Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D
The Vello BG-C3 is a battery grip designed for use specifically with the Canon 20D, 30D, 40D, and 50D digital SLR cameras. It accepts up to 2 BP-511A batteries to effectively double the camera's battery life. The included AA battery holder allows you to use 6 AA batteries for added convenience. The BG-C3 offers an alternate shutter release button, AF point selection, AE lock/FE lock button, and main dial to facilitate shooting in a vertical orientation.
Note! Batteries sold separately.
- Works with the Canon 20D, 30D, 40D, and 50D digital SLR cameras
- Accepts up to 2 BP-511A batteries to effectively double the camera's battery life 1
- The included AA battery holder allows you to use 6 AA batteries for added convenience
- An alternate shutter release button, AF point selection, AE lock/FE lock button, and main dial are provided to facilitate shooting in a vertical orientation
| Power Source |
1-2 x BP-511A/514/511/512 Li-ion Batteries 6 x AA Batteries Also works with the Canon AC Adapter Kit ACK-E8 (Sold Separately) |
| Tripod Mount Thread Size | 1/4"-20 |
| Operating Temperature | 32-104°F (0-40°C) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 5.6 x 4.4 x 3" (143 x 111 x 76mm) |
| Weight | 11.5 oz (325g) (Without Holder and Batteries) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 51 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
96%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Strong construction (27)
- Attractive (24)
- Well organized (8)
- Great price (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Portraits (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro photographer (20), Photo enthusiast (14), Pro photographer (11)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (44)
Most Liked Positive Review
Vertical shooting has never been easier
The battery grip is solidly built. Easy to attach and fits perfectly.Price is right as this grip costs almost 4 times less than Canon's. The fact that I can use BP-511A(2) or...Read complete review
The battery grip is solidly built. Easy to attach and fits perfectly.Price is right as this grip costs almost 4 times less than Canon's. The fact that I can use BP-511A(2) or 6 double A's is a plus. I can shoot vertically holding the camera steadier than without the grip. Only have had this grip for a couple of weeks and I can't think of one negative thought.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Bad 1st Experience
The construction seems to be pretty solid. Fits the 40D well. However, the main dial does not work. I was going to stick with the Canon one, but thought I could save money...Read complete review
The construction seems to be pretty solid. Fits the 40D well. However, the main dial does not work. I was going to stick with the Canon one, but thought I could save money. Ended up exchanging for the Canon model anyway. Live & learn, I'm sticking with OEM from now on & have always in the past.
Reviewed by 51 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Great price
- Well built
- Well built quality
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Initially I was thinking about getting the original canon version; however I decided to give the Vello one a try. Build quality is ok. It feels very well in my hands. I would like to see slightly more griping on it, but it is ok. It makes taking portraits a lot easier and comfortable. Now, I can't stop taking images in portrait orientation.
I am very satisfied. I haven't had any issues with it. The controls work great. So far so good.
Overall a great product for that price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
The battery grip is solidly built. Easy to attach and fits perfectly.Price is right as this grip costs almost 4 times less than Canon's. The fact that I can use BP-511A(2) or 6 double A's is a plus. I can shoot vertically holding the camera steadier than without the grip. Only have had this grip for a couple of weeks and I can't think of one negative thought.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
good fit and finish, works as advertized watched video from BH gives a bit of heft when mounted on my 40D wanted a better vertical shutter holding with out looking like some kind of bird trying to take off much more stable as I like to keep my arms tucked in.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Fits great on my 50D and is comfortable to use. I just have to get used to the viewfinder being at the bottom of the camera when shooting vertical.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Great price
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Very solid grip. Works as good as Canon brands!!!
Pros
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
This grip is much cheaper than the Canon one, and works almost as well as I assume the Canon one must.
The grip comes with a battery magazine for six AA batteries, or you can just use two batteries for your camera. This allows nice flexibility for powering the camera.
