The underwater world has a certain note of darkness. It is sometimes necessary to have suitable lighting to fully enjoy scuba diving. Some models are portable, others are chest, head or hand mounted. By checking out our comparison guide of the best dive lights, we're sure you'll find the one that's right for you.
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Our selection
"This DL30 has all the qualities that experienced divers expect from a dive light. Durable and superbly waterproof, this 3600 lms lamp offers a practical…"
"Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or a beginner, this pack of 2 lights of 1000 lms each will be your best allies during your scuba…"
"Powered by two 26650 rechargeable batteries, the TrustFire DF70 has a battery life of 13 hours. It operates at a depth of up to 70…"
"Despite its 300 lumens of light intensity, this dive light allows you to see like daylight in the darkness of the underwater depths. As long…"
This DL30 has all the qualities that experienced divers expect from a dive light. Durable and superbly waterproof, this 3600 lms lamp offers a practical range of 220 meters and can be taken to a depth of about 100 meters.
55,99 £ on AmazonThe Wurkkos DL30 is the ultimate scuba diving light. Powered by a powerful 5000 mAh Li-ion 21700 battery, its three LH351D LED bulbs made by Samsung emit a neutral white light allowing you to see as if in daylight up to 220 meters. In addition, this dive light can be carried to a depth of 100 meters or more. Being not very heavy, it can be used with one hand.
Made of 6061 aluminum, the DL30 is resistant to impact, corrosion and seawater infiltration. Please note that this lamp is equipped with an Advanced Temperature Regulation (ATR) system that automatically reduces the light level when the pilot temperature approaches 55°C. This is how this equipment is effectively protected from overheating.
Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or a beginner, this pack of 2 lights of 1000 lms each will be your best allies during your scuba diving sessions. Cleverly designed, they will allow you to see clearly in the darkest of environments.
23,19 £ on AmazonIncorporating ABS plastic, aluminum and tempered glass components, these lights will deliver on their promise of being waterproof and long lasting. In energy saving mode, they can be used for 4 hours at a depth of 50 to 75 meters. For safety reasons, the manufacturer recommends charging the batteries properly and performing a few tests before a dive. Among other things, the head and bottom of the lamp should be screwed on tightly to avoid accidental malfunctions while underwater.
Note that all the accessories that accompany these two lamps are delivered in pairs. Among other things, you will be entitled to 2 18650 rechargeable batteries, 2 USB chargers, 2 lanyards, 2 battery sleeves and 2 AAA battery holders. As the Velcro straps can be transformed into bracelets for the lights, you will have your hands completely free while you are still diving.
Powered by two 26650 rechargeable batteries, the TrustFire DF70 has a battery life of 13 hours. It operates at a depth of up to 70 m. There is enough to illuminate the fauna and flora underwater, with a range of 375 m.
See priceFully waterproof, the TrustFire DF70 is a remarkable dive light in terms of its performance. Its 13-hour runtime and maximum illumination power of 3200 lumens allow it to shine well underwater. The range of the beam reaches 375 m. This lamp is rather large, but remains very handy and weighs only 532 g.
Note that the TrustFire DF70 3200 lumens can dive to a depth of 70 m. In addition to the dive light, you will get 2 x 26650 5000 mAh rechargeable batteries, 1 x battery charger, 4 x spare O-rings, 1 x dive rope, 1 x user manual and 1 x gift box.
Despite its 300 lumens of light intensity, this dive light allows you to see like daylight in the darkness of the underwater depths. As long as you don't plan to reach the abyss, the T5 is an ally that won't fail you.
31,92 £ on AmazonMeasuring 14.4 cm long and weighing only 125 g, this aluminum dive light is very appealing for its compact appearance. It will make an excellent backup light that will fit nicely in the pocket of your stabilizer vest. If your first light should ever go out while you are still underwater, this T5 will allow you to continue your exploration or to calmly return to the surface. It runs on 3 AAA LR03 alkaline batteries that provide up to 2 hours and 20 minutes of operation, but can be extended by a few precious minutes with an optional 18650 rechargeable battery.
