The HORUSBENNU TG-1 thumb grip recently hit the market as a less expensive alternative to the well loved, if a bit expensive, Match Technical Thumbs Up grip. The TG-1 is a bit more 'generic' in design and ergonomics, suitable for an array of compact cameras, but it is a great match for the Fuji X100 and new X10. Best of all it's only $45 USD, well below the cost of a Thumbs Up.

So what exactly are these thumb grips anyways? They're a simple metal accessory that inserts into the camera's hot shoe, extending a small 'hook' out to the right. This hook provides a comfortable place to position your thumb, while the hook opposes the camera's weight against your palm. As a result, your thumb holds the camera comfortably while requiring little to no gripping pressure. It's an improvement on the ergonomics of your camera that can also help you shoot at lower shutter speeds, since your hand will be more steady. This benefit is most notable when holding your camera with just one hand, common for street photographers and wrist strap users.

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On the Fujifilm X10, the TG-1 provides a great improvement to the cameras ergonomics. Photographers with larger hands may find the compact X10 more difficult to get a grip on, despite it's rubber thumb bumper, because it's simply a short camera. With the TG-1 on the X10, it's considerably easier to handle, and you don't feel like you have to squeeze it tight. The black finish on my TG-1 matches the X10 well, and its metal construction feels right at home. When it's in place, you can still easily access the mode dial by placing your thumb below the TG-1 and using your index finger to twist the dial. The secondary control wheel near the X10's built in grip is also easy to access while using the TG-1, simply rock your thumb downwards to access it.



One thing to note, the TG-1 actually makes contact with the X10's mode dial if it's inserted completely into the hot shoe. You will need to angle it slightly away from the dial before tightening the retaining screw.



On the Fujifilm X100 the TG-1 provides equally great ergonomics. Access to all controls are maintained, and it does not come in contact with the shutter speed dial. I do not have access to the silver version, but from what I've read it does not match the X100's silver exactly, but it's still an attractive combination.



So how does this compare to the Thumbs Up EP-5S? Is the EP-5S worth the premium? The only honest answer is, it depends. While both thumb grips provide the same basic functionality, there are some considerable design differences.



The Thumbs Up EP-5S was designed specifically for the X100, and coincidentally works well on the X10. It sits lower on the camera, never rising above the top of the camera like the TG-1 does. If you have smaller hands like I do, you may prefer the Thumbs Up EP-5S as it's more compact, on the X100 I found myself reaching for the controls a little bit with the TG-1. Conversely, if you have longer thumbs, you may well prefer the TG-1 overall on both cameras. The HorusBennu TG-1 is made of a light aluminum alloy called duralumin and weights very little, while the Thumbs Up EP-5S is machined from solid bass. They both feel nice in the hand and in use, but the EP-5S just feels sturdier.

Bottom line, if you can afford the EP-5S for your camera, it's a great purchase. But if you cannot justify the cost, the HorusBennu TG-1 is going to provide the same functionality for less than half the price. If you have larger than average hands, the TG-1 is really your best bet all around. With smaller hands, the TG-1 still fits the X10 well, and is quite useable on the X100, if a bit less comfortable in comparison. Either way, both products will vastly improve the ergonomics of your X100 and X10!

The HorusBennu is available on eBay in silver or black for $45.50 USD with free shipping. If you're curious about the Thumbs Up EP-5S, it's also available on eBay in silver or black for $118 USD.