Headsets are needed for a safer and more enjoyable flight.  Many aircraft have a hand mic and speaker, but they are difficult to use and hear while flying.  A headset allows clearer communication with air traffic control and your passengers,  as well as hearing protection in the noisy aircraft environment.  Clearer communications enables safer flying.  The aircraft must have an intercom system to be able to use a headset.  There are some portable intercom systems available. 

There are many manufacturers of headsets that offer options and choices when purchasing a headset.  There are basically two types of headsets made;  Active Noise Cancelling and  Passive Noise Cancelling.   

Active Noise Cancelling uses electronics to minimize the level of noise that reaches your ear drum.  Passive Noise Cancelling uses insulation to reduce the level of noise that reaches your ear drum.  Active is much more effective at eliminating much of the unwanted aircraft noise. 

Then there are options added to these two types of headsets.  Some of the options are types of ear seals.  Ear seals are made from foam and/or surgical gels.   Many  headsets have a mode selector switch which allow you to select stereo or mono.  This is dictated by the aircraft intercom system.  Many headsets incorporate a jack for cell phone or music input.   

My advise is to buy a comfortable headset that is lightweight and has Active Noise Cancelling.  Buy the best you can afford.  A lightweight Noise Cancelling headset will not distract from your learning or flying enjoyment.  If you are not sure, buy a midrange headset and you can upgrade later to a better headset and use the midrange headset for passengers or as a spare.  If you fly in many different aircraft, it is important to be able to select stereo or mono, if you wish to hear properly in aircraft set-up for stereo and visa-versa.  Rechagables headsets are not very useful when the battery pack dies.  Headsets using replaceable AA or 9V batteries are more user friendly since you can carry spare batteries and swap in flight.  Some headsets use ship's power which is fine if that is the only aircaft you fly. 

Active Noise Cancelling enables you to hear better and reduces fatigue and headaches.  People who have used Noise Cancelling headset do not like going back to using Passive headsets.   Top selling Noise Cancelling headsets are made by Lightspeed (TM)  who offers a complete line of very comfortable and durable headset in a range of affordable prices.  Sennheiser, Telex, Softcomm, David Clark, Pilot, Sigtronics, and Flightcom are some other manufacturers who make a line of headsets.  The top dog is made by Bose (about $1000).

IF YOU FOUND THIS INFORMATION USEFUL, PLEASE INDICATE BELOW.  Thanks and happy flying