The practical range of this lamp is maximized thanks to its beam which is concentrated with an angle of 9°. Clearly, the vision is optimal up to thirty meters. On the practical and safety side, the SEAC T5 is equipped with a universal flashlight strap and a lockable switch.
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The best entry-level dive light
The best dive light under 500 lumens
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| OUR SELECTION |
Wurkkos DL30
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WholeFire 2-pack of dive lights
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TrustFire DF70 3200 lumens
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SEAC T5
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This DL30 has all the qualities that experienced divers expect from a dive light. Durable and superbly waterproof, this 3600 lms lamp offers a practical range of 220 meters and can be taken to a depth of about 100 meters.
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Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or a beginner, this pack of 2 lights of 1000 lms each will be your best allies during your scuba diving sessions. Cleverly designed, they will allow you to see clearly in the darkest of environments.
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Powered by two 26650 rechargeable batteries, the TrustFire DF70 has a battery life of 13 hours. It operates at a depth of up to 70 m. There is enough to illuminate the fauna and flora underwater, with a range of 375 m.
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Despite its 300 lumens of light intensity, this dive light allows you to see like daylight in the darkness of the underwater depths. As long as you don't plan to reach the abyss, the T5 is an ally that won't fail you.
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Performance
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Maximum light output
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3600 lms
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1000 lms
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3,200 lms
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300 lms
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Beam range
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Dive depth
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100 m
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about 50 m
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70 m
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100 m
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Autonomy
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There are two types of dive lights: the torch and the canister light. For the former, the choice is quite wide, as it encompasses different types of lamps, from the smallest to the largest lanterns used for diving in the dark. Well known to wreck and cave divers, the canister lamp consists of a waist-high battery and a small lamp, both connected by a cable. It is known for its ability to deliver better light, but this argument is becoming increasingly obsolete due to the many advances made in the field.
Not all lamps are suitable for scuba diving. Indeed, a lamp can be water resistant, but not adapted to withstand pressure, which makes it unusable underwater. Whichever model of lamp you choose, make sure it is waterproof and resistant to hydrostatic pressure.
The underwater environment often puts a strain on equipment. To withstand external damage and avoid premature wear and tear, dive lights should be made from tough, durable materials. Make sure your lamp is designed from steel, aluminum, stainless steel, or titanium for strength.
As
explained above, many advances have been made in the design of dive lamps, and there are more and more powerful models in smaller sizes. However, the relationship between lamp size and power is still valid. Thus, small lamps are the best choice for daytime use or as back-up lamps. On the other hand, for night, wreck or cave diving, larger lamps, often called main lamps, are recommended.
Some dive lights run on "AA" size batteries or other common models, and generally accept all rechargeable and disposable batteries. So, depending on whether you use your dive light often or very rarely, you should choose the most appropriate power supply. However, apart from the ecological argument, it is agreed that rechargeable batteries perform much better on and under water.
An essential piece of equipment for your underwater adventure, the dive light will be a great help when you dive at night or when you enter caves or shipwrecks. You need to know how to use your light properly to avoid unpleasant surprises in the darkness of the deep.
If you enjoy night diving and do it regularly, you should replace your lamp regularly, at least once a year. If this is your first time using your lamp, it is imperative that you test it above water before each dive and immerse it in a bathtub or sink.
You should also consider replacing the batteries in your lamp before each use. It is also highly recommended to disassemble the lamp and inspect its O-ring. Indeed, there may be gouges or cuts that could compromise the light. In this case, replacing the O-ring is the best solution.
After each dive, your dive light should be rinsed with clean, fresh water, especially if you've been in salt water. Then, it should be dried thoroughly. At this point, you should make sure that you have removed the batteries and that your device is not exposed to direct sunlight.
A little tip on how to maintain your dive light, as you will be able to use it as well. Don't rinse the dive light until it's properly sealed. It is best to use a tub of water for rinsing. It is also advisable to apply pressure to the buttons. For the seals, apply silicone grease so that they can withstand frequent use. Finally, it is best to store your equipment in a pierced mask box.
