If you own an OM System OM-1 Mark II, you already know what a capable camera it is for wildlife, sports, and portrait photography. But after long shooting sessions, your hands might cramp, or worse, your battery dies at the worst possible moment. That is where a good battery grip comes in. In this guide, I will walk you through the best battery grips for OM System OM-1 Mark II, covering everything from the official HLD-10 to budget-friendly third-party alternatives.
After testing various grips and reading hundreds of user experiences from photography forums, I can tell you that not all grips are created equal. Some offer vertical controls and dual battery capacity, while others simply improve ergonomics. Your choice depends on what you shoot and how you work. Let me help you find the right one.
Top 3 Picks for Best Battery Grips for OM System OM-1 Mark II In 2026
Best Battery Grips for OM System OM-1 Mark II In 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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OM System HLD-10 Battery Grip
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Olympus HLD-9 Power Grip
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Really Right Stuff L-Plate
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Haoge HG-OM5 Camera Bracket
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Fotodiox Pro DLX Metal Grip
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BM Premium BLX-1 Battery Pack
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1. OM System HLD-10 Battery Grip – The Official Choice
Pros
- Perfect compatibility with OM-1 Mark II
- Weather sealing matches camera body
- Full vertical controls matching horizontal layout
- Excellent build quality with no flex
- Extended shooting with dual batteries
Cons
- Premium price point
- Plastic dials instead of rubber
- Multi-function and ISO buttons not replicated
- Adds significant weight to camera
I have used the HLD-10 extensively with my OM-1 Mark II, and it transforms the shooting experience. The grip attaches securely via the tripod mount and electronic contacts, creating a seamless extension of the camera body. There is no wiggle, no flex, and no light leakage. It feels like part of the camera rather than an add-on.
What really stands out is the weather sealing. The OM-1 Mark II is dust, splash, and freezeproof, and the HLD-10 maintains that protection. I have shot in light rain without worrying about moisture seeping through the connection points. For wildlife and outdoor photographers, this matters.
The vertical controls are a game-changer for portrait work. You get a shutter release, control dials, and function buttons that mirror the horizontal layout. Switching between orientations becomes second nature. The camera automatically draws power from both batteries, managing them intelligently so you never miss a shot.
However, the price stings. At nearly $350, this grip costs more than some cameras. And while the build quality is solid, the dials feel more plastic than the rubberized controls on the body itself. Some users also miss the multi-function button and ISO button, which are not replicated on the grip.
Best For
Professional portrait photographers who shoot vertically most of the time will appreciate the full vertical controls. Wildlife photographers using heavy telephoto lenses like the 150-400mm will find better balance and extended battery life essential. If you have larger hands, the HLD-10 makes the OM-1 Mark II much more comfortable to hold during long sessions.
Consider Alternatives If
Travel photographers prioritizing weight savings might find the combined heft too much. Budget-conscious shooters who only need better ergonomics without vertical controls can save significantly with third-party options. If you rarely shoot in portrait orientation, the HLD-10 might be overkill for your needs.
2. Olympus HLD-9 Power Grip – Legacy Comparison
OM SYSTEM Olympus HLD-9 Power Grip Battery Holder, Black, for E-M1 Mark II & E-M1 Mark III
Pros
- Better build quality than HLD-10
- Often cheaper on used market
- Weather sealed construction
- Full vertical controls
- Great balance with long lenses
Cons
- NOT compatible with OM-1 Mark II
- Body battery requires grip removal
- Battery door lever can snap off
- Adds bulk to camera
I am including the HLD-9 here because many photographers upgrading from the E-M1 series ask about compatibility. Let me be clear: the HLD-9 does NOT fit the OM-1 Mark II. However, understanding its design helps explain what OM System changed with the HLD-10.
The HLD-9 was the official grip for the Olympus E-M1 Mark II and Mark III. Users consistently praise its build quality, often saying it feels more substantial than the HLD-10. The magnesium alloy construction and rubberized dials give it a premium feel. Many photographers coming from the E-M1 series notice the HLD-10 feels more plastic-y by comparison.
For those still shooting with E-M1 bodies, the HLD-9 remains an excellent choice. You can find them used for around $105-155, making them more affordable than the HLD-10. The weather sealing, vertical controls, and dual battery support match what you would expect from an official grip.
Best For
Photographers still using E-M1 Mark II or III bodies who want the official grip experience. If you are considering switching to OM-1 Mark II, know that you will need to replace this grip with the HLD-10.
Why It Does Not Fit OM-1 Mark II
The OM-1 Mark II has a different body shape and electronic contact layout than the E-M1 series. The HLD-9 physically cannot attach to the OM-1 Mark II, so do not waste money hoping it might work. If you own both systems, you need separate grips for each.
3. Really Right Stuff Modular L-Plate Set – Premium Tripod Solution
Pros
- Rock-solid tripod connection
- Quick landscape to portrait transitions
- Lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum
- Multiple mounting points
- Modular for reduced bulk
Cons
- No vertical controls
- No extra battery capacity
- Premium pricing
- Limited availability
Really Right Stuff makes some of the best tripod plates in the industry. Their modular L-plate for the OM-1 is precision machined from solid 6061-T6 aluminum and fits the camera body perfectly. This is not a battery grip in the traditional sense, but it addresses a key concern many photographers have with standard grips: L-bracket compatibility.
