Why should you use a camera wrist strap? The short answer is simple – to keep you from accidentally dropping the camera when you’re shooting or simply walking around. That’s why we’re bringing you this list of the best camera wrist straps with a focus on what you’ll be carrying and how you plan to use it.
I’m always paranoid about dropping my gear from a height to somewhere I can’t retrieve it, like the ocean off a ship. But that doesn’t mean I couldn’t also drop it on the street between images or have it slip from my hand on a hot day. The idea of having the camera on my wrist means it’s always close by and ready for that perfect unexpected shot.
If you shoot under a variety of conditions, consider switching out your wrist straps or even other kinds of straps depending on your needs. A vigorous hike calls for more stability than a causal stroll, and likewise, your strap to control the camera needs the same. The good news is that straps are affordable additions to your gear, and you can select as many as your needs dictate.
8 Best Camera Wrist Straps
Best Overall: Rapid Fire Heavy Duty Wrist Strap by Altura Photo
- Material: Neoprene
- Fastener: Eyelet loop string or strap
- Weight capacity: 10 lbs.
- Length: 11 in.
If you want a strap that cinches to your wrist and keeps both compact cameras and DSLRs secure, this Rapid Fire should meet your needs. It comes with two connectors, one with a loop that carries up to three pounds and another that’s a strap with capacity up to 10 pounds. Both clip into the wrist portion with a plastic snap-in clasp.
Reviewers like the thick neoprene padding and support to the wrist area. Some would prefer the buckle (clasp to the camera portion) to be further away, but that would lengthen the overall system. People with larger wrists note that it fits fine as is, with the cinch working well to tighten it, and others said the length is a bit long already.
Users note that the length is too short to accommodate longer lenses on the camera, and in fact, often these would then exceed the total weight capacity. Be cautious about which attachment system you use – the string loop is only for compact cameras of light weight, while heavier cameras require the full strap. If you have both a point and shoot and a DSLR, you can use this system with both and attach to the wrist strap as necessary.
Best for Heavy DSLRs: Peak Design Cuff Wrist Strap
- Material: Seatbelt
- Fastener: Eyelet loop string
- Weight capacity: 200 lbs.
- Length: 10 in.
This Peak strap has been on the market and users’ best-of list for a long time, and with good reason. It comes with two connectors which, even though they are the string type, are rated to carry a large DSLR plus large lens plus more by the manufacturer. It will fit large hands as easily as small ones, though reviewers say it is not quite as comfortable at either end of the spectrum.
The greatest selling point here is the weight capacity, as few wrist straps are made to handle a big load. However, reviewers also note that the strap may be too short to work with a large camera without scratching its surface (buckles). Longer lenses also get in the way.
Note that this strap is higher priced than others on the list. It is part of a family of camera strap products that can be used interchangeably. If you have multiple bodies and do different types of shooting, it could serve your needs across the board.
Best for Compact Cameras: OP/TECH USA SLR Wrist Strap
- Material: Neoprene
- Fastener: Strap
- Weight capacity: 10 lbs.
- Length: 11 in.
The effective cinch on this strap is a great reason to consider using it, along with the comfort afforded by the padded neoprene material. If you want to separate the camera from your wrist, the quick release clasp leaves the tether on the camera and the wrist bracelet on you. The manufacturer notes it can handle up to 146 pounds of tensile strength (force when swung).
This strap is easily washable, since its components are webbing and plastic. It is lightweight and easy to install. Users say it is durable and comfortable to wear.
While you might want to use this interchangeably with the other products in this line, clip sizes are different. If you have large hands, you might find it a bit tight to ease on and off. Overall, though, it’s a good way to secure your lightweight camera with a built-in or small lens.
Best Waterproof: Nordic Flash Floating Wrist Strap
- Material: Neoprene
- Fastener: Eyelet loop string
- Weight capacity: 7 oz.
- Length: 9 in.
Keeping in mind that waterproof cameras are typically light, this flotation strap bears the load when you’re in the water. It is designed to help you control that compact camera while swimming or snorkeling. The neon colors are easy to pick out under water.
The wrist loop is definitely smaller on this strap, though it can fit over most medium-sized hands. It has a small quick-release clip that some users note can be difficult to release. It is probably best used for disposable cameras or other small models and can also be used with smartphones in waterproof cases.
Note that this is sold as a two-strap pack, designed to put both on your camera for extra safety (only one on the wrist, the second for flotation assistance). Be careful about the weight you put on it, as exceeding the capacity is a recipe for losing your phone on the ocean floor. It’s a great quick solution for most of our regular wet circumstances, though.
Best Hand Strap: Opteka Professional Wrist Grip Strap
- Material: Nylon
- Fastener: Strap plus tripod mount
- Weight capacity: Unknown
- Length: 9 in.
