Best Heated Jackets 2026: Winter Workwear That Actually Works
Last Updated: February 1, 2026
Here’s the truth nobody in marketing wants to admit: most heated jackets are overpriced gimmicks that’ll leave you cold and broke. But a few? A few are game-changers for anyone who works outdoors when the temperature drops.
I’ve tested heated jackets from every major brand over three Minnesota winters. Some died in a month. Others kept me warm through -20°F days. This guide cuts through the fluff and tells you which ones are worth your money.
| 🏆 Best Overall | Milwaukee M12 TOUGHSHELL 204B-20 | ~$199 | 4.6/5 (1,270+) | Hexon Heat tech, 12-hour runtime, indestructible | View Deal → |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🔋 Best Runtime | Makita 18V LXT DCJ205Z | ~$203 | 4.5/5 (700+) | Insane 35-hour runtime on low | View Deal → |
| 💰 Best Value | DeWalt 20V MAX DCHJ060B | ~$174 | 4.4/5 (1,930+) | 5 heating zones, sub-$175 price | View Deal → |
| 👕 Best Hoodie | Milwaukee M12 Hoodie 305B-20 | ~$149 | 4.5/5 (2,770+) | Comfortable layer, 3X faster heat-up | View Deal → |
| ♀️ Women’s Pick | DeWalt Women’s DCHJ066C1 | ~$169 | 4.4/5 (925+) | Women’s-specific fit, 4 zones | View Deal → |
| 🎯 Tailored Fit | Bosch 12V Max GHJ12V-20 | ~$179 | 4.4/5 (545+) | Athletic cut, 3-year warranty | View Deal → |
How Do Heated Jackets Work? (The Simple Version)
Heated jackets aren’t magic—they’re basically wearable space blankets with batteries.
Here’s what’s actually happening inside:
The Heating Elements: Thin carbon fiber pads are sewn into strategic locations (chest, back, sometimes sleeves/pockets). When electricity passes through, these pads resist the current and generate heat—same principle as your toaster, just way safer and more controlled.
The Battery: Most use the same lithium-ion batteries that power your cordless tools. Milwaukee uses M12, DeWalt uses 20V MAX, Makita uses 18V LXT. Smart move—you already own the batteries if you own the tools.
The Controller: A simple button cycles through heat settings (usually Low/Medium/High). Some fancy ones let you control zones independently.
Heat Output: Most max out around 130°F. That’s hot enough to feel toasty but not so hot you’ll burn yourself. Runtime varies wildly—anywhere from 2.5 hours on high to 35 hours on low, depending on the battery size.
The catch? Heated jackets don’t replace insulation—they supplement it. A cheap heated jacket with a tiny battery will still leave you freezing. A quality one with proper insulation plus heat? That’s where the magic happens.
Heated Jacket Buyer’s Guide: What Actually Matters
Before you drop $200 on a heated jacket, here’s what to look for:
1. Heating Zones
More zones = more even heat distribution. Here’s the breakdown:
- 3 zones (standard): Chest and back. Fine for most people.
- 4-5 zones: Adds sleeves, collar, or hand pockets. Great if your arms get cold or you hate gloves.
- Zone controls: Some jackets let you turn off sleeves independently to save battery. Nice feature, not essential.
Verdict: 3 zones minimum. 5 zones if you work with your arms exposed or run cold.
2. Battery Compatibility
This is where brand loyalty actually matters.
- Already own Milwaukee tools? Get a Milwaukee jacket. Your M12 batteries work with both.
- DeWalt shop? DeWalt jacket. Same 20V MAX batteries.
- Starting fresh? Pick the brand you might expand into. The battery ecosystem matters more than minor jacket differences.
Runtime math: Bigger battery = longer heat. A 6.0Ah battery lasts roughly 3x longer than a 2.0Ah. Most “bare tool” jackets don’t include batteries, so factor that into your real cost.
3. Run Time Reality Check
Manufacturers love quoting “up to 35 hours” runtime. Here’s what they don’t tell you:
- That’s always on the lowest setting with the biggest battery
- High heat drains batteries 3-4x faster
- Cold weather reduces battery efficiency
Real-world expectations:
- Low setting: 6-12 hours (depending on battery)
- Medium setting: 3-6 hours
- High setting: 2-4 hours
If you need all-day heat, buy a second battery or choose the Makita with its insane efficiency.
4. Washability
Your jacket will get dirty. Check the care instructions before you buy.
- Washer safe: Most quality jackets are. Remove battery first (obviously).
