Amateur Photographer verdict
SmallRig’s L-Shaped Mount Plate for the Fujifilm X-E5 fits the camera perfectly, adding a larger, more comfortable silicone grip. Thanks to the Arca base, it’ll snap directly onto many tripods, too.
- Improves handling for one-handed shooting
- Arca-Swiss compatible
- Lightweight with no loss of camera access
- Not a full L-bracket with vertical mounting
- No grip for portrait orientation
SmallRig seems to have taken up the mantle of supplying many of the accessories that camera manufacturers used to produce themselves, and this Smallrig L-shaped Mount Plate With Silicone Grip is a great example of a well-thought-out optional add-on. Designed specifically for the Fujifilm X-E5, it provides a noticeable improvement in handling without interfering with the camera’s core functionality or compact design.
At a glance:
- $39/99 / £37.90
- Bespoke-fit L-shaped grip
- Arca-Swiss compatible base
- Just 64g weight
- Aluminium alloy and silicone construction
- Full access to battery and ports
- smallrig.com
The grip attaches securely to the base of the camera via the tripod bush, with the black silicone having a similar (if finer) texture and tone to the body’s original covering. I used the silver version, and the aluminium alloy blends perfectly with the camera’s silver top and base plates. It really feels like a natural extension of the camera rather than an afterthought.
Despite being labelled as L-shaped, this isn’t a traditional L-bracket with a side-arm for vertical mounting. The vertical section is the silicone grip, while the base is solid and Arca-Swiss compatible, so it snaps easily into Arca-style tripod heads from the likes of 3 Legged Thing, Benro and Peak Design.
It’s ideal for photographers who frequently switch between handheld and tripod work, as there’s no need to attach a separate quick-release plate. However, should your tripod head not be Arca-Swiss type, there are two 1/4”-20 sockets for mounting a plate.
The grip is more substantial than the camera’s own, giving you a more secure hold, particularly when shooting one-handed or working with longer lenses. It makes the Fujifilm X-E5 feel that bit more reassuring in your hand, yet the whole unit is very discreet, making it a real asset for travel, street and casual everyday photography.
Key features:
- Comfort Grip: Secure, comfortable silicone grip
- Arca-Compatible: The aluminium alloy base fits Arca-Swiss tripod heads
- Magnetic Tool: There’s a screwdriver held in the base magnetically
- Tactile Add-on: The package includes a soft-touch shutter release button
- Camera Match: The finish and colour align beautifully with the X-E5’s body
SmallRig includes a flathead screwdriver that tucks into the base and is held in place magnetically, which is handy for when you want to remove the grip or attach a different tripod plate. There’s also a threaded release button in the box, which screws into the shutter button and gives it a smoother feel. It’s a little fiddly to screw in, but makes a nice addition.
Crucially, the grip/plate doesn’t block anything important. You still have full access to the battery compartment, memory card slot, ports, buttons and all the camera’s controls. At just 64g, it adds next to no weight to your setup, making it a practical upgrade that doesn’t compromise the X-E5’s portability.
Just like the X-E5, the SmallRig mount plate is available in two colourways – black (ID 5448) and silver (ID 5447), so you can match your grip to your camera’s body finish. Both have the same solid aluminium base and soft silicone grip. The firm also makes similar grips for other cameras, including the Fujifilm X100VI.
Our Verdict
This isn’t a flashy accessory, but it is a really useful one at a great price. SmallRig’s silicone-handled plate improves grip, adds Arca-Swiss compatibility and fits the Fujifilm X-E5 like a glove. While it doesn’t support vertical tripod mounting, it’s well-designed, great value and a worthwhile upgrade for any X-E5 owner. It’s also so light and discreet that, aside from the additional functionality it brings, I forget it’s on the camera.
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