I'm a pilot and need a new aviation headset. Bose A20 vs. Lightspeed Zulu 3?

If you’re choosing specifically between the Bose A20 and Lightspeed Zulu 3, I’d lean A20 for maximum comfort/low-fatigue flying, and Zulu 3 for durability/value.

• Bose A20 Aviation Headset - $1,299.99 (Best Buy)
• Lightspeed Zulu 3 Aviation Headset - $949.00 (Rocket Air)

| Bose A20 | Lightspeed Zulu 3 --- | --- | --- Comfort | 🏆 Excellent; very low clamping force | Excellent, but slightly more pressure Weight | ~12 oz | 14.6 oz ANR | 🏆 Excellent, especially sustained engine/prop noise | Excellent Mic / comms | Excellent | Excellent Bluetooth | Yes | Yes Durability | Good, more lightweight/plastic construction | 🏆 More rugged metal construction + Kevlar-reinforced cable Battery | 2 AA | 2 AA Long flights | 🏆 My pick | Very good Value | Expensive | 🏆 Usually better value

The Zulu 3 is officially 14.6 oz and uses two AA batteries, with Bluetooth phone/music capability. Its construction emphasizes stainless steel/magnesium components and a durable Kevlar-core cable.

The A20's biggest advantage is comfort. Pilots and reviewers consistently point to its low clamping force and light weight, particularly on long legs. Sporty's has also rated the A20 as its best overall headset while calling the Zulu 3 its best-value premium headset.

My pilot-oriented take

Pick the A20 if:

• You regularly fly 3+ hour legs.
• You fly noisy piston singles/twins and prioritize fatigue reduction.
• You want the headset that is easiest to forget you're wearing.
• You're willing to pay extra for incremental comfort.

Pick the Zulu 3 if:

• You're hard on equipment or fly frequently in demanding environments.
• You value ruggedness and cable durability.
• You want essentially flagship-level performance without paying Bose money.
• You prefer the Zulu's ear-seal fit.

One important 2026 wrinkle: the A20 is no longer Bose's current flagship—the A30 is. Bose currently lists the A20, but if you're buying new rather than specifically choosing between these two, I'd also put the A30 and Lightspeed Zulu 4 on your shortlist before spending ~$1,000. The Zulu 4 is the current successor in Lightspeed's line.

Bottom line: If these are literally the two choices and money isn't the deciding factor, I'd buy the A20. If you're thinking, "I want 95% of the experience and a tougher headset for less money," Zulu 3 is the smarter buy.

If you tell me what you fly (172, Cirrus, turboprop, helicopter, jet, etc.) and your typical leg length, I can make the recommendation much more specific.

When comparing the Bose A20 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. and the Lightspeed Zulu 3 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. , both are legendary top-tier active noise reduction (ANR) aviation headsets, but they cater to slightly different pilot preferences regarding comfort, build, and noise cancellation.
(Note: While Bose has introduced the newer A30 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. and Lightspeed the Zulu 4 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. , the A20 and Zulu 3 remain widely compared staples in the cockpit and on the used/new market.)

Feature & Specification Comparison

Key Model Differences & Performance Trade-offs

• Noise Cancellation: The Bose A20 wins on pure quietness . If you fly in loud, high-vibration environments (like older single-engine pistons or turboprops), the A20 's active noise reduction suppresses cockpit fatigue slightly better.
• Comfort & Fit: The Lightspeed Zulu 3 shines in physical ergonomics for certain head shapes. It features a lower side-clamping force and roomier, deep ear seals . If you wear thick sunglasses frames or have a larger head, many pilots find the Zulu 3 creates a better long-term seal without feeling tight.
• Durability & Build: Lightspeed uses a more robust mix of stainless steel and magnesium for the physical frame, giving the Zulu 3 a tougher, more industrial feel . Bose opts for a lighter, composite plastic build that reduces head weight but feels less rugged to some.

