. While this makes it feel slightly more “hollow,” it still fits the R6 Mark II snugly without any play or wobbling at the tripod mount. The buttons are a bit “clickier” and louder than the dampened buttons on the official grip, but they are fully functional. I’ve found it to be a great secondary grip for a backup body. It lacks sophisticated weather sealing, so keep it in the bag if the weather turns south. However, for under $60, you’re getting a tool that doubles your uptime and makes portrait-oriented headshots significantly more comfortable.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
Vello BG-R10 for Canon View on Amazon View on B&H
Vello has earned a reputation for having the best quality control among third-party manufacturers. Their BG-R10 version feels incredibly solid, with a mounting screw that locks tight without needing constant re-tightening. One thing I’ve noticed with Vello grips is the consistency of their electronic contacts; they rarely suffer from the “battery communication error” that can plague cheaper clones. The shutter release has a distinct two-stage feel that is very close to the R6 Mark II’s own shutter. It also includes a dedicated slot for the camera’s battery door, so you don’t lose it while the grip is attached. While itβs pricier than Neewer, youβre paying for that extra layer of reliability. Itβs an ideal choice for the photographer who wants something better than the “budget” options but can’t justify the $350+ for the original Canon model.
Check Price on Amazon β Check Price on B&H
β Free Shipping Β· β Easy Returns Β· β Secure Checkout
JJC Wireless Battery Grip View on Amazon View on B&H
The JJC grip offers a unique twist by including a 2.4G wireless remote control that works up to 32 feet away. This makes it an exceptional choice for landscape photographers or those shooting self-portraits and group shots. The remote allows you to trigger the shutter, set delays, and even manage long exposures without touching the camera, which is vital for preventing camera shake. As a grip, it is robust and features a comfortable, deep handle that makes the R6 Mark II feel much more balanced when using the RF 28-70mm f/2. It effectively manages two batteries and allows for the same vertical control layout as the others. If you frequently find yourself using a tripod, the added value of the remote makes this a more versatile kit than the standard grips.
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 Vertical Battery Grip
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon BG-R10 | Pros/Weatherproofing | β β β β β | Check |
| Neewer BG-R10 | All-around Value | β β β β β | Check |
| Mcoplus BG-R10 | Budget Users | β β β β β | Check |
| Vello BG-R10 | Reliable Backup | β β β β β | Check |
| JJC Wireless | Tripod/Remote Use | β β β β β | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge batteries inside the grip via USB-C?
Yes, but there is a caveat. You must use a Power Delivery (PD) compatible USB-C cable and wall brick, and the batteries inside must be the LP-E6NH or LP-E6N models. The original LP-E6 batteries do not support in-camera charging. This feature is incredibly convenient for travel, as it eliminates the need to carry a separate bulky wall charger for your long shooting days.
Does adding a grip increase the camera’s burst speed?
Indirectly, yes. To hit the maximum 40fps electronic or 12fps mechanical shutter speeds on the R6 Mark II, the camera requires a high level of battery voltage. Having two LP-E6NH batteries in the grip ensures the camera stays in the “green” high-speed display mode longer than it would with a single, partially depleted battery inside the body.
Will the BG-R10 fit the original EOS R or R8?
No, it will not. The BG-R10 is specifically designed for the EOS R5, R6, and R6 Mark II. The original EOS R uses the BG-E22 grip, and the EOS R8 does not have electronic contacts for a traditional vertical grip. Itβs vital to match the grip to the specific body geometry to ensure the data pins align correctly for shutter and dial control.
Are third-party grips safe for my camera?
Generally, yes. Modern third-party grips from reputable brands like Neewer or Vello use circuitry that protects against overcharging. However, the main risk is a physical one: cheaper grips may have a slightly less secure mounting screw. I always recommend checking the tightness of the mounting wheel periodically during a shoot to ensure there is no stress on the camera’s tripod socket.
Do I have to use two batteries in the grip?
No, you can operate the camera with just one battery in either slot of the grip. This is useful if youβre waiting for one battery to charge but still want the ergonomic benefits of the vertical handle. However, to see the performance benefits in frame rate and to double your shooting time, utilizing both slots with matched batteries is highly recommended.
Final Verdict
For the working professional, the Canon BG-R10 is the only choice that guarantees your EOS R6 Mark II remains weather-sealed and structurally sound. However, the gap in functionality has narrowed significantly. If youβre an enthusiast who mostly shoots in fair weather, the Neewer or Vello alternatives provide 95% of the experience for a fraction of the cost, allowing you to put that extra money toward better glass.