Bose A20 vs A30 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Bose A30 & Bose A20 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Bose A30 rather than the Bose A20. 

Table Of Contents hide
1 Why Do I Recommend The Bose A30?
2 Side By Side Comparison
3 What Common Both Can Do?
4 Common Features

Why Do I Recommend The Bose A30? 

  • The Bose A30 features three selectable active noise cancellation modes for customizable noise reduction based on cockpit conditions, whereas the Bose A20 uses a single fixed ANC level.
  • Bose A30 has 20% lower clamping pressure for improved long-term comfort during extended flights, while the Bose A20 applies higher pressure.
  • It comes with a detachable and reversible microphone boom for quick side swapping without tools, whereas the Bose A20 requires service intervention to switch mic placement.
  • The Bose A30 features a thinner and lighter cable design to reduce tangling and improve cockpit mobility, while the Bose A20 uses a thicker and less flexible cable.
  • Bose A30 includes updated Bluetooth functionality for both audio streaming and calls, whereas the Bose A20’s Bluetooth is limited to phone and intercom audio only.
  • The Bose A30 has a slimmer, lighter control module for easier placement and operation in tight cockpit spaces, while the Bose A20 uses a larger and bulkier module.
  • Bose A30 features an advanced digital noise cancellation circuit for smoother and more adaptive sound reduction, whereas the Bose A20 relies on an older analog ANC system.
  • It comes with softer redesigned headband padding and improved earcup sealing to enhance comfort and passive isolation, while the Bose A20 uses an older cushion design.

Maybe the Bose A20 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Bose A30. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Check Bose A30 Best Price

Check Bose A20 Best Price

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureBose A30Bose A20
Weight~ 404 g~ 425 g
Clamping Force~ 20 % lowerHigher
Noise Cancellation ModesHigh / Medium / LowSingle fixed mode
Circuitry Type100 % digitalAnalog / hybrid
Microphone Swappable SideYesNo
Mic Boom Rotation~ 160° rangeLess
Ear Cup Seal Sensitivityhigher precisionlower precision
Headband MaterialAluminum alloyMagnesium
Cable DetachabilityDetachableFixed
Control Module SizeSlimmer / lighterBulkier
Tap / Talk-Through ControlDouble-tap earcupAbsent
Bluetooth Streaming SupportYesLimited
Battery Life (2 × AA)Up to ~ 45 hoursUp to ~ 45 hours
Battery IndicatorMulti-color LEDSingle-color LED
Audio Input Priority ModesMix / Mute / Off optionsFixed priority only
Plug / Connector OptionsDual-plug, XLR, LEMO, U-174Same plug types, less modular
PriceCheck Bose A30 PriceCheck Bose A20 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Active Noise Cancellation: Both headsets use Bose’s renowned active noise-cancelling technology to reduce constant low-frequency cockpit noise, improving communication clarity and comfort during long flights. Each maintains quiet operation without distortion or feedback.
  • Over-ear Design: Both models employ a circumaural, over-ear design that completely encloses the ears, providing a strong passive seal against external noise while ensuring comfort for extended use.
  • Circumaural Ear Cushions: The A30 and A20 feature plush, replaceable cushions that enhance both sound isolation and comfort, crucial for pilots spending hours in noisy environments.
  • Dual-plug Connector Option: Each headset is available with a standard dual GA plug, making them directly compatible with most general aviation aircraft.
  • LEMO and XLR Variants: Both models also come in 6-pin LEMO and 5-pin XLR configurations, supporting powered aircraft installations without needing batteries.
  • Bluetooth-enabled Version: Both offer optional Bluetooth models that allow pairing with mobile devices for wireless calls and audio connection to cockpit systems.
  • Battery Type: Each uses two AA batteries as its power source, providing a simple and easily replaceable energy option suitable for field use.
  • TSO-Certified (FAA/EASA): Both meet FAA and EASA TSO standards, ensuring they meet stringent aviation safety and performance requirements for cockpit communication.
  • Carrying Case Included: Each headset ships with a protective carrying case, offering convenient storage and transport protection between flights.
  • Replaceable Cushions: The A30 and A20 allow easy replacement of ear cushions and headband pads, extending product lifespan and maintaining hygiene.
  • Stereo/Mono Switch: Both models feature a switch that lets pilots select stereo or mono output depending on their intercom setup, ensuring compatibility across systems.
  • Operating Temperature Range: Both are tested to operate reliably from −20 °C to +55 °C, ensuring durability in diverse cockpit environments.
  • Passive Noise Isolation: Both headsets provide strong passive attenuation through their sealed earcups, supplementing the active noise cancellation system.
  • Aviation Intercom Compatibility: Each model integrates seamlessly with general aviation and professional intercom systems, ensuring clear two-way communication in any aircraft.