Configuration & Operational Warnings

• Mic Placement: On the Bose A20 , you can easily flip the boom mic to either the left or right ear cup yourself. The Zulu 3 mic placement is less flexible out of the box , so ensure you order the correct configuration if you have a strong preference for which side the boom sits on.
• Fail-Safe Operation: Both units continue to pass audio if the batteries die, but the passive audio performance and volume scaling without power can feel slightly more robust on the Bose side.

Watch this detailed video breakdown comparing the comfort, noise cancellation, and build quality of both headsets:

10:43 Lightspeed Zulu 3 VS Bose A20 Comparison 77K views  · 5 years ago YouTube · About2Stall

To help narrow down which fits your flying best, let me know:

• What type of aircraft do you primarily fly (noisy piston single, multi-engine, turbine)?
• Do you wear glasses/sunglasses or have specific comfort gripes with your current setup?

Choosing between the Bose A20 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. (the legendary gold standard that paved the way for the newer Bose A30 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ) and the Lightspeed Zulu 3 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. comes down to whether you prioritize top-tier active noise cancellation and lightweight clamping or rugged durability and a stellar warranty.

Watch this detailed breakdown comparing the build and performance of these two popular headsets:

9m Lightspeed Zulu 3 VS Bose A20 Comparison 77K views  · 5 years ago YouTube · About2Stall

Bose A20

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANR): Widely considered the best-in-class for filtering out high-frequency turbine and persistent piston engine drone.
• Comfort & Clamping: Incredibly lightweight with a plush headpad and low clamping force, making it disappear on your head during 6+ hour legs. Great for wearing with sunglasses.
• Build: Mostly high-grade plastic construction . It's reliable and light, but feels a bit more fragile compared to the Lightspeed.
• Mic Placement: The mic boom can be easily swapped from left to right side without tools.
• Aesthetics & Legacy: It's the most common headset you'll see in commercial and general aviation cockpits for a reason—it just works, brilliantly.

Lightspeed Zulu 3

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANR): Excellent ANR, though most pilots agree it’s a hair behind the Bose in absolute attenuation, especially in louder cabin environments.
• Comfort & Clamping: Features large, contour ear seals and a stainless steel headband wrapped in comfortable padding. Slightly heavier (about 397 g), with a slightly firmer grip on the head.
• Build & Durability: Built like a tank with magnesium ear cups, stainless steel, and Kevlar-reinforced cables. Backed by a stellar 7-year warranty (compared to Bose's shorter 5-year warranty).
• Value: Typically retails noticeably lower than the Bose flagship tier, offering immense bang-for-your-buck.
• Extras: Features Auto Shutoff, integrated Bluetooth, and ComPriority (which automatically dims your music when radio traffic comes in).

The Verdict

• Go with the Bose A20 if your primary concerns are absolute quiet and feather-light all-day comfort.
• Go with the Lightspeed Zulu 3 if you want rugged, indestructible build quality and a longer warranty at a friendlier price point.

To help narrow it down, what kind of aircraft/flying do you mostly do (e.g., loud training/piston singles, quiet multi-engine, or commercial), and do you have a preference for clamping pressure vs. weight?

If you're choosing today, I’d lean Lightspeed Zulu 3—but there’s an important wrinkle: the Bose A20 was discontinued in 2023, so you’re generally looking at remaining/used inventory rather than a current Bose product.

A20 vs. Zulu 3

| Bose A20 | Lightspeed Zulu 3 --- | --- | --- ANR | Excellent | Excellent, especially low-frequency noise Comfort | Excellent, very light | Excellent; larger ear openings & softer seals Weight | ~12 oz | 14.6 oz Durability | Very good | Excellent; magnesium/stainless + Kevlar cable Bluetooth | Yes, later versions | Yes Battery | ~45 hr | ~40+ hr Warranty | 5 years | 7 years TSO | Yes | No Current availability | Discontinued | Current Current MSRP | — | $949

Lightspeed's own side-by-side testing says the Zulu 3 has an advantage in low-frequency attenuation, while the A20 has an advantage in some mid-frequency ranges. Both have excellent communications quality.

