24/04/2026
Salted Line Aluminium vs Polycarbonate Shutter Grip II ⚔️
Hey everyone,
If you use a Salted Line waterproof camera housing, for the surfing or waves photography, you’ve probably thought about adding a two-stage shutter grip to get better control. For many years, we have proudly offered you our Aluminium Shutter Grip ⚙️. We are now also offering the newly released Polycarbonate Shutter Grip II. Both give you the same precise two-stage trigger, but they feel quite different in real use. Here’s a straightforward, real-world comparison based on feedback from hundreds of Salted Line users and our own hands-on experience.
🔹 The Aluminium Shutter Grip - The Proven Classic
Launched more than five years ago, this grip has become a trusted favourite among many Salted Line users. Machined from solid aluminium, it feels solid and premium in the hand with a satisfying tactile feedback that many photographers love. It uses a traditional physical mechanical button, so you feel a distinct click and resistance when pressing. Its extra weight of 355 g can actually be an advantage in bigger waves, helping to keep the housing stable when conditions get rough. It is depth-rated to 8 meters. 🏋️♂️
🔹 The Polycarbonate Shutter Grip II - Ready for Real Water Action
This is our latest generation shutter grip and the one we now recommend for most users. It uses exactly the same reinforced metal mounting plate and reliable attachment system as the aluminium version, so mechanical durability and secure fit remain identical. The big upgrade is inside. Instead of a mechanical button, it features a modern electronic button. The half-press for focus and full press for the shot are light and smooth, making the shutter comfortable to use. Made from high-quality polycarbonate, the grip weighs only 200 g, almost half the weight of the aluminium version. It is also depth-rated to 40 meters, which makes it suitable for a much wider range of free divers. This makes it noticeably more comfortable during long surf sessions, extended dives or when you’re swimming and tracking fast subjects. It’s also significantly more affordable while delivering the same level of durability and performance 🪶
📌 Important note for video recording: Both the Aluminium Shutter Grip and the Polycarbonate Shutter Grip II support video recording. They can be used on compatible Sony cameras (such as the FX3, FX30, A7SIII, and A7IV) when the “Rec w/Shutter” option is enabled in the camera menu. Please refer to your camera’s manual for details.
❓ Which One Is Right for You?
If you prefer that heavy, solid metal feel and love the distinct tactile click of a traditional mechanical button, the Aluminium Shutter Grip is still an excellent, time-tested choice. Just keep in mind that its weight can start to make itself felt during long sessions.
But for the majority of photographers the Polycarbonate Shutter Grip II is now the better everyday option. It offers the same reliable two-stage control, but is much lighter, provides noticeably better comfort, and comes at a more accessible price. It can also be used by free divers since it can be taken down to depths of up to 40 meters.
Ready to upgrade your control underwater? 🤙 Watch the official assembly videos to see exactly how easy both grips are to install:
• Polycarbonate Shutter Grip II (our recommended choice): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6fkmQfMLw4
• Aluminium Shutter Grip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hic6sNmNjpI
Have questions about which grip works best with your housing and shooting style? Feel free to contact us by email at [email protected] or reach out to us on social media. Just tell us your camera and housing model and we’ll give you a personal recommendation right away. We’re always happy to help. 💬
👉 Discover the full Salted Line range, accessories and more at our official website: www.saltedline.com
Stay safe, stay dry, and happy shooting! 🙌
- The Salted Line Team
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