For a good night diving experience, a flashlight is more practical than a headlamp. This is because it allows you to light up a part you want to see well. In other words, a flashlight in your hand will be easier to maneuver to view from different angles. It also lasts longer than their headlamp counterparts, even though they produce the same amount of light.
With a rechargeable flashlight, you can enjoy a very constant light for the duration of your dive. You won't have that same level of freedom with a headlamp. However, the dive torch can fall off easily. Besides, it tires your hands after a few hours. This may lead you to choose a headlamp for diving.
With a headlamp, you don't have to worry about losing it. This means that using it frees up your hands, so you can do other things (take pictures, handle animals, corals, etc.). Versatile, the dive headlamp can be removed from your head to serve as a flashlight. This way, your head does not get tired from carrying a headlamp on it.
On the other hand, you must understand that with a headlamp, you cannot turn your head without illuminating an area. This means that you have to be careful not to blind people nearby. Moreover, your neck can get tired if you turn more to look for underwater animals for example. But all this is of course manageable, as it can be removed.
It is more than obvious that a headlamp is more practical, as you can remove it from your head at any time. However, a dive flashlight is preferable to better illuminate a part you want to admire. So, our advice is to first determine your objectives and expectations before choosing between the 2 underwater lighting devices.
For night diving
In the middle of the night, the diver needs a light to revive the colors that the water has filtered. Indeed, the beam of your dive light will be your only guide to discover the wonderful creatures that populate the underwater environment.
For cave diving
Some scuba diving enthusiasts love to venture into the deepest, darkest corridors where good visibility is not at all obvious. With a good dive light, it is possible to enter caves, caverns and other dark places with a perfect view of the marine ecosystem.
For wreck diving
Whether it is for exploitation or rescue missions, wrecks attract many scuba divers. These carcasses can be real labyrinths where good visibility is more than necessary. The dive light is often the only way to find your bearings in such places.
To take underwater pictures or videos
The underwater environment is full of beautiful places and creatures that we discover most of the time through documentaries or photos. To take pictures in the best conditions, underwater photographers and videographers use diving lights to have a perfect lighting.
For safety and communication
Regardless of the type of diving done, divers must have a main dive light and a backup dive light for safety reasons. The underwater environment is not only full of beautiful scenery and creatures. The dive light is one of the safety accessories that can help to see the approach of danger and to get out of difficult situations.
Also, the light of the dive light can often be a good means of communication between different divers, especially when it is very dark. It allows you to see the position of others, but also, by means of signs or flashes, to exchange information and instructions.
Consider the number of dives per year
If you only dive very rarely, choose a low-cost model. Unless you are a night diver, then you will be forced to buy a high-end dive light that emits more than 3,000 lumens.
Choose your lamp according to your needs
If
you're a professional diver, buy a lamp that has a long runtime and lights up well at depth. Ditto
, for its ability to withstand high pressure as well as its waterproof rating, which should be about IPX8.
Always have a spare lamp
You
should always be prepared when scuba diving. Always have a backup lamp so that you are not caught unprepared in the depths.
Make the most of robustness
It
should be noted that some dive lights cannot withstand high pressure. For this reason, those designed in stainless steel, titanium or steel are the most recommended to go beyond 40 m.
Choose rechargeable battery lamps
Contrary to
what one might think, dive lights powered by rechargeable batteries are much more efficient than those powered by batteries. In addition, they have a better autonomy.
The best dive light depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.
The way to recharge a dive light differs from one model to another. It should also be noted that some products are not apparently rechargeable. Therefore, you should read the user's manual carefully so as not to damage your device through improper handling.
In order for your dive light to have a longer life, depending on the model, be sure to remove the batteries after each dive. This will prevent short-circuiting and rusting of the positive and negative terminals. Also, don't wait until the battery is completely dead to recharge.
If you have to dive in poorly lit sites or at depths of several meters, it will be your best ally. Just make sure you choose a model that can withstand the pressure.
This depends on the battery life of your device. However, always carry a spare lamp, as this could be useful in the event of a breakdown or manufacturing defect.
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