• Lightspeed Zulu 3 — U-174 - $949.00 (Rocket Air)
• Lightspeed Zulu 3 — LEMO - $949.00 (Rocket Air)

Where I'd pick each

Pick the Zulu 3 if:

• You're doing lots of piston/prop flying and want strong low-frequency ANR.
• You routinely wear a headset for several hours.
• Durability matters—you fly a lot.
• You want to buy new with a 7-year warranty.
• You like a roomier earcup and lower-profile headband. Lightspeed specifically designed the Zulu 3 around those comfort improvements.

Pick the A20 if:

• You find the A20 dramatically more comfortable on your head.
• You can get a genuine new/very lightly used A20 at a good price.
• TSO certification is relevant to the aircraft/job you're flying. The A20 meets TSO C139 requirements; Lightspeed notes that TSO isn't generally required for ordinary GA but can matter in some professional operations.
• You're already familiar with the A20 and don't want to change.

My pilot-oriented verdict

Zulu 3: 8.8/10 A20: 8.7/10

The difference isn't really noise cancellation or communications quality—they're both excellent. I'd buy the Zulu 3 new rather than hunt for an A20, unless you have a specific reason to prefer the Bose fit or need its certification.

One other thing: if you're buying new in 2026, I'd actually want to compare the Zulu 3 against the current Bose A30 and Lightspeed Zulu 4, rather than spending A20 money on discontinued technology. The Zulu 4 is now on the market, and the A30 replaced the A20 in Bose's lineup.

If you tell me what you fly (piston/turboprop/jet), roughly how many hours a month, and whether it's GA or professional, I can tell you which headset I'd personally buy for your cockpit.

Both the [Bose A20 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ](https://www.bose.com/pressroom/new-features-for-bose-a20-aviation-headset?srsltid=AfmBOor5_5A4LEFzIZRxRvZk3viT4JUy8MnBMScM-BGKpGea7LN0ThVD) and the [Lightspeed Zulu 3 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ](https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/product/zulu-3-anr-headset/?srsltid=AfmBOorYBZIZe8eDJ4igThLvrdQWa5189PAeN-6BbVqNbwGeZOu_jKAM) are legendary, top-tier general aviation headsets . While Bose has since introduced the newer A30 and Lightspeed offers the Zulu 4 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. and Delta Zulu Go to product viewer dialog for this item. , the matchup between the A20 and Zulu 3 remains a classic debate on the ramp and used market.

Choosing between them largely comes down to fit, build materials, and how you prefer your cockpit audio handled.

Watch this comparison video to see a side-by-side breakdown of the Bose A20 and Lightspeed Zulu 3:

9m Lightspeed Zulu 3 VS Bose A20 Comparison 77K views  · 5 years ago YouTube · About2Stall

Head-to-Head Comparison

• Active Noise Reduction (ANR):
  • Bose A20: Generally considered to have the edge in raw, quiet attenuation, particularly across the mid-frequency range. It is exceptionally good at scrubbing out standard piston engine drone.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3: Very close competitor; some pilots find it handles low-frequency rumblings slightly better, but overall passive and active isolation are a near tie depending on the airframe.
• Comfort and Fit:
  • Bose A20: Lighter overall weight (11.9 oz), but features a tighter clamp for some head shapes. Ear cups are slightly smaller.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3: Heavier (14 oz / 397 g), but famous for larger, plush faux-leather ear seals and a contoured stainless steel headband that distributes weight well, making it a favorite for pilots with larger heads or glasses.
• Build Quality & Durability:
  • Bose A20: Uses a good deal of high-grade plastic composite on the ear cups and structure to keep it ultra-light.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3: Built like a tank with magnesium ear cups, a stainless steel headband, and rugged Kevlar-core braided cables. Backed by a generous 7-year warranty compared to Bose's standard coverage.
• Price & Value:
  • Bose A20: Historically commands a higher price tag (pushing past $1,000 when new) due to the Bose tax and FAA TSO certification.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3: Usually priced a couple of hundred dollars lower (around $850 new), offering an arguably better dollar-for-value ratio.
• Audio & Bluetooth:
  • Both feature clear stereo/mono comms, auto shut-off, and auxiliary/Bluetooth inputs. Lightspeed handles music "ducking" smoothly (fading music down when ATC talks), whereas the Bose tends to mute entertainment entirely during radio interruptions.