The advantage of this strap is that it functions as a grip stabilizer by hugging the back of your shooting hand. This makes it easy to shoot for long periods without grip fatigue. It attaches through the strap loop and at the bottom of the camera in the travel tripod mount.
Pros note that the strap provides enough support so that fingers feel freer as they release the shutter and make setting changes. They are no longer necessary to carry the weight of the camera. The strap is adjustable within a narrow range to tighten your hold.
No weight capacity is listed for this strap. However, since it screws into the tripod mount and otherwise fastens to the strap slot, it offers high control for larger DSLRs and heavier lens combos. Most users like the features enough to buy more than one for all their shooting needs.
Best for Pros: USA GEAR Professional Camera Grip Hand Strap
- Material: Neoprene
- Fastener: Strap; or tripod mount
- Weight capacity: 10 lbs.
- Length: 12 in.
This wrist configuration combines the best of both worlds, a cinchable wrist strap that adjusts to your measurement and a hand grip to keep the camera steady.
This makes it a great choice for both stills and videos, because it offers maximum control and frees up your fingers to focus or adjust settings. The padded surfaces ensure your comfort even during long shooting sessions.
It releases from your hand and wrist quickly using plastic buckles. For extra support, it includes a metal tripod mount that also features a quick release. You’ll be styling as well with colorful outer material.
Users note the wrist strap and attached hand grip are very secure, so much so that sometimes it’s difficult to push a hand into it. Reviewers wish the straps were more adjustable. Overall, though, many photographers with hands large and small find it to be the safest, most stable way of controlling their camera while shooting.
Best for Styling: Techion Braided 550 Paracord Camera Wrist Strap
- Material: Paracord
- Fastener: Eyelet loop string
- Weight capacity: 10 lbs.
- Length: 16 in.
If style is as important as function in your lexicon, this adjustable wrist strap can be a good choice for you. It comes in a variety of colors with sturdy 550 Type III Paracord construction. Some users say it’s a bit stiff, and therefore not as comfortable as other straps they’ve tried.
Note that the weakest part of this system is the loop string that threads into your camera eyelet or tab. Slide the clasp to tighten the strap around your wrist. The overall length is longer which could be a hazard to your gear when uncontrolled.
The string loops into the end of the braided strap which loosens or tightens the wrist portion. Users note that sometimes this becomes loose easily as you’re shooting, and when you drop the camera back into a free swing, it falls farther than expected. If style is what guides your decision, though, this strap looks like a rugged bracelet made for the great outdoors.
Best for the Budget: MegaGear Cotton Wrist Strap
- Material: Cotton
- Fastener: Key ring
- Weight capacity: 12 lbs.
- Length: 9; 29; 39 in.
In this case, the best wrist strap for your budget also comes in three handy lengths. The cotton construction makes it the softest and most comfortable on the wrist. The adjustable loop allows you to tighten this up or release it quickly.
A key ring-style metal circle attaches to the eyelet or strap loop on your camera. This can be difficult to attach according to some users and may not fit all cameras. The body is protected from potential scratches by a tab of faux leather.
While the weight capacity appears to be adequate for larger DSLRs, note that the strap tab on those bodies may not accommodate the key ring. Long lenses won’t work with the smallest size. Users say it is sturdy and durable, making it a great choice for a long-term budget buy.
The Complete Camera Wrist Straps Buyer’s Guide
Things to Consider about Camera Wrist Straps
While you spend hundreds or more on your camera and lenses, it is often the little things that make a difference in your comfort and ease when creating images with that equipment. A wrist strap creates convenience and quick-draw ease, making your camera more accessible when the perfect picture presents itself.
Your camera might have come with a wrist strap, and chances are it is thin and possibly unsubstantial. A minimalist band may be no match for those times when you need your hand to hang on to other things, like your child’s hand or the rope on the swinging bridge. You want something sturdy enough to meet your harshest conditions and flexible enough to move when you need it.
Weight Capacity
Straps can be thin and fragile or robust and substantial. Think about the camera plus lens weight to determine the carrying weight capacity you need. Compact cameras weigh next to nothing, but a full frame body and zoom lens is another story.
Note that the weakest link in the strap is often the mechanism to attach it to the camera body. Weight is also impacted by bulkiness. Heavier gear calls for a more substantial wrist strap.
Investment
If your camera costs in the thousands, you’ll want to spend what’s appropriate to make sure you don’t drop that investment. Consider the flexibility of the strap when you think about how it safeguards your investment. Something too stretchy can slide (or be pulled) off your hand. Swing the camera too far afield and you risk banging it into a handrail or building.
Length
Two components comprise the length of the strap: the distance between the fastener to your camera and the loop, and the loop itself where it is around your wrist.