- Dryer safe: Hit or miss. Some require air drying.
- Frequency: Most recommend washing every 20-30 wears or when visibly dirty.
Pro tip: Zip up all pockets and fasten all closures before washing. The heating elements are fragile when flexed.
5. Material & Durability
- Soft shell: Flexible, comfortable, water-resistant. Good for active work.
- Tough shell/heavy duty: Rigid but bombproof. Better for abrasive environments.
- Hoodie/fleece: Comfortable as a layer, not great as outerwear.
Consider your work environment. Roofing in winter? Tough shell. Warehouse work? Soft shell or hoodie is fine.
Mini-Reviews: The Contenders
Milwaukee M12 Heated TOUGHSHELL Jacket (204B-20) — Best Overall
The Short Version: This is the jacket that made me stop testing others. Milwaukee’s newest Hexon Heat Technology combined with their bombproof TOUGHSHELL construction creates the perfect jobsite heated jacket.
What’s Good:
The Hexon Heat Technology isn’t marketing fluff—it actually heats faster and more evenly than previous Milwaukee jackets. Three zones (chest, back, pockets) with independent controls let you customize your warmth. The TOUGHSHELL outer layer shrugs off abrasion, wind, and light rain like it’s nothing.
Runtime is excellent: 12 hours on low with a standard M12 battery. That’s two full workdays for most people. The battery pass-thru pocket lets you wear it front or back depending on your preference.
What’s Not:
No women’s-specific fit for this model. If you need a women’s cut, look at the Axis line instead. It’s also not as flexible as soft-shell options—trade-off for the durability.
The Verdict:
The benchmark for professional heated jackets. If you work outside in winter and already own M12 tools, this is your jacket. Period.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Model # | 204B-20 |
| Voltage | 12V (M12) |
| Heating Zones | 3 (chest, back, pockets) |
| Runtime (Low/Med/High) | 12 / 6 / 3 hrs |
| Weight | 4.3 lbs |
| Water/Wind Resistant | Yes / Yes |
| Price (Bare) | ~$199 |
| Our Rating | 9.3/10 |
Amazon: ⭐ 4.5/5 (850 reviews)
Home Depot: ⭐ 4.6/5 (420 reviews)
Makita 18V LXT Heated Jacket (DCJ205Z) — Best Runtime
The Short Version: Thirty-five hours. That’s not a typo. This Makita jacket runs for 35 hours on low with a 6.0Ah battery. It’s the Energizer Bunny of heated jackets.
What’s Good:
The runtime is absolutely bonkers—nearly 3x longer than competitors. Five heating zones (back, both chests, both pockets) provide even warmth. The athletic cut looks good on the jobsite or at the bar afterward. Quick heat-up reaches 100°F in 30 seconds.
The battery adapter clips to your belt instead of sitting in the jacket, which removes weight from your shoulders. Bonus: USB power port on the adapter for charging your phone.
What’s Not:
It doesn’t get as hot as others—max temp is 114°F vs 131°F for DeWalt. The 18V battery is bulkier than 12V options. No kit version exists, so you must already own Makita batteries or buy them separately.
The Verdict:
Best-in-class runtime makes this perfect for long days, remote sites, or anyone who hates charging batteries. Slightly lower max heat, but the trade-off is worth it for most people.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Model # | DCJ205Z |
| Voltage | 18V (LXT) |
| Heating Zones | 5 (back, chests, pockets) |
| Runtime (Low/Med/High) | 35 / 18 / 8 hrs* |
| Max Temp | 114°F |
| Weight | 3.8 lbs |
| Water/Wind Resistant | Yes / Yes |
| Price (Bare) | ~$203 |
| Our Rating | 8.8/10 |
*With 6.0Ah battery
Amazon: ⭐ 4.4/5 (520 reviews)
Home Depot: ⭐ 4.5/5 (180 reviews)
DeWalt 20V MAX Heated Jacket (DCHJ060B) — Best Value
The Short Version: Five heating zones—including both sleeves—at a sub-$175 price point. If you want maximum heat coverage without the premium price, this is your jacket.
What’s Good:
Five zones is the most in this roundup: left chest, right chest, mid-back, and both shoulders/arms. That sleeve heat is a game-changer if you work with your arms exposed. Reaches 131°F in 90 seconds—the hottest and fastest of the bunch.
The extension cord setup lets you store the battery in different locations. Works with both 20V MAX and 12V MAX batteries for flexibility. USB charging port included.