The Verdict

• Go with the Bose A20 if you prioritize the absolute lightest weight on your neck, maximum high-end ANR quietness, and an FAA TSO-certified pedigree.
• Go with the Lightspeed Zulu 3 if you prefer a rugged all-metal/magnesium build, a longer warranty, larger ear cups for glasses/comfort, and a friendlier price tag.

To help narrow this down:

• What type of aircraft do you primarily fly (piston single, multi, turbine)?
• Do you prefer a dual-GA plug or a LEMO panel-powered setup?

If you're buying new in 2026, I’d take the Lightspeed Zulu 3 over the Bose A20—but there’s an important wrinkle: the A20 is discontinued. Bose replaced it with the A30 in 2023, although Bose still services A20s.

A20 vs. Zulu 3

Lightspeed's own comparison says the Zulu 3 has an advantage in low-frequency attenuation, while the A20 has an advantage in some mid-frequency attenuation. Both have excellent communications performance and very similar core features.

Lightspeed Zulu 3 Aviation Headset - U174 Plug

$949.00

Where I'd choose each

Choose the Zulu 3 if:

• You're flying GA and want a headset to keep for years.
• You spend long days wearing it and prioritize fit/comfort.
• You fly piston aircraft where low-frequency engine/prop noise is prominent.
• You want the 7-year warranty and robust metal/Kevlar construction.
• You like being able to record cockpit communications with an iPhone/iPad.

Choose an A20 if:

• You find a genuine new/near-new one at a substantial discount.
• You've flown with one and know its fit works particularly well for you.
• TSO certification is important for your particular operation. The A20 is TSO-certified; Zulu 3 isn't. Lightspeed notes that TSO isn't generally required for ordinary GA, but it can matter for certain commercial/airline operations.

One more option I'd seriously consider

If you're specifically drawn to the A20, I'd compare the Zulu 3 against the Bose A30, not the A20. The A30 retains the A20's basic formula but adds three ANR modes, talk-through/tap control, reduced clamping force and other improvements. Bose currently lists it at $1,299.

Bose A30 Headset

$1,479.99

My ranking for a working pilot buying today:

1. 🥇 Zulu 3 — best value and my pick for most GA pilots
2. 🥈 Bose A30 — premium choice if money isn't the main concern
3. 🥉 A20 — still excellent, but I'd only buy one at the right used/closeout price

If you tell me what you're flying (172, Bonanza, turbine, helicopter, etc.), roughly how many hours/month, and whether you're buying GA dual-plug or LEMO, I can make the recommendation much more specific.

The Bose A20 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. and the Lightspeed Zulu 3 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. have long been two of the premier top-tier ANR (Active Noise Reduction) aviation headsets on the market. While Bose has introduced the newer ProFlight Series 2 and Bose A30 , the A20 remains a legendary benchmark, and the Zulu 3 is Lightspeed’s ultra-durable, premium analog flagship.

