Probably the biggest change in scuba diving in the past 20 years has been in lights. Incredible lights are now available at incredibly low prices.

There are about four types of diving lights (not including lights for photography):

Single Cell Torches

Basic lights are so good now that you can do just about any kind of diving with them. And they’re so convenient you probably won’t want to use anything else.

Multi-cell Lights

Multi-cell lights come in a number of different form factors (longer, wider, both). You will likely only want one if you want more light or a very long run time.

Indicator Lights

Indicator lights are most commonly attached to your tank valve to help your buddy find you. Historically glow sticks were used for this, but recently rechargeable lights have gotten very good.

Canister Lights

Canister light historically were necessary for technical diving because basic flashlights sucked. They still remain useful because they allow you to have a lightweight emitter head that you can’t lose, and the canister is a convent place to stow a long hose.

Strobes

Strobes are used when you want to see something from far away.