Handheld shooting for long hours can easily cause hand fatigue and hurt your fingers. Over time, your hands can shake and compromise the stability and quality of your shots. That is where a hand grip camera strap comes in to assist.
Aside from keeping your shooting hand comfortable, a camera hand grip wrist strap provides a layer of protection for your camera. With a quality hand grip, there’s a guarantee that you won’t drop your camera accidentally and damage it permanently.
Material, weight, functionality, and comfort are only some of the factors to consider when choosing the best hand grip strap for DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Moreover, some models have extra features that give them an edge over other options. Let’s dive in to discover the best choice for your gear!
Top 10 Hand Grip Camera Straps
- Peak Design CLUTCH
- Gitzo Century leather camera hand strap for Mirrorless/DSLR
- Altura Photo Rapid Fire Secure Grip Padded Wrist Strap Stabilizer
- VELLO PGS-P Padded Hand-Grip Strap with Arca-Style Quick-Release Plate
- SPIDER SpiderPro Holster Set v2
- JOBY UltraFit Hand Strap with UltraPlate
- USA Gear Digital Film DSLR Camera Hand Grip Strap
- Peak Design CUFF
- Canon Hand Strap E2
- JJC HS-PRO1P RED Hand Grip Strap
1. Peak Design CLUTCH
Peak Design CLUTCH is one of the leading camera hand straps for professionals because of its heavy-duty construction. Hypalon, a material used in whitewater rafts, is used for the exterior. Surely, it has Peak Design’s commendable workmanship.
Moreover, this strap has anchors strong enough to carry a camera weighing up to 200 lbs. It works best for large or heavy gear. On the other hand, it’s not the best option for small or mirrorless cameras.
You can easily adjust this strap’s fit using the aluminum adjuster. Using your other hand, you can quickly snap out of it every time you need to take a photo.
The issue is when you need to remove the strap from the camera as quickly as possible. It can be quite challenging, especially at first.
If you’re used to the Peak Design ecosystem of products, the Peak Design CLUTCH might be an excellent choice for you. It is compatible with other Peak Design straps.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Product Weight: 50 g
- Length: 8” (minimum); 11.4” (maximum)
- Width: 2”
- What’s in the Box: 2 Anchors, Clutch, Hex Wrench, Microfiber Pouch, Standard Plate V3
What we like
- Heavy-duty construction
- Strong anchors can carry a heavy camera
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for small cameras
- Quite challenging to detach the strap
2. Gitzo Century leather camera hand strap for Mirrorless/DSLR
Made of Italian leather, the Gitzo Century leather camera hand strap for Mirrorless/DSLR is favorable for its sophisticated look. The leather is stiff at first. You’ll take time breaking it in, but once that process is over, you’d be impressed with the level of comfort it gives.
Adding comfort is the Duraflex G-lock buckle closing system. This feature adjusts to the shape of your hand, allowing you to move around with ease and without worrying about accidentally dropping your camera.
This strap is easy to use with a tripod. You can easily switch from handheld photography or videography to a more stable and controlled tripod shoot.
Given the high-quality materials, functionality, and ease of use, it’s easily understandable why this camera strap has an expensive price tag. It is surely suitable for professionals who want to invest in sleek and functional camera accessories.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Product Weight: 0.08 kg
- External Dimensions: 37 cm x 2 cm x 5.5 cm
- Material: Genuine Leather
- Available Color: Black
What we like
- Italian leather has an elegant look
- Comfortable once broken in
- Can conform to the shape of your hand
- Easy to use with a tripod
- High-quality materials
- Good choice for professionals
What we don’t like
- Takes time to break in the leather
- Expensive
3. Altura Photo Rapid Fire Secure Grip Padded Wrist Strap Stabilizer
Altura Photo Rapid Fire Secure Grip Padded Wrist Strap Stabilizer is another camera gear that wins in comfort. It has padding that can prevent hand fatigue during prolonged shooting hours.
More importantly, this strap is easily adjustable. You can keep adjusting it until you feel that the camera is as secure as possible in your hands. Albeit, you might encounter issues if you have relatively small hands. Some people complain that it doesn’t get as snugly or tightly as they hope.
Altura Photo says that this strap is compatible with DSLR cameras with a ¼” tripod mount. However, it’s not the perfect fit for some models even if they have a ¼” mount. You’d have difficulties reaching for some buttons once it’s tightly wrapped around your hand.
