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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
