Ikelite RC165 TTL Strobe - Fibre Optic

Ikelite RC165 TTL Underwater Strobe – Fibre Optic

Currently Available for Pre-Order. Coming June 2025

Go from macro to wide angle and everywhere in between.

The RC165 delivers powerful, perfectly diffused light to elevate your underwater photography. One of the few strobes that can handle both macro and wide angle effortlessly, it offers fast and accurate TTL exposure across a wide range of camera systems.

A great strobe is your best investment—whether you are just starting out, upgrading, or streamlining your kit, the RC165 will serve you through a lifetime of underwater imaging adventures.

Trusted by professionals around the world, Ikelite strobes are proven performers in the harshest environments—from the Arctic to Antarctica and everywhere in between.

Key Features

• TTL that works on every shot with compatible camera systems
• Speed and power for professional-grade performance
• Large, easy-to-use click-stop dials
• Perfectly diffused light with no diffuser required
• Daylight-balanced colour temperature for accurate representation of corals, models, and reef life
• Ultra-wide 120° beam angle
• Travel-safe, airline-friendly NiMH rechargeable batteries
• No-lube, no-fuss positive cam lock
• Fully compatible with legacy systems
• Manufactured in the USA
• Depth rating: 100 metres (330 feet)
• 2-year warranty

Light Quality

Featuring Ikelite’s proprietary circular flashtube design and soft white powder-coated reflector, the RC165 produces stunning light quality—ideal for professional wide-angle underwater photography.

The strobe’s beam is designed for excellent spread and accurate colour temperature without requiring a light-reducing diffuser. For even wider coverage, an optional Dome Diffuser (#4069.2) is available, reducing apparent brightness by only half a stop.

Ergonomics

Quickly adjust your settings without losing sight of your subject. The large, tactile click-stop dials provide intuitive feedback, allowing for instant exposure changes—even when wearing thick gloves. A slide lock prevents accidental activation during transport.

High-Performance Power

The RC165 uses custom rechargeable NiMH cells for exceptional power delivery and fast recycle times. Unlike common AA batteries, these cells provide consistent performance—even during high-speed shooting and in challenging underwater conditions.

The battery pack is easy to attach with Ikelite’s reliable toggle lock system—no o-ring lubrication required. The RC165 is compatible with both older NiMH Battery Packs (#4066.5) and newer models (#40066GY and #40066BK).

A Name You Can Trust

Ikelite pioneered many of today’s standard underwater strobe technologies, including interchangeable cords, smart charging, battery power indicators, TTL communication with digital cameras, and more.

With the longest history in professional underwater lighting design, Ikelite continues to manufacture the only USA-made underwater strobes—trusted in over 95 countries worldwide.

TTL Compatibility

The RC165 supports fibre optic TTL triggering with compatible cameras and TTL transmitters. Manual fibre optic triggering is supported with all other systems.

Compatible Ikelite Housing Models

• Canon housings with TT5 Canon TTL Transmitter
• OM-System TG-7
• Olympus TG-3, TG-4, TG-5, TG-6
• Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
• Olympus Stylus 1s
• Nikon TTL Transmitter (coming soon)
• Sony TTL Transmitter (coming soon)

Compatible Non-Ikelite Housing Models

• Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with FL-LM3 flash in Olympus or Nauticam Housing
• Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II with FL-LM3 flash in Olympus, Nauticam, or Isotta Housing
• Olympus OM-D E-M10 in Nauticam Housing
• Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II in Nauticam Housing
• Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III in Nauticam Housing
• Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV in Nauticam Housing
• Olympus Tough TG-3, TG-4 in Olympus, Nauticam, or Recsea Housing
• Olympus Tough TG-5, TG-6 in Olympus PT-059, Nauticam, Isotta, or Recsea Housing
• OM System Tough TG-7 in Olympus PT-059, Nauticam, Isotta, or Recsea Housing
• Panasonic LUMIX GH3, GH4 with DMW-FL70 flash in any compatible housing
• Panasonic LUMIX GH5, GH5s with DMW-FL70 flash in Nauticam or compatible housing
• Panasonic LUMIX GX8 with DMW-FL70 flash in Nauticam Housing

What's in the Box

• RC165 Strobe Front (#40116X)
• Rechargeable NiMH Battery Pack (#40066GY)
• Battery Pack Cover (#0591.4)
• Smart Charger for NiMH with Australian Plug (#0083.95)
• 1" Ball Mount (#4081.4, installed)
• 2-year limited warranty