The purple stitching on this strap might not be to everyone’s liking. If you want to be as inconspicuous as possible, consider looking for alternatives with more discreet detailing.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Product Weight: 3.2 oz
What we like
- Comfortable to use for a prolonged period
- Easily adjustable
What we don’t like
- May not be tight enough for those with small hands
- Not compatible with some camera models
- Can restrict your hand from reaching buttons on your camera
- Stitching isn’t that discreet
4. VELLO PGS-P Padded Hand-Grip Strap with Arca-Style Quick-Release Plate
The safety wrist strap is one of the best features of the VELLO PGS-P Padded Hand-Grip Strap with Arca-Style Quick-Release Plate. It complements the padded grip, providing additional security during your shoots.
For even greater stability when switching from photo to video mode, the Arca-style baseplate provides a secure and versatile platform for your camera, allowing you to smoothly capture both photos and videos with confidence, even in challenging shooting conditions. You can attach the strap to your tripod using this baseplate, so you may shoot for hours without compromising the quality of your takes.
Another good thing about the Arca-style baseplate is that it’s compatible with a shoulder strap. If you’re exploring in the wilderness, you don’t need to carry your camera in your hand all the time. Relieve the stress from your hand by attaching a shoulder strap to the baseplate’s fold-down eyelet.
Since VELLO’s camera strap is made of Hypalon, you can enjoy a high-quality material free of chafing and rubbing. The sleek and simple exterior allows for inconspicuous photography outdoors.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Product Weight: 97 g
- Length: 6”
- Width: 2.25”
- Materials: Leather, Zinc Alloy
- Camera Mount: ¼-20 Male
- Mounting Options: Arca-Style Quick-Release Plate ¼-20
- What’s in the Box: Arca-Style Baseplate, Safety Wrist Strap
What we like
- Wrist strap provides extra security
- Easy to use with a tripod
- Baseplate can be used with a shoulder strap as well
- High-quality material doesn’t cause chafing
- Sleek exterior
What we don’t like
- Not comfortable with battery grip or larger cameras.
5. SPIDER SpiderPro Holster Set v2
SPIDER SpiderPro Holster Set v2 guarantees a secure fit with its self-locking mechanism. It comes with a holster and camera plate, and the former automatically locks once attached to the latter. Since the holster is compatible with other SPIDER plates, you can use other models if needed.
The tradeoff with this self-locking system is that you might have difficulties disengaging the holster from the plate.
Meanwhile, the proprietary S-shaped design maximizes comfort and security. The strap is adjustable, allowing you to get the right fit.
Leathers are usually uncomfortable against the skin, but not the soft leather pad of this strap set.
It’s possible to carry your camera on your belt. You can clip the SPIDER SpiderPro Holster Set v2 on your belt whenever you need to relieve hand fatigue momentarily.
If you’re a casual photographer or camera enthusiast, this strap may not be your best option. Professionals may find it reasonably priced, but it might be quite expensive for hobbyists.
Where to buy
Specifications
- What’s in the Box: SpiderPro Camera Holster v2, Spider DSLR Camera Plate
What we like
- Self-locking system ensures the security of your gear
- Compatible with other SPIDER tripod plates
- S-shaped design promotes comfort
- Leather pad is soft
- Can be carried on your waist by clipping the holster to your belt
What we don’t like
- Difficult to remove the holster from the plate
- A bit expensive
6. JOBY UltraFit Hand Strap with UltraPlate
If you need a lightweight solution for handling your camera on the field, the JOBY UltraFit Hand Strap with UltraPlate is a decent option. The UltraFit Layered-Pad technology minimizes the bulk.
JOBY says that this strap guarantees a secure grip for a worry-free experience. However, it tends to get loose over time. You might find yourself having to tighten the grip every now and then.
Another downside is that the grip can be quite restrictive, especially when reaching for a button on your camera.
The integrated UltraPlate baseplate works with ¼”-20 tripods, so you can easily use your strap with your tripod. Attaching it is pretty straightforward.
Additionally, you can attach a sling strap using the other mounting holes. This feature gives you the flexibility you need during those long shooting hours.
