Battery Grip Kit for Nikon D850 Digital SLR Camera - Doubles Shooting

In this review of the Battery Grip Kit for the Nikon D850, the bottom line is simple: it is for photographers who need extended shooting time and improved handling during vertical portrait sessions. The kit pairs a replacement MB-D18 style battery grip with two BM Premium EN-EL15 batteries and a rapid AC/DC charger, effectively doubling runtime compared with a single battery in the camera. The reviewer found the package useful for long shoots, offering a comfortable vertical shutter release and reliable power management thanks to fully decoded batteries that report remaining charge.

Key Features

• Extended runtime: Using one EN-EL15 in the grip and one in the camera effectively doubles shooting capacity for longer sessions without swapping batteries.
• Vertical controls: The integrated vertical shutter release and scroll wheel make portrait orientation shooting faster and more comfortable for handheld work.
• AA backup option: The grip accepts eight AA cells via the included holder, providing a convenient alternative power source when EN-EL15 batteries are unavailable.
• Decoded battery chip: The BM Premium EN-EL15 batteries are fully decoded so the camera displays remaining time accurately without needing a special charger.
• Safety and build: Batteries include multiple circuit protections and fire-resistant construction for safer continuous use on location.

Who It's For

This kit is aimed at professional and enthusiast photographers using the Nikon D850 who demand longer runtime for weddings, events, wildlife, or long studio sessions. It is particularly valuable for photographers who frequently shoot vertically and want the ergonomics of a true vertical grip with an extra shutter release and control dial.

It is less suitable for casual shooters who rarely exceed a single battery per session, or for those who prefer to minimize kit weight; the grip and extra batteries add bulk and are best justified when longer shooting time or improved handling is regularly needed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effectively doubles shooting time by allowing two EN-EL15 batteries to power the camera.
• Comfortable vertical grip with a dedicated shutter release and scroll wheel improves handling for portrait work.
• Includes a rapid AC/DC charger and two decoded EN-EL15 batteries so the camera shows accurate remaining charge.
• AA battery option adds flexibility in remote situations where camera batteries are not accessible.

Cons

• The added weight and size of the grip and extra battery may be unnecessary for casual users who do not need extended runtime.
• Installation and switching between AA and EN-EL15 power require a brief setup that may interrupt a shoot if not prepared.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Battery Grip Kit for the Nikon D850 is a practical value for photographers who regularly face long shoots or need better vertical ergonomics. It pairs a reliable MB-D18 style grip with two decoded EN-EL15 batteries and a fast charger, delivering extended runtime and accurate battery reporting. For anyone who shoots weddings, events, or long outdoor sessions, this kit is a worthwhile investment that improves handling and reduces downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the camera show battery level with these batteries?
Yes, the BM Premium EN-EL15 batteries use a fully decoded chip so the camera displays remaining charge normally.

Can I use AA batteries with the grip?
Yes, the grip accepts eight AA batteries with the included holder as a convenient fallback power source.

Does the kit come with a charger?
Yes, a rapid AC/DC battery charger is included to recharge the two EN-EL15 batteries.