Best Overall
SmallRig L-Shape Grip
Key details
- Fit & Door Access
- X-M5 exact fit, battery/SD access
The SmallRig L-grip gives the X-M5 a stable hold that the compact body lacks. The silicone palm swell fills the right hand, and the Arca-Swiss base clamps directly onto a tripod head. A cutout keeps battery and SD card access open, so swapping cards or charging doesn't mean unclamping the grip. The grip shape keeps the main dials and shutter release within reach, and at 70 g the added weight is barely noticeable.
The bundled accessories extend the usefulness. The cold-shoe adapter mounts a microphone or monitor, the windscreen reduces wind noise on the built-in mic, and the shutter button adds a clearer release point. These extras feel purposeful rather than filler, and they pair naturally with the camera's compact video setup.
This is the handling-first pick for X-M5 owners who find the bare body too small for comfortable one-handed shooting and want quick tripod switching without removing an accessory. The silver finish is the only option in this listing, and the bundled cold-shoe adapter occupies the hot shoe, so a thumb rest cannot share the slot at the same time. It is not a leather half-case and doesn't protect the body or add retro styling. If body coverage is your priority, a half-case is the better match, but for pure grip security and tripod speed, this is the accessory that addresses the X-M5's biggest handling issue.
Build quality is strong: the silicone surface has a firm, non-slip texture, and the metal base plate feels stable against the camera. The whole setup stays light, and the quick-release base makes tripod transitions fast. The base uses a standard Arca-Swiss dovetail, so it works with common clamps and heads without an extra plate.
Compared with the leather-textured L-grip alternative in this set, the SmallRig's silicone surface gives a more positive hold, and the bundled windscreen, adapter, and shutter button widen the feature set. The alternative's microfiber leather finish looks more classic, but it ships with fewer accessories.
Pros
- Adds a secure palm swell to the X-M5's small body for steadier one-handed shooting.
- Keeps battery and SD card access clear, so swapping cards doesn't require removing the grip.
- Arca-Swiss base lets you mount directly on a tripod head without unclamping the grip.
- Bundled windscreen, cold-shoe adapter, and shutter button add practical value.
- Build quality is strong and the 70 g weight keeps the camera light.
Cons
- Premium price for a grip and plate; the bundled extras only help if you actually use them.
- No dedicated thumb rest is included, so one-handed shooters who want that support have to buy one separately.
For X-M5 shooters, this grip removes the need to choose between handheld comfort and tripod speed.