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Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000

  • Price: $69.95
  • B&H # VEBGN4
  • Mfr# BG-N4

Product Highlights

  • Nikon D7000

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Batteries are required but not included with this item. Please be sure to purchase batteries for this item.

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The Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000 is a battery grip designed for use specifically with the Nikon D7000 digital SLR camera. It accepts a single EN-EL15 battery (includes battery chamber). In addition, the included AA battery holder allows you to use 6 AA batteries for added convenience.

The BG-N4 Battery Grip offers an alternate shutter release button, main and sub command dials, multi selector, and an AE-L/AF-L button to facilitate shooting in a vertical orientation.

Note! Batteries sold separately.

Works with the Nikon D7000 digital SLR camera
Accepts a single EN-EL15 battery (includes battery chamber) 1
The included AA battery holder allows you to use 6 AA batteries for added convenience
An alternate shutter release button, main and sub command dials, multi selector, and an AE-L/AF-L button are provided to facilitate shooting in a vertical orientation
Power Source 1 x EN-EL15 Li-ion Battery
6 x AA Batteries
Tripod Mount Thread Size 1/4"-20
Operating Temperature 32-104°F (0-40°C)
Dimensions (HxWxD) 5.2 x 1.9 x 2.8" (133.5 x 49.5 x 72.8 mm)
Weight 8.7 oz (248 g) (with EN-EL15 battery holder, without batteries)
Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000
  • EN-EL15 Battery Holder
  • AA Battery Holder
  • Battery Contacts Cover
  • User's Manual
  • 1-Year Limited Warranty
  • REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

    by PowerReviews
    VelloBG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000
     
    4.5

    (based on 160 reviews)

    Ratings Distribution

    • 5 Stars

       

      (96)

    • 4 Stars

       

      (55)

    • 3 Stars

       

      (7)

    • 2 Stars

       

      (2)

    • 1 Stars

       

      (0)

    99%

    of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

    Pros

    • Good value (102)
    • Easy to install (87)
    • Lightweight (64)
    • Reliable (51)
    • Easy to use (37)

    Cons

    • Flimsy construction (3)

    Best Uses

    • Back-up (53)
    • Travel (49)
    • Professional cameras (39)
    • Primary battery (36)
    • Sports/action (25)
      • Reviewer Profile:
      • Photo enthusiast (61), Semi-pro photographer (55), Pro photographer (22), Photography student (12), Casual photographer (8)
      • Was this a gift?:
      • No (153), Yes (4)

    Most Liked Positive Review

     

    GET A GRIP AND SAVE!

    Sure...the Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip may extend camera use, is more comfortable when taking vertical shots, a lot cheaper than the Nikon equivalent and it makes the camera look more professional but ...Read complete review

    Sure...the Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip may extend camera use, is more comfortable when taking vertical shots, a lot cheaper than the Nikon equivalent and it makes the camera look more professional but do you know that it can also save you money the more you use it?

    Before I purchased the Vello Battery Grip for one of my Nikon D7000 cameras, if I was going to use my camera and the battery level indicated less than half, I would normally recharge the battery.

    Rechargeable batteries have a lifespan. Let's use a scenario, a camera battery is estimated for 100 re-charges. If you use 75% of the battery power and then recharged it...you now have an estimated 99 re-charges even though the battery still had 25% of the power. Basically that 25% would be wasted. This adds up in the long run. Basically after 100 charges, you actually got the equivalent use of 75 batteries with 25 batteries thrown away.

    Now I use a simple technique to maximize efficiency. I would have a well charged battery in the camera and use the partially charged battery in the Vello BG-N4 Grip. The camera is set to use the battery in the grip first then switches over to the battery in the camera automatically when power is low.

    This allows me to deplete the battery more efficiently. If I am using the camera casually, I would just use it as is and at the next outing I would switch out the batteries placing the partially used battery that was in the camera into the Vello BG-N4 Grip and the freshly charged battery placed in the camera.

    If I was using the camera extensively for example, taking videos or long photo shoots, the only adjustment I would make is to use the battery in the camera as a temporary backup until it is convenient to quickly change the depleted battery in the Vello BG-N4 Grip as needed.

    If you like changing batteries (like changing magazines in a gun), then place an EN-EL15 battery in the camera as backup and use rechargeable AA batteries in the Vello Battery Grip with the AA battery holder. AA batteries do not last as long as the EN-EL15 battery....it might be fun and you would not skip a beat to get the shot.

    I should point out that side access to the battery grip is quite beneficial. I use tripods, monopods and flash brackets regularly. When the camera is connected directly to these items (without grip), getting to the camera battery was a problem. With the Vello Grip, I can access the battery compartment without detaching the accessory.

