bit-tech Shopping: Canon BG-E3 Digital Camera Battery

Rating: 10

Time with product: 1 Years

Strengths: Long days of shootingEase of rotation for verticle shotsHelpful extra controlsAbility to use drugstore (AA) batteriesVersatility

Weaknesses: Adds weight to camera, but the light weight of the XTi balances that out.

Summary: I can't live without it. The XTi is a great camera, but the increased versatility and extra battery life with the BG-E3 makes it indispensable. It also gives me the option of using the same batteries used with my flash (AA) when I have to go for a prolonged period of time and super heavy shooting days. On rare occasions, I've shot over 2,000 frames in a single day for some high action days (yes, I have an extended warranty on my cameras), and the ability to shove in 6 AA batteries is a lot less cumbersome and costly than having a dozen proprietary battery packs. The three most important add-ons to my XTi have been the BG-3E, lots of memory cards, and a detachable flash.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 1

Strengths: Adds an extra battery for longer shooting time. Ability to use 6 AAs in an emergency. Adds vertical shutter button.

Weaknesses: Construction could be slightly better. Adds a bit of weight.

Summary: The BG-E3 in my opinion is a must have accessory for your 350D. It does more than just extend your shooting times. It adds a nice beefy vertical grip with shutter button, AF select and AE/FE lock. The greatest benefit of this grip is that it balances the body very well. I immediately discovered that could take much cleaner handheld shots at shutter speeds much lower than without. The extra weight acts as a pendulum to stabilize the camera and lens much better.The added weight isn't too bad. I have a fairly hefty lens that I use quite often and the added weight isn't too much. I think the construction is decent, but could be a little better. After all this accessory is a tad pricey. Overall, I highly recommend this product. Have I said that already?

Rating: 10

Time with product: 5 Days

Strengths: Allows you to go twice as long before recharging batteries; great quality and fitment.

Weaknesses: None that I can see.

Summary: The BG-E3 is a fantastic accessory for the Digital Rebel XT for two reasons: 1) the additional size and weight eliminated the hand fatigue I was suffering from when taking a lot of shots because the camera is more balanced, and 2) the battery grip effectively doubles the number of shots you can take before having to recharge the batteries.With the battery grip installed, the Digital Rebel XT definitely has a more professional-like feel. The rubber also has a "grippier" feel than that of the camera.

Rating: 8

Time with product: 3 Months

Strengths: Doubles the number of batteries, and hence battery life.Provides complete controls in a vertical position.Attaches easily and stores the existing battery cover so you don't lose it.

Weaknesses: Adds some weight.

Summary: If you are looking to add battery capacity and especially if you are doing studio work, this is a great product. It does add some weight but I hike with it on a regular basis and haven't noticed it slowing me down.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 2 Weeks

Strengths: Camera is now easier to hold. Extends battery power. Looks cool.

Weaknesses: Camera is bigger. May not fit in some camera bags. A little pricey.

Summary: The BG-E3 grip is a welcome addition to my Rebel XT. I have large hands, so holding the camera is much easier now. You can turn the camera vertical and take pictures with the shutter release that is on the grip. Installation was a breeze. Remove the battery door and screw the grip to the bottom of the camera. I got mine from Dell for $115.00. Great accessory.