Belkin’s camera grip power bank needs a few enhancements to become essential.

Belkin’s Stage PowerGrip has redefined my expectations for a wireless magnetic power bank, proving it can do more than just extend battery life while attached to my phone. Its innovative design brings added functionality, and the retractable two-way charging cable means I can charge multiple devices without the hassle of carrying extra cords. Plus, it enhances the ergonomics of my smartphone for photography, although its overall functionality has some limitations.

At 272 grams, the PowerGrip is bulkier and heavier than I anticipated, but that’s not necessarily a drawback. Most of its weight comes from the robust 9,300mAh battery, which I appreciate for its ability to fully recharge my iPhone while still having enough juice to top off my watch and earbuds. While there are lighter power banks with higher capacities, the PowerGrip’s weight offers some advantages. Many users will likely purchase it to make their smartphone feel more like a digital camera, and it mostly delivers on that front. It easily attaches to any Qi2, MagSafe, or Pixelsnap-compatible smartphone. The magnetic connection is secure, though it doesn’t feel as strong as the PopSocket I usually use. I’m confident my iPhone won’t detach on its own, but a slight bump while holding the PowerGrip could send my device tumbling.

The prominent grip gives your phone a DSLR-like feel. I’ve struggled to find a comfortable one-handed shooting method with my iPhone that feels secure, but the PowerGrip makes it easy, and its weight provides stability that typically requires two hands.

The design allows the PowerGrip to stand upright, functioning as a smartphone stand. This feature lets you attach your phone for hands-free recordings or video calls, and it’s perfect for utilizing iOS’ StandBy mode on your bedside table. I didn’t expect to use this functionality as much as I do, but it’s become quite handy.

The PowerGrip includes a dedicated shutter button that connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth. A single press captures a photo, while holding it down starts video recording until released. I wish the button were positioned at the top of the grip instead of the front edge. I often found myself missing the additional settings dials on my Sony mirrorless camera that are conveniently within thumb’s reach.

While there are other smartphone camera grips, like the Fjorden Pro and the magnetic Leica Lux Grip, that offer more controls, including customizable dials and two-stage shutter buttons for focus, they come at a significantly higher price. I understand Belkin’s choice to keep things simpler with the PowerGrip. However, with the PowerGrip attached and extending slightly off the bottom of my iPhone 16 Pro, I found it challenging to reach the on-screen controls in the iOS camera app without awkwardly adjusting my grip. More often than not, one-handed shooting still required taps from my other hand, which was frustrating.

Another downside is the PowerGrip’s power output. Wireless charging is limited to just 7.5W, which feels painfully slow, especially since Belkin has implemented faster 25W Qi2.2 rates on other chargers. Fully charging my iPhone takes hours, and switching to a cable doesn’t speed things up much. The PowerGrip features an additional USB-C port and a built-in 30-inch USB-C charging cable. While Belkin claims a maximum output of 15W, I measured just over 18W while charging a OnePlus 12 with a USB-C voltage meter. However, that output is shared when charging multiple devices simultaneously, causing the OnePlus 12’s charging rate to drop below 5W while also wirelessly charging my iPhone and a Kobo e-reader using the retractable cable.

Compared to pricier camera grip accessories like the Leica Lux Grip or the ShiftCam ProGrip, which only power themselves, it’s clear that Belkin had to make some compromises to bring the Stage PowerGrip to market at $79.99. It’s essential to weigh these compromises when deciding if it’s the right fit for you. If you’re looking for a multifunctional accessory, it’s worth considering. However, if you prioritize charging performance or a grip with more photography features, you might be better off managing multiple accessories.