Given the cons of this JOBY UltraFit Hand Strap with UltraPlate, some say that it isn’t worth the expensive price tag.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Product Weight: 58 g
- Dimensions: 6.3 cm x 5.6 cm x 2 cm
- Materials: ABS Plastic, Nylon Webbing, Steel
- Attachment Type: ¼”-20 Standard Tripod Mount
What we like
- Lightweight
- Compatible with ¼”-20 tripod mounts and sling strap
- Easy to attach to a tripod
What we don’t like
- Grip can come loose every now and then
- Grip can be so tight, restricting you from pressing certain camera buttons
- Quite pricey
7. USA Gear Digital Film DSLR Camera Hand Grip Strap
The USA Gear Digital Film DSLR Camera Hand Grip Strap is designed to minimize hand fatigue and assist in long shoot days. It is made of DuraNeoprene, which conforms to your wrist for a comfortable and protective fit.
The additional wrist strap boosts your confidence in not dropping your prized camera. It is easy to put on and off, giving you a hassle-free experience in the field.
The issue is the grip pad, which tends to move out of place from time to time. It’s pretty annoying having to adjust it every time it moves around your hand.
Moreover, this strap isn’t compatible with all full-frame and mirrorless cameras. Depending on the configuration of your camera, you might not be able to fully or easily access the controls or battery while using this grip. Specifically, it doesn’t work well with many Nikon cameras.
The USA Gear Digital Film DSLR Camera Hand Grip Strap is also incompatible with many tripods because of the curved ends with awkward spacing. You might not have full confidence shooting using the grip and tripod together.
Overall, this hand grip strap for digital SLR camera is suitable for beginners or hobbyists who need a quality yet budget-friendly accessory.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Product Weight: 3.2 oz
- Dimensions: 6.5” x 6.3” x 2.52”
- Wrist Size Fit: 4” to 10.5”
- Connection: ¼”-20 Tripod Mount, ⅜” Webbing Connector
What we like
- Helpful during prolonged shooting hours
- DuraNeoprene wrist strap provides comfort and extra security
- Wrist strap is easy to put on and off
- Great option for beginners
- Budget-friendly
What we don’t like
- Hand grip pad doesn’t stay in place
- Not compatible with many full-frame and mirrorless cameras
- Not compatible with many tripods
8. Peak Design CUFF
The latest Peak Design CUFF is 25% slimmer than its predecessor. It’s made of ultralight materials, creating a sleek, low-profile design you can easily carry around all day.
Despite its lightweight construction, this hand grip camera strap is strong enough to hold more than 200 lbs of weight. The latest Anchor connectors are abrasion-resistant, so they can last a long time. More importantly, you need not worry about damaging your beloved cameras.
Peak Design takes pride in this item’s magnetic mechanism to cinch it around your wrist like a bracelet. However, there’s a lot of room for improvement in this design.
The magnet isn’t strong enough to keep the wrist strap cinched. The slightest movements and bumps cause the magnet to disengage. Essentially, it defeats the purpose of a security wrist strap if it can easily come loose anytime.
Lauded for its versatility, this cuff doesn’t only work for cameras. You can also use it to carry and secure other devices, such as binoculars and rangefinders, as long as they’re using Peak Design’s Anchor Link system.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Strap Width: 0.75”
- Wrist Loop Size: 3.82” (diameter when open); 1.75” (diameter when cinched)
- Strap Materials: Anodized Aluminum Adjuster Hardware, Hypalon and Leather Accents, Seatbelt-Style Nylon Webbing
- Connectors Materials: 2-Layer Anti-Abrasion Woven Thermoplastic Anchor Cord, Glass-Reinforced Nylon Links With Stainless Steel Springs, Thermoplastic Anchor Overmolding
- Available Colors: Ash, Black, Midnight, Sage
- What’s in the Box: 2 Anchors (V4 Anchor Updated Kit), CUFF Camera Wrist Strap, Microfiber Pouch
What we like
- Lightweight
- Sleek profile
- Can carry heavy gear
- Connectors can resist abrasion
- Wrist strap may be worn as a bracelet
- Can be used for other devices, not just cameras
What we don’t like
- Magnetic system isn’t powerful enough to keep the bracelet cinched
9. Canon Hand Strap E2
The Canon Hand Strap E2 is tailored for Canon DSLR cameras. Nevertheless, it also works for other cameras. You can wrap your hand around your camera by adjusting the nylon accordingly.
