An underwater flashlight is an essential tool used by divers on night dives, cave dives, and wreck dives.
They are also very handy when exploring crevices and swim throughs on reefs and dive sites. That said, whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting out, a good dive torch is an important safety device in any diver’s arsenal.
The best dive lights are easy to carry, have a strong bright light (this is measured in lumens), and don’t let water in. For more information on other essential scuba diving gear, check out our Best guide to Underwater Cameras, Dive Knives, and DSMB.
It can be difficult to know the right dive light for you, so we’re here to help you with what you’re looking for. These torches are specially designed to assist you with illuminating the underwater environment. For your consideration, we have the best budget, mid-range, and high-end dive lights.
The Top 7 Dive Lights in 2023
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1
Best Overall: Scubapro Nova 850 -
2
Best Canister dive light: Orcatorch D630 -
3
Strongest Beam: Mares EOS 20RZ -
4
Longest Battery Life: Big Blue AL12000NP-II -
5
Rechargeable Battery: Kraken NR 2000 -
6
Most Affordable: Light and Motion GoBe 500 Spot -
7
Brightest Luminosity: Tovatec Fusion 3600
All the Dive Lights We've tested
The Nova 850 is an amazing dive torch for any diver looking to have a reliable and versatile dive light. This relatively new product sports 850 lumens and is super easy to use. I love the sleek and lightweight design made from heavy-duty aluminum. Scubapro is one of the most well-known brands in the scuba diving industry and they make lots of different accessories for divers including BCD’s and Masks. The Scubapro Nova 850 is one of the best dive lights as it is built to last.
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 253x45mm
- Weight: 522g
- 850 lumen output
- Depth rated to 150m
- Double O-ring seals guarantees integrity
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Available with rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries
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50% mode allows for increased burn time
Things we don't like:
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Expensive
Hands down one of the best dive lights in the industry is the Orcatorch D630. With 5 hours of runtime at its brightest setting emitting a whopping 4000 lumens, the Orcatorch D630 does not disappoint. As soon as you pick this unit up, you get the impression of quality. This dive light is a favourite for cave divers as well as professional divers when surveying areas for work.
Specs & Features
- Light Dimensions: 96x60mm
- Canister Dimensions: 209x59mm
- Weight: 1.37kg (with battery)
- 4000 lumen output
- Depth rated to 150m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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5 hours long runtime at brightest mode
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90°-180° angle adjustable cable suitable for both back mount and side mount diving
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Good for mobility
Things we don't like:
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Heavy
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Expensive
This Mares torch is one of the bulkier dive torches, however the light emitted offers a luminous intensity that is second only to the Tovatec Fusion 3600. With a whopping 2300 lumen output, if you’re looking for the brightest dive light… this is the one for you. This dive light is great for dive instructors and divemasters alike, who need a strong bright and wide light in order to illuminate the environment while leading dives.
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 206x62mm
- Weight: 594g
- 2300 lumen output
- Depth rated to 150m
- Magnetic adjustable focus
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Wide light beam
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100min burn time
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Rechargeable battery
Things we don't like:
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Bulky handling
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Large compared to other dive torches
Big Blue is a brand known for producing high quality dive lights, their Big Blue AL12000NP-II model is a great device that many divers rely on for their night dives. This torch produces a soft but strong light and can last up to 20 hours on its lowest power setting. The battery life of this torch makes it an ideal back-up torch and as such I recommend pairing it with a wide range beam torch like the Mares torch EOS 20Rz.
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 145x35mm
- Weight: 178g
- 1200 lumen output
- Depth rated to 100m
- Tempered optical glass
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Comes with a BigBlue dry bag
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Long battery life
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Sleek design
Things we don't like:
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This dive light has been known to flood
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Lack of consistent output
One of the best dive lights on the market for price, the Kraken NR 2000 offers seriously bright illumination and doesn’t compromise on range. This model of the Kraken dive lights is the favorite of wreck divers as it is compact and tough and is known to be very reliable. The Kraken NR 2000 is everything a recreational diver can ask for in a dive light.