Using a short strap with a small camera keeps shooting opportunities close at hand. A larger camera plus bigger lens requires something longer so that you can grasp the body in your hand, make setting adjustments and release the shutter, all with the same hand.
If you have large hands, you will need a longer distance from the fastening mechanism to the end to allow you to swing the camera into place. If your hands are smaller, length might not be an issue, but the size of the loop may be. Too large a loop can slide off your hand rather than secure the camera.
Fastening Placement
Take a close look at your camera to determine where and how the wrist strap attaches to the body. Compacts may have tiny narrow eyelets, while larger DSLRs have wider tabs, and older or retro cameras have rings. Make sure you select a strap that has the kind of fastening system that fits on your camera body.
Flexibility
Flexible material rocks the comfort quotient, and is soft and malleable when it counts. It doesn’t matter what size hands you have or where on your wrist you prefer to put the strap because it accommodates all sizes. Too much flexibility, though, makes it too easy to drop the camera, so pay attention to total weight capacity.
Materials
The tensile strength (how much pull before something gives), comfort, and durability are just three of the characteristics of different strap materials. Others include being washable, and degradation when exposed to the sun for long periods. Leather can bind and discolor under sweaty conditions, and synthetics may break down when exposed to the sun for long periods.
Personal Style
If you have a retro camera, you might also favor a retro-styled wrist strap. A waterproof digital compact camera could be best suited to a neon color and waterproof material. Or, you’re if the rugged type, you might prefer leather.
No matter what your personal style says about who you are, there’s a band that fits. With the array of straps on the market, there’s something for everyone, but when you make your selection, leave this criterion for last in your decision. Style only goes so far if your camera flies off to settle to the bottom of the ocean.
FAQs about Camera Wrist Straps
The best wrist strap for your camera depends on personal preference and the type of gear you own. Within the wrist strap universe, there are things you should know before making your selection. Here are some of the common questions we hear from photogs as they consider the camera wrist strap decision.
Wrist Strap | Best For | Weight Capacity |
Rapid Fire Heavy Duty Wrist Strap by Altura Photo | Best overall | 10 lbs. |
Peak Design Cuff Wrist Strap | Best for Heavy DSLRs | 200 lbs. |
OP/TECH USA SLR Wrist Strap | Best for Compact Cameras | 10 lbs. |
Nordic Flash Floating Wrist Strap | Best Waterproof | 7 oz. |
Opteka Professional Wrist Grip Strap | Best Hand Strap | Unknown |
USA GEAR Professional Camera Grip Hand Strap | Best for Pros | 10 lbs. |
Techion Braided 550 Paracord Camera Wrist Strap | Best for Styling | 10 lbs. |
MegaGear Cotton Wrist Strap | Best for the Budget | 12 lbs. |
Is a hand grip the same as a wrist strap?
No, a hand grip conforms to your hand, holding the camera in place in your palm, ready to shoot. The camera cannot swing free and your hand is always in use. While this makes for perfect camera control, it also can get in your way.
However, the one place where the hand strap really shines is in shooting video without a tripod. Because the strap eliminates some of the grip strength you’d otherwise need to hold the body, you also limit hand shake. When not in use, grip/strap combos swing free just like a wrist strap alone does.
What’s better, a wrist strap or shoulder strap?
While this begins as a matter of personal preference, there are factors that leads us to choose one over the other. For example, let’s say you use your point and shoot camera for family photos, such as zoo trips or get-togethers. Keeping the camera nearby and ready to work wins out over securing a heavy body.
On the other hand, if you shoot with two cameras in the same sitting, like a mirrorless camera with a prime lens and a full frame DSLR with a zoom, you could put the mirrorless on a strap and let it hang while you’re shooting with the full frame. Avoiding a collision of those two is another story. At least one should be on a shoulder strap.
If you’re an urban photog and want the easy accessibility, either can work. When both of your hands are often busy, a shoulder rig or strap is less likely to put the camera in your way. If you like to have the camera ready to go, a wrist strap brings it into range quickly.
When is a camera too heavy to use a wrist strap?
This is where strap material and weight capacity become critical. Stronger materials afford a higher weight capacity. A thin strap (or a cheaply made one) can snap easily.
Weigh whatever you plan to put on the strap. That includes camera body, lens (if interchangeable), and attachments like hoods or flashes. Judge your selection based on how well the strap can control all of that together.
When is a camera too expensive to use a wrist strap?
This depends on your bank account and tolerance for loss. There are expensive point and shoot compacts that some might consider too pricey to risk on a wrist strap. A photojournalist who needs that priceless shot, though, might not flinch about putting an expensive mirrorless or DSLR on a string.
Similar to our response to the last question, consider all you hang on that strap. The lens can crack, the body can break open, and a flash can turn to shards of glass with one unlikely and unplanned drop. If you can’t afford to replace all of that, consider how well that wrist strap will work for you.
