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Nikon MC-N10 Remote Grip First Look

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.

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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.

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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?

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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?

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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

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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

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The Nikon MC-N10 Remote Grip will be available in late November 2022 for $429.95 USD.

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