Here is how they stack up across the features that matter most in the cockpit:

• Active Noise Reduction (ANR) : The Bose A20 provides industry-leading noise cancellation, particularly in the lower frequencies/engine rumble, making it exceptionally quiet on long flights. The Lightspeed Zulu 3 also offers fantastic ANR, though most pilots agree Bose has a slight edge in absolute quietness.
• Comfort and Clamping Force : The Lightspeed Zulu 3 features contoured ear seals and a plush headband with slightly more weight, but its soft, memory-foam ear cushions are legendary for accommodating glasses without breaking the seal. The Bose A20 is noticeably lighter with a lower profile, offering a secure yet feather-light clamp that disappears on your head after hours of wearing.
• Build Quality and Materials : The Lightspeed Zulu 3 wins big here with rugged, fiber-reinforced polymer ear cups and a stainless steel headband wrapped in leather—built like a tank for heavy commercial or rugged GA use. The Bose A20 is high-grade plastic and feels robust, but it is lighter and more delicate compared to the industrial durability of the Zulu 3.
• Audio and Bluetooth : Both feature crisp intercom audio and Bluetooth for music and phone calls. Bose’s auto-on feature and dynamic audio equalization make phone calls and music sound remarkably rich. Lightspeed provides a proprietary "ComPriority" feature that automatically quiets music when radio traffic comes in.
• Warranty and Value : The Lightspeed Zulu 3 comes with an impressive 7-year manufacturer warranty (one of the best in the industry) and generally retails at a slightly lower price point than top-tier Bose models. The Bose A20 traditionally comes with a 5-year warranty and commands a higher resale value on the secondary market.

Quick Comparison

If you want to narrow this down, let me know:

• What type of aircraft do you fly most often (e.g., loud piston single vs. quiet turbine)?
• Do you prefer a plug type (dual GA plugs, LEMO panel-powered, or helicopter plug)?

If you’re choosing specifically between the Bose A20 and Lightspeed Zulu 3, I’d lean A20 for most professional/serious GA flying, but the Zulu 3 is arguably the better value.

Bose A20 Aviation Bluetooth Headset

$1,499.00

Lightspeed Zulu 3 Aviation Headset

$949.00

The basic tradeoff is pretty straightforward: Bose prioritizes quietness, weight, comfort and audio quality; Lightspeed gives you a more rugged headset at a lower price. Sporty's similarly rates the A20 as its best overall headset and the Zulu 3 as its best-value option.

Where I'd choose the A20

If you're spending hours in the airplane, the 12 oz vs. 14.6 oz difference becomes meaningful. The A20 is also widely praised for its combination of ANR effectiveness, microphone quality, sound quality and low clamping force.

I'd take the A20 if you fly:

• Long cross-countries
• Turboprops or relatively noisy pistons
• Multiple aircraft
• A lot of radio work
• Flights where headset fatigue matters

Where I'd choose the Zulu 3

The Zulu 3 makes a ton of sense if you're hard on equipment or don't want to spend Bose money. Its metal construction and Kevlar-reinforced cable are substantial advantages, and its larger ear seals can be more comfortable depending on your head/ear shape.

The Zulu also has adjustable microphone gain, which can be useful in particularly noisy aircraft.

One important 2026 consideration

There's a wrinkle: the A20 is no longer Bose's current flagship aviation headset—the A30 is. Current product listings show the A30 as Bose's newer model.

So if you're buying new in 2026, I wouldn't automatically spend A20 money without comparing the A30 as well. The A20 still has an excellent reputation, but you're buying an older-generation design.

My ranking for you:

1. 🥇 Bose A30 — if budget allows and you're buying new
2. 🥈 Bose A20 — if you find a good price / want the proven classic
3. 🥉 Lightspeed Zulu 3 — best value and ruggedness

If you tell me what you're flying (172, Cirrus, Bonanza, King Air, helicopter, jet, etc.), how many hours/month, and whether you care about Bluetooth/music, I can give you a much more definitive pick.

Both the Bose A20 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. and the Lightspeed Zulu 3 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. are S-tier, industry-standard active noise reduction (ANR) headsets , but they cater to slightly different preferences in fit, build, and features.

Note: Bose officially transitioned away from the A20 in favor of the newer Bose A30 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. , meaning brand-new A20 units are largely liquidated stock or found on the secondary market , whereas the Zulu 3 remains a core, actively supported staple of Lightspeed’s lineup.

