5V, 7.4V, 12V Explained: How to Pick the Right Battery for Your Gear
Heated apparel typically runs on a battery. Once you plug the cable into the battery and press the power button on the garment, the battery supplies energy to activate the built-in heating elements, delivering warmth within seconds. That’s why choosing the right battery is crucial; it directly affects the heating performance, including how quickly the apparel heats up and how long the warmth lasts. ance, including the heating efficiency or heating hours.

There are several types of batteries available for heated apparel, with 5V, 7.4V, and 12V being the most common. However, many users are unsure about the differences between them and which option best suits their needs. So, what sets these batteries apart—and which one is the right choice for you? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide will break it all down.
5V Battery
5V batteries are commonly associated with USB charging and are widely appreciated for their portability and convenience. They are often used with smaller electronic devices due to their compatibility with standard USB ports.
Pros
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USB compatibility: Since most USB devices are designed to operate at 5V, these batteries can be used not only for 5V heated apparel but also for charging smartphones, table lamps, portable fans, and other small electronics.
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Lightweight & portable: With their compact size, 5V batteries are easy to carry, making them a great choice for users who are always on the go.
Cons
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Lower energy output: Compared to higher-voltage options, 5V batteries may struggle to power heated apparel with 5–6 heating elements or devices that require high power.
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Greater power loss: The limited voltage can result in higher energy loss during use, reducing overall efficiency.
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Slower charging: Due to the lower voltage, charging times are generally longer than with higher-voltage batteries.
Comparison
|
Venustas 5V Battery |
TIDE 5V Battery |
MRBIU 5V Battery |
Capacity |
5V/10000mAh |
5V/10000mAh |
5V/10000mAh |
Output |
USB 5V/2.1A USB 5V/2.1A |
USB 5V/2.4A USB 5V/2.4A |
USB 5V/2.1A USB 5V/2.1A |
Compatibility |
5V heated apparel; USB electric devices |
5V heated apparel USB electric devices |
5V heated apparel USB electric devices |
Weight |
5.64oz |
6.7oz |
6.6oz |
Dimension |
3.7*2.5*0.88inches |
5.2 x 3.43 x 1.26 inches |
3.7 x 2.5 x 0.88 inches |
Heating hours |
Up to 11 hours |
Up to 10 hours |
Up to 6 hrs |
In terms of overall performance, the Venustas 5V battery stands out among its competitors. While all three batteries offer a capacity of 10,000mAh, Venustas utilizes advanced technology to deliver up to 11 hours of heating, outperforming others in its class. It’s also impressively lightweight at just 5.64oz, making it more portable than the other two options. The Tide 5V battery offers a slightly higher output with up to 10 hours of heating, whereas the MRBIU 5V battery delivers the shortest operating time among the three.
7.4V Battery

7.4V batteries are a type of rechargeable battery with a standard voltage of 7.4V. Typically made with lithium-ion (Li-ion) or lithium-polymer (LiPo) cells, these batteries are widely used in 7.4V heated apparel, cameras, remote-controlled vehicles, power tools, medical devices, and more.
Pros
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Higher energy density: 7.4V batteries deliver more power than 5V ones, capable of supporting 5–6 heating elements, while 5V batteries typically support only 3–4.
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Versatile functionality: Many 7.4V batteries feature both DC and USB outputs, allowing you to power your heated apparel and charge your phone simultaneously.
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Stable and efficient heating: With a dedicated DC output, 7.4V batteries provide faster and more consistent heating compared to 5V options.
Cons
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Not compatible with 12V heated apparel.
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Insufficient for high-power devices that require greater voltage or wattage.
Comparison
ORORO 7.4V Battery |
PTAHDUS 7.4 V Battery |
||
Capacity |
7.4V/4800mAh |
7.4V/4800mAh |
7.4V/5000mAh |
Output |
USB 5V/2.1A DC 7.38V/2.4A |
USB 5V/2.1A DC 7.38V/2.5A |
USB 5V/2A DC 7.4V/2A |
Compatibility |
5V heated apparel; 7.4V heated apparel; Other electric devices |
7.4V heated apparel; Other electric devices |
7.4V heated apparel; Other electric devices |
Weight |
6.56oz |
6.53oz |
7.76oz |
Dimension |
3.15*2.60*1.02in |
3.07*2.48 *0.98 in |
3.95*2.95*0.97 |
Heating hours |
Up to 10 hours |
Up to 10 hours |
Up to 8 hrs |
All three 7.4V batteries are designed to power heated apparel, each offering unique features. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs. The Venustas and ORORO 7.4V batteries strike a strong balance between compact size and extended heating time, allowing users to enjoy long-lasting warmth without added bulk. In contrast, the PTAHDUS 7.4V battery lags in both runtime and portability.
12V Battery

