Evaluating the Ikelite DS 230 Strobe: A Comprehensive Analysis of its Features and Performance
The underwater photography world has been given a new powerful and versatile tool with the latest update from Ikelite - the DS 230 Strobe. This innovative strobe, set to be available at Bluewater Photo in late March 2022, boasts a host of improved features that make it an ideal choice for underwater photographers, particularly for lighting needs.
One of the standout improvements is the easy-to-hold and easy-to-use switches, making the DS 230 Strobe more user-friendly than its predecessors. Another significant upgrade is the increased power output, which has been boosted by 33% from 160 Ws to 213 Ws.
The DS 230 Strobe is backward compatible with Ikelite TTL converters and can be adapted to other housing brands, providing photographers with greater flexibility. It also comes with a video light feature in the full-production model, further expanding its versatility.
The strobe's improved features include a quicker recycle time, with exposures more consistent in burst shots at high powers. The battery life is rated for 300 shots at max power, but can last thousands of shots at lower powers. The DS 230 Strobe is also noticeably shorter in size compared to its predecessors, making it more compact for travel.
The DS 230 Strobe has a cooler color temperature of 5000K, providing a more natural-looking light underwater. It performs well without diffusers, producing soft, even light. The strobe features an ultra-wide, 120-degree beam with soft, even light, ensuring a broad coverage suitable for a wide range of underwater lighting needs.
The strobe's controls include manual power adjustment across 10 stops in ½-stop increments, with tactile large dials that can be operated with gloves. It also features a slide lock to prevent accidental changes. The strobe is made in the USA from corrosion-resistant ABS-PC blend and comes with a two-year warranty.
As of July 2025, the Ikelite DS 230 is listed among the best underwater strobes on Bluewater Photo’s website, indicating availability for purchase there now. With its powerful performance, versatile features, and improved design, the Ikelite DS 230 Strobe justifies its higher price tag and is a valuable addition to any underwater photographer's gear.
- The underwater photography world now has a more powerful and versatile tool with the latest update from Ikelite, the DS 230 Strobe.
- Available for purchase at Bluewater Photo in late March 2022, the DS 230 Strobe has several upgraded features that make it a top choice for underwater photographers.
- One of the standout improvements is the switches, which are easy to hold and use, making the DS 230 Strobe more user-friendly compared to its predecessors.
- An additional significant upgrade is the increased power output of 213 Ws, a 33% boost from the previous 160 Ws.
- The DS 230 Strobe is backward compatible with Ikelite TTL converters and can be adapted to other housing brands, offering photographers greater flexibility.
- The strobe also comes with a video light feature in the full-production model, further increasing its versatility.
- The strobe's controls include manual power adjustment across 10 stops in ½-stop increments, with large dials that can be operated with gloves.
- As of July 2025, the Ikelite DS 230 Strobe is listed among the best underwater strobes on Bluewater Photo’s website, justifying its higher price tag as a valuable addition to any underwater photographer's gear.