    VS

    Most Liked Negative Review

     

    I really wanted to like this......

    Full disclosure: this is my first battery grip. On the D70 and D200 (predecessors to my D7000) I didn't feel the need for a grip. But the smaller size of the D7000 made...Read complete review

    Full disclosure: this is my first battery grip. On the D70 and D200 (predecessors to my D7000) I didn't feel the need for a grip. But the smaller size of the D7000 made me want to give one a try not for extra battery capacity, but for ergonomics.

    Not crazy about the $220+ price tag of the Nikon grip, I was really hoping that the Vello grip would be 80% of the quality at 35% of the price of the OEM grip, and many of the reviews seemed to indicate that it was.

    Alas, it was not to be.

    All in all the grip was decent, but it did feel plasticky and cheap and even tightened down it felt a little wobbly on my D7000 body. The battery tray latch seemed flimsy as well (it was hard to tell if it was made of metal or plastic--a magnet did not attach) and I felt this was a real weak point that would render the whole grip useless if it broke and its build quality did not inspire confidence that it would last long.

    But the final straw (so to speak) was the command dial on the grip--it felt like there was little to no detent and so the wheel basically just spun freely without stopping in a particular position. That's not going to work.

    I ordered the OEM grip from BH and compared them side by side, and, even if the command dial was working properly the Nikon grip is of far, far better quality and at current pricing only $140 more, so I kept the Nikon grip and returned the Vello.

    Although I've only had to return a few items to B&H over the 20+ years I've been buying from them, they made the process easy and fast with no hassles.

    Reviewed by 160 customers

    Sort by

    Displaying reviews 1-20

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    4.0

    Great Grip for the Price

    By dhfernandez

    from Houston, TX

    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Flexible Configurations
    • Good Value
    • Good Weight
    • Great Built Quality
    • Great Options

    Cons

    • Tricky Installation

    Best Uses

    • Adds Weight Distribution
    • Back-Up
    • Professional Cameras

    Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

    I had originally wanted the Nikon branded grip but saw how much money I would save by purchasing this one, especially since the reviews were great. The only reason I gave this four stars is because you have to be very particular when taking the battery grip on and off. It must be off when putting it on, or else the camera will not recognize the battery. One huge plus is that it has two battery pack options. You can use an extra lithium ion battery or use 6 AA batteries. Or have both loaded for when the other battery pack dies. The build quality is great and I love having a grip on the D7000 as it really evens out the weight. In my opinion, while it makes the overall equipment heavier, its more even, which makes it more comfortable to use. I especially love being able to have the shutter on the size for portraits.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Share this review

     
    5.0

    Awesome

    By wrenchead501

    from San Antonio,TX

    About Me Photography Student

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Install
    • Good Value
    • Lightweight
    • Long-Lasting
    • Reliable

    Cons

    • None

    Best Uses

    • Professional Cameras

    Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

    Great for those who are under a budget. It meets all my expectation

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Share this review

     
    5.0

    Love this

    By Kathyv

    from Eliot, ME

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Install
    • Good Value
    • Lightweight

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Back-Up
      • Professional Cameras
      • Travel

      Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

      I wasn't sure if I needed a battery grip mostly because of the extra cost but with that being said....I took a chance and bought this one. It works great on my d7000. Has a screw on knob that tightens the connection. All the controls communicated perfectly with my nikon. I honestly can't say anything bad and I saved a lot of money.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      Works great!

      By Steve

      from Tabor City, NC

      About Me Casual Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Good Value
      • Solid Great Feel

      Cons

      • None

      Best Uses

        Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

        Never used a camera grip before so I have nothing to compare with. All I can say is that it feels solid, fits flush to the camera, and all the buttons work fine. I would recommend this grip to anyone looking for an alternative to the costly grip Nikon offers.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

         
        3.0

        Great Value for the Price

        By Chad

        from Chino, CA

        About Me Photo Enthusiast

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Easy To Install
        • Good Value
        • Lightweight

        Cons

          Best Uses

            Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

            This product works, the best one for the price.

            However, the connection between the battery pack and the base of the camera is not 100% tight. There is a very very little amount of play which is negligible. Also, the rubber grip was not properly installed onto the grip, but it is not something that I think would come off.

            With all that being said, the grip, for the price is an excelent find.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            Great purchase!

