Headsets

You can buy an aviation headset from almost anyone these days. But why settle for just a shipping box when you could have a co-pilot? At Sporty’s, we know that buying a headset isn't just about reading a spec sheet—it’s about matching the right product to your specific aircraft and your personal preferences. That’s why every headset purchase automatically includes Sporty’s Signature Headset Service.

Buying an aviation headset is a surprisingly personal decision. There is no "right answer" for every pilot—it depends on the type of flying you do, what airplane you fly most often and your personal preferences. Here are a few things to consider as you compare models.

If you're not sure which headset will be right for you, Sporty's Test Flight Guarantee can be a major benefit. Take your headset flying and make sure it works for you. Sporty's Test Flight Guarantee requires no paperwork and no hassle. It's just another reason why we are the #1 headset dealer in aviation.

A good aviation headset is an essential part of any pilot’s flight bag. While the most advanced models can cost over $1,000 they also do an incredible job of protecting your hearing and enhancing the clarity of airborne communications. With proper care, headsets can also last for 10+ years, so it’s a smart investment.

How to choose the right connector  

Buying a headset can be overwhelming. Our staff of experienced pilots have flown with every brand we sell and are uniquely qualified to answer all your questions. Some of the most common questions we deal with involve headset connectors: "What's the difference between twin plugs and 6-pin connectors?" Or "Do I need a battery powered or aircraft powered headset?" Let’s go through the differences of each connector so that when you select a headset you're confident that you chose the right type.  

One of the many features normally found on premium aviation headsets is Bluetooth, a wireless technology that allows two devices to communicate with each other. This is great for listening to music or making a phone call on the ground, but it can also be used to get audio alerts from your favorite electronic flight bag app. Here's how it works.

“It’s magic.” At least that is what I thought the first time I turned on an Active Noise Reduction (ANR) headset. WOW! What kind of wizardry is happening in these ear cups? I was instantly convinced that ANR might be the single greatest innovation in aviation history. The noise environment of a piston airplane makes communications tough, but modern ANR headsets have revolutionized the way pilots communicate.

The original Zulu headset sparked a wave of innovation in aviation headsets when it was introduced a decade ago, and established Lightspeed as a major player in the premium headset market. Active noise reduction (ANR) headsets were not new at the time, but never before had they been available with so many features at such an attractive price. A lot has changed since then, but Lightspeed is not one to rest on their laurels. They recently released the latest generation, Zulu 3, and as always we went flying to see how it performed.

A headset is always a great gift idea for a pilot—it's one of the few products that gets used on every single flight. But with so many options (and so much jargon), choosing the right one can be a challenge. Here's a look at what's hot right now, and our suggestions for some smart holiday shopping.