As the cold season approaches, a reliable heated vest becomes an essential layer for outdoor work, winter sports, or simply commuting. However, the performance and longevity of your heated gear are entirely dependent on the battery pack you choose. The right battery not only provides consistent, long-lasting warmth but also ensures safety and convenience during your coldest adventures.
Navigating the different voltages, capacities, and connector types can be confusing. This guide cuts through the clutter to present a curated selection of the best batteries for heated vests in 2025. Whether you need a simple USB power bank or a high-capacity dedicated pack, we have options to keep you powered and warm for hours on end.
Our Top Picks for Heated Vest Batteries
- Whsahans 5V 2A Rechargeable Battery Pack
- AsperX 2-Pack 10000mAh USB C Portable Charger
- Anker 521 Portable Power Station with LiFePO4
- Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300
- Glaais Heated Vest Battery Pack 20000mAh 7.4V/5V
- M Jiuyunmu 12V 5600mAh Heated Jacket Battery
- Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH Output XC Battery
- Venom 12V Heated Battery Pack for Heated Clothing
- ActionHeat 12V 5200mAh Lithium Battery Pack
Whsahans 5V 2A Rechargeable Battery Pack
Designed specifically for 5V heated apparel, the Whsahans battery pack offers a compact and user-friendly solution. Its 10,000mAh capacity provides a solid runtime for your vest, and its small size makes it easy to carry without adding bulk. A key convenience feature is its automatic startup; it powers on as soon as it’s plugged into your vest, eliminating the need to fumble for a power button in the cold.
Safety is a core focus, with an intelligent chip and high-quality Li-polymer cells providing protection against overvoltage, excessive current, overcharging, and short circuits. This ensures both your safety and the longevity of your heated clothing. It’s important to note this is exclusively for 5V systems and is not compatible with 7.4V vests.
AsperX 2-Pack 10000mAh USB C Portable Charger
For those who need to power both their heated vest and their personal electronics, the AsperX 2-pack is a versatile and economical choice. You get two 10,000mAh power banks, allowing you to keep one charging while the other is in use, or share with a friend. This setup is perfect for ensuring you never run out of power during long days outdoors.
Each power bank features a modern USB-C port for fast charging, along with two USB-A ports and a Micro-USB input. This allows you to charge up to three devices simultaneously. While it functions as a standard power bank for phones and tablets, its 5V output makes it compatible with many popular 5V heated vests, providing warmth and connectivity in one package.
Anker 521 Portable Power Station
When your needs extend far beyond a heated vest, the Anker 521 Portable Power Station is a robust solution. With a 256Wh capacity and a durable LiFePO4 battery, it is built to last for up to a decade. This powerhouse can run your heated gear and much more, making it ideal for camping trips, tailgating, or as a home backup power source.
It features six versatile ports, including two pure sine wave AC outlets, a 60W USB-C port, USB-A ports, and a car outlet. The SurgePower technology supports a peak output of 600W, allowing it to handle high-demand appliances. For extended outdoor use, it can be recharged via a wall outlet, a car, or an optional solar panel, providing true energy independence.
Learn More About This Power Station
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300
A trusted name in portable power, the Jackery Explorer 300 offers a reliable 293Wh of energy. It’s remarkably lightweight at just 7.1 pounds, making it highly portable for various outdoor activities. The pure sine wave AC outlets ensure a stable and safe power supply for sensitive electronics, including your heated vest when used with its adapter.
This unit stands out for its fast recharge capability, reaching 80% battery in only 2 hours when using the wall outlet and 60W USB-C PD port simultaneously. With a total of six output ports, it can power multiple devices at once. Its compatibility with Jackery’s SolarSaga panels also offers a green and off-grid recharging option.
Glaais Heated Vest Battery Pack 20000mAh 7.4V/5V
For users seeking maximum runtime, the Glaais battery pack boasts an impressive 20,000mAh capacity. This high capacity translates to extended warmth, offering up to 16 hours of heat on a low setting, depending on your vest’s wattage. Its universal compatibility is a major benefit, featuring both 7.4V DC and 5V USB outputs to work with a wide range of heated apparel from brands like Ororo and Venustas.
Built with premium lithium-polymer cells, this pack includes an intelligent protection system to prevent short circuits, overcharging, and overheating. It is UL and CE certified, providing an extra layer of confidence in its safety and reliability. This battery is an excellent choice for anyone who needs all-day warmth without frequent battery changes.
M Jiuyunmu 12V 5600mAh Heated Jacket Battery
This battery is specifically engineered for the 12V heated apparel ecosystem, including popular Milwaukee heated jackets and vests. With a 5600mAh capacity, it provides a reliable power source that can deliver warmth for 7 to 15 hours, making it suitable for full-day use in cold conditions. The package is often complete, including the battery, a charger, and an adapter cable for different port types.
It uses a durable Li-polymer construction and features a standard DC 5521 port, ensuring a secure connection. It is crucial to confirm your heated clothing operates on 12V, as this battery is not suitable for 5V or 7.4V systems. For users already invested in the 12V platform, this is a practical and effective power solution.
Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH Output XC Battery
For professionals and DIYers already using the Milwaukee M18 tool system, this battery offers a seamless integration. The 6.0Ah M18 battery can be used with compatible Milwaukee heated jackets and vests, allowing you to leverage the same power platform for your tools and your outdoor gear. This eliminates the need for separate, dedicated batteries.
The REDLITHIUM technology and REDLINK Intelligence provide optimized performance and critical overload protection. This ensures the battery communicates with the heated garment to deliver efficient and safe operation. If you value a unified battery ecosystem for work and warmth, this is a top-tier option.
Venom 12V Heated Battery Pack for Heated Clothing
The Venom battery pack is a dedicated power source for 12V heated clothing. It is designed to deliver consistent performance for vests, jackets, and other apparel that require a 12V input. These packs are generally built with user safety and reliability in mind, making them a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts who rely on their heated gear in demanding conditions.
When considering a Venom battery, it is important to verify the specific capacity and connector type to ensure compatibility with your existing heated vest. These batteries are a popular alternative to OEM options, often providing comparable performance and durability for a range of 12V heated clothing systems.
ActionHeat 12V 5200mAh Lithium Battery Pack
ActionHeat is a recognized brand in the heated apparel space, and their 12V 5200mAh battery pack is designed to work seamlessly with their own products and other compatible 12V clothing. The 5200mAh capacity offers a good balance between size and runtime, providing several hours of warmth on a single charge.
These batteries are typically constructed with quality lithium cells and include standard safety features to protect against common electrical issues. As with any 12V battery, confirming the compatibility of the connector with your specific heated vest is an essential step before purchase to ensure a proper and secure fit.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Batteries for Your Heated Vest
I rely on my heated vest for everything from winter commuting to long days at an outdoor job. The vest itself is only as good as the battery that powers it, so choosing the right one is a big deal. After testing dozens, I’ve learned that it’s not just about picking the one with the biggest number on the box. You need to think about capacity, voltage, size, and a few other key factors to get the most out of your gear.
First, let’s talk about capacity, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). This is basically the fuel tank for your vest. A higher mAh rating means a longer run time. For a full day of moderate heat, I look for a battery in the 10,000 to 20,000 mAh range. If I’m just going for a short walk, a smaller, lighter 5,000 mAh pack might be perfect. Next is voltage. You must match this to your vest’s requirements. Most vests run on 7.4V, but some use 5V or 12V. Using the wrong voltage can damage your vest or the battery, so double-check your manual.
Portability is another huge factor for me. A massive battery might last for ages, but if it’s too heavy or bulky to comfortably wear on the vest’s pocket or your belt, what’s the point? I look for a slim, lightweight design that doesn’t feel like I’m carrying a brick. The type of ports matters, too. A battery with a USB-C port is great for modern, fast charging, while USB-A ports are compatible with older cables. Some power banks even have a DC output, which is often the most efficient way to connect to your vest.
Finally, I always check for built-in safety features. A good battery for a heated vest should have protection against overcharging, short-circuiting, and overheating. Reputable brands are usually very clear about these features. By considering these points—capacity, voltage, portability, and safety—you can find a power source that keeps you warm and comfortable all season long. This guide for the 9 best batteries for heated vests: a 2025 review guide is based on these exact principles to help you make a smart choice.
FAQ
How long does a battery typically last on a single charge?
This is the most common question I get, and the answer is, “it depends.” It varies massively based on the battery’s capacity (mAh), your vest’s power settings, and the outside temperature. On a low heat setting with a 10,000 mAh battery, you might get 5 to 7 hours. Crank it up to the highest setting, and that same battery could be done in under 2 hours. A larger 20,000 mAh battery can often last a full workday on a medium setting.
Can I use any power bank with my heated vest?
Not exactly. You can’t just grab any phone power bank and expect it to work. The two critical things to check are voltage and connector type. Your vest is designed for a specific voltage (like 7.4V). Using a standard 5V phone bank might not provide enough power, or it might not work at all. You also need the right cable to connect it, which is often a DC barrel plug, not a USB cable. Always check your vest’s manual for its power requirements.
Are there batteries designed specifically for heated clothing?
Yes, and they are often your best bet. Companies like Ororo, Venustas, and Dewalt make batteries specifically for their heated apparel. These are great because they are guaranteed to be compatible with the correct voltage and often come with the right connector. However, many universal power banks with the correct output specs also work perfectly and can be a more affordable or higher-capacity alternative.
How should I store my battery when not in use?
I always make sure to store my batteries properly to make them last longer. I keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. It’s best not to store them completely fully charged or completely empty for long periods. A charge level between 40% and 60% is ideal for storage. Also, never leave a battery connected to the charger indefinitely after it’s full.
What does the mAh rating on a battery mean?
mAh stands for milliamp-hour, and it’s a unit that measures the battery’s capacity. Think of it like the size of a gas tank. A 5,000 mAh battery holds less “power” than a 20,000 mAh battery. A higher mAh rating generally means the battery will power your heated vest for a longer time before it needs to be recharged. When comparing the 9 best batteries for heated vests: a 2025 review guide, the mAh is one of the first numbers I look at.