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Bose A20 Aviation Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£970
Avg. price in US: ~$1,200
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: 45 hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

Bose A20 Aviation review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

7.1

Very good

6.5

Good

9.7

Exceptional

7.2
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
9.0
Audio latency
25.0%
1.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
7.4
Battery life
6.7
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
10
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
7.4
Battery life
18.0%
2.2
Weight
16.0%
10
Multipoint support
14.0%
1.0
Ambient sound mode
8.3
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
10
Multipoint support
16.0%
7.4
Battery life
14.0%
1.0
Companion app
4.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
2.2
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
7.4
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#12 in Best Bose Headphones
#21 in Best Wired Headphones
#236 in Best Wireless Headphones for TV for Seniors
#236 in Best Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
#245 in Best Over Ear Headphones
#245 in Best Noise Cancelling Over Ear Headphones
#268 in Best Wireless Headphones
#291 in Best Headphones with Mic
#291 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Verdict

The Bose A20 Aviation Headset is an industry-leading around-ear system featuring advanced proprietary Active Noise Reduction (ANR) that offers approximately 30% greater noise reduction than conventional models and a significant 30% reduction in clamping force. Certified to FAA TSO and EASA standards, it weighs just 12 ounces (340 grams) and is powered by two AA batteries providing at least 45 hours of flight time, or via a 6-pin LEMO connector for aircraft power. Key characteristics include active equalization for clear audio, a side-swappable electret microphone, and a Bluetooth-enabled control module that allows for customizable audio prioritization. Its primary pros are its superior noise cancellation, high-fidelity sound, and long-term comfort for extended flights; however, notable cons include its high premium price point and reports of a slight audible 'hiss' from the ANR system in extremely quiet environments.

Technical Specifications of Bose A20 Aviation

Overall score

7.1

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

7.8

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

8.5

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity

5.5

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

?

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

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Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Features

3.2

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

7.8

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

5.2

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Bose

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Bose A20 Aviation vs the average headphone

Why is Bose A20 Aviation better than the average headphone?

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Active noise cancellation
Bose A20 Aviation supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.
Importance: HIGH
Bose A20 Aviation supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
EQ customization
Bose A20 Aviation supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bose A20 Aviation supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
More flexible connectivity
Bose A20 Aviation offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.
Importance: HIGH
Bose A20 Aviation offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
Clear call microphone
Bose A20 Aviation offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bose A20 Aviation offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
15 hours longer ANC battery life
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher battery life with ANC than the average headphone (45 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >40 hours
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher battery life with ANC than the average headphone (45 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.45 hours vs 30 hours
In-line controls
Bose A20 Aviation includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Bose A20 Aviation includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
2 more microphones
Bose A20 Aviation has more microphones than the average headphone (3 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2
Bose A20 Aviation has more microphones than the average headphone (3 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.3 vs 1
15 hours longer battery life
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher battery life than the average headphone (45 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >45 hours
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher battery life than the average headphone (45 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.45 hours vs 30 hours
0.46 m more useful cable length
Bose A20 Aviation offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.7 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
Active noise cancellation
Bose A20 Aviation supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
3 Hz lower bass extension
Bose A20 Aviation has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (15 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
15 hours longer ANC battery life
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher battery life with ANC than the average headphone (45 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
15 hours longer battery life
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher battery life than the average headphone (45 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
Removable battery
Bose A20 Aviation has a removable battery, the average headphone does not. 7.6% of headphones have a removable battery.
More flexible connectivity
Bose A20 Aviation offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
Clear call microphone
Bose A20 Aviation offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
In-line controls
Bose A20 Aviation includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
2 more microphones
Bose A20 Aviation has more microphones than the average headphone (3 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
Wind noise reduction
Bose A20 Aviation reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Sidetone support
Bose A20 Aviation supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
Quick mic mute
Bose A20 Aviation includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
Boom microphone included
Bose A20 Aviation includes a boom microphone, the average headphone does not. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
EQ customization
Bose A20 Aviation supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Calls & Controls

Why is Bose A20 Aviation worse than the average headphone?