            By Alexandra

            from Orlando, FL

            About Me Photography Student

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Charges Quickly
            • Easy To Install
            • Good Value
            • Lightweight
            • Long-Lasting
            • Reliable

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Professional Cameras

              Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

              I really wanted a grip for my D7000, but I wasn't ready to drop [$] on one. This one is fantastic. Fits my camera like a glove, and no one knows the difference. I didn't have any problems getting it to start working like other people mentioned.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              4.0

              Almost Perfect

              By Alex

              from Beavercreek, OH

              About Me Photo Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Easy To Install
              • Good Value
              • Long-Lasting
              • Reliable

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Back-Up
                • Primary Battery

                Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                I had a little trouble installing it the first time, but it has been great since. This grip works as advertised. I'm sure it is not as we'll built as the Nikon version and the grip is not seem less connection visually in the front of the camera, but for the money you cannot beat this for the pro photographer.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                4.0

                perfect fit!

                By briandeanphotography.

                from Atlanta, GA

                About Me Pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Install
                • Good Value
                • Lightweight

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Back-Up
                  • Primary Battery

                  Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                  cheaper, with same feel, however different types of batteries are needed. Great product overall even with the battery issue.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Working great

                  By Ori

                  from Haifa, Israel.

                  About Me Photography Student

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Install
                  • Good Value
                  • Reliable

                  Cons

                  • None Found Yet

                  Best Uses

                  • Back-Up
                  • Primary Battery
                  • Travel

                  Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                  Doing the job, convenient, looks reliable.
                  When set as primary battery, it's very easy to charge it, while the camera's battery stays full.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Excellent!!!

                  By trebmoore

                  from Coleman, TX

                  About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Install
                  • Good Value
                  • Reliable

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Back-Up
                    • Professional Cameras

                    Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                    I use the BG-N4 Battery grip for every shoot and even for landscape photography. It helps take awkwardness out of the different angles of shooting I tend to do.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                    (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    5.0

                    I needed more heft.

                    By Old Dog New Tricks

                    from Oneida NY

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Install
                    • Good Value
                    • Reliable

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Camera Balance

                      Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                      I have shot with 'big' cameras all my life. Crown Graphics, Mamiya TLRs, etc. My new Nikon D7000 was a bit small for my taste, especially when paired with the 70-300 VR. While I would have liked the Nikon grip, I couldn't afford it so I bought the Vello. I went on the camera very nicely and has a good feel to the surface. I have heard some complaints about 3rd party grips that they came loose. This shows no sign of doing that, in fact the Nikon grip on my D200 had to be constantly retightened. I have not seen any mushiness or stiffness in the buttons or wheels. All in all I am very pleased with this grip.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      5.0

                      Works Great!

                      By Patrick G.

                      from Omaha, NE

                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Easy To Install
                      • Good Value
                      • Reliable

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Increased Stabllity
                        • Vertical grip

                        Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                        This is a great alternative to the Nikon MB-D11. Although the Nikon is probably a more refined, and weather proofed product, this works great! It has all the same features and functions of the pricier version at a third of the cost. The only gripe I have about it is that the sub command dial lacks the same indexed click as the main command dial. I would have given it 4 1/2 stars if I could for this minor detail, but it's still so good that I'll round up. Add in that it comes with the battery holder for six AA's as well and it's a steal.

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Share this review

                        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                         
                        5.0

                        Works Great

                        By blackriverphoto

                        from Black River, NY

                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Easy To Install
                        • Good Value
                        • Reliable

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                            Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                            I purchased a Nikon grip for my D90 and had issues with it, it worked, however had to make some adjustments to it to get it functional. This one being an off brand so far works flawlessly. Good connection to the camera, does what it should. The only drawback I see compared to my grip for the D90 is that it hold only one battery, while the second battery is in the camera. In other words you have to remove the grip to remove the second battery. However for the cost I don't regret buying this unit.

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                             
                            5.0

                            Confusing but works great

                            By Greg the Videoblogger

                            from Cary, NC

                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Easy To Install
                            • Good Value

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Back-Up
                              • Primary Battery

                              Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                              I had mixed feelings about buying this grip instead of the much more expensive Nikon one. A lot of my friends have the Nikon grip and I didn't want to be singled out as the guy with the cheap grip. But the price difference was enough to get me to take the chance.

                              This grip is great! While the shutter button and dials aren't as great as the Nikon version, they are still fine. My friend who has a Nikon grip commented that it feels just like his.

                              A number of people have commented how tricky it is to install. I didn't have a problem at all with installation but did confused when the installed grip didn't register the grip battery. I checked the instruction book and researched online and didn't see anything to explain it. Finally, I realized that you need to push one of the buttons on the grip to engage the battery. Weird and unclear.

                              Now that i know that I am very happy with this grip. Good weight to it, works as advertised and at a fraction of the price.