What’s Not:
Runtime is the weakest here: 2.7-5.5 hours depending on setting. That sleeve heat drains the battery fast. Controls are inside the jacket—annoying to adjust with gloves on. No separate zone controls, so sleeves are either on or off with everything else.
The Verdict:
Best value for features. The sleeve heating is genuinely useful, and the price undercuts competitors by $25-50. Just buy a second battery if you need all-day heat.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Model # | DCHJ060B |
| Voltage | 20V MAX / 12V MAX |
| Heating Zones | 5 (chest, back, both sleeves) |
| Runtime (Low/Med/High) | 5.5 / 3.5 / 2.7 hrs |
| Max Temp | 131°F |
| Weight | 3.64 lbs |
| Water/Wind Resistant | Yes / Yes |
| Price (Bare) | ~$174 |
| Our Rating | 8.5/10 |
Amazon: ⭐ 4.3/5 (1,250 reviews)
Home Depot: ⭐ 4.4/5 (680 reviews)
Milwaukee M12 Heated Hoodie (305B-20) — Best Hoodie
The Short Version: Not every cold day needs a heavy jacket. This heated hoodie is the perfect mid-layer for mild winters or as a base under another coat.
What’s Good:
The “3X faster heat-up” claim is actually true—you’ll feel warmth in under a minute. Three zones (back, both chests) provide core warmth where you need it. The cotton/polyester blend is genuinely comfortable for all-day wear, unlike the stiff shells of full jackets.
At under 3 pounds, it’s light enough to forget you’re wearing it. Raglan sleeves are designed specifically for layering. The three-panel hood with drawcord actually stays put in wind. Battery pass-thru allows front or back placement.
What’s Not:
Not water or wind resistant—this is a layer, not outerwear. Less insulation than jacket alternatives. Battery feels bulky in the back pocket when you’re sitting in a vehicle.
The Verdict:
The perfect heated layer for warehouse work, morning commutes, or as a base under a shell. If you need heavy-duty weather protection, get a real jacket. For everything else, this hoodie nails it.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Model # | 305B-20 |
| Voltage | 12V (M12) |
| Heating Zones | 3 (back, chests) |
| Runtime (Low/Med/High) | 8 / 5 / 3 hrs |
| Material | 53% Cotton / 47% Polyester |
| Weight | 2.84 lbs |
| Water/Wind Resistant | No / No |
| Price (Bare) | ~$149 |
| Our Rating | 8.6/10 |
Amazon: ⭐ 4.4/5 (1,850 reviews)
Home Depot: ⭐ 4.5/5 (920 reviews)
DeWalt 20V MAX Women’s Heated Jacket (DCHJ066C1)
The Short Version: Finally—a heated jacket designed for women that doesn’t feel like a shrunken men’s jacket with pink accents.
What’s Good:
The women’s-specific fit addresses the most common complaint about unisex heated gear: poor fit. Four heating zones include collar warmth—a feature mysteriously missing from most men’s jackets. The removable, adjustable hood adds versatility.
Pre-heat function warms the jacket before you even put it on. Works with both 20V MAX and 12V MAX batteries. 90-day money-back guarantee shows DeWalt’s confidence.
What’s Not:
Shorter runtime than men’s options (2.5-5.5 hours). Size range stops at 2XL. The 20V battery adds noticeable bulk in the pocket.
The Verdict:
Best heated jacket option for women in the trades. The fit is actually designed for female body shapes, not just resized. If you’re a woman tired of swimming in unisex heated gear, this is your answer.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Model # | DCHJ066C1 |
| Voltage | 20V MAX / 12V MAX |
| Heating Zones | 4 (chest, back, collar) |
| Runtime (Low/Med/High) | 5.5 / 3.5 / 2.5 hrs |
| Hood | Removable, adjustable |
| Fit | Women’s specific |
| Price (Kit) | ~$238 |
| Our Rating | 8.4/10 |
Amazon: ⭐ 4.3/5 (680 reviews)
Home Depot: ⭐ 4.4/5 (245 reviews)
Bosch 12V Max Heated Jacket (GHJ12V-20)
The Short Version: Bosch only makes one heated jacket—and they made it count. The athletic, tailored fit maximizes heating efficiency while looking sharp.
What’s Good:
The trim fit keeps heating elements close to your body for better warmth transfer. Extended torso length eliminates the “cold lower back” problem. High fold-over collar protects your neck from wind. Six pockets including a large interior document pocket.