12V batteries are commonly used in heated workwear for enhanced heating performance. They are especially favored by outdoor enthusiasts who spend extended time in cold environments.
Pros
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High power output: With higher voltage, 12V batteries deliver more energy to ensure consistent warmth across key body areas.
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Fast heating: Compared to 5V and 7.4V batteries, 12V options convert electricity into heat more rapidly, providing near-instant warmth.
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Versatile compatibility: Most 12V batteries feature both DC and USB outputs, allowing you to heat your apparel and charge your smartphone simultaneously.
Cons
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Slightly bulky: Due to their size and capacity, 12V batteries are typically heavier and larger, which may cause slight discomfort when worn.
Comparison
|
DEWBU 12V Battery |
||
Capacity |
7.4V/12V(10000mAh) |
12V(4500mAh) |
12V(2000mAh) |
Output |
DC 9-12.6V/3.5A DC 7.4V/2.5A Type-C |
DC 12V/1.5A USB 5V/2.1A |
12V |
Compatibility |
7.4V heated apparel; 12V heated apparel; Other electric devices |
12V heated apparel; Other electric devices |
12V Milwaukee heated products |
Weight |
12oz |
12oz |
6.38oz |
Dimension |
4.88*2.76*1.18in |
3.97*2.83*1.02 |
1.17 x 3.02 x 4.79 inches |
Heating hours |
Up to 11 hours |
Up to 10 hours |
Up to 6hrs |
Based on the table above, the Venustas 12V battery stands out with its impressive 10,000mAh capacity, surpassing the other two options. This high capacity enables Venustas 12V heated apparel to deliver warmth for up to 11 hours or charge an iPhone 15 up to four times. It also features two DC output ports and one USB port, making it compatible with both 7.4V and 12V heated apparel, as well as a variety of electronic devices. If you're looking for a powerful, high-capacity battery, the Venustas 12V battery is a top choice.
In comparison, the DEWBU 12V battery offers a solid 4500mAh capacity—not as high as Venustas, but still sufficient for extended use. However, it is only compatible with 12V heated apparel and select electronic devices.
The Milwaukee 12V battery prioritizes portability, with a compact size and lightweight design. While its 3000mAh capacity is more limited, it may be preferable for users who value minimal bulk.
DC Port vs. USB Port: What’s the Difference?
Many users are unsure about the distinction between DC and USB ports. Here’s a quick explanation to help you understand how each one functions and what they’re best used for.

Typically, USB ports serve as a universal and multifunctional interface for connecting and powering a wide range of devices. In contrast, DC ports are more specialized, providing a stable direct current power supply commonly used for powering computers, laptops, and other electronic devices.
Generally, 7.4V and 12V batteries are equipped with DC ports, while 5V batteries use USB ports. Although USB ports offer exceptional compatibility, their major limitation is lower power output. On the other hand, DC ports deliver a more robust power supply, resulting in improved heating performance.
Conclusion
Overall, 7.4V and 12V batteries are becoming the industry standard, while 5V batteries are gradually being phased out. We hope this guide helps you make the right choice when purchasing batteries.