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

                              Share this review

                              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                               
                              5.0

                              worth the price to me

                              By stevenchadg

                              from alabama

                              About Me Photography Student

                              Pros

                              • Easy To Install
                              • Good Value
                              • Professional Looks

                              Cons

                              • None yet

                              Best Uses

                              • Back-Up
                              • Professional Cameras
                              • Travel

                              Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                              extra grip--- extra power--- extra shutter buttons--- this is my first try with vello products i read many review's and watch video about this product so i can not comment on the nikon grip never touch it or use it. so thats why i got this it looks just like it so i will update this review as the month goes by. i will repeat this statement as i did in the nikon d7000 review " for some reason nikon decide not to put 2 batteries in the grip so one is in the camera and one in the grip so u have to take off the grip to get to the battery in the camera to recharge it . if u can deal with this then go for the grip "

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

                              Share this review

                               
                              5.0

                              Money well spent

                              By Jack C.

                              from Reading PA

                              About Me Pro Photographer

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

                              • Easy To Install
                              • Good Value

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • Adds A Little More Grip

                                Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                Works as advertised and a good value. If you have larger hands it gives a bit more real estate to grip.
                                Adding the little bit of additional weight also gives better balance when hand holding a longer/hevier lens.

                                • Was this a gift?:
                                • No

                                Share this review

                                 
                                4.0

                                Solid Grip

                                By Jason

                                from Los Angeles, CA

                                About Me Pro Photographer

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Good Value
                                • Long-Lasting

                                Cons

                                  Best Uses

                                  • Back-Up
                                  • Primary Battery

                                  Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                  Great buy.

                                  Share this review

                                   
                                  5.0

                                  Great Product for its price

                                  By bivi

                                  from South Daytona

                                  About Me Casual Photographer

                                  Verified Buyer

                                  Pros

                                  • Easy To Install
                                  • Good Value
                                  • Lightweight

                                  Cons

                                    Best Uses

                                    • Back-Up
                                    • Primary Battery

                                    Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                    This is easy to use, price is very good and does the job.

                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                    • No

                                    Share this review

                                     
                                    5.0

                                    Great product for it's price

                                    By netstatinfo

                                    from New York City

                                    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                    Verified Reviewer

                                    Pros

                                    • Easy To Install
                                    • Good Value
                                    • Lightweight
                                    • Long-Lasting
                                    • Reliable

                                    Cons

                                      Best Uses

                                      • Back-Up
                                      • Primary Battery
                                      • Professional Cameras
                                      • Travel

                                      Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                      You can not beat this product for the price, it's great! Easy to assemble and great feel once you have the battery grip on. I have no issues with the contacts as I popped in my second battery and attached the battery grip and wa la!, detected the second battery without a glitch. The good thing about this battery grip is that it doesnt add much weight to my camera, my camera feels more sturdy with it on. I would highly recommend this product to a friend who is also shooting with a D7000.

                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                      • No

                                      Share this review

                                       
                                      4.0

                                      works like a charm

                                      By Bobby G

                                      from Warminster Pa

                                      About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                      Verified Buyer

                                      Pros

                                      • Good Value

                                      Cons

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Back-Up
                                        • Travel

                                        Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                        After reading the other reviews from B & H customers, I decided to buy the Vello grip. Yes, it's plastic and yes, it is not as "heavy" as the nikon, but for a third of the price you get a grip that adds to the feel and functionality of the d7000. I have used it with the en-el-15 and with plain alkaline batteries and have had NO problems. And yes it does help tremendously in portait mode. My only complaint was the initial connection to the camera--it takes a little more effort to attach the grip than you would think at first. Once connected, it works great.

                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                        • No

                                        Share this review

                                        Displaying reviews 1-20

                                        Back to top

                                        Previous | Next »

                                        REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

                                        by PowerReviews
                                        VelloBG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000
                                         
                                        4.5

                                        (based on 160 reviews)

                                        Ratings Distribution

                                        • 5 Stars

                                           

                                          (96)

                                        • 4 Stars

                                           

                                          (55)

                                        • 3 Stars

                                           

                                          (7)

                                        • 2 Stars

                                           

                                          (2)

                                        • 1 Stars

                                           

                                          (0)

                                        99%

                                        of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

                                        Pros

                                        • Good value (102)
                                        • Easy to install (87)
                                        • Lightweight (64)
                                        • Reliable (51)
                                        • Easy to use (37)

                                        Cons

                                        • Flimsy construction (3)

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Back-up (53)
                                        • Travel (49)
                                        • Professional cameras (39)
                                        • Primary battery (36)
                                        • Sports/action (25)
                                          • Reviewer Profile:
                                          • Photo enthusiast (61), Semi-pro photographer (55), Pro photographer (22), Photography student (12), Casual photographer (8)
                                          • Was this a gift?:
                                          • No (153), Yes (4)

                                        Most Liked Positive Review

                                         

                                        GET A GRIP AND SAVE!

