Belkin’s Camera Grip Power Bank: Almost a Must-Have
▼ Summary
– The Belkin Stage PowerGrip is a multi-functional wireless magnetic power bank that adds a camera grip and a retractable charging cable, going beyond just boosting battery life.
– Its substantial weight and size, from a 9,300mAh battery, provide ample power for multiple devices and improve one-handed photo stability, making the phone feel like a DSLR.
– The accessory can stand on its edge to function as a hands-free smartphone stand for video calls or using iOS’s StandBy mode.
– It includes a Bluetooth shutter button for photos and video, but its camera functionality is limited, lacking extra controls and making on-screen phone controls hard to reach one-handed.
– The PowerGrip has slow 7.5W wireless charging and shared 15W-18W wired output, representing compromises to achieve its $80 price point compared to more expensive, specialized grips.
The Belkin Stage PowerGrip redefines what a magnetic power bank can be, merging extended battery life with a surprisingly functional camera grip design. This accessory proves its worth by doing more than just charging your phone; it actively improves the ergonomics of mobile photography and introduces clever features like a built-in stand. However, its ambition to be a multi-tool comes with noticeable trade-offs in charging speed and control layout that potential buyers need to weigh carefully.
Far heavier and bulkier than a typical MagSafe battery, the PowerGrip’s substantial 272-gram weight is largely due to its 9,300mAh capacity. This heft, while initially surprising, translates into a confident, DSLR-like feel in the hand. The magnetic attachment works seamlessly with Qi2, MagSafe, or Pixelsnap-compatible phones, creating a secure connection. While it might not feel quite as rock-solid as a dedicated PopSocket, it holds firm during normal use. The real benefit of the size and weight is the stability it provides for one-handed shooting, a feat that often feels precarious with a bare smartphone.
A clever design allows the unit to stand upright on its edge, functioning as a practical hands-free stand. This enables easy video calls, hands-free recording, or utilizing features like iOS StandBy mode on a nightstand. It’s an unexpectedly useful feature that sees regular use beyond its primary purpose.
The integrated shutter button, which connects via Bluetooth, is a welcome addition for triggering photos or starting video recordings. Its placement on the front edge of the grip, however, feels less intuitive than a top-mounted position would. More significantly, the grip lacks additional physical controls. When holding the phone one-handed, your thumb may struggle to reach on-screen camera settings without an awkward adjustment, often forcing you to use your other hand anyway. This limitation becomes apparent when compared to pricier grips like the Fjorden Pro or Leica Lux Grip, which offer customizable dials and two-stage shutter buttons for superior control—though those features typically require third-party camera apps.
Where the PowerGrip feels most limited is in its charging performance. The wireless charging is capped at a sluggish 7.5W, which feels outdated when faster Qi2.2 standards exist. Replenishing an iPhone’s battery this way takes hours. Wired charging via the built-in 30-inch USB-C cable or the additional USB-C port is better, reaching up to 15W (or slightly more in testing), but this power is shared across multiple devices. If you’re charging a phone wirelessly while also using the cable for another device, speeds can drop dramatically to a crawl.
Priced at $79.99, the Belkin Stage PowerGrip occupies a unique middle ground. It’s significantly more affordable than dedicated camera grips that lack its charging functionality, and it offers more utility than a simple power bank. The compromises in charging speed and minimalist camera controls are the trade-off for this multi-function design. For someone who values an all-in-one accessory that improves handling and provides backup power, it’s a compelling option. For users who prioritize fast charging or demand extensive physical controls for photography, separate, specialized accessories will likely be a better, if less convenient, solution.
(Source: The Verge)