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56% higher weight
Bose A20 Aviation is heavier than the average headphone (340 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
2.2 higher clamp force
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
Tangle-prone cable
Bose A20 Aviation uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
10 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Bose A20 Aviation has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (92 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
11 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Bose A20 Aviation has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (92 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
No voice assistant support
Bose A20 Aviation does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
7 older release date
Bose A20 Aviation was released earlier than the average headphone (2,010 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
July 2010
56% higher weight
Bose A20 Aviation is heavier than the average headphone (340 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Bose A20 Aviation is heavier than the average headphone (340 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.340 g vs 218 g
No voice assistant support
Bose A20 Aviation does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
Bose A20 Aviation does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
10 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Bose A20 Aviation has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (92 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Bose A20 Aviation has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (92 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.92 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
2.2 higher clamp force
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.
Importance: MEDIUM
Bose A20 Aviation has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.6.5 vs 4.3
10.78x more expensive
Bose A20 Aviation is more expensive than the average headphone (£970 vs £90).
Bose A20 Aviation is more expensive than the average headphone (£970 vs £90).£970 vs £90
Tangle-prone cable
Bose A20 Aviation uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
What it is: Cable designed to resist tangling
When it matters: When you often carry wired headphones in a bag or pocket.
Importance: LOW
Bose A20 Aviation uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
11 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Bose A20 Aviation has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (92 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
Bose A20 Aviation has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (92 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.92 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
7 older release date
Bose A20 Aviation was released earlier than the average headphone (2,010 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
July 2010
What it is: Official release or launch date of the model
When it matters: When you want a newer model for fresher features, longer support life, or simply to avoid buying into an older generation.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2020
Bose A20 Aviation was released earlier than the average headphone (2,010 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2010 vs 2017

Graphic comparison of Bose A20 Aviation and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Bose A20 Aviation?

Superior Active Noise Reduction (ANR) that effectively silences loud cockpit environments
Excellent long-duration comfort due to lightweight build (12 oz) and minimal clamping force
Clear audio quality and high-performance microphone for critical ATC communication
Long battery life of approximately 45 hours with two AA batteries
Versatile features including Bluetooth for music/calls and customizable audio prioritization
Solid build quality and high resale value compared to other aviation headsets
Replaceable modular components (ear pads, mic, cable) to extend the life of the unit

What customers dislike about Bose A20 Aviation?

Premium price point, often exceeding $1,000, making it a significant upfront investment
Expensive replacement parts and specialized adapters
Noise isolation can be so effective that it hinders natural cockpit communication with other pilots
Performance drops significantly if batteries die (passive mode is less effective)
Earlier Bluetooth models do not support music streaming, only phone calls
Some users report a 'clampy' feeling or head pressure after 8–10 hours of continuous use

Expert reviews

highsierrapilots.club

09/12/2019

Review: Bose A20 Aviation Headset - High Sierra Pilots

The Bose A20 Aviation Headset delivers exceptional audio clarity and a highly efficient passive noise-cancelling fit, making communication between pilots and instructors completely effortless. The reviewer, a student pilot, highlights several pros including its sleek, modern design with internal wiring, an easily adjustable headband, and an oblong cushion shape that accommodates ear...Read more

kcthepilot.com

15/01/2021

Bose A20 Review: 7 Simple Reasons Why You Need This Tech

The Bose A20 aviation headset is highly praised by the reviewer for its exceptional active noise cancellation and long-term wear comfort, making it ideal for grueling 12-hour flight days. Weighing just 340 grams, it features soft sheepskin and memory foam ear cushions that prevent heat buildup, combined with a relatively low clamping force that reduces head pressure. Its...Read more

flyhpa.com

09/08/2010

Bose A20 Aviation Headset Review

The High Performance Aviation review of the Bose A20 headset praises its exceptional active noise-canceling technology, lightweight design, and superior build quality compared to the reviewer's previous Sennheiser headset. While the reviewer notes that the premium, compact design comes with a high price, they highlight that the A20 outperforms competitors by eliminating the...Read more

konkludenz.de

24/08/2018

Bose A20 vs. Lightspeed Zulu 2

The Konkludenz review provides a detailed, practical comparison of the Bose A20Go and the Lightspeed Zulu 2 from a pilot's perspective, emphasizing that both premium headsets deliver exceptional, crisp audio and voice clarity in loud cockpits. The reviewer notes that while both struggle as high-fidelity headphones due to inherent background hissing, they serve their primary safety...Read more

forum.aeronet-fr.org

20/09/2017

Bose A20 headset review and ANR system - Aeronet

Based on the community discussion on Aeronet, the initial review and subsequent feedback for the Bose A20 aviation headset focus heavily on its real-world performance in light aircraft. The user juulliieen started the thread seeking advice on the headset's overall build quality, long-term comfort, and the behavior of its Active Noise Reduction (ANR) system. A major point of interest...Read more

pilotshop.nl

01/01/2014

Top Gear Special: ANR Headsets - pilotshop.nl YouTube

This group test evaluates four top-of-the-range Active Noise Reduction (ANR) aviation headsets: the Bose A20, Lightspeed Zulu.2, Beyerdynamic HS800, and Sennheiser S1. The premium Bose A20 (£945) delivers the best overall performance with the lowest clamping force and the highest active noise reduction at 23dB, though its Bluetooth functionality is strictly limited to phone calls...Read more

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