                                        Sure...the Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip may extend camera use, is more comfortable when taking vertical shots, a lot cheaper than the Nikon equivalent and it makes the camera look more professional but ...Read complete review

                                        Sure...the Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip may extend camera use, is more comfortable when taking vertical shots, a lot cheaper than the Nikon equivalent and it makes the camera look more professional but do you know that it can also save you money the more you use it?

                                        Before I purchased the Vello Battery Grip for one of my Nikon D7000 cameras, if I was going to use my camera and the battery level indicated less than half, I would normally recharge the battery.

                                        Rechargeable batteries have a lifespan. Let's use a scenario, a camera battery is estimated for 100 re-charges. If you use 75% of the battery power and then recharged it...you now have an estimated 99 re-charges even though the battery still had 25% of the power. Basically that 25% would be wasted. This adds up in the long run. Basically after 100 charges, you actually got the equivalent use of 75 batteries with 25 batteries thrown away.

                                        Now I use a simple technique to maximize efficiency. I would have a well charged battery in the camera and use the partially charged battery in the Vello BG-N4 Grip. The camera is set to use the battery in the grip first then switches over to the battery in the camera automatically when power is low.

                                        This allows me to deplete the battery more efficiently. If I am using the camera casually, I would just use it as is and at the next outing I would switch out the batteries placing the partially used battery that was in the camera into the Vello BG-N4 Grip and the freshly charged battery placed in the camera.

                                        If I was using the camera extensively for example, taking videos or long photo shoots, the only adjustment I would make is to use the battery in the camera as a temporary backup until it is convenient to quickly change the depleted battery in the Vello BG-N4 Grip as needed.

                                        If you like changing batteries (like changing magazines in a gun), then place an EN-EL15 battery in the camera as backup and use rechargeable AA batteries in the Vello Battery Grip with the AA battery holder. AA batteries do not last as long as the EN-EL15 battery....it might be fun and you would not skip a beat to get the shot.

                                        I should point out that side access to the battery grip is quite beneficial. I use tripods, monopods and flash brackets regularly. When the camera is connected directly to these items (without grip), getting to the camera battery was a problem. With the Vello Grip, I can access the battery compartment without detaching the accessory.

                                        VS

                                        Most Liked Negative Review

                                         

                                        I really wanted to like this......

                                        Full disclosure: this is my first battery grip. On the D70 and D200 (predecessors to my D7000) I didn't feel the need for a grip. But the smaller size of the D7000 made...Read complete review

                                        Full disclosure: this is my first battery grip. On the D70 and D200 (predecessors to my D7000) I didn't feel the need for a grip. But the smaller size of the D7000 made me want to give one a try not for extra battery capacity, but for ergonomics.

                                        Not crazy about the $220+ price tag of the Nikon grip, I was really hoping that the Vello grip would be 80% of the quality at 35% of the price of the OEM grip, and many of the reviews seemed to indicate that it was.

                                        Alas, it was not to be.

                                        All in all the grip was decent, but it did feel plasticky and cheap and even tightened down it felt a little wobbly on my D7000 body. The battery tray latch seemed flimsy as well (it was hard to tell if it was made of metal or plastic--a magnet did not attach) and I felt this was a real weak point that would render the whole grip useless if it broke and its build quality did not inspire confidence that it would last long.

                                        But the final straw (so to speak) was the command dial on the grip--it felt like there was little to no detent and so the wheel basically just spun freely without stopping in a particular position. That's not going to work.

                                        I ordered the OEM grip from BH and compared them side by side, and, even if the command dial was working properly the Nikon grip is of far, far better quality and at current pricing only $140 more, so I kept the Nikon grip and returned the Vello.

                                        Although I've only had to return a few items to B&H over the 20+ years I've been buying from them, they made the process easy and fast with no hassles.

                                        Reviewed by 160 customers

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                                        4.0

                                        Great Grip for the Price

                                        By dhfernandez

                                        from Houston, TX

                                        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Flexible Configurations
                                        • Good Value
                                        • Good Weight
                                        • Great Built Quality
                                        • Great Options

                                        Cons

                                        • Tricky Installation

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Adds Weight Distribution
                                        • Back-Up
                                        • Professional Cameras

                                        Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                        I had originally wanted the Nikon branded grip but saw how much money I would save by purchasing this one, especially since the reviews were great. The only reason I gave this four stars is because you have to be very particular when taking the battery grip on and off. It must be off when putting it on, or else the camera will not recognize the battery. One huge plus is that it has two battery pack options. You can use an extra lithium ion battery or use 6 AA batteries. Or have both loaded for when the other battery pack dies. The build quality is great and I love having a grip on the D7000 as it really evens out the weight. In my opinion, while it makes the overall equipment heavier, its more even, which makes it more comfortable to use. I especially love being able to have the shutter on the size for portraits.

