When it comes to premium aviation headsets, the Lightspeed Zulu 3 and Bose A20 are two of the most well-regarded names in the industry. Both are designed for pilots who demand superior comfort, sound quality, and advanced noise-canceling technology. But with their differences in features, comfort, and price, how do you choose between the two? In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down the design, performance, comfort, and value of the Lightspeed Zulu 3 and Bose A20 to help you decide which is the best fit for your flying needs.
Design and Build Quality
Materials and Durability
Both headsets are built with premium materials designed for durability, but there are some differences in design and aesthetics.
Lightspeed Zulu 3: The Zulu 3 has a sleek, modern look with a robust build. It features high-quality, lightweight materials such as aluminum ear cups and a soft leatherette headband and ear seals. The headset is designed to withstand the rigors of aviation use while being light enough for long flights. The Zulu 3 weighs approximately 12 ounces (340 grams), making it slightly lighter than the Bose A20, which can help reduce fatigue on longer flights.
Bose A20: The Bose A20 is built for comfort and durability, with a slightly more utilitarian design compared to the Zulu 3. It uses a mix of high-grade plastics and stainless steel in the headband for strength, while the ear cups are made from soft, memory foam padding covered in a leather-like material. The A20 weighs 13 ounces (368 grams), slightly heavier than the Zulu 3, but its balance and comfort are highly praised by pilots. The build quality feels sturdy, and it’s clear that Bose has prioritized long-term durability.
| Feature | Lightspeed Zulu 3 | Bose A20 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 12 oz (340 g) | 13 oz (368 g) |
| Materials | Aluminum, Leatherette | High-grade Plastic, Stainless Steel, Memory Foam |
| Comfort | Lightweight, plush ear seals | Memory Foam ear seals, balanced design |
Both headsets are well-built, but the Zulu 3 is lighter, while the Bose A20 is slightly heavier but equally durable and comfortable.
Noise Cancellation and Audio Performance
Active Noise Reduction (ANR) Technology
Both headsets feature active noise cancellation (ANC), but they differ in their approach to noise reduction and overall audio experience.
Lightspeed Zulu 3: The Zulu 3 is equipped with Proprietary Active Noise Cancellation technology, which uses a combination of passive and active noise reduction to block out unwanted sounds, particularly the hum of the engine and other background noise. The Zulu 3’s noise-canceling performance is excellent, reducing cockpit noise significantly, but it may not be as aggressive as the Bose A20 in some environments. The headset offers clear communication through its Clarity Audio system, ensuring crisp and natural sound for both incoming and outgoing transmissions.
Bose A20: The Bose A20 is known for its industry-leading noise cancellation, providing up to 30% more noise reduction than previous Bose models. It’s particularly effective at cutting out low-frequency sounds like engine noise, which makes it ideal for noisy cockpits. The A20’s dual-microphone system improves clarity by focusing on the pilot’s voice and reducing background noise, making communication even clearer. The sound quality is also excellent, with well-balanced audio for both music and radio communication.
| Feature | Lightspeed Zulu 3 | Bose A20 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Proprietary Active Noise Cancellation | Industry-leading ANC (30% more reduction) |
| Clarity Audio | Yes, clear communication | Dual-microphone system for clearer voice |
| Audio Quality | Excellent | Excellent, balanced sound for music and comms |
The Bose A20 takes the lead in noise cancellation, offering more aggressive noise reduction and superior clarity in high-noise environments.
Comfort and Fit
Ergonomics and Design for Extended Use
Long flights demand comfort, and both headsets are designed with ergonomics in mind to reduce fatigue.
Lightspeed Zulu 3: The Zulu 3 features plush ear seals and an adjustable headband that can be customized for a snug fit. The ear seals are made of memory foam, ensuring a comfortable fit even during extended use. The lightweight design of the Zulu 3 reduces pressure on the head, making it one of the more comfortable headsets in its class. It’s designed to fit snugly, providing a good seal without excessive clamping force.
Bose A20: The Bose A20 is known for its exceptional comfort, with memory foam ear seals and a lightweight design. The headband is designed to evenly distribute weight, reducing pressure points. The dual-plush ear cushions enhance comfort over long periods of use. The A20 is often considered one of the most comfortable aviation headsets on the market, making it ideal for pilots who spend long hours in the cockpit.
| Feature | Lightspeed Zulu 3 | Bose A20 |
|---|---|---|
| Ear Seals | Plush memory foam | Dual-plush memory foam |
| Weight | Light (12 oz) | Light (13 oz) |
| Comfort for Long Flights | Excellent comfort for extended use | Best-in-class comfort for long flights |
While both headsets are highly comfortable, the Bose A20 is often preferred by pilots who prioritize comfort during extended use, thanks to its well-distributed weight and plush ear cushions.
Battery Life and Power Options
Charging and Battery Performance
Battery life is a critical factor for pilots, as many may fly for long hours and need a headset that can keep up.
Lightspeed Zulu 3: The Zulu 3 is powered by two AA batteries, offering up to 40 hours of use with high-quality noise cancellation. If you run low on power, you can simply replace the batteries, making it a convenient option for those who don’t want to worry about charging. Additionally, the Zulu 3 comes with a battery-saving feature that helps extend the overall life of the batteries.
Bose A20: The Bose A20 is powered by two AA batteries as well, providing up to 45 hours of use. The A20 also has a battery indicator light, allowing pilots to monitor their battery life. Like the Zulu 3, the Bose A20’s battery is replaceable, but it doesn’t offer the same battery-saving options as the Zulu 3.
| Feature | Lightspeed Zulu 3 | Bose A20 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Type | Two AA batteries | Two AA batteries |
| Battery Life | Up to 40 hours | Up to 45 hours |
| Battery Indicator | No | Yes, battery indicator |
The Bose A20 offers slightly longer battery life and includes a battery indicator, which may be a helpful feature for pilots who need to track battery levels throughout the day.
Price and Value
Cost vs. Features
Both headsets are premium products, but there is a noticeable price difference.
| Feature | Lightspeed Zulu 3 | Bose A20 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | High | High |
| Value for Money | Excellent, offering premium features at a competitive price | Excellent, premium noise-canceling and comfort |
The Bose A20 tends to be slightly more expensive, but its superior noise cancellation, comfort, and extended battery life make it a top choice for many pilots. The Lightspeed Zulu 3 offers excellent value for those who want great comfort, clarity, and noise cancellation at a slightly lower price.
Who Should Choose Which?
| User Type | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Budget-Conscious | Lightspeed Zulu 3 |
| Pilots with Noise-Rich Environments | Bose A20 |
| Frequent Long-Distance Flyers | Bose A20 |
| Casual Flyers or Shorter Flights | Lightspeed Zulu 3 |
Final Verdict
The Bose A20 is the clear winner for pilots who prioritize the best in noise cancellation, comfort for extended use, and advanced features like the battery indicator. It’s ideal for those flying in noisy environments or on long-distance flights.
The Lightspeed Zulu 3 offers a slightly lighter and more affordable option, with excellent noise reduction, comfort, and a long battery life. It’s a great choice for pilots who want a high-quality headset without paying the premium for the Bose A20.
Both headsets are top-of-the-line, but your choice will ultimately depend on your specific needs, budget, and flying habits.