Battery pack opinions

Hi all, I was wondering if anyone had any experience with external battery packs for the 5100?
I've seen several different types so before I jump in I wanting get your thoughts?

I had the D5100 and know you get a lot of shots with a greasy battery. Why do you feel you need external power. Why not just get a spare battery and just change when needed?

I'm not sure I actually need one, yes theres alot of photography in the battery, and I always have a spare. I was thinking about for long duration work, timelapse, star trails etc.
I am more or less looking for pros and cons at this point

Kevin

Since I've never owned a 5100, but own a 3100 which is the same camera basically.... I needed extra room for my fingers, and a battery grip provides that. That's my only reason for getting one in the first place. I very much dislike the pinky under camera look.

Yes I have big hands and it would make holding on to the camera much easier
Which one do you use?

kev308 said:

I'm not sure I actually need one, yes theres alot of photography in the battery, and I always have a spare. I was thinking about for long duration work, timelapse, star trails etc.
I am more or less looking for pros and cons at this point

Kevin

Click to expand...

if you need a battery grip for a better larger grip, nikon doesnt make one and so 3rd party si the way to go. they work great but you will need to connect it to the camera via cable though. thats if you want to use the shutter button on the grip. not mandatory though.

nikon d5100 grip -strap | eBay

if you just need power for more pictures, get a battery, and switch when you need.

nikon d5100 battery decoded | eBay

Thanks rocketman, the next question is, what happens with the battery compartment door? Do you remove that? Not sure I want to do that.
I dont see anything on that

Kevin

You will need to remove the battery door to use the grip.
otherwise all 3rd party grips are very similar in size, so just a matter of finding one that works within your budget.

I do like using the battery grip on my D7100, the camera feels well balanced in your hand.