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                                        5.0

                                        Awesome

                                        By wrenchead501

                                        from San Antonio,TX

                                        About Me Photography Student

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Easy To Install
                                        • Good Value
                                        • Lightweight
                                        • Long-Lasting
                                        • Reliable

                                        Cons

                                        • None

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Professional Cameras

                                        Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                        Great for those who are under a budget. It meets all my expectation

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                                        • No

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                                        5.0

                                        Love this

                                        By Kathyv

                                        from Eliot, ME

                                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Easy To Install
                                        • Good Value
                                        • Lightweight

                                        Cons

                                          Best Uses

                                          • Back-Up
                                          • Professional Cameras
                                          • Travel

                                          Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                          I wasn't sure if I needed a battery grip mostly because of the extra cost but with that being said....I took a chance and bought this one. It works great on my d7000. Has a screw on knob that tightens the connection. All the controls communicated perfectly with my nikon. I honestly can't say anything bad and I saved a lot of money.

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                                          • No

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                                          5.0

                                          Works great!

                                          By Steve

                                          from Tabor City, NC

                                          About Me Casual Photographer

                                          Verified Buyer

                                          Pros

                                          • Good Value
                                          • Solid Great Feel

                                          Cons

                                          • None

                                          Best Uses

                                            Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                            Never used a camera grip before so I have nothing to compare with. All I can say is that it feels solid, fits flush to the camera, and all the buttons work fine. I would recommend this grip to anyone looking for an alternative to the costly grip Nikon offers.

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                                            • No

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                                            3.0

                                            Great Value for the Price

                                            By Chad

                                            from Chino, CA

                                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                            Verified Buyer

                                            Pros

                                            • Easy To Install
                                            • Good Value
                                            • Lightweight

                                            Cons

                                              Best Uses

                                                Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                This product works, the best one for the price.

                                                However, the connection between the battery pack and the base of the camera is not 100% tight. There is a very very little amount of play which is negligible. Also, the rubber grip was not properly installed onto the grip, but it is not something that I think would come off.

                                                With all that being said, the grip, for the price is an excelent find.

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                                                • No

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                                                5.0

                                                Great purchase!

                                                By Alexandra

                                                from Orlando, FL

                                                About Me Photography Student

                                                Verified Buyer

                                                Pros

                                                • Charges Quickly
                                                • Easy To Install
                                                • Good Value
                                                • Lightweight
                                                • Long-Lasting
                                                • Reliable

                                                Cons

                                                  Best Uses

                                                  • Professional Cameras

                                                  Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                  I really wanted a grip for my D7000, but I wasn't ready to drop [$] on one. This one is fantastic. Fits my camera like a glove, and no one knows the difference. I didn't have any problems getting it to start working like other people mentioned.

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                                                  • No

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                                                  4.0

                                                  Almost Perfect

                                                  By Alex

                                                  from Beavercreek, OH

                                                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                                  Verified Buyer

                                                  Pros

                                                  • Easy To Install
                                                  • Good Value
                                                  • Long-Lasting
                                                  • Reliable

                                                  Cons

                                                    Best Uses

                                                    • Back-Up
                                                    • Primary Battery

                                                    Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                    I had a little trouble installing it the first time, but it has been great since. This grip works as advertised. I'm sure it is not as we'll built as the Nikon version and the grip is not seem less connection visually in the front of the camera, but for the money you cannot beat this for the pro photographer.

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                                                    • No

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                                                    4.0

                                                    perfect fit!

                                                    By briandeanphotography.

                                                    from Atlanta, GA

                                                    About Me Pro Photographer

                                                    Verified Buyer

                                                    Pros

                                                    • Easy To Install
                                                    • Good Value
                                                    • Lightweight

                                                    Cons

                                                      Best Uses

                                                      • Back-Up
                                                      • Primary Battery

                                                      Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                      cheaper, with same feel, however different types of batteries are needed. Great product overall even with the battery issue.

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                                                      • No

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                                                      5.0

                                                      Working great

                                                      By Ori

                                                      from Haifa, Israel.

