At Interbee 2022 in Japan, we got to see Nikon’s MC-N10 Remote Grip, which is a new accessory for video shooters that allows for the remote operation of a Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras via a wired connection.
Nikon is touting the MC-N10 as a good accessory for small-footprint productions, as it allows a single operator to adjust a wide variety of essential camera settings without directly engaging or touching the camera body.
In a lot of ways, it reminds me of the Sony and Canon hand grip controllers that have come with digital cinema cameras over the years.
Key features
- ARRI rosette compatibility allows attachment to a variety of industry-standard video accessories using a compatible rosette adapter. The unit can be adjusted to a comfortable position and angle as needed to facilitate any camera movement.
- Various functions can be assigned to buttons and dials on the MC-N10, allowing for an operation that matches the user’s style and preferences, while providing a familiar feel.
- Click-less command dials provide ultra-smooth operation for soft transitions and reduced dial sounds.
- USB-C connection enables quick, easy and stable connection to the camera with no radio interference or additional steps for pairing.
- Readily available AA batteries offer extended recording for up to 12 hours.
- Designed with dust- and drip-resistance performance, similar to that of the Nikon Z 9, as well as cold tolerance down to −10°C (14°F).
The MC-N10 Remote Grip uses an ARRI-compatible rosette mount that allows you attach it to tripods, handles, gimbals, and sliders, as well as other modular mounts from major third-party manufacturers. When connected, the MC-N10 allows a camera operator to have complete control over many features, including start/stop recording, autofocus, ISO, exposure control, AF speed, as well as access to Custom Functions and the entire camera menu system.
With this accessory, operators can vary the speed of a rack focus mid scene, zoom in to check focus, react to dramatic lighting changes on the fly, or easily get a tighter focal length to DX mode without taking their hand off the controls. When paired with the Nikon Z 9 and the recently announced Firmware 3.0, the Fn1/Fn2 buttons can be assigned to use the new High-Res Zoom capability in order to achieve a smooth zoom transition regardless of the lens used, with no loss of resolution.
The remote grip is purpose-built with a compact, lightweight and durable design. Nikon states that they wanted to concentrate on ergonomics and maximizing mobility. The familiar shape of the MC-N10 grip and button layout are based on those of the Nikon Z series, which should make it easy for existing Nikon Z camera owners to use, especially when switching between controls on the camera body and the MC-N10.
The MC-N10 also features dust- and drip-resistant performance that is claimed to be similar to that of the Nikon Z 9. Additionally, it has a cold weather tolerance down to −10°C (14°F)
How is it connected to the camera?
The MC-N10 connects to the camera via a USB-C connection. This is claimed to offer a quick, easy, and stable connection to the camera with no radio interference or additional steps for pairing.
While there is nothing wrong with using a cable, because the MC-N10 has been designed as a right-hand grip, you need to run the cable all the way around to the opposite side of the camera.
How is it powered?
The MC-N10 is powered via two AA batteries which will allow for extended recording for up to 12 hours.
What is interesting is that the MC-N10 is just one part of an emerging ecosystem of accessories from Nikon and partners that will be designed exclusively for video and multimedia professionals.
Thoughts
It is good to see Nikon releasing more video-orientated products and the MC-N10 looks like a good accessory if you are doing more serious work with a Z series camera like a Z 9. I see this product as being more useful when you are using a camera on a tripod or have it shoulder-mounted. It also looks like it would make a great option when coupled with a gimbal.
After trying it out at Interbee 2022, I was impressed by its capabilities and the level of control it offers and it would make a great addition to any Nikon shooters kit.
Price & Availability
The Nikon MC-N10 Remote Grip will be available in late November 2022 for $429.95 USD.