There is an on/off switch on the side of the grip to disable the slide wheel and shutter button on the side of the grip. This prevents accidental firing, and works almost perfectly. When the switch is engaged, I have found that my slide wheel on the camera itself becomes non-functional. Therefore, I have to turn the little switch on or off every time I change camera orientation. All the other functions work in any orientation when the camera is on. If you are not shooting in manual modes, this won't be a problem for you. That said, it really isn't a problem as much as a nuisance.
Overall, the grip works well, feels good, and looks like a normal extension of the camera. I have used it mostly for handheld photography, though it does have a tripod mount on the bottom of the grip. This could be nice for long exposures where the extra battery life would be useful.
Final thought: Overall this is a great value for the money. The issue with the slide wheel and the on/off switch is the only drawback, and it really isn't that big of a deal.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Ergonomic
- Strong Construction
- Super battery life
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Purchased mainly for portrait work and haven't removed it since. Vertical shooting and overall camera grip is much improved. Very well made for the price, and considerably less than the Canon OEM. The 40D already had excellent battery life, and with 2 batteries it's thousands of shots. The "AA" cartridge is also a nice backup for trips just in case. The strap attachment point works really well with my OP tech sling strap, and I now prefer the way the camera hangs with this grip installed even though it adds weight. Probably wont' ever remove it. Fantastic value.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Works like it should. Very comfortable hold for vertical shots.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Just what I needed and affordable!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
I just could not bring myself to pay over $250.00 for the battery grip made by Canon. A call to my local camera shop said ALL non-Canon grips were no good. I found that hard to believe. Once I read the reviews here I decided to give the Vello a shot. I could not be happier. I have had a Canon grip on another camera and I cannot tell the difference.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Well Organized
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Excellent for extra battery power
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Easy to attach and fit was perfect. Tight fit with no sloppy loose play. Adds a little weight to my Canon 50d but that was expected. Great value.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Pros
- Attractive Design
- Easy to Use
- Good price value
Cons
Best Uses
- Long shooting day
- Portrait Photography
- Time lapse
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
I have been using the BG-C3 for a few weeks now and I must say it does take a bit getting used to the fact that I don't have to awkwardly lift on arm above my head to shoot vertical anymore. The BG-C3 not only allows for easy portrait shots, but you get two battery pack slots, so you can shoot much longer; Great for time lapse photography!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Strong Construction
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Sports
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Feels great in your hand, looks good and so far, works good. I like the fact that I can turn it "off" to save battery life. I like that it can use AA batteries or BP-511A's.
I have only been using it for a week but I am very happy with the quality and the price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
I bought this battery grip for my canon 50d. It works really well and I have been satisfied with it. Great product, great price. Would recommend to others.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
I have never used a grip. It adds weight and everything is "off." The view finder isn't where it is suppose to be, etc. But the grip itself works as described. A very good thing is the area provided to put your camera battery cover on the grip itself so you don't lose it. I find it difficult to screw it on and off. It locks on good once you get it tightened. Not easy enough that you just take it on and off. I have the 40D
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Cost. Just as good as more expensive Canon grip.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Strong Construction
- Well Organized
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
I put a vertical grip on every DSLR camera I have, it makes life so much easier when shooting verticals or to counterbalance a long lens.
I recently accquired a used 40D, and when I went to find a grip-oh no, discontinued by Canon. I figured, what do I have to lose? I'll try Vello's grip.
Apparently I lost nothing except the chance to spend more money. This grip is identical in fit and function to the OEM version at a fraction of the price.
From this point on, I'll be adding Vello grips to my cameras.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
had my original part stolen and hesitated to replace with an aftermarket.
surprise it works just as well.BTW this is for my backup body.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vello BG-C3 Battery Grip for Canon EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D:
Purchased when suppliers stopped carrying the Canon version - convinced by other reviews and wasn't disappointed. Packaged well with clear instructions. Appears to be Canon spec; no issues with construction, battery fit, or use. Perfectly suits the intended use - vertical composed pictures now a piece of cake (including use of AE-lock).
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
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Batteries & Power
Required item:
-
- Original: $24.95
- Save: $2.49
- Price: $22.46
Straps
- Price: $26.95
What's in the Box
- AA Battery Holder
- User's Manual
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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