                                                      About Me Photography Student

                                                      Verified Buyer

                                                      Pros

                                                      • Easy To Install
                                                      • Good Value
                                                      • Reliable

                                                      Cons

                                                      • None Found Yet

                                                      Best Uses

                                                      • Back-Up
                                                      • Primary Battery
                                                      • Travel

                                                      Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                      Doing the job, convenient, looks reliable.
                                                      When set as primary battery, it's very easy to charge it, while the camera's battery stays full.

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                                                      • No

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                                                      5.0

                                                      Excellent!!!

                                                      By trebmoore

                                                      from Coleman, TX

                                                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                                      Pros

                                                      • Easy To Install
                                                      • Good Value
                                                      • Reliable

                                                      Cons

                                                        Best Uses

                                                        • Back-Up
                                                        • Professional Cameras

                                                        Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                        I use the BG-N4 Battery grip for every shoot and even for landscape photography. It helps take awkwardness out of the different angles of shooting I tend to do.

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                                                        • No

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                                                        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                                         
                                                        5.0

                                                        I needed more heft.

                                                        By Old Dog New Tricks

                                                        from Oneida NY

                                                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                                        Verified Buyer

                                                        Pros

                                                        • Easy To Install
                                                        • Good Value
                                                        • Reliable

                                                        Cons

                                                          Best Uses

                                                          • Camera Balance

                                                          Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                          I have shot with 'big' cameras all my life. Crown Graphics, Mamiya TLRs, etc. My new Nikon D7000 was a bit small for my taste, especially when paired with the 70-300 VR. While I would have liked the Nikon grip, I couldn't afford it so I bought the Vello. I went on the camera very nicely and has a good feel to the surface. I have heard some complaints about 3rd party grips that they came loose. This shows no sign of doing that, in fact the Nikon grip on my D200 had to be constantly retightened. I have not seen any mushiness or stiffness in the buttons or wheels. All in all I am very pleased with this grip.

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                                                          • No

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                                                          (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                                           
                                                          5.0

                                                          Works Great!

                                                          By Patrick G.

                                                          from Omaha, NE

                                                          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                                          Verified Buyer

                                                          Pros

                                                          • Easy To Install
                                                          • Good Value
                                                          • Reliable

                                                          Cons

                                                            Best Uses

                                                            • Increased Stabllity
                                                            • Vertical grip

                                                            Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                            This is a great alternative to the Nikon MB-D11. Although the Nikon is probably a more refined, and weather proofed product, this works great! It has all the same features and functions of the pricier version at a third of the cost. The only gripe I have about it is that the sub command dial lacks the same indexed click as the main command dial. I would have given it 4 1/2 stars if I could for this minor detail, but it's still so good that I'll round up. Add in that it comes with the battery holder for six AA's as well and it's a steal.

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                                                            • No

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                                                            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                                             
                                                            5.0

                                                            Works Great

                                                            By blackriverphoto

                                                            from Black River, NY

                                                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                                            Verified Buyer

                                                            Pros

                                                            • Easy To Install
                                                            • Good Value
                                                            • Reliable

                                                            Cons

                                                              Best Uses

                                                                Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                                I purchased a Nikon grip for my D90 and had issues with it, it worked, however had to make some adjustments to it to get it functional. This one being an off brand so far works flawlessly. Good connection to the camera, does what it should. The only drawback I see compared to my grip for the D90 is that it hold only one battery, while the second battery is in the camera. In other words you have to remove the grip to remove the second battery. However for the cost I don't regret buying this unit.

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                                                                • No

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                                                                (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                                                 
                                                                5.0

                                                                Confusing but works great

                                                                By Greg the Videoblogger

                                                                from Cary, NC

                                                                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                                                Verified Buyer

                                                                Pros

                                                                • Easy To Install
                                                                • Good Value

                                                                Cons

                                                                  Best Uses

                                                                  • Back-Up
                                                                  • Primary Battery

                                                                  Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                                  I had mixed feelings about buying this grip instead of the much more expensive Nikon one. A lot of my friends have the Nikon grip and I didn't want to be singled out as the guy with the cheap grip. But the price difference was enough to get me to take the chance.

                                                                  This grip is great! While the shutter button and dials aren't as great as the Nikon version, they are still fine. My friend who has a Nikon grip commented that it feels just like his.

                                                                  A number of people have commented how tricky it is to install. I didn't have a problem at all with installation but did confused when the installed grip didn't register the grip battery. I checked the instruction book and researched online and didn't see anything to explain it. Finally, I realized that you need to push one of the buttons on the grip to engage the battery. Weird and unclear.

                                                                  Now that i know that I am very happy with this grip. Good weight to it, works as advertised and at a fraction of the price.

