Backup Dive Lights for Recreational Divers - Personal Favorites

By Tyler (The Dive Otter) | March 21, 2025

Ever been on a dive and had your primary light flicker out just as you’re about to peer into a wreck or a coral crevice? Not fun, right? That’s why I always carry a solid backup dive light—it’s not just a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have. Whether I’m night diving, checking out a swim-through, or just want peace of mind, having a backup light ensures I’m never left in the dark (literally!).

Right now, I’m diving with the OrcaTorch D720 as my primary light and the D710 as my backup, but I also keep the D580 and D530 as spare lights.

What I Look for in a Backup Dive Light

Before jumping into my recommendations, here’s what I personally consider when choosing a backup light:


My Backup Dive Lights

Backup Light: OrcaTorch D710


Spare Backup Lights: OrcaTorch D580 & D530

OrcaTorch D580 (Versatile & Reliable)

OrcaTorch D530 (Brighter & More Focused Beam)


Final Thoughts

A backup light isn’t just an extra piece of gear—it’s an insurance policy against a dive going sideways. Whether I’m doing night dives, wreck dives, or just want to be prepared for a buddy with a dead light (it happens more than you’d think), carrying a solid backup is never a bad idea.

If I had to pick just one? My D710 is my current backup light of choice, but the D580 or D530 would be a perfectly acceptable replacement.