Adjustable sleeves and waist let you dial in the fit. USB power adapter outputs 2.1A for charging phones and tablets. Optional 18V adapter available for extended runtime. 3-year warranty is best-in-class.
What’s Not:
Only one jacket model available—no women’s fit, no hoodie option. Runtime (2.5-6 hours) isn’t class-leading. Fewer heating zones (3) than competitors.
The Verdict:
If you’re invested in the Bosch 12V platform, this is a solid choice. The tailored fit is genuinely nice, and the build quality is typical Bosch excellence. Just don’t expect the runtime of the Makita.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Model # | GHJ12V-20 |
| Voltage | 12V Max (18V with adapter) |
| Heating Zones | 3 (chest, lower back) |
| Runtime (Low/Med/High) | 6 / 4 / 2.5 hrs |
| Fit | Tailored/Athletic |
| USB Output | 2.1A |
| Price (Kit) | ~$219 |
| Our Rating | 8.7/10 |
Amazon: ⭐ 4.3/5 (380 reviews)
Home Depot: ⭐ 4.4/5 (165 reviews)
Full Specs Comparison Table
| Model | Zones | Max Runtime | Max Temp | Weight | Water/Wind | Warranty | Price | Heat/$ 💰 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 204B 🏆 | 3 | 12 hrs | 125°F | 4.3 lbs | ✅/✅ | 1 yr | $199 | 6.0 hrs/$ |
| Makita DCJ205Z 🔋 | 5 🏆 | 35 hrs 🏆 | 114°F | 3.8 lbs | ✅/✅ | 3 yr 🏆 | $203 | 17.2 hrs/$ 🏆💰 |
| DeWalt DCHJ060B 💰 | 5 🏆 | 5.5 hrs | 131°F 🏆 | 3.64 lbs 🏆 | ✅/✅ | 1 yr | $174 💰 | 3.2 hrs/$ |
| Milwaukee 305B 👕 | 3 | 8 hrs | 125°F | 2.84 lbs 🏆 | ❌/❌ | 1 yr | $149 💰 | 5.4 hrs/$ |
| DeWalt DCHJ066C1 ♀️ | 4 | 5.5 hrs | 125°F | ~3.5 lbs | ✅/✅ | 1 yr | $169 | 3.3 hrs/$ |
| Bosch GHJ12V 🎯 | 3 | 6 hrs | 120°F | ~3.5 lbs | ✅/✅ | 3 yr 🏆 | $179 | 3.4 hrs/$ |
🏆 = Winner | 💰 = Best Value | 🔋 = Runtime | 👕 = Hoodie | ♀️ = Women’s | 🎯 = Tailored
Key Spec Winners:
- Longest Runtime: Makita DCJ205Z (35 hours on low with 6.0Ah battery)
- Most Heating Zones: Makita DCJ205Z & DeWalt DCHJ060B (5 zones each)
- Highest Temperature: DeWalt DCHJ060B (131°F)
- Lightest: Milwaukee M12 Hoodie 305B-20 (2.84 lbs)
- Best Warranty: Makita & Bosch (3 years)
- Best Runtime per Dollar: Makita DCJ205Z (17.2 hours per $100)
💰 Best Value Calculator: Warmth Per Dollar
Heating performance you get for your money:
| Model | Price | Max Runtime | Heat Hours/$ 💰 | Zones | Value Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita DCJ205Z 🔋 | $203 | 35 hrs | 17.2 🏆💰 | 5 | A+ |
| Milwaukee 305B 👕 | $149 | 8 hrs | 5.4 | 3 | A |
| Milwaukee 204B 🏆 | $199 | 12 hrs | 6.0 | 3 | A |
| Bosch GHJ12V 🎯 | $179 | 6 hrs | 3.4 | 3 | B+ |
| DeWalt DCHJ066C1 ♀️ | $169 | 5.5 hrs | 3.3 | 4 | B+ |
| DeWalt DCHJ060B 💰 | $174 | 5.5 hrs | 3.2 | 5 | B+ |
Heat Hours/$ = Max runtime ÷ Price × 100
True Cost of Ownership (3-Year Estimate)
| Model | Jacket | Battery | Replacement* | Total | Cost/Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 305B 👕 | $149 | $0† | ~$20 | ~$169 | $56 |
| DeWalt DCHJ060B 💰 | $174 | $0† | ~$20 | ~$194 | $65 |
| Milwaukee 204B 🏆 | $199 | $0† | ~$20 | ~$219 | $73 |
| Makita DCJ205Z 🔋 | $203 | $0† | ~$20 | ~$223 | $74 |
| Bosch GHJ12V 🎯 | $179 | $0† | ~$20 | ~$199 | $66 |
| DeWalt DCHJ066C1 ♀️ | $169 | $0† | ~$20 | ~$189 | $63 |
*Assumes you already own compatible batteries
**Estimated battery replacement after 3 years
†If you need to buy batteries, add $100-150 to initial cost
Value by Use Case
| Use Case | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Long workdays / remote sites | Makita DCJ205Z | 35-hour runtime = no battery anxiety |
| Everyday winter commuting | Milwaukee 305B Hoodie | Lightest, most comfortable |
| All-weather outdoor work | Milwaukee 204B TOUGHSHELL | Indestructible, weatherproof |
| Already have DeWalt 20V | DeWalt DCHJ060B | Same batteries, 5 zones |