Wrist Strap | Material | Fastener | Length |
Rapid Fire Heavy Duty Wrist Strap by Altura Photo | Neoprene | Eyelet Loop string or strap | 11 in. |
Peak Design Cuff Wrist Strap | Seatbelt | Eyelet loop string | 10 in. |
OP/TECH USA SLR Wrist Strap | neoprene | Strap | 11 in. |
Nordic Flash Floating Wrist Strap | Neoprene | Eyelet loop string | 9 in. |
Opteka Professional Wrist Grip Strap | Nylon | Strap plus tripod mount | 9 in. |
USA GEAR Professional Camera Grip Hand Strap | Neoprene | Strap; or tripod mount | 12 in. |
Techion Braided 550 Paracord Camera Wrist Strap | Paracord | Eyelet loop string | 16 in. |
MegaGear Cotton Wrist Strap | Cotton | Key ring | 9; 29; 39 in. |
What do the pros use on their cameras?
You are most likely to see professionals using shoulder or neck straps on their pro cameras. They might be raising multiple cameras in one scene, or they want their hands free to use a walking stick hiking in the wild or breaking through a crowd. They might also have a compact camera tucked in their pocket, though, and for that, they could have a wrist strap.
What type of strap offers the best security?
From a security perspective, it’s easier for a thief to pull a wrist strap off your hand than it is to pull a shoulder or neck strap off your body. More parts of you get in the way. It’s easier to cut a wrist strap without you ever realizing it.
This being said, the materials wrist straps are made from these days include heavier duty webbing that is difficult to break or cut. This means someone would be yanking your arm to remove the camera, as long as the wrist portion is cinched snugly. If you purchase a loop-style fastener without a lot of body to it or a strap that cannot be tightened, you face the greatest security (theft off your body) risk.
Selection Criteria for the Best Camera Wrist Straps
Wrist straps are simple structures, and for that reason, there aren’t many criteria to compare one type to another. We focus on factors that bring you comfort, security, and durability. Read on to learn more about the specifics, as well as a helpful tip to figure out what length or size of wrist strap your hands will need.
Wrist Strap | Best For | Material | Fastener | Weight Capacity | Length |
Rapid Fire Heavy Duty Wrist Strap by Altura Photo | Best overall | Neoprene | Eyelet Loop string or strap | 10 lbs. | 11 in. |
Peak Design Cuff Wrist Strap | Best for Heavy DSLRs | Seatbelt | Eyelet loop string | 200 lbs. | 10 in. |
OP/TECH USA SLR Wrist Strap | Best for Compact Cameras | neoprene | Strap | 10 lbs. | 11 in. |
Nordic Flash Floating Wrist Strap | Best Waterproof | Neoprene | Eyelet loop string | 7 oz. | 9 in. |
Opteka Professional Wrist Grip Strap | Best Hand Strap | Nylon | Strap plus tripod mount | Unknown | 9 in. |
USA GEAR Professional Camera Grip Hand Strap | Best for Pros | Neoprene | Strap; or tripod mount | 10 lbs. | 12 in. |
Techion Braided 550 Paracord Camera Wrist Strap | Best for Styling | Paracord | Eyelet loop string | 10 lbs. | 16 in. |
MegaGear Cotton Wrist Strap | Best for the Budget | Cotton | Key ring | 12 lbs. | 9; 29; 39 in. |
Material
Materials range from the natural (leather or cotton) to the synthetic (neoprene). Neoprene is rated as the most durable while being comfortable, and it is easy to clean. Some materials come with a core of elastic to add stretch to the band.
Fastener
Fastening mechanisms come in a variety of forms. These include something to thread through the eyelet (small slots on the camera’s side, usually point and shoot) or dual strap holders (tops of DSLRs). Convertibles also attach with the tripod mount plus a strap to the top.
Manufacturers also offer the glue-on or screw-in varieties. We’re not a fan of either. If the glue is strong enough to hold the camera, it may never come off the camera if you want a different strap later. Screws can damage critical mechanisms inside the camera and should never be installed.
Weight Capacity
Wrist straps are designed to hold up to a specific amount of weight, which equals the camera body plus interchangeable lens (if applicable) plus any other attachments like speed flashes. Calculate the maximum amount you think you’ll be carrying and compare that to the weight capacity to make sure the strap can manage the load.
Length
Length refers to the distance between the camera and the fold of the strap. In some cases, manufacturers note the strap size, whether it is adjustable, and the distance from the camera to where the wrist opening begins, for those with larger hands.
Here’s a tip – experiment with the length measurements using your camera and a piece of string. Cut it longer than the stated length, tie it to match with the stated length, then see if it fits with your shooting style, camera type, and hand size. Do the same with your fist size (how you’ll put the strap on) to make sure what you buy accommodates your physique.
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