NAB 2023: Kondor Blue PRO-BLADE SSD Handle takes Best Accessory

Congratulations to Kondor Blue for winning our Best Accessory of NAB 2023 with the PRO-BLADE SSD Handle. This versatile handle provides a top or side-mounted grip point while also housing a solid-state storage drive for USB-C external recording.

How it works

The Kondor Blue PRO-BLADE SSD Handle can be mounted as a top or side handle using the NATO rail and clamp system. If needed, the handle can also be adapted to ARRI Rosette and Quick Release Rosette systems.

The handle holds up to 2 TB of SSD storage using the SanDisk Professional PRO-BLADE SSD Mag. A vertical NATO rail protects the USB-C connection port, allowing for a safe and reliable connection between handle and camera. With this setup, footage can be captured directly from camera to SSD with sustained read/write speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s.

Kondor Blue PRO-BLADE SSD Handle from above
Image courtesy: Kondor Blue

Other features of the Kondor Blue PRO-BLADE SSD Handle

In addition to providing a sturdy grip point and a safe spot for an SSD, the PRO-BLADE SSD Handle offers several other useful features that make it a valuable rig component. For example, the handle features multiple mounting points, including a cold shoe with a safety stop, two 1/4 20 ARRI-style mounts and a NATO rail that runs along the bottom of the handle. The bottom rail also features integrated safety stops.

For better ergonomics, the PRO-BLADE SSD Handle also features finger cutouts and side cross hatchings for a textured grip. Kondor Blue designed the handle to be durable yet lightweight and comfortable.

Kondor Blue PRO-BLADE SSD Handle with camera
Image courtesy: Kondor Blue

Compatibility

Not every camera features external SSD recording via USB-C. Here is a list of cameras that work with this new handle:

  • Panasonic S5II X
  • Panasonic GH6
  • Blackmagic 4k
  • Blackmagic 6k
  • Blackmagic 6k G2
  • Blackmagic 6k Pro
  • Blackmagic Ursa 4.6k G2
  • Blackmagic Ursa 12k
  • Sigma FP
  • DJI Ronin 4D

Pricing and availability

The Kondor Blue PRO-BLADE SSD Handle is available now for pre-order. It has a price tag of just under $200. Learn more at kondorblue.com.

Nicole LaJeunesse
Nicole LaJeunesse
Nicole LaJeunesse is a professional writer and a curious person who loves to unpack stories on anything from music, to movies, to gaming and beyond.

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