2025 Top Picks: Best Belay Devices

Your belay device is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you’ll own. In 2025, assisted-braking devices are the standard for most gym and sport climbers — offering better fall-catching reliability, smoother lowering, and added confidence for both climber and belayer.

In this guide, we highlight three of the most popular and proven assisted-braking belay devices on the market: the Petzl GRIGRI, Petzl GRIGRI+, and Petzl NEOX. Each excels in a different use case, depending on your experience level and climbing style.

Assisted Braking ≠ Auto-Locking

Before diving in, one important clarification: assisted-braking devices are not hands-free or auto-locking. They help stop the rope during a fall, but only when used with proper technique. Your brake hand should never leave the rope.

What to Look for in a Belay Device (2025 Edition)

• Assisted braking: Helps arrest falls more reliably than manual devices.
• Smooth rope feed: Especially important for lead climbing.
• Controlled lowering: Predictable friction for safe descents.
• Durability: Essential for frequent gym use.
• Learning curve: Some devices are more beginner-friendly than others.

Petzl GRIGRI — The Gold Standard

Petzl GRIGRI — The trusted assisted-braking classic for everyday gym and sport climbing.

The Petzl GRIGRI has earned its reputation as the most widely used assisted-braking belay device in the world. Its cam-assisted design reliably catches falls while remaining compact, durable, and easy to handle.

The GRIGRI strikes a balance between safety and simplicity. Rope feed is smooth once you’re familiar with the technique, and lowering feels controlled and predictable. This makes it a favourite among regular gym climbers and sport climbers alike.

Best for: Experienced belayers, frequent gym climbers, and sport climbers who want a proven, no-nonsense device.

Petzl GRIGRI+ — Extra Safety for Learning and Teaching

Petzl GRIGRI+ — Added safety features make learning and teaching smoother and safer.

The Petzl GRIGRI+ builds on the classic GRIGRI design with additional safety features. Its standout feature is the anti-panic handle, which automatically stops lowering if the handle is pulled too hard — a common beginner mistake.

It also includes selectable top-rope and lead modes, making it especially useful in teaching environments or when belaying partners with different experience levels. While slightly bulkier than the standard GRIGRI, the added security can be worth it.

Best for: Beginners, instructors, cautious belayers, and gyms prioritising safety and consistency.

Petzl NEOX — Fast Rope Feed for Modern Lead Climbing

Petzl NEOX — Ultra-smooth rope feed built for fast, modern lead climbing.

The Petzl NEOX represents a newer generation of assisted-braking devices. Its defining feature is exceptionally smooth rope payout, making it ideal for fast, dynamic lead climbing where quick clips matter.

Unlike traditional cam-based devices, the NEOX uses an internal rotating wheel that allows rope to feed quickly without frequent hand repositioning. This reduces short-roping and helps belayers keep up with aggressive or flowing lead styles.

Best for: Dedicated lead climbers, projecting, and climbers who prioritise smooth, uninterrupted rope feed.

GRIGRI vs GRIGRI+ vs NEOX — Which Should You Choose?

• Choose the GRIGRI if you want a reliable, all-round assisted-braking device with a long track record.
• Choose the GRIGRI+ if safety, teaching, or belaying beginners is your priority.
• Choose the NEOX if you focus on lead climbing and want the smoothest rope feed possible.

Common Belay Device Mistakes to Avoid

• Letting go of the brake hand.
• Incorrect rope threading.
• Over-reliance on the handle while lowering.
• Assuming assisted braking replaces proper belay technique.

Final Thoughts

There’s no single “best” belay device — only the best one for how and who you climb with. The GRIGRI, GRIGRI+, and NEOX all excel in different scenarios, and choosing the right one can significantly improve both safety and climbing flow.

Visit Boulder Planet Showroom to see these belay devices in person, feel the differences in rope feed and lowering, and get expert advice before making your choice.