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 172x53mm
- Weight: 275g
- 2000 lumen output
- Depth rated to 100m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Rechargeable battery
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Reliability
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Strong and sturdy feel
Things we don't like:
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Short handle
For beginner divers looking for an all-round torch that can be used above ground as well as underwater, the GoBe 500 is the perfect instrument. With multiple mounting options and custom optics, the GoBee 500 is extremely versatile and is a good first dive light. If you’re a dive centre looking to buy a large quantity of standardized dive lights for training beginners and night dives, look no further. This reliable dive light is affordable and stylish.
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 125x48mm
- Weight: 160g
- 500 lumen output
- Depth rated to 120m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Customisation available
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Useful above and below the water
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Ergonomic grip
Things we don't like:
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Not very bright
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Not built to last
On this list is one of the most popular dive lights, the Tovatec Fusion 3600 is the brightest light on our top 10 best dive lights guide. Using a Cree LED light this dive torch can turn night into day and provides a focused beam to see some 200ft / 60m into the distance. Although this torch is heavy and bulky it provides a very strong quality light and for this reason it is popular with divers of all levels.
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 270x60mm
- Weight: 644g
- 3600 lumen output
- Depth rated to 100m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Brightest light in its category
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Smooth magnetic switch
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Solid rubber grip
Things we don't like:
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Too heavy and bulky
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Quite heavy
The most lightweight dive light in the canister category, the Wolfbeam TL3302 runs for 12 hours on its lowest setting and can emit 3400 lumen. This product features 5 light modes, from strong to weak light and includes a strobe setting. Considering the size of the canister and light, what you get with the Wolfbeam TL3302 is a lightweight and powerful light. I personally like the matt black finish that means you can camouflage the canister with your wetsuit for sleek diving.
Specs & Features
- Light Dimensions: 100x66mm
- Canister Dimensions: 260x35mm
- Weight: 0.95kg
- 3400 lumen output
- Depth rated to 150m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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5 modes including strobe light
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A max runtime of 12h on lowest setting
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Very lightweight
Things we don't like:
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The length of the cable connecting the battery isn’t very long
The Dive Rite LX20 offers a constant current, meaning that the brightness of the light emitted stays consistent until the battery runs out. Mainly used by experienced divers as a primary dive torch with a glove mount, this compact dive light is perfect for tech divers and cave divers. The Dive Rite LX20 has earned its place on this list for its quality and reliability.
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 150x55mm
- Weight: 560g
- 1100 lumen output
- Depth rated to 152m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Compact and durable
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Perfect for mounting on BCD or glove
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Ideal as a primary dive light
Things we don't like:
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Dimensions and weight make it hard to handle
Orcatorch is one of the most reliable brands for dive torches. This model of the Orcatorch is known for its long battery life and bright light that is emitted in the form of a strong narrow beam. This means longer bottom time and peace of mind when on a night dive. This torch is recommended for divers of any level who want a reliable torch by their side when exploring wrecks or caves. The reliability and quality of this product places it at the top of our top 10 best dive lights list
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 144x40mm
- Weight: 183g
- LED light with a 1000 lumen output
- Depth rated to 150m
- Magnetic controlled seals and switch
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Reliability
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Reverse polarity protection to stop you damaging the torch if the battery is placed in the wrong position.
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Different light modes (i.e. strobe)
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Constant current circuit providing constant brightness
Things we don't like:
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Some users complain the switch can work unreliably
From Underwater Kinetics comes the Aqualite Pro S. This dive light is designed to work for underwater photography as it produces a soft light that allows you to capture creatures with your dive camera. This dive light works perfectly when paired with a GoPro and is often used by experienced divers to capture underwater videos and stills. Its ergonomic grip and light weight makes it easy to handle and maneuver.
Specs & Features
- Measurements: 147x38mm
- Weight: 181g
- 750 lumen output
- Depth rated to 100m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Handle and grip
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Lightweight and compact
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Rear power button
Things we don't like:
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Light isn’t very bright
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Has been reported to flood
The Light Monkey 50W HID is a very useful tool for cave dives, as it gives of a bright and consistent light perfect for tech divers. Light Monkey has designed the 50W HID to have an adjustable beam in order for divers to be able to select the width as well as the angle of the light beam. Using a 20 amp hour lithium battery pack, the 50W HID has a burn time of 4 hours. Additionally, the solid factory sealed canister protects the battery from flooding.
