The original camera strap ends up in the closet for many photographers sooner or later, as it often chafes on the neck, distributes weight poorly, is impractical, or simply looks bad. The manufacturer PGYTECH has made a name for itself with modular photo accessories and offers a whole range of straps designed to make everyday life with a camera easier.
In this hands-on report, we look at the various models, their characteristics, and their practical benefits on different camera models.
Connector System
The heart of all PGYTECH carrying systems is the manufacturer's own connection system, based on small anchor loops and a spring-loaded receiver. You push the round bead into the anchor with a little pressure, where it clicks into place with an audible click, while a targeted press on the upper area is enough to release it. After a short familiarization period, this works blindly with one hand and saves a lot of time when the camera needs to be quickly mounted on a tripod.
Before deciding on a specific model, it's worth taking a close look at the construction, because Pgytech divides its connectors into two different sizes. For full-sized cameras and wide shoulder straps, a robust standard version with stronger anchor beads is used, while compact cameras are catered to with a noticeably more delicate Slim variant.
However, a noticeable disadvantage with the two available sizes becomes apparent when you want to use different straps on the same camera. For instance, you might use the regular size for a normal strap when you want to carry a larger lens.
But if you now only have a small pancake lens mounted, you might prefer to reach for the hand strap in the Slim variant. Since the beads and receivers here are not freely interchangeable, you would have to re-thread the loops on the camera body in this scenario, which somewhat hinders the idea of a quick change.
On the other hand, the supply of spare parts is pleasingly well handled, as the small anchors can also be purchased individually without a strap if you lose them or need them for more cameras. If you use multiple camera bodies interchangeably, simply equip each body with the appropriate loops and you can click your favorite strap from one camera to the next within seconds.
Camera Wrist Strap
The classic hand strap from PGYTECH in the Earth Brown color variant is aimed at photographers who like to carry their camera directly in their hand but don't want to do without security.
The strap is a combination of fine microfiber and tear-resistant Dyneema, which isn't immediately apparent from looking at the loop. The surface is reminiscent of soft velour leather, feels velvety, and absorbs moisture well on warm days without sticking unpleasantly to the skin.
The earthy tone appears pleasantly understated and harmonizes visually well with classic camera bodies. The material feels soft on the skin, doesn't cut in uncomfortably at warmer temperatures, and immediately tightens around the wrist if you accidentally let go of the camera.
As a small gimmick, the manufacturer has also integrated an inconspicuous magnet inside. This allows the hand strap to be simply wrapped around the wrist when the camera body is removed. This is practical, for example, when you quickly mount the camera on a tripod and don't have to stow the strap somewhere.
This strap is particularly suitable for medium-sized camera systems where a certain base weight is present. Typical candidates are full-frame mirrorless cameras like a Sony Alpha 7R II or a Nikon Z with a compact prime lens, but also classic analog SLR cameras like an Olympus OM-1 or Canon AE-1.
Camera Wrist Strap Slim
For smaller cameras or friends of minimalist equipment, the manufacturer offers the Slim variant, here in the striking color Outdoor-Blaze Red. The bright red is definitely a bit more eye-catching. For the narrow version, Pgytech relies on a finely woven nylon band reinforced on the inside with tough polyethylene fibers.
The load capacity is completely sufficient for the format, although with heavier camera bodies, you quickly notice that the contact surface is smaller. This is exactly why this strap fits perfectly with compact travel cameras, handy rangefinders, and light street cameras like a Fujifilm X-E5, Ricoh GR, a Fujifilm X100, or an analog Olympus Trip 35. With these models, the strap barely adds bulk in a jacket pocket and keeps the system unobtrusively within reach.
Camera Strap Slim Vintage
The Camera Strap Slim Vintage in the Caramel Brown color bridges the gap between classic retro aesthetics and modern quick-release technology. While many current camera straps stand out with functional synthetic fibers or sporty designs, this vintage version relies on warm caramel brown leather combined with finely woven webbing.
The leather feels supple from the first day, has clean decorative stitching, and develops an individual patina with regular use.
On the inside, a soft microfiber coating ensures the strap doesn't rub on the skin, even when carrying the camera over a thin summer shirt on warm days.
Functionally, this slim strap uses PGYTECH's compact Slim Connector System with the smaller connection beads.
The total length can be continuously adjusted between approximately 80 and 136 centimeters using sliders made of matte metal. Whether you prefer carrying the camera diagonally across your upper body or favor the classic style of carrying it in front of your chest, you'll find the right setting.
Since the strap completely does without bulky padding, it can be rolled up very tightly for storage and takes up hardly any space in the camera bag.
When choosing a camera body, this version harmonizes particularly well with cameras that themselves have a traditional design language. Compact mirrorless system cameras like the Fujifilm X-T5, a Nikon Z fc, or an OM System OM-5 form a coherent unit with the brown leather accents.
Classic rangefinder cameras like a Leica M or analog treasures like a Canonet QL17 and an Olympus 35 RC also visually match the slim cut perfectly.
Camera Strap Pro
The Camera Strap Pro is aimed at anyone who wants to work with a larger setup. The camera is attached via the included base plate, which is screwed into the standardized tripod thread. The connection itself is made via the familiar click system with a three-layer safety construction, where a yellow and red color layer inside the weave provides timely warning before the cord is chafed through.