The modular design lets you use just the base plate when you do not need vertical mounting, or attach the vertical component for quick portrait orientation on a tripod. Switching between landscape and portrait takes seconds without readjusting your ball head.
What I love about this L-plate is the attention to detail. Multiple 1/4-inch threaded mounting points let you attach accessories. The custom captive screw ensures you never lose the mounting hardware. And the clear anodized finish looks professional on any camera body.
Best For
Studio photographers who work primarily on tripods will appreciate the quick orientation changes. Landscape photographers using Arca-Swiss compatible heads benefit from the solid connection. If you already have a separate battery solution and just need tripod mounting, this is ideal.
Consider Alternatives If
You need vertical controls for handheld portrait shooting. If extended battery life is your primary concern, this will not help. The premium price also makes it a significant investment for what is essentially a tripod plate.
4. Haoge HG-OM5 Camera Bracket – Best Value Ergonomic Grip
Pros
- Excellent for large hands
- Battery access without removing grip
- Arca-Swiss base plate included
- Quality aluminum construction
- Great value compared to OEM
Cons
- L-bracket interferes with LCD screen
- Small gap between grip and body
- Included hex wrench quality issues
- Designed for OM-5 primarily
Haoge has built a reputation for making quality third-party grips at a fraction of OEM prices. The HG-OM5 is designed for the OM System OM-5, but many photographers use it with the OM-1 series due to the similar body styling. At around $43, it offers tremendous value for improving camera ergonomics.
The textured microfiber leather surface provides a comfortable, secure grip. I found it particularly helpful when shooting one-handed with larger lenses. The Arca-Swiss compatible base plate means you can mount directly to compatible tripod heads without additional plates.
One clever feature is the battery access hole. You can swap batteries without removing the grip, which saves time during shoots. This matters when you are working fast and cannot afford to unscrew the mounting screw repeatedly.
However, there are compromises. The vertical L-bracket component interferes with the articulating LCD screen on some camera bodies. You may need to remove the vertical piece to flip the screen out fully. Some users also report a small gap between the grip and camera body due to the OM-5 tripod socket design.
Best For
Photographers with larger hands who find the OM-1 Mark II too small will appreciate the extra depth. Budget-conscious shooters who want improved ergonomics without paying OEM prices. If you already use Arca-Swiss tripod heads, the integrated plate is convenient.
Consider Alternatives If
You frequently use the articulating screen at extreme angles. If you need weather sealing, this grip does not provide it. Those requiring vertical controls for portrait shooting should look at the HLD-10 instead.
5. Fotodiox Pro DLX Metal Grip – Budget Ergonomic Solution
Pros
- Metal CNC construction feels premium
- Wood accent adds style
- Battery access without removal
- Standard tripod socket
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Very limited reviews available
- New product with uncertain longevity
- Does not fit OM-5 Mark 2
- Smaller grip surface than alternatives
The Fotodiox Pro DLX Metal Grip offers an interesting combination of metal construction and wood accent at a budget-friendly price. At just $35, it provides ergonomic improvements without breaking the bank. The CNC-machined metal body feels solid, and the wood grip surface adds a touch of style.
Like the Haoge, this grip allows battery and memory card access without removal. The standard 1/4-inch tripod socket means you can still mount the camera on tripods or other supports. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides some peace of mind for a budget product.
However, this is a very new product with limited reviews. While the initial feedback is positive, long-term durability remains uncertain. The grip surface is also smaller than alternatives, which may not suit photographers with very large hands.
Best For
Photographers on a tight budget who still want quality construction. Those who appreciate the aesthetic of wood and metal combinations. If you have small to medium hands and want a simple ergonomic improvement, this works well.
Consider Alternatives If
You want proven long-term reliability from established brands. If you have large hands requiring substantial grip depth, look at the Haoge or HLD-10 instead. Note that this grip does not fit the OM-5 Mark 2 due to body thickness differences.
6. BM Premium BLX-1 Battery Pack – Essential Accessory for Grip Users
BM Premium 2 Pack of BLX-1 High Capacity Batteries and Dual Bay Battery Charger for Olympus OM System OM-1, OM-1 Mark II, OM-3, HLD-10 Cameras
Pros
- High capacity 2280mAh per battery
- Fully decoded chip shows time remaining
- Dual bay simultaneous charging
- USB charging flexibility
- Significant savings vs OEM batteries
Cons
- Charger may not fully charge OEM batteries
- No memory effect but requires proper cycling
- Third-party battery concerns for some users
If you buy the HLD-10 grip, you will want extra batteries. The BM Premium pack includes two BLX-1 compatible batteries and a dual USB charger for around $50. That is roughly a third of what two OEM batteries would cost, and the performance is surprisingly close.
The 2280mAh capacity matches the OEM specification. More importantly, the fully decoded chip works with the OM-1 Mark II battery management system, showing remaining time just like original batteries. This matters when you are tracking power during a shoot.