Here is how they stack up head-to-head:

• Active Noise Reduction (ANR)
  • Bose A20 : Generally regarded as having a slight edge in absolute attenuation and high-frequency cancellation, especially in standard piston cockpits . It handles shifting ambient noise very smoothly.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3 : Highly comparable ANR performance, though some pilots note that thick sunglass temples can break the ear seal slightly more easily than on the Bose, impacting the quietness.
• Comfort and Fit
  • Bose A20 : Noticeably lighter (340 g vs 397 g for the Zulu 3 ) with a lower profile on the head . Its triple-hinged headband design distributes side pressure evenly, making it universally comfortable for almost any head shape.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3 : Features larger, plush, tapered ear cups that leave more room inside the cavity for your actual ears rather than resting directly on them . Some pilots with larger heads or ears prefer the roominess of the Zulus Go to product viewer dialog for this item., though others find them bulky ("Mickey Mouse" style).
• Build Quality and Durability
  • Bose A20 : Good construction, but relies on more traditional plastic/hinged components that feel slightly less rugged over years of heavy student/CFI abuse.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3 : Built like a tank with magnesium ear cups, a stainless steel headband, and a Kevlar-reinforced braided cord that resists tangling and kinking.
• Warranty and Support
  • Bose A20 : Standard 5-year warranty . Bose customer service and on-site repair at major aviation events (like EAA AirVenture Oshkosh) are legendary for fast, hassle-free turnarounds.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3 : Industry-leading 7-year warranty , reflecting Lightspeed’s confidence in their hardware durability.
• Features and Certifications
  • Bose A20 : FAA TSO-certified, meaning it is legally cleared for commercial flight decks and Part 121 operations if you ever transition to the airlines . It also features independent side-swapping for the mic boom right out of the box.
  • Lightspeed Zulu 3 : Not TSO-certified (fine for 98% of general aviation/Part 91/trainers). Features unique audio integration and works great with the Lightspeed FlightLink app for in-flight recording.

If you let me know:

• Your primary aircraft type (piston single, multi, jet, aerobatic)
• Whether you wear glasses or sunglasses regularly in flight
• If you need TSO certification for commercial/airline flying

I can help you make the definitive choice between the two.

If you're choosing specifically between the Bose A20 and Lightspeed Zulu 3, I'd take the Zulu 3 if buying new today—with one important caveat: the A20 has been discontinued, so a new A20 is old stock and you're generally better off considering the Bose A30 instead.

A20 vs. Zulu 3

Lightspeed's own comparison says both are exceptionally quiet and clear, but the Zulu 3 has an advantage in low-frequency attenuation while the A20 has an advantage in some mid frequencies. It also reports substantially more ear-cup padding/room on the Zulu 3 and a preference for its comfort among pilots who flew both.

Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset - LEMO

$1,087.04

What I'd buy

For a GA pilot doing long cross-countries: Zulu 3. The comfort, rugged construction, and 7-year warranty make it a very compelling workhorse. Lightspeed currently lists it at 14.6 oz, with Bluetooth, dual-GA, LEMO and helicopter configurations.

If you love the A20's fit/feel: An A20 can still make sense used, particularly if you find a well-maintained one at a substantial discount. It's a legendary headset, and there's nothing inherently wrong with its performance—the issue is buying a discontinued product at close to new-headset money.

If you're spending ~$1,000+ anyway: I'd actually widen the comparison to Zulu 3 vs. Bose A30 vs. Zulu 4. The A30 is Bose's current replacement for the A20, while Lightspeed now also has the newer Zulu 4.

One practical point: try them on before buying if you can. Head shape, glasses, and clamping pressure can matter more than small differences in ANR performance on a 4–8 hour flight.

If you tell me what you're flying (Cessna/Bonanza/turboprop/jet/helicopter), roughly how many hours a month, and whether you wear glasses, I can give you a much more specific pick.