Bigblue VTL2900PB Dive Torch Review

Illuminate your underwater adventures with the Bigblue VTL2900PB torch, a versatile and powerful dive light.

With its exceptional brightness and intuitive design, this torch can really enhance a divers underwater activity, whether that be photography, videography or simply as a tool to guide.

I was impressed with the additional lights built in; read on to learn how these helped me communicate with my buddy.

Our Pick
2900-Lumen Dual-Beam Light
5.0
Pros:
  • Excellent power
  • Perfect for videography & photography
  • Good battery life
  • Tough construction
  • Wide and narrow beams
  • Fluro & red lights
Cons:
  • No hard case
Check Price on Bigblue
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
I'm Katy - author and owner of KatyJaneDives.com, KJD has my name and reputation attached which is super-important to me.

When the team at Bigblue heard about my trip to the Galapagos Islands, they offered to send me the VTL2900PB to test and review.

However, this does not impact my review, which is an honest account of my experience with this dive light.

Unboxing the VTL2900PB

bigblue torch and equipment on green drybag

The Bigblue VTL2900 PB torch comes with:

Upon receiving the Bigblue VTL2900PB torch, I was immediately impressed by its sleek and compact design. 

As I opened the drybag the VTL2900PB arrived in, I was pleasantly surprised to find a comprehensive array of accessories neatly organised in there. From the rechargeable battery and charger to the Goodman glove and spare O-rings, Bigblue has thoughtfully included everything you need to get started right away.

This attention to detail not only showcases Bigblue’s commitment to customer satisfaction but also ensures a seamless unboxing experience, setting the tone for an exciting dive adventure with the VTL2900PB torch.

While the Bigblue torch arrived securely stored inside the included Bigblue dry bag, ensuring its safety during transit, and although only a minor downfall, I couldn’t help but feel that a hard case would have provided additional protection. Investing in high-quality gear like this torch warrants safeguarding it for longevity, and a hard case would have offered added peace of mind in this regard.

Bigblue Torch Brightness

dive torch and light underwater on divers hand

More than bright enough for the often dark and plankton-filled waters I experienced.

The Bigblue VTL2900PB torch boasts an impressive brightness that ensures excellent visibility even in the darkest and most murky waters. Its 2900 lumens of 120° extra wide beam and 1000 lumens of 10° narrow beam provide ample illumination, making it ideal for exploring the diverse underwater landscapes liek those in the Galapagos.

During my dives here, where visibility was sometimes challenging, the VTL2900PB proved to be a reliable companion. The wide beam effortlessly pierced through the plankton-filled waters, revealing the vibrant marine life hidden beneath. The red light mode was particularly useful for signaling to my buddy without disturbing the delicate ecosystems or alerting skittish wildlife.

The torch’s versatile design, with videography in mind, allows divers to capture stunning footage with ease. The wide beam provides uniform lighting, ensuring that every corner of the frame is well-lit, while the narrow beam offers precision lighting for highlighting specific subjects.

I was more than happy to include the VTL2900PB in my Best Dive Torches 2024 review. Head on over and give it a read to see how it compares to other popular dive lights.

Big Blue VTL2900PB Construction

dive torch in front of dive equipment on silver bench

The construction of the Bigblue VTL2900PB torch exudes durability and reliability, making it an ideal companion for any diver’s adventures. Crafted from high-quality anodised aluminum alloy, this torch is built to withstand the rigors of underwater exploration.

I was impressed by the robustness of the VTL2900PB. Its sturdy construction instilled confidence, knowing that it could handle the occasional bump or drop without compromising its performance. From navigating through rocky terrain to maneuvering around coral reefs, the torch proved to be a resilient companion, ready to endure the demands of the underwater environment.

In addition to my first-hand experience, research confirms the durability of the VTL2900PB. The anodised aluminum alloy housing provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity even in harsh saltwater conditions. With proper care and maintenance, this torch is built to last for years, making it a worthwhile investment for any diver seeking reliable lighting equipment.

Furthermore, the VTL2900PB’s lightweight and compact design make it ideal for traveling divers. Its portable nature allows for easy storage in a wetsuit or BCD pocket when not in use, ensuring convenient access whenever illumination is needed underwater.

Bigblue Battery

The VTL2900PB has a battery time of up to 1.5 hours on the highest setting, this battery provides ample power to illuminate your underwater adventures. The Bigblue VTL2900PB torch is powered by a rechargeable Li-ion BATCELL 32650 battery, offering convenience and eco-friendliness for divers. 