Check Bose A30 Best Price

Check Bose A20 Best Price

Common Features

FeatureBose A30Bose A20
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Over-ear DesignYesYes
Circumaural Ear CushionsYesYes
Dual-plug Connector OptionYesYes
LEMO and XLR VariantsYesYes
Bluetooth-enabled VersionYesYes
Battery Type2 × AA batteries2 × AA batteries
Battery LifeUp to 45 hoursUp to 45 hours
Auto Power ControlYesYes
Inline Control ModuleYesYes
Audio Prioritization CircuitYesYes
Detachable MicrophoneYesYes
Electret Microphone OptionYesYes
TSO-Certified (FAA/EASA)YesYes
Carrying Case IncludedYesYes
Replaceable CushionsYesYes
Stereo/Mono SwitchYesYes
Operating Temperature Range−20 °C to +55 °C−20 °C to +55 °C
Passive Noise IsolationYesYes
Aviation Intercom CompatibilityYesYes
Price Check Bose A30 Price Check Bose A20 Price

FAQ

Is the Bose A30 a replacement for the A20?
Yes, the Bose A30 is the successor to the A20, featuring refined comfort, modernized electronics, and adjustable noise cancellation, while retaining the same aviation-grade reliability that made the A20 popular among pilots.

Do both the A30 and A20 support active noise cancellation?
Yes, both models include Bose’s Active Noise Reduction technology, effectively reducing cockpit noise and improving audio clarity during communication.

Can the Bose A30 and A20 use the same connectors?
Yes, both are available in dual plug (GA), 6-pin LEMO, and 5-pin XLR configurations, making them compatible with a wide range of aircraft audio panels.

What is the battery life of the Bose A30 and A20?
Both the A30 and A20 can operate for up to 45 hours on two AA batteries, depending on settings and Bluetooth usage.

Are the microphones on both models replaceable?
Yes, both have detachable microphones, but the A30 allows tool-free swapping between left and right sides, while the A20 requires service to change sides.

Do both headsets include Bluetooth functionality?
Yes, both have Bluetooth versions available, though the A30 supports audio streaming and calls, while the A20’s Bluetooth is limited mainly to phone and intercom use.

Are the Bose A30 and A20 TSO certified?
Yes, both models are FAA and EASA TSO-C139a certified, meaning they meet aviation safety standards for professional cockpit use.

Can I use rechargeable batteries with the Bose A30 or A20?
Yes, both models can operate using high-quality rechargeable AA batteries, though standard alkaline cells are recommended for optimal performance and battery life.

Do both the A30 and A20 come with carrying cases?
Yes, each headset includes a protective carrying case for convenient storage and travel between flights.

How does comfort compare between the A30 and A20?
Both are designed for long-term use, but the A30 has a lighter frame and lower clamping force, improving comfort during extended flights compared to the A20.

Can the A30 and A20 be used in noisy piston aircraft?
Yes, both provide excellent active and passive noise reduction, making them ideal for piston, turboprop, and jet aircraft environments.

Do both headsets allow switching between stereo and mono audio?
Yes, both include a stereo/mono switch on the control module to ensure compatibility with different intercom systems.

Are the ear cushions on both models replaceable?
Yes, both have replaceable ear cushions and headband pads, which can be easily swapped to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Do the Bose A30 and A20 automatically shut off to save power?
Yes, both feature an auto power control system that turns the headset off when no audio signal is detected, extending battery life.

Are the Bose A30 and A20 compatible with all major aircraft intercom systems?
Yes, both are compatible with the vast majority of general aviation and professional intercom systems, ensuring clear communication in any cockpit setup.