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                                                                  • No

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                                                                  (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                                                   
                                                                  5.0

                                                                  worth the price to me

                                                                  By stevenchadg

                                                                  from alabama

                                                                  About Me Photography Student

                                                                  Pros

                                                                  • Easy To Install
                                                                  • Good Value
                                                                  • Professional Looks

                                                                  Cons

                                                                  • None yet

                                                                  Best Uses

                                                                  • Back-Up
                                                                  • Professional Cameras
                                                                  • Travel

                                                                  Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                                  extra grip--- extra power--- extra shutter buttons--- this is my first try with vello products i read many review's and watch video about this product so i can not comment on the nikon grip never touch it or use it. so thats why i got this it looks just like it so i will update this review as the month goes by. i will repeat this statement as i did in the nikon d7000 review " for some reason nikon decide not to put 2 batteries in the grip so one is in the camera and one in the grip so u have to take off the grip to get to the battery in the camera to recharge it . if u can deal with this then go for the grip "

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                                                                  • No

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                                                                  5.0

                                                                  Money well spent

                                                                  By Jack C.

                                                                  from Reading PA

                                                                  About Me Pro Photographer

                                                                  Verified Buyer

                                                                  Pros

                                                                  • Easy To Install
                                                                  • Good Value

                                                                  Cons

                                                                    Best Uses

                                                                    • Adds A Little More Grip

                                                                    Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                                    Works as advertised and a good value. If you have larger hands it gives a bit more real estate to grip.
                                                                    Adding the little bit of additional weight also gives better balance when hand holding a longer/hevier lens.

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                                                                    • No

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                                                                    4.0

                                                                    Solid Grip

                                                                    By Jason

                                                                    from Los Angeles, CA

                                                                    About Me Pro Photographer

                                                                    Verified Buyer

                                                                    Pros

                                                                    • Good Value
                                                                    • Long-Lasting

                                                                    Cons

                                                                      Best Uses

                                                                      • Back-Up
                                                                      • Primary Battery

                                                                      Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                                      Great buy.

                                                                      Share this review

                                                                       
                                                                      5.0

                                                                      Great Product for its price

                                                                      By bivi

                                                                      from South Daytona

                                                                      About Me Casual Photographer

                                                                      Verified Buyer

                                                                      Pros

                                                                      • Easy To Install
                                                                      • Good Value
                                                                      • Lightweight

                                                                      Cons

                                                                        Best Uses

                                                                        • Back-Up
                                                                        • Primary Battery

                                                                        Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                                        This is easy to use, price is very good and does the job.

                                                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                                                        • No

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                                                                        5.0

                                                                        Great product for it's price

                                                                        By netstatinfo

                                                                        from New York City

                                                                        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                                                        Verified Reviewer

                                                                        Pros

                                                                        • Easy To Install
                                                                        • Good Value
                                                                        • Lightweight
                                                                        • Long-Lasting
                                                                        • Reliable

                                                                        Cons

                                                                          Best Uses

                                                                          • Back-Up
                                                                          • Primary Battery
                                                                          • Professional Cameras
                                                                          • Travel

                                                                          Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                                          You can not beat this product for the price, it's great! Easy to assemble and great feel once you have the battery grip on. I have no issues with the contacts as I popped in my second battery and attached the battery grip and wa la!, detected the second battery without a glitch. The good thing about this battery grip is that it doesnt add much weight to my camera, my camera feels more sturdy with it on. I would highly recommend this product to a friend who is also shooting with a D7000.

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                                                                          • No

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                                                                          4.0

                                                                          works like a charm

                                                                          By Bobby G

                                                                          from Warminster Pa

                                                                          About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                                                          Verified Buyer

                                                                          Pros

                                                                          • Good Value

                                                                          Cons

                                                                            Best Uses

                                                                            • Back-Up
                                                                            • Travel

                                                                            Comments about Vello BG-N4 Battery Grip for Nikon D7000:

                                                                            After reading the other reviews from B & H customers, I decided to buy the Vello grip. Yes, it's plastic and yes, it is not as "heavy" as the nikon, but for a third of the price you get a grip that adds to the feel and functionality of the d7000. I have used it with the en-el-15 and with plain alkaline batteries and have had NO problems. And yes it does help tremendously in portait mode. My only complaint was the initial connection to the camera--it takes a little more effort to attach the grip than you would think at first. Once connected, it works great.

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                                                                            • No

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                                                                            Batteries & Power

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                                                                            Required item:

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                                                                            • Price: $59.95
                                                                             
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                                                                            • Price: $34.95
                                                                             

                                                                            Straps

                                                                            OP/TECH USA -  Grip Strap
                                                                            • Price: $26.95
                                                                             

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                                                                            • Price: $11.99
                                                                             
                                                                             
                                                                             
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