Nikon MB-D18 Battery Grip Setup and Tips for D850

By The Camera Gear Shop | Published: 2026-10-30

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to set up and use the Nikon MB-D18 battery grip with your D850, including battery options, handling tips, and common mistakes to avoid.

Quick Answer

Attach the MB-D18 to your D850, insert an EN-EL15 battery or use the MS-D12 holder with AA batteries, and configure the camera to recognize the grip.

Why Choose the MB-D18

The MB-D18 is designed specifically for the D850, providing a vertical shutter release and improved balance when shooting with large telephoto lenses. It accepts one EN-EL15 battery for extended shooting or eight AA batteries via the included MS-D12 holder, giving you flexibility in the field.

Handling and Balance Considerations

With the grip attached, the camera becomes taller and heavier, which can improve stability for vertical shots but may feel bulky for casual use. If you primarily shoot landscapes or portraits, the grip adds comfort and quick access to controls; for everyday walk-around photography, you may prefer to leave it off.

Step-by-Step Setup and Usage

Attach the grip securely: Align the MB-D18 with the D850's battery compartment and slide it into place until it clicks. Tighten the tripod mount screw on the grip to ensure a firm connection. Check that the grip is snug before each shoot; a loose grip can cause intermittent power loss.
Insert the battery or AA holder: Open the grip's battery chamber. Slide one EN-EL15 battery into the slot, or insert the MS-D12 holder loaded with eight AA batteries. Ensure the contacts are clean and aligned. Use fresh AA batteries or fully charged EN-EL15 packs to avoid sudden shutdowns.
Configure the camera: Turn on the D850 and navigate to the setup menu. Set the 'Battery order' option to choose whether the camera draws power from the grip battery or the in-camera battery first. This is essential for managing battery life. If the camera doesn't recognize the grip, reseat the battery and check the contacts for debris.
Test the vertical controls: Use the vertical shutter-release button, AF-ON button, and command dials to ensure they respond correctly. Adjust the grip's joystick and buttons to match your shooting preferences. Customize the grip buttons in the camera menu to suit your grip style; a common mistake is leaving them at default and fumbling during fast shoots.
Monitor battery status: Check the battery indicator in the viewfinder or LCD to see the remaining charge of each battery. Swap or recharge as needed to avoid interruptions. Carry spare EN-EL15 batteries or AA sets; the grip won't charge batteries, so plan for recharging between sessions.

Product Facts

Nikon MB-D18 Multi-Power Battery Pack For D850: The Nikon MB-D18 Multi-Power Battery Pack is dedicated to the Nikon D850 DSLR and accepts one additional EN-EL15 lithium-ion battery or eight AA batteries with the included MS-D12 holder. This flexibility lets you extend shooting time on location without needing a wall outlet, and AA batteries can be a lifesaver when your rechargeable packs run out.
Nikon MB-D18 Multi-Power Battery Pack For D850