Optimizing the comfort you feel when handling your gear, this hand grip has a wide pad that effectively distributes the load across your hand. Despite being made of leather, this pad is soft enough not to irritate your skin.
To maximize this accessory’s functionality, getting the right fit is crucial. If you adjust it too tightly, you might struggle to reach certain camera controls. It may also take more time to remove the strap than to put it on.
Some say that this camera strap isn’t ideal for those with large hands. It’s relatively small, so you might be uncomfortable or unable to wear it properly if you have large hands.
Canon is a trusted brand with excellent workmanship, and that’s evident in this hand strap. It’s well-made and functional, providing enough grip and protection for your camera.
This camera hand grip strap for Canon isn’t necessarily cheap, so it’s not the best choice for hobbyists. On the other hand, professionals who like working with Canon cameras will find it to be a decent investment.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Product Weight: 0.15 lbs
What we like
- Works well with Canon cameras but is also compatible with other models
- Wide pad provides optimal comfort
- Leather material doesn’t cause skin irritation
- Excellent Canon workmanship
What we don’t like
- May be restrictive, depending on how tightly you wrap it around your hand
- Removing it may take time
- Not ideal for large hands
- Not that cheap
10. JJC HS-PRO1P RED Hand Grip Strap
Most DSLR cameras with ¼”-20 tripod compatibility work well with the JJC HS-PRO1P RED Hand Grip Strap. It comes with a U-type plate that you can attach to your camera’s tripod, keeping your gear flat for steady shooting. Since it has a quick-release mechanism, you can swiftly connect and disconnect it from the tripod.
The removable wrist strap increases your camera’s security in your hand. You can easily adjust it for a seamless and comfortable experience, even when using a heavy camera. If you accidentally lose your grip during handheld shooting, the wrist strap got you covered.
The padded cushion has air holes to ensure breathability, which is vital when shooting for an extended period.
Finding the right fit could take time, but this JJC camera hand grip strap is comfortable and functional once adjusted to your preference. Those with relatively huge hands might find it quite small or restrictive. Nevertheless, it’s built well and can last for a long time.
Where to buy
Specifications
- Product Weight: 77 g
- Materials: Microfiber + ABS
- Available Color: Black
- What’s in the Box: Hand Grip Strap, U Type Plate
What we like
- U-type plate guarantees stable shooting with a tripod
- Baseplate has a quick-release mechanism
- Adjustable wrist strap offers additional security
- Comfortable to shoot with even when using a heavy camera and lens
- Breathable
- Well-made
What we don’t like
- May take time to get the right fit
- A bit small
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best camera hand grip strap?
The best camera hand grip strap is comfortable against the skin, fits well without restricting access to camera buttons, and offers ample support for your gear, even if it’s quite bulky. Moreover, a good one has a quality wrist strap providing additional security and allowing you to carry and shoot with your camera with ease.
It’s also helpful if a hand grip strap is compatible with a tripod.
Some of the best hand grip straps for DSLR cameras include the following:
- Peak Design CLUTCH
- Altura Photo Rapid Fire Secure Grip Padded Wrist Strap Stabilizer
- SPIDER SpiderPro Holster Set v2
Read our latest buyers’ guide on Hand Grip Straps for Cameras here to know more about these camera accessories.
2. What is a camera hand grip strap?
A camera hand grip strap is a fabric that wraps around your hand while holding and operating your camera. It gives you more control over your camera and prevents hand fatigue during long hours of shooting. More importantly, it prevents you from accidentally dropping your expensive gear.
Some of the highly recommended hand grip straps for your DSLR and mirrorless cameras are the following:
- JOBY UltraFit Hand Strap with UltraPlate
- Peak Design CUFF
- JJC HS-PRO1P RED Hand Grip Strap
You can learn more about these products by reading our comprehensive guide on Camera Hand Grip Straps.
3. How do you use a camera hand grip strap?
To use a camera hand grip strap, you first need to attach it to your camera. Then, put the strap around your hand and adjust it accordingly until it fits and feels right.
When choosing a hand grip strap for digital SLR camera, you’d want one that adjusts easily and doesn’t restrict your movement. The Gitzo Century leather camera hand strap for Mirrorless/DSLR and VELLO PGS-P Padded Hand-Grip Strap with Arca-Style Quick-Release Plate are excellent examples.
Find the best camera hand grip strap for you by reading our Camera Hand Grip Strap Guide.