A dive light is usually chosen to help you see underwater, whether you are exploring a reef, checking a crevice or making your way through a dark wreck. A light with a built-in laser adds another function: it gives divers a more precise way to point out a particular object. This can be helpful when a hand signal alone does not make it clear to your buddy exactly what you want them to look at.
A laser dive light is not a replacement for an ordinary primary light or standard underwater communication. It is an additional tool. Understanding what the white beam and laser are each designed to do makes it easier to decide whether this type of light belongs in your kit.
What Is a Dive Light with Laser?
A dive light with laser combines a conventional white-light source with a laser pointer in one handheld unit. The two light sources have different purposes. The white beam illuminates the surrounding area so a diver can see the reef, equipment or route ahead. The laser creates a narrow, concentrated point that you can aim at one particular subject.
Imagine you spot a small shrimp hiding in a coral head and want to show it to your buddy. Sweeping a broad beam over the reef may light up several things at once, leaving your buddy unsure where to look. A laser pointer can make the intended subject easier to identify by indicating one particular spot. The white beam is still needed to see the surroundings; the laser is for pointing, not for lighting up an area.
On a combination light, the white light and laser may be controlled separately. This lets the diver use the illumination function without activating the laser, or use the pointer when a more precise indication is helpful. The exact controls and operating method vary by model, so check the product instructions before diving.
What Is a Laser Dive Light Used For?
Underwater Instruction
During a dive briefing or training session, an instructor may want students to notice a particular feature: a hand signal, a piece of equipment, an animal or a detail on a reef. Underwater, spoken explanations are not possible, and pointing with a finger does not always stand out in a busy scene. A laser can help make the intended subject easier to identify.
For example, an instructor showing a group a small fish resting near a coral ledge can use the pointer to indicate its location while keeping a suitable distance from the animal. Students can then look at the same subject rather than searching across the whole area. This can be especially helpful when several divers are gathered around and need to know exactly what the instructor is referring to.
The laser does not replace hand signals, demonstrations or buddy checks. It is simply an extra way to direct attention. Instructors should still use clear, agreed communication methods and make sure students understand what the pointer is indicating.
Pointing Out Marine Life and Underwater Features
Recreational divers often want to share small discoveries with a buddy, such as a nudibranch on a rock, a crab inside a crack, or an interesting detail on a wreck. A narrow laser point can help identify the exact place to look, particularly when the subject is small or surrounded by visual detail.
The pointer should be used thoughtfully. It is not necessary to shine it directly onto an animal to make the point. Direct the beam toward a nearby surface or the general location, and avoid disturbing marine life. The aim is to help a buddy find what you have spotted, not to chase, touch or stress the subject.
A laser can also be useful when indicating a fixed feature, such as a line, fitting or section of underwater structure. For example, if your buddy is looking at a wreck and you want them to notice one specific opening or piece of equipment, a laser point can show them exactly where to look. This is often clearer than moving your light around the whole wreck. Divers should still maintain awareness of their surroundings and stay close enough to communicate effectively.
Commercial and Professional Underwater Work
Some underwater tasks involve inspecting structures, equipment or components where workers need to identify a specific point. In professional settings, laser-based tools can be used for certain forms of pointing, alignment or inspection. The equipment selected for these jobs depends on the task, the working environment and , and how accurate the result needs to be.
It is important not to confuse a handheld recreational dive light with specialist underwater measurement equipment. A laser dive light such as the D570-GL can provide illumination and a visible pointer, but that does not mean it can be used for surveying, measuring distances, or carrying out professional inspections. Professional work may require dedicated systems, trained operators and procedures designed for that application.
For recreational divers, the more familiar uses are often simpler: showing a buddy a small marine animal, indicating a feature on a reef or helping a group focus on the same underwater subject.
Laser Dive Light vs. Regular Dive Light
The main difference is the extra pointing function. A regular dive light is made to light up the underwater environment. A laser dive light does the same job, but also includes a pointer that can help show your buddy exactly where to look.
|
Feature |
Regular Dive Light |
Dive Light with Laser |
|
Main function |
Underwater illumination |
Illumination and pointing |
|
Light source |
White beam |
White beam plus laser |
|
Typical use |
Seeing the route, reef or equipment |
Seeing the surroundings and indicating a specific target |
|
Best suited to |
Divers who need a dependable light |
Divers who also have a reason to point out specific subjects |
A laser does not automatically make a dive light brighter or help you see farther through the water. It simply adds a different function. If your main goal is just to see where you are going, a regular dive light may be enough. But if you often need to show a buddy a small animal or point out a fixed feature, the laser can be a useful extra.
The right choice depends on how you dive. A laser function can be helpful for instructors, guides, and divers who like finding small marine life with a buddy. If you only need a reliable light for a night dive, the extra feature may not be necessary.
