Why do pro DSLRs like the Canon 1D X and Nikon D4/D5 have a built-in vertical grip?
Asked 4/26/2016
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High-end professional DSLRs such as the Canon 1D X and Nikon D4/D5 are much larger than most other DSLR bodies and look like they have a permanent battery grip attached. Why are these cameras designed this way? Is the extra size mainly for a larger battery and vertical controls, or is there significant additional circuitry inside as well?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
10y ago
2 Answers
19
There are a few reasons why the battery grip is integrated:
- Comfort/dexterity/ergonomics
- Additional buttons/custom function controls/LCDs
- Extended battery life
- Less bulky vs grip accessory
- Multi position shooting (vertical/portraits are much more comfortable)
- Better performance (in some cases, higher fps for example)
- More solid/better build compared to grip accessory
Really I think it comes down to, why not? The disadvantages are primarily weight and size.
Someone who is requiring a DSLR at this level for their work, such as a sports photographer or photojournalist is likely not very concerned with having a somewhat smaller camera body and is instead concerned with having every advantage possible to get the shot. A built in vertical battery grip will do just that.
Originally by user4892. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4892
10y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
These pro DSLR bodies are larger mainly because the vertical battery grip is built in. The biggest reason for the extra space is usually the larger battery, not lots of extra circuitry.
A built-in grip gives several practical benefits:
- longer battery life
- more comfortable shooting in vertical orientation
- duplicate controls/buttons for portrait shooting
- stronger, more rigid construction than an add-on grip
- better balance with large lenses
- in some cases, improved performance
Top-end sports and press cameras are aimed at photographers who often shoot long events, use heavy telephoto lenses, and need maximum durability and handling more than compact size. Since many buyers of flagship bodies would add a grip anyway, integrating it into the camera makes the whole body sturdier and less bulky than using an accessory grip.
So yes, there can be some extra circuitry, but the main reasons are battery capacity, ergonomics, durability, and pro handling.
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