Since the plate itself is manufactured according to the Arca-Swiss standard, the camera can be directly clipped onto most modern tripod heads. The click system also allows the camera to be quickly detached from the strap.
The wide shoulder pad has an elastic core made of EPDM foam, which noticeably cushions the weight on the shoulder. The optional chest strap provides additional security.
Two quick adjusters also allow the strap length to be continuously tightened or loosened with a simple finger pull on the tabs while walking, depending on whether the equipment should rest close to the body or be quickly brought to the eye. The camera can also be secured in its position.
There is also a D-ring on the front. This can be used to attach, for example, a case for memory cards or a small pouch.
Camera Strap Master
The Camera Strap Master differs fundamentally from ordinary carrying straps, as it is a full-fledged double shoulder harness for the simultaneous use of multiple cameras.
Anyone who has ever tried to carry two camera bodies around their neck with classic individual straps knows the inevitable chaos: the straps get tangled with every turn, the cameras bang loudly against each other while walking, and the cervical spine noticeably protests after a few hours. The Master harness is designed to solve exactly these problems. It distributes the total weight of heavy equipment evenly across both shoulders and the upper back area.
With optional extension loops on the chest, you can even carry up to three cameras or additional accessories like binoculars simultaneously if needed, so you always have your hands free at events or in nature and can switch between different focal lengths in a flash.
To counteract the dreaded sweat build-up during long assignments on warm days, Pgytech uses an elastic EPDM foam in the 60-millimeter-wide shoulder pads, perforated with a total of 115 ventilation holes.
On the side facing the body, a soft microfiber with a suede look ensures a pleasant wearing feel on clothing, while applications made of real leather and fiberglass-reinforced nylon ensure durability.
A well-thought-out feature is the integrated AutoFit system, through which the pads automatically adapt to the individual shoulder width and neck shape.
A chest strap, adjustable in height in four ways and removable when not in use, keeps the entire harness securely on the upper body even when bending over, walking quickly, or squatting down.
The cameras are attached via the manufacturer's own quick-change system with the proven anchor beads.
While walking, the camera can be secured in a stable position at the hip using a lock, so it doesn't swing back and forth uncontrollably.
As soon as a subject appears, you release the lock with one hand and the camera glides effortlessly up the guide rail to your eye.
Because the connection beads can be released from the anchor with a press, you can detach the camera body from the harness within seconds and place it directly on a tripod with Arca-Swiss clamp or a gimbal.
The Camera Strap Master is naturally designed for demanding work situations with heavy equipment. Typical working combinations are two modern full-frame cameras, for example a Canon EOS R5 with a 24-70mm standard zoom on one side and a second body with a heavy 70-200mm telephoto lens on the other.
Wedding photographers, reportage professionals, and wildlife photographers who need to remain ready for action all day without time-consuming lens changes will find ergonomic relief here.
LinkGo Phone Photography Strap
With the LinkGo Phone Photography Strap in the braided Sea Blue variant, you always have your smartphone within reach. The mobile phone hangs diagonally across your upper body or in front of your chest and is permanently within direct reach.
The system is attached via a thin insert card made of tear-resistant composite material, which is placed inside a normal protective case. The robust retaining loop simply protrudes through the cutout for the charging port. This should work with most smartphones.
The material is kept so flat that conventional charging cables continue to fit into the port without pinching, and wireless charging is also not hindered.
The blue climbing rope weave feels pleasantly soft on the shoulder, doesn't cut into the neck even with summer clothing, and withstands daily abrasion thanks to robust synthetic fibers. The length can be continuously adjusted to your own body height using two sliders.
A small pendant with an integrated cleaning cloth is included. If you don't need it, the pendant can also be removed.
Real added value in everyday life arises from the well-thought-out system compatibility. Pgytech uses the same compact Slim Connector System on the LinkGo retaining loop as on its lightweight camera straps.
This transforms the phone into a hand-secured compact camera for a relaxed city stroll, remaining firmly anchored to the wrist while typing or taking photos.
Conversely, you can of course also use the strap with a camera. This should naturally be a compact model, such as a DJI Osmo Pocket or even a small analog camera.
Conclusion on PGYTECH Camera Straps
PGYTECH has some interesting straps in its lineup that liven up the often dreary market for carrying systems. I can actually recommend all the straps.
What I really like is the Connector System. It allows for quick removal of the strap, for example when stowing the camera in a bag or using it without a strap. It also allows for quick switching between straps, such as switching to a hand strap.
Buy Camera Straps
If you want to equip your setup with the right straps, you can find all these models both directly from the manufacturer and on Amazon. With the discount code “FILMPHOTO” you get 10% off in the PGYTECH store.
The classic Camera Wrist Strap in subtle Earth Brown can be ordered via the website.
If you prefer something more minimalist and visually striking, go for the slimmer Camera Wrist Strap Slim in Outdoor-Blaze Red, which is also available via the website.
For fans of classic camera bodies, the leather Camera Strap Slim Vintage in Caramel Brown is the ideal choice; you can secure it directly via the website.
For heavier equipment and long shooting days, the softly padded Camera Strap Pro is ready – available via the website.
If you need to carry two or three heavy cameras at the same time without the straps getting tangled, you'll find the double shoulder strap system Camera Strap Master on the website.
Smartphone photography is also covered: the braided LinkGo Phone Photography Strap in Sea Blue is also available on the website.
