Portkeys recently introduced a new multi-functional camera handgrip that is so new it doesn’t even have a name yet. The multi-functional camera handgrip like the pre-name implies is a grip that can control several devices and functions. For now, it looks like Tilta, Blackmagic Design, Panasonic, Sony, Red, Canon and Z Cam are officially compatible.
The handgrip features built-in Bluetooth and WiFi, so the handle can connect wirelessly to the camera and communicate with it. For cameras that don’t have a wireless control option, Portkeys will have cables for those cameras. It can be updated with more cameras and controls in the future via firmware. For power, the grip uses a rechargeable 18650 battery.
The grip is made of an Aerometal frame with a Red oak handle and an artificial leather strap.
There is a programmable 3-section paddle switch for settings such as ISO, shutter, and aperture at the front of the handle. The 9-way key can add and subtract values.
Portkeys Grip Key features
- Programmable control for Canon Sony Panasonic BMD ZCAM RED cameras.
- Sony A7ii, A7iii, A7iV power supply control component
- RED camera control component. (Sold separately)
- Wired control and power supply for Tilta Nucleus N / M
- Built-in Bluetooth and WiFi control module
- Battery voltage display
- Built-in LANC splitter
- Record trigger
- Aperture, ISO, shutter, white balance settings
- Zoom & focus with compatible lenses
- Menu/Camera settings
- USB upgrade firmware
- 0.9-inch OLED screen.
- 3 customized band switches, 1 focus wheel, 1 rec switch, 1 nine-way joystick.
- Battery voltage display
- Preventing battery electrode reverse protection design
On the Z Cam E2 the joystick can navigate through the menu and also is clickable to confirm setting choices. With the BMD cameras, it is possible to control both a BMPCC6k and Tilta Nucleus Nano at the same time.
This is still a very new product and more development is probably going to be needed prior to shipping. Once Portkeys get a fully functioning sample I’ll get one to review. I like these types of devices as most cameras don’t have a good grip like the FS9, FX9 and Canon Cinema EOS do.
Controllable Modes per Camera
SONY
Sony A9, A6000, A6300, A6400, A6500, RX100, RX02 Wired control REC, IRIS, ISO, SHUTTER, TAKE PHOTOS, ZOOM, AUTOFOCUS
Sony A7II, A7III, A7iV cameras. It needs to be used together with the power supply control component. This control component can ensure that the HDMI image will not be black screen during recording (This control component sold separately).
Sony FS5, FS7 camera that wired control REC, IRS, ZOOM, FOCUS, DIGITAL ZOOM, DISPLAY, JOYSTICK, PLAYBACK.
CANON
Wired control REC, IRS, ISO, SHUTTER, TAKE PHOTOS, AUTOFOCUS, Real-time Preview, Manual Focus on 1DX MARK II, 5DS, 5DS R, EOS R, 5D MARK IV, 5D MARK III, 5D MARK II, 6D MARK II, 6D, 80D.
REC, IRIS, FOCUS, DIGITAL ZOOM, DISPLAY, JOYSTICK, PLAYBACK on C700 PL, C700 GSPL, C300 MARK 2, C300 MARK 2 PL, C200, C200 B, C100, C100 MARK 2.
Blackmagic Design
Remote control REC, IRIS, ISO, SHUTTER, ZOOM, FOCUS, AUTO EXPOSURE, WHITE BALANCE MODE SELECTION, PROJECT FRAME RATE, CODEC and QUALITY, OFF SPEED FRAME RATE, OFF SPEED RECORDING on BMPCC 4K 6K.
URSA MINI, BMPCC camera that wired control REC, IRIS, AUTOFOCUS, Manual FOCUS.
Z CAM
Wired control REC, IRIS, ISO, SHUTTER(angle/speed), ZOOM, TOUCH FOCUS, Manual AUTO MODE SWITCHING, RESOLUTION FRAME, Manual FRAME, PLAYBACK… on E2, E2 S6, E2 F6.
TILTA
Wired control CAL RUN, AB LIMIT on Nucleus N/M.
RED
Wired control REC, AV, ISO, SHUTTER, FOCUS, ZOOM, PLAYBACK. It needs to be used together with the power supply control component (This control component sold separately).
The multi-functional camera handgrip is available for pre-order for $299.00 until February 22nd. The retail price will be $399.00. Orders will ship in March 2020. To place a pre-order visit PortKeys’ website. Portkeys are very active on their Facebook page so if you haven’t deleted your account yet swing by and see the progress.
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