Lightspeed Zulu 3 vs Lightspeed Sierra: Which Aviation Headset is Better in 2023?
10.1k views | By Senne Vandenputte | Last updated on February 14, 2023
Lightspeed is a well-known aviation product brand, offering some beautiful flight bags and aviation headsets. Their two most popular headset models are the Lightspeed Zulu and Lightspeed Sierra, both ANR aviation headsets.
But which one should you get? In this Lightspeed Zulu 3 vs Lightspeed Sierra guide, we will help you decide!
Lightspeed Zulu 3 vs Lightspeed Sierra Aviation Headset
Below, we will explore some of the key difference between the Lightspeed Zulu 3 and the Lightspeed Sierra.
We will start with an overview of the specifications of both headsets in a convenient table. Next, we will dive deeper into some of the important differences that could influence your buying decision.
|
| |
| Lightspeed Zulu 3 | Lightspeed Sierra | |
| Weight | 14.6 ounces | 16 ounces |
| ANR | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Audio priority | Yes | Yes |
| Auto shut-off | Yes | No |
| Other features | Lightspeed FlightLink compatibility (in-flight cockpit recordings through iPhone) | Lightspeed FlightLink compatibility (in-flight cockpit recordings through iPhone) |
| Cables | Kevlar reinforced cables | Sturdy straight cord |
| Available plug types | Dual GA, Lemo, or U174 plugs available | Dual GA plugs and battery power available |
| Battery type | AA | AA |
| Battery life | 40 hours | 40 hours |
| Accessories | Cellphone/music patch cords, cord clips, two AA batteries, a foam windscreen, and a protective carrying case | Cellphone/music patch cords, cord clips, two AA batteries, a foam windscreen, and a protective carrying case |
| Warranty | 7-Year warranty | 5-Year warranty |
| Buy now on Amazon | Buy now on Amazon |
Let’s look at some of the main differences in a little more detail.
First of all, there’s the price. Retail prices for each model are quite different: on average, the Zulu 3 retails around $850, while the Lightspeed Sierra is currently available for around $650, about $200 cheaper than the Zulu 3.
$899.00 
$699.00
When it comes to other features, both models are very much alike. Both the Zulu 3 and Sierra are active noise reduction (ANR) headsets, that offer superior noise reduction, Bluetooth, audio input, audio priority to mute music when receiving or sending radio transmissions and more.
Both headsets utilize standard AA-type batteries, making it easy to quickly change batteries before or during a flight when they run low. Both can last for about 40 hours of continuous use.
The Lightspeed Zulu 3 can be considered a more premium version of the Sierra. It has all the same features, with some additional advantages such as an extended warranty, a lower weight (14.6 vs 16 ounces), auto shut-off, more available plug types, and kevlar reinforced cables.
For the cost of these headsets, you expect the best. They both do an amazing job delivering just that.
$899.00
$699.00
If you want to read more about aviation headsets, what you should look for, and which headset models are the best to buy, we recommend checking out our guide with The Best Aviation Headsets in 2023 and How to Pick the Right one!
Want to learn more about picking the right aviation headset for your needs and budget? Check out our detailed guide:
10 Questions to Ask Yourself When Buying an Aviation Headset
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About the author
Senne Vandenputte
As a 27-year-old digital entrepreneur, glider pilot, private pilot and tow plane pilot, Senne is passionate about aviation. He started gliding at age 14 and flew his first solo in a glider at 15. After getting his PPL about 10 years later, he mostly spends his weekends towing gliders into the air. When not flying, he runs his marketing & web design business, fun projects like Hangar.Flights, scuba diving, traveling and enjoying the outdoors.