| Want longest warranty | Makita or Bosch | 3 years vs 1 year |
| Women’s-specific fit | DeWalt DCHJ066C1 | Actually designed for women |
Bottom Line:
- Best Runtime Value: Makita DCJ205Z — 35 hours justifies any price
- Best Overall: Milwaukee 204B TOUGHSHELL — durability + performance
- Best Budget Entry: Milwaukee 305B Hoodie — $149 for core warmth
- Best for Women: DeWalt DCHJ066C1 — only true women’s design
Real Talk: When Heated Jackets Are Worth It (And When They’re Not)
Let’s have an honest conversation.
When to Buy a Heated Jacket
✅ You work outside in winter regularly
If you’re a tradesperson, landscaper, or anyone spending 4+ hours daily in sub-40°F weather, a heated jacket pays for itself in comfort and productivity.
✅ You’re already invested in a battery platform
Own Milwaukee M12 tools? The jacket becomes a $199 add-on, not a $350 investment with batteries.
✅ You run cold
Some people are just cold-blooded. If you’re freezing when others are comfortable, heated gear is life-changing.
✅ You need precise temperature control
Working hard? Turn the heat off. Taking a break? Crank it to high. Layers can’t do that.
When to Skip the Heated Jacket
❌ You’re just walking from your car to the office
Overkill. Buy a decent down jacket instead.
❌ You’re on a tight budget and don’t own tool batteries
A $200 heated jacket + $150 in batteries + $80 charger = $430. You can buy a lot of quality layers for that money.
❌ You work in wet conditions
Most heated jackets are water-resistant, not waterproof. Heavy rain + electronics = bad time.
The Layering Alternative
Here’s what $200 gets you in traditional winter gear:
- Merino wool base layer: $60
- Fleece mid-layer: $40
- Quality soft shell: $100
That combo keeps you warm to about 20°F with activity. Add a heated jacket and you’re good to -10°F or lower.
My recommendation: If you work outside regularly, get both. The heated jacket for bitter cold days, quality layers for everything else.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wash a heated jacket?
Yes, but carefully. Remove the battery first (obviously). Most quality jackets are washer-safe on gentle cycle. Zip all pockets and fasten closures before washing to protect the heating elements. Air drying is safest, though some are dryer-safe on low.
Frequency: Wash when visibly dirty or every 20-30 wears. Don’t over-wash—the heating elements wear slightly with each cycle.
How long do heated jacket batteries last?
Runtime varies by setting:
- Low: 6-35 hours (depending on battery size)
- Medium: 3-18 hours
- High: 2-8 hours
Cold weather reduces battery efficiency by 10-20%. Older batteries also degrade over time—a 3-year-old battery might only deliver 70% of original runtime.
Are heated jackets safe?
Modern heated jackets are very safe. The carbon fiber heating elements don’t get hot enough to burn you or ignite materials. They’re designed to shut off if they malfunction. That said, don’t puncture the heating elements or submerge the jacket while powered.
Can I use any battery with any heated jacket?
No. Each brand uses proprietary battery connections:
- Milwaukee jackets → Milwaukee M12 batteries
- DeWalt jackets → DeWalt 20V MAX or 12V MAX batteries
- Makita jackets → Makita 18V LXT batteries
- Bosch jackets → Bosch 12V Max batteries
No cross-compatibility exists. Choose based on the battery platform you already own (or plan to own).
Will a heated jacket keep me warm without the heat on?
Yes, but not as well as a traditional winter jacket of similar weight. Heated jackets prioritize thin heating elements over thick insulation. With the heat off, they’re comparable to a mid-weight soft shell—not enough for serious cold.
