Heated Gloves vs Heated Mittens: Which Should You Choose?

Keeping the hands warm in the extreme cold is not an easy task. Usually, the first thing that comes to mind for winter outdoor workers, sports enthusiasts, or people with blood circulation issues is, 'Should I choose heated gloves or heated mittens?'

It is not about the style but about functionality, performance, comfort, and safety for your specific winter activities. Both options protect from cold weather, but they differ in several factors. It's time to explore these factors to make the right choice. Here you go! 

What are Heated Gloves and Heated Mittens?

Heated gloves, whether thick or thin, have a design with separate slots for each finger, but contain integrated heating elements and are powered by rechargeable batteries. The heating zones provide even heat to all fingers, palm, and back of the hand. 

Heated mittens have the same heating technology as gloves, but their design is different. All fingers except the thumb share a single compartment, which reduces the surface area exposed to cold, and together the fingers get and stay warm.

Heated Gloves Vs Heated Mittens 

Here is the detailed comparison for everyone looking to choose the perfect option:

Warmth Factor

Heated mittens are well insulated! Why? Because fingers share one compartment to retain heat, and when they are combined with heating elements, mittens provide maximum warmth. Many users claim that heated mittens are suitable for activities that require more time of stillness in cold temperatures, such as riding a ski lift, waiting at a bus stop, or snowshoeing.

Heated gloves also offer warmth through direct heating elements in each finger and the back of the hand. However, the separated design limits natural heat sharing between fingers, which can result in cold spots in extremely low temperatures. However, this is not the case with thick heated gloves.

Dexterity and Usability

There is high agility with heated gloves because you can move your fingers comfortably. Tasks like using a smartphone, adjusting ski bindings, opening zippers, or handling tools are far easier with gloves than mittens.

The design of mittens makes it difficult to perform tasks that require finger movement. Although some heated mittens come with removable liners, they still restrict fine control.

Battery Life and Heating Efficiency

Battery performance varies as it depends on voltage, battery capacity, heat settings, and insulation quality.

Just because mittens have better insulation, they use less energy to maintain warmth. It means their battery usually lasts longer on a single charge, especially at low or medium heat settings.

Heated gloves often require more energy to maintain warmth in each finger. Some high-end models manage this well with powerful batteries and offer 3-11 hours on the low setting. 

Weather Resistance and Build Quality

Heated Gloves

Most high-quality heated gloves come with features like:

• Waterproof and windproof outer shells

• Reinforced palms for durability and grip

• Touchscreen-compatible fingertips

• Adjustable cuffs to seal in heat

Heated Mittens

Heated Mittens also offer waterproof designs; their bulkier build may limit motion and grip. However, many include fleece or thermal linings that add comfort and warmth. 

Comfort and Fit

Whether you buy heated mittens or gloves, proper sizing is important. It ensures efficient heat transfer and prevents cold air from circulating inside. If you get too tight, then circulation may be restricted, and too loose means heat gets lost.

You may feel cozy with mittens due to shared space, but gloves are more structured and offer usability. Always look for adjustable wrist straps and sizing guides before purchasing.

Price and Value

Prices vary widely as they depend on brand, features, and battery tech. From ArcFomor, you can get heated gloves for $99-$350 and heated mittens for $90–$140. 

Mittens provide better warmth at this cost if dexterity is not an issue for you. Gloves offer better features, control, and are more technical, but often cost more for comparable performance.

Use Case Scenarios

Pros and Cons

Heated Gloves

Pros

• Excellent dexterity

• Good for tool use and activities

• Better grip and touchscreen support

• Reinforced durability in palm areas

Cons

• Shorter battery life at high settings

• More expensive than mittens (on average)

Heated Mittens

Pros

• Superior warmth retention

• Longer battery efficiency

• Great for less activity

• Cozier and more insulated

Cons

• Limited finger movement

• Bulky fit

• Not ideal for activities requiring control or precision

Final Verdict

Now, after knowing the difference between heated gloves and heated mittens, it depends on your choice. You can choose heated mittens if you want warmth, suffer from poor circulation, or plan to be stationary in extremely cold weather.

If you need finger mobility for activities, go for the heated gloves. You can also consider heated liners with an outer shell that offers both customized warmth and dexterity.