Bigblue Dive Lights | Underwater Safety & Signaling
Big Blue 450-Lumen Strobe Light
Wide-angle underwater visibility with 450 lumens, 60 flashes per minute and up to 12 hours of runtime.
Model: AL450STROBE | 270° beam | 100m depth rating | 3 AAA batteries
The Big Blue AL450STROBE is a compact, 450-lumen underwater signaling strobe designed to help divers identify a flashing marker during night dives, low-light conditions and other situations where visibility matters. Its wide 270-degree output, one-flash-per-second pattern and AAA battery operation make it a practical addition to a dive safety kit.
For underwater photographers, it is useful as a separate visibility or reference marker while working with a camera system. It is not a photographic flash and will not replace a camera strobe, focus light or continuous video light.
- Best for: Night diving, diver identification, dive-team reference markers and designated equipment or line marking.
- Main advantage: A 270° flashing beam is visible across a much wider angle than a conventional narrow-beam dive torch.
- Compatibility: Operates independently of your camera, housing, port, lens and TTL system.
- Convenient power: Runs on three readily available AAA alkaline batteries, included with the manufacturer's listed package.
- Alternative to consider: The Mares EOS Strobe provides rechargeable operation and a wider published visibility angle.
- Important limitation: This is a visibility beacon, not a substitute for an emergency locator, primary dive light or camera flash.
Bluewater Photo can help you choose the right signaling, camera and lighting accessories for your complete dive setup.
Quick Specifications
Big Blue AL450STROBE vs. Mares EOS Strobe
These three underwater signaling lights address different priorities. The important differences are battery operation, light spread and flashing output — not compatibility with camera TTL systems.
| Product | Output | Beam | Power | Best Use | System Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Blue AL450STROBE Featured model | 450 lumens | 270° | 3 AAA alkaline batteries | Simple battery-powered marker | Independent beacon; no camera triggering |
| Mares EOS Strobe | 450 lumens | 360° published visibility | Integrated rechargeable battery | Rechargeable signaling with continuous-on option | Independent beacon; no camera triggering |
Comparison based on published manufacturer specifications. Flashing brightness, beam distribution and runtime are not directly interchangeable measures of practical visibility.
Why Buy Your Bigblue Dive Light from Bluewater Photo?
- Established manufacturer: Bigblue has produced dedicated diving and underwater lighting equipment for many years.
- Underwater durability: An anodized aluminum housing, tempered front glass, and tested 100m depth capability.
- Real equipment knowledge: Our team can help with camera trays, lighting arms, clamps, and complete underwater imaging systems.
- After-purchase guidance: Get help understanding lighting configurations, accessories, and product care.
- Warranty support: The light includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty, subject to the manufacturer's terms.
Content reviewed by Bluewater Photo staff, recognized as the #1 online retailer specializing in underwater photography and scuba diving equipment, with real-world experience supporting, selling, and configuring underwater camera systems.
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Big Blue AL450STROBE Technical Specifications
Lighting and Signaling
- Light output: 450 lumens
- Beam angle: 270°
- Flash rate: 60 pulses per minute
- Light source: XML LED
- Color temperature: 6500K, cool white
Power and Operation
- Power: 3 AAA alkaline batteries
- Published burn time: 12 hours
- Controls: push-button tail switch
- Charging time: Not applicable to supplied alkaline batteries
- Flash synchronization: None
Construction and Depth
- Housing: anodized aluminum alloy
- Maximum tested depth: 100m / approximately 328ft
- Weight in air: 168g including batteries
- Published in-water buoyancy: -76g including batteries
Compatibility and Package
- Manufacturer: Bigblue Dive Lights
- Model: AL450STROBE
- Fiber-optic triggering: Not supported
- Listed contents: light, 3 AAA batteries and dry bag
- Manufacturer warranty: 1 year
- Light
- 3 AAA batteries
- dry bag
- Manufacturer’s 1 Year Warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Big Blue AL450STROBE compatible with my underwater camera housing?
The AL450STROBE operates independently of the camera and does not require a housing connection. Physical mounting compatibility depends on the available attachment points and accessories. This is not a strobe that fires based on a camera connection, but a signalling strobe for adverse diving conditions, or night diving.
2. Can I use this as an underwater photography strobe?
No. The AL450STROBE is a flashing visibility light, not a camera-synchronized photographic strobe, and it does not support TTL or fiber-optic flash triggering.
3. What batteries does the Big Blue 450-lumen strobe use?
The manufacturer's AL450STROBE product listing specifies three AAA alkaline batteries, which are included. The published runtime is 12 hours, although actual operating time can vary with battery condition and environmental factors.
4. How deep can I take the AL450STROBE?
Bigblue specifies a maximum tested depth of 100 meters, approximately 328 feet. Inspect the housing and seals before each dive and never exceed the manufacturer's rating.
5. Is the Big Blue AL450STROBE better than the Mares EOS Strobe?
The Big Blue is a good option if you prefer replaceable AAA batteries and a 270-degree flashing beam. The Mares EOS Strobe is worth considering if you want rechargeable power, a wider published 360-degree visibility pattern and a continuous-on mode.
6. How should I mount the Big Blue strobe on my dive equipment?
Use a secure attachment method that is compatible with the light and your equipment. Position the strobe where it cannot obstruct controls, hoses, safety releases or normal camera handling, and confirm any mounting adapter with Bluewater Photo.
7. How do I maintain the AL450STROBE after saltwater diving?
Rinse the exterior with fresh water while the battery compartment is securely closed, then dry the light thoroughly before opening it. Check seals and contacts according to Bigblue's instructions, and never open the battery compartment while wet.
8. What should I check if the strobe stops flashing?
Check battery orientation, battery condition, clean contacts and whether the light has been switched on correctly. If the problem persists, stop using it underwater and contact Bluewater Photo or Bigblue support.