Specs & Features
- Light Dimensions: 88.9x66mm
- Canister Dimensions: 318x42mm
- Weight: 3.2kg (with battery)
- 5000 lumen output
- Depth rated to 150m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Safe for air transport
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Strong seal, make it very flood resistant
Things we don't like:
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Heavy
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Light produces a lot of heat
Diverite continues to produce industry leading products, and the EX35 is no different. With 4300 lumens of output emitted from a Cree XHP35 HI bulb this product is state of the art. Coming in at just under 2kg, it is slightly heavier than most other canister dive lights but for good reason. At max power this dive light has a runtime of six hours.
Specs & Features
- Light Dimensions: 86x51mm
- Canister Dimensions: 279x66mm
- Weight: 1.93kg (with battery)
- 4300 lumen output
- Depth rated to 152m
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Use of a Cree XHP35 HI driven at 35 watts to produce a strong light
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Lots of lumen output
Things we don't like:
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Heavy
What to look for when buying a Dive Light?
When looking to choose the best dive light, there are a number of key factors that should be taken into consideration. For example, what you will be using the dive light for (photography, leading dives or personal use) and the type of diving you will be participating in (night dives, wreck dives or cave dives). Therefore, the things to consider when buying the best dive light for you are:
Light Intensity is measured in lumens and is very important for things like underwater photography, where you don’t want a strong light. Normally you want to go with something with around 1500 to 2500 lumen of output.
Light Beam varies from wide beam to narrow, focused beams. Our recommendation is to go with a torch that has options for different beam widths, such as the Mares torch EOS 20RZ W/Lock.
Dive Light Battery can come in rechargeable and disposable battery models. I personally like the disposable battery models as rechargeable batteries eventually stop holding their charge. That said, if you have a power bank you can charge your torch between dives. Another important point to note is that the best dive lights have a constant circuit, meaning that the brightness of the light remains consistent and doesn’t falter.
Dimensions of the dive light can be important when it comes to the handling of the torch. A heavier and bulkier dive light might get in the way of your other accessories, so I always recommend going with a lightweight flashlight like the Orcatorch D550.
Frequently asked questions
The best Underwater Flashlight / Dive Lights have the following features:
- light intensity around 1500-2500 lumen
- options for light beam widths
- good battery life
- lightweight for easy handling
- do not let water in
These are The Best Dive Lights we have tested:
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Best Overall: Scubapro Nova 850
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Best Canister dive light: Orcatorch D630
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Strongest Beam: Mares EOS 20RZ
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Longest Battery Life: Big Blue AL12000NP-II
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Rechargeable Battery: Kraken NR 2000
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Most Affordable: Light and Motion GoBe 500 Spot
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Brightest Luminosity: Tovatec Fusion 3600
A good all-purpose Dive Light has around 1500 – 2500 lumen of output. Lumen is the measurement of light intensity and is especially important for underwater photography, where you don’t want a strong light as it will scare away your underwater inhabitants.
How many lumen you need depends on what you will do:
- Daytime diving in clear water: 200 lumen will do
- Daytime diving in cloudy water: 500 – 1000 lumen
- Recreational night diving: 500 – 1000 lumen
- Cave/Wreck Diving: 1500 – 2500 lumen
- Deep Underwater Photography: 1500 – 2500 lumen
- Deep Macro Video: 2500 – 3800 lumen
- All purpose Macro & Wide Video: 4000 – 6000 lumen
- Shallow Wide Angle Video Light & Photography (Professional): 8000 – 15.000 lumen
What do you need in your dive light?
Learn all about the product specifics in our
Comments
Yes, it’s changing fast. What’s good today, will be old and outdated tomorrow.
I bought the heavy video lights
Now your newer models are much lighter and large on lumens.
Hi Toni,
For a smaller, lightweight dive light with an adjustable beam, I definitely recommend the Diverite LX20 as it is lighter than the Mares EOS but more compact and the beam can be adjusted to suit your needs.
Hope this helps!
I’d like an adjustable beam, smaller, light dive light. Any suggestions?
Thanks for sharing this precious information with us this really helpful for me.