23/03/2026 6:40 pm
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Should I just shell out for the official Canon BG-E20 or is something like the Neewer or Vello actually gonna hold up for a full day of shooting? Im doing my first solo wedding gig in about two weeks and the thought of my 5D IV dying mid-ceremony is giving me major anxiety.
Im looking at these options:
- Canon BG-E20 (expensive but feels safer)
- Vello BG-C14 (seems like a good middle ground)
- Neewer (super cheap but idk about the build quality)
The Canon one is like $250 new which is way over my $150 budget but I could maybe find it used if I hunt around. I just need it to be reliable and not have those weird shutter button lag issues people talk about with third party ones. What do you guys think is the best move for a tight budget?
3 Answers
12
23/03/2026 6:41 pm
Honestly, for a high-stakes wedding gig, I would suggest being extremely cautious with third-party power. I have seen cameras lock up because of poor contact pins on the cheaper clones. While the price is tempting, here are a few things you might want to consider:
- Third-party grips often lack the weather sealing found on the Canon BG-E20 Battery Grip for EOS 5D Mark IV
- Shutter button tactile feedback is usually mushy and can lag
- Potential for sudden battery communication errors I would suggest hunting for a used Canon BG-E20 Battery Grip for EOS 5D Mark IV on a site like MPB. You can usually find them for around $130 in good condition. Its better to have peace of mind than to save a few bucks and have your gear fail during the processional... trust me, that anxiety wont go away until you know the gear is solid.
11
23/03/2026 7:45 pm
Late to the party, but unfortunately I've had some bad luck with cheap grips. My Neewer Vertical Battery Grip for Canon 5D Mark IV actually drained my batteries while it was sitting in my bag. Total nightmare.
- Neewer: cheap plastic, weird power issues.
- Vello: better, but the dials feel gritty. Honestly, the Canon BG-E20 Battery Grip for EOS 5D Mark IV is the only way to go for pro work. Third-party stuff just isnt as good as expected tho.
3
23/03/2026 7:05 pm
Had a sec to think about this... I would be super careful with the Neewer for a wedding. If you're stressed about it dying, maybe look at a used Canon BG-E20 Battery Grip on MPB or KEH. They usually go for around $130 used which fits your budget. The Vello BG-C14 Battery Grip for Canon 5D Mark IV is okay but watch the battery tray door, it feels a bit flimsy. Id trust a used OEM over a cheap clone any day.
