I got the vertical grip two weeks ago for my a99 ii. I like the battery live it gives the camera and uses the same batteries and battery tray on an earlier vertical grip. The only drawback is VG-C77am battery door. The VG-C77am has a locking dial that releases the door when used with a rapid strap because of how it rubs against your cloths. Still love it and happy that they put additional buttons on the grip. The buttons also take on the custom features you program into the body. I was able to change the AEL button to back button auto focus.