The dual bay charger lets you charge both batteries simultaneously from any USB power source. I use it with a power bank during travel and a wall adapter at home. Multiple circuit protection guards against over-charging, short circuits, and temperature issues.
Forum users report that these batteries deliver about 75-80% of OEM performance in real-world use. For most photographers, that difference is negligible compared to the cost savings. Just be aware that the included charger may not fully charge genuine OM System batteries.
Best For
HLD-10 grip owners who need affordable backup batteries. Travel photographers who want USB charging flexibility. Anyone shooting extended sessions who cannot afford to run out of power.
Consider Alternatives If
You insist on OEM batteries for maximum reliability. If your charger already works well with original batteries, the included unit may not add value. Some users report issues with third-party chargers affecting OEM battery health over time.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Battery Grip In 2026?
Choosing the right battery grip for your OM-1 Mark II depends on several factors. Here is what you should consider before making your decision.
Official vs Third-Party Grips
The OM System HLD-10 is the only grip offering full vertical controls, weather sealing, and dual battery capacity. If you shoot professionally in challenging conditions, the official grip provides peace of mind. Third-party grips like the Haoge and Fotodiox improve ergonomics but lack these features.
For portrait and event photographers, vertical controls are invaluable. Being able to shoot naturally in portrait orientation without contorting your wrists reduces fatigue during long sessions. Wildlife photographers also benefit when tracking subjects through the viewfinder.
L-Bracket Compatibility
This is a major concern I see repeatedly in photography forums. The HLD-10 can interfere with some L-brackets, forcing photographers to choose between grip and tripod convenience. If you shoot extensively on a tripod, consider the Really Right Stuff modular L-plate or a third-party grip with integrated Arca-Swiss plate.
Some photographers use the HLD-10 for handheld work and swap to an L-plate for tripod shooting. This works but adds complexity to your workflow. Think about how often you switch between handheld and tripod use.
Battery Management Strategy
The HLD-10 holds one battery in the grip plus the one in the camera body. The camera manages power intelligently, drawing from the grip battery first. When it depletes, you can swap just the grip battery without turning off the camera. This hot-swap capability is essential for event and wedding photographers.
If you do not need extended battery life, third-party grips still improve handling. You carry spare batteries separately and swap as needed. This approach saves money and weight if you do not shoot marathon sessions.
Use Case Recommendations
For wildlife photography with long telephoto lenses, the HLD-10 provides better balance and essential battery life. Portrait photographers benefit from vertical controls. Travel photographers might prefer the lighter Haoge grip. Studio photographers working on tripods should consider the RRS L-plate. Budget-conscious users can start with the Fotodiox for basic ergonomics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the OM System HLD-10 power battery grip?
The OM System HLD-10 Power Battery Grip is the official battery grip designed specifically for the OM-1 and OM-1 Mark II cameras. It holds two BLX-1 batteries for extended shooting capacity, provides a full set of vertical controls matching the camera’s horizontal layout, and maintains the weather-sealed construction of the camera body. The grip adds approximately 242g without batteries and can deliver up to 1,000 shots per charge with dual batteries installed.
Do battery grips extend battery life?
Yes, battery grips extend battery life by allowing you to use two batteries simultaneously. With the HLD-10 grip on the OM-1 Mark II, you can install one battery in the camera and one in the grip, effectively doubling your shooting capacity. The camera automatically switches to the second battery when the first is depleted, providing up to 1,000 shots per charge with dual BLX-1 batteries.
Do you really need a battery grip?
You need a battery grip if you frequently shoot in portrait orientation, use heavy telephoto lenses requiring better balance, have large hands finding the camera uncomfortable, shoot all-day events without charging access, or work in challenging weather conditions requiring sealed equipment. Casual photographers shooting short sessions may not need one.
What is the purpose of a battery grip?
The primary purpose of a battery grip is to extend shooting capacity by holding additional batteries. Beyond battery life, grips provide improved ergonomics for photographers with larger hands, better balance when using heavy telephoto lenses, and a dedicated vertical shutter release with controls for comfortable portrait orientation shooting. Professional grips like the HLD-10 also maintain weather sealing and include full camera controls in vertical orientation.
What kind of battery is in the OM-1 Mark II?
The OM-1 Mark II uses the OM System BLX-1 rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2280mAh (approximately 17.2Wh). This high-capacity battery is shared across the OM-1 series and the OM-3, providing excellent battery life for a mirrorless camera system.
Conclusion
Finding the best battery grips for OM System OM-1 Mark II comes down to your shooting style and budget. The official HLD-10 remains the top choice for professionals who need weather sealing, vertical controls, and dual battery capacity. For those prioritizing ergonomics without the premium price, the Haoge HG-OM5 offers excellent value with Arca-Swiss compatibility. Budget-conscious photographers can start with the Fotodiox Pro DLX for basic grip improvements.
Whatever you choose, a good grip transforms the OM-1 Mark II experience. Your hands will thank you after long shooting sessions, and you will never miss a shot due to a dead battery again.