During my dives in the Galapagos, I found the battery life of the VTL2900PB to be reliable and long-lasting. It easily lasted through multiple dives without needing a recharge, allowing me to explore the underwater world without interruption.

In addition to its impressive performance, the rechargeable nature of the battery is environmentally sustainable, reducing the need for disposable batteries that can harm marine ecosystems. The inclusion of a charger in the package ensures easy recharging between dives, keeping the torch ready for your next underwater exploration.

With the Bigblue VTL2900PB torch, you can dive with confidence, knowing that its dependable battery will keep you illuminated throughout your underwater adventures.

Bigblue VTL2900PB Price

black and blue dive torch on table

The Bigblue VTL2900PB torch offers exceptional value for its features and performance, with a recommended retail price (RRP) of £415. 

When compared to other dive lights on the market, the VTL2900PB stands out as a versatile and high-quality option at a competitive price point.

In researching other dive lights, I found that similar models with comparable features often come with higher price tags. The VTL2900PB offers a powerful 2900 lumens of 120° extra wide beam, 1000 lumens of 10° narrow beam, built-in blue light for Fluoro Diving, and a 100-lumen red light mode, making it a versatile choice for divers seeking various options of illumination.

With a recommended retail price of £415, this torch offers competitive pricing compared to other dive lights of its level on the market.

Despite this small drawback, the VTL2900PB does not compromise on quality or performance. Its durable construction, long-lasting battery, and versatile beam options make it a worthy investment for both recreational, technical and professional divers.

With its combination of affordability and advanced features, the Bigblue VTL2900PB torch offers excellent value for divers looking to enhance their underwater experiences without breaking the bank.

Best Underwater Video Light

While the Bigblue VTL2900PB torch is an excellent choice for underwater videography, professionals seeking even more power and versatility may want to consider the Bigblue 20,000 Lumen Pro Mini, Tri-Color Video Light

What distinguishes the Bigblue 20,000 Lumen Pro Mini is its Tri-Color feature, offering a versatile range of lighting options including cool white, warm white, and red focus light. This innovative feature enables videographers to accurately reproduce natural skin tones and enhance the vibrancy of underwater colors, resulting in captivating and lifelike footage.

Crafted for durability and versatility, this video light features an ultra-wide 160° beam angle, providing expansive coverage for capturing expansive underwater scenes. Like the VTL2900PB, its rugged anodised aluminum housing ensures reliable performance even in the harshest underwater environments.

Equipped with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, the Bigblue 20,000 TC offers extended burn times of up to 2 hours on the maximum setting, allowing videographers ample time to capture their desired shots. With six adjustable power settings, users can fine-tune the intensity to conserve battery life as needed.

Additionally, this video light incorporates a secure double o-ring design for enhanced waterproofing and reliability. Spare o-rings are included for added peace of mind in emergency situations. Moreover, the lithium batteries meet airline carry-on restrictions and feature built-in protection circuits for safe and convenient travel.

For professionals and enthusiasts alike seeking unparalleled brightness, versatility, and reliability in their underwater videography endeavors, the Bigblue 20,000 Lumen Pro Mini, Tri-Color Video Light stands as the ultimate choice for capturing awe-inspiring underwater footage, although this does come with a higher price tag.

Conclusion

scubadiver underwater close up with dive torch on hand

In conclusion, the Bigblue VTL2900PB torch is a versatile and reliable companion for divers of all levels. 

With its powerful lumens, adjustable beam options, and built-in features such as blue light for fluoro diving and red light for wildlife observation, this torch offers exceptional functionality for underwater exploration.

Despite its competitive pricing, the VTL2900PB does not compromise on quality or performance. Its durable construction, long-lasting battery, and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for both recreational and professional divers.

However, it’s important to note the absence of a solid protective case, particularly given the premium price point of over £400. Divers may need to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of their investment during transportation and storage.

Overall, the Bigblue VTL2900PB torch offers excellent value for divers looking to enhance their underwater experiences. Whether exploring the hidden crevices of the ocean or capturing stunning underwater footage, this torch proves to be a reliable and versatile tool for any diving adventure.

Written by Katy

Thank you for reading. I started KatyJaneDives.com to share my passion for diving. I am an environmental educator, scientist and now an MSDT diver.

This platform has been made to create, connect and share my knowledge in the world of diving.

AS SEEN in DiveIn, Columbia & Women In Ocean Science

Leave a comment