What to Consider When Choosing a Dive Light with Laser
White-Light Output and Beam Angle
Start with the white light, because this is the part you will rely on to see underwater. Think about where and how you usually dive. A focused beam is useful when you want to concentrate light on one subject, while a wider beam covers more of the surrounding area. Lumens tell you how much light a dive light produces, but the beam pattern also affects how well it works in real diving conditions. Choose a light based on the combination that suits your diving, rather than picking one only because it has a high lumen number.
For example, a narrow beam can help you focus on a particular feature, while a broader beam may be more convenient when you want to observe a larger area. Consider your usual dive conditions and whether you will mainly use the light for focused viewing, general illumination, or both.
Laser Color
Laser color is one specification you can compare, but it does not guarantee that the pointer will be easy to see in every condition. How clearly you can see the laser point depends on several things, including water clarity, surrounding light, distance, and the background behind it. Before buying, think about where you plan to use the light and check the manufacturer’s details for that exact model.
Also, do not assume that the laser range advertised for use in air will be the same underwater. Water absorbs and scatters light, so the visible distance can change a lot from one dive site to another. A specification listed by the manufacturer should not be seen as a promise that the light will perform the same way in every underwater environment.
Depth Rating
Check the light’s stated depth rating and compare it with the depths you actually plan to dive. The rating is a product specification, not permission to go deeper than your training or dive plan allows. You should also maintain the seals, switches, and charging or battery parts exactly as the manufacturer instructs.
A dive light is only dependable when it is used within its limits and kept in good condition. Before each dive, inspect the housing and sealing areas for dirt or damage, and make sure the light is closed properly following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Battery Runtime and Controls
Runtime depends on the mode you choose, the output level, the condition of the battery, and the temperature. Check the runtime information for the mode you expect to use most, rather than relying only on the maximum runtime figure. If the light has separate white-light and laser functions, find out whether using one or both changes the stated runtime.
Simple, easy-to-use controls are also important underwater, especially when you are wearing gloves. Before diving, practise switching between the white light and the laser so you know what each control does without having to figure it out underwater. Being familiar with the controls helps you use the light intentionally and avoid turning on the wrong function.
Laser Dive Light Safety Tips
A laser pointer should be treated as a focused light source, not as a toy or a substitute for normal dive communication. Never aim it at another person's eyes, and never look directly into the beam. Follow the manufacturer's safety instructions and any applicable local rules for laser use.
Be considerate of marine life. Use the pointer to indicate a location rather than repeatedly directing it at an animal. Avoid unnecessary use, especially when a simple hand signal or ordinary light movement will communicate the same thing. The purpose is to help someone locate a subject, not to disturb the underwater environment.
Most importantly, do not use a laser as a replacement for standard hand signals, agreed buddy procedures or recognised dive-light signals. Divers should review their communication signals before entering the water. A laser may help identify a subject, but it does not communicate every message a buddy needs to understand, such as whether you are okay or need assistance. Keep your primary and backup lighting arrangements appropriate for the dive.
OrcaTorch D570-GL V2.0: A 2-in-1 Dive Light with Laser
The OrcaTorch D570-GL combines a white dive light and a green laser pointer in one handheld unit. Its white light is rated at 1,500 lumens and uses an 8° narrow beam, giving divers a focused light for illuminating a specific area or subject. The laser provides a separate pointing function, and the two light sources can be controlled independently.
The D570-GL has a stated depth rating of 150 metres. These specifications make it a combination light for divers who want normal illumination as well as a way to point out a specific underwater target. Even so, lighting should always be chosen based on the dive itself: the D570-GL should not replace a suitable primary or backup light when the dive plan requires them.
Before using the laser, read the product instructions and practise operating each function on land. Underwater, use the pointer sparingly and responsibly, while continuing to rely on established hand signals and buddy communication. For the latest specifications, included accessories, and version details, refer to the D570-GL product page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Laser Dive Light Used For?
A laser dive light combines white-light illumination with a pointer. The white beam helps divers see underwater, while the laser can indicate a particular subject or location, such as a small marine animal, a reef feature or a piece of equipment. It is an additional pointing aid, not a replacement for dive signals.
Can You Use a Laser Pointer Underwater?
Some dive lights are specifically designed with a laser function for underwater use. Use only equipment intended for the conditions, follow its instructions and avoid aiming the beam at anyone's eyes or unnecessarily at marine life. A pointer's performance underwater can differ from its advertised range in air.
What Is the Difference Between a Laser Dive Light and a Regular Dive Light?
A regular dive light provides illumination. A laser dive light adds a narrow pointer that can help direct a buddy's attention to a particular spot. The laser does not replace the white beam, make the surrounding area brighter or remove the need for standard underwater communication.
Is a Laser Dive Light Suitable for Recreational Diving?
It can be useful for recreational divers who often point out small marine life or underwater features to a buddy. It is not essential for every diver. Consider whether the pointing function would genuinely help in your usual diving conditions, and continue to carry lighting and safety equipment appropriate to the dive.