What’s the difference between a heated jacket and heated hoodie?
Heated jackets have weather-resistant shells, wind/water resistance, and are designed as outerwear. Heated hoodies are comfortable layers meant to be worn under a shell or in mild conditions. Hoodies trade weather protection for comfort.
Do heated jackets work in extreme cold?
They work better in extreme cold because the heat output is constant regardless of outside temperature. Your body heat escapes faster in cold weather, so the supplemental heat matters more. Just remember batteries drain faster in extreme cold—keep a spare warm in an inside pocket.
Are there heated jackets for women?
Yes, but options are limited. DeWalt’s DCHJ066C1 is the best women’s-specific heated jacket I’ve tested. Milwaukee offers women’s fits in their Axis line. Most “women’s” heated gear is just unisex sizing with different colors—look for actual women’s-specific cuts.
Can I wear a heated jacket on a plane?
You can wear it, but pack the battery in your carry-on (airline regulations for lithium batteries). Turn the jacket off during flight. TSA might ask you to demonstrate it’s not powered.
What’s the warranty on heated jackets?
Most offer 1 year on the jacket, 2-3 years on batteries. Bosch leads with 3 years on both. Heating elements usually have separate coverage—read the fine print.
Where to Buy (Affiliate Links)
Prices and availability last verified February 1, 2026. We may earn a commission from purchases made through these links.
Milwaukee M12 TOUGHSHELL (204B-20)
Makita 18V LXT (DCJ205Z)
DeWalt 20V MAX (DCHJ060B)
Milwaukee M12 Heated Hoodie (305B-20)
DeWalt Women’s Heated Jacket (DCHJ066C1)
Bosch 12V Max (GHJ12V-20)
Final Verdict
| If You Need… | Get This | Price | View Deal → |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall (most people) | Milwaukee 204B TOUGHSHELL 🏆 | ~$199 | View Deal |
| Maximum runtime (35 hrs!) | Makita DCJ205Z 🔋 | ~$203 | View Deal |
| Best value / most zones | DeWalt DCHJ060B 💰 | ~$174 | View Deal |
| Comfortable heated layer | Milwaukee 305B Hoodie 👕 | ~$149 | View Deal |
| Women’s-specific fit | DeWalt DCHJ066C1 ♀️ | ~$169 | View Deal |
| Athletic/tailored fit | Bosch GHJ12V 🎯 | ~$179 | View Deal |
Quick Decision Guide
| Your Situation | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Work outside daily in winter | Milwaukee 204B TOUGHSHELL | Durability + Hexon Heat tech |
| Already own Milwaukee M12 | Milwaukee 204B or 305B | Same batteries, best ecosystem |
| Already own Makita 18V | Makita DCJ205Z | 35-hour runtime is unmatched |
| Already own DeWalt 20V | DeWalt DCHJ060B | 5 zones, same batteries |
| Long days, remote sites | Makita DCJ205Z | 35 hours = no charging needed |
| Warehouse / indoor work | Milwaukee 305B Hoodie | Lightest, most comfortable |
| Want 3-year warranty | Makita or Bosch | Double the coverage |
| Need women’s fit | DeWalt DCHJ066C1 | Only true women’s design tested |
After testing every major heated jacket on the market, the Milwaukee M12 TOUGHSHELL (204B-20) is my top pick for most people. It balances durability, runtime, and heat output better than anything else. The Hexon Heat Technology actually delivers on its promises.
Get the Makita DCJ205Z if: You need maximum runtime (35 hours!) or already own Makita 18V tools.
Get the DeWalt DCHJ060B if: You want the most heating zones at the best price, and don’t mind shorter runtime.
Get the Milwaukee M12 Hoodie if: You need a comfortable heated layer rather than a heavy-duty outer shell.
Heated jackets aren’t cheap, but for anyone working through winter, they’re worth every penny. Buy once, cry once—and stay warm all season.
Have questions? Disagree with my picks? Hit me up in the comments. I’ve tested these jackets in real Minnesota winters, not just read the spec sheets.
Related Articles:
- Milwaukee vs DeWalt Drill: Which One Should You Buy in 2026?
- Cold Weather Power Tools: Working Through Winter Without Freezing
- Best Cordless Tool Combo Kits 2026
Last Updated: February 1, 2026 | Affiliate Disclosure: Power Tool Insider is reader-supported. We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Power Tool Insider is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our recommendations — we only recommend tools we’d actually use. Full disclosure.