When it comes to beating the chill, the best rechargeable hand warmers are just what you need to warm your palms and fingers. These days there are lots of ingenious gadgets that solve almost every issue you can think of, and cold hands are no different, which is why hand warmers were invented. You can get many different types, but we think rechargeable hand warmers are the greatest of them all as they're more eco-friendly, more powerful and longer lasting compared to alternatives on the market.
Unlike chemical hand warmers that provide temporary heat and don’t last long, the best rechargeable hand warmers have a battery which is capable of holding more than four hours of heat on a full charge, even up to 12 hours, depending on which product you buy. Once the batteries run out, you can simply pop your hand warmer on charge so you can reuse it again and again, unlike other single-use options that have to be disposed of once the heat stops.
Best rechargeable hand warmers at a glance:
Best overall: OCOOPA Hand Warmers Rechargeable – View on Amazon UK
Best double-sided rechargeable hand warmer: HotRox Double Sided Electronic Hand Warmer – View on Lakeland
Best for heat-up time: Lifesystems Electric Hand Warmer – View on Amazon UK
Just like how an electric blanket warms you up when you're feeling the chill on your body, the best rechargeable hand warmers target cold fingers and palms. There a many different reasons why you might need to use a rechargeable hand warmer to heat up your cold hands. Some conditions may affect how cold your hands are, such as Raynaud's, and other medical issues may mean the pain can be worse when you're feeling cold, like arthritis. You may just simply feel the cold more than others and just want something to keep you cosy when out for a walk.
Whatever your reason for wanting a reusable hand warmer, we've searched the web to bring you our top picks of the best rechargeable hand warmers that will help you beat the chill when you're out and about on a cold day. And for extra cosiness, check out our guides to the best heated socks and best heated gillet.
Best rechargeable hand warmers
Best overall
AmazonDescription
The OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmers offer you instant double-sided heat in just seconds. There are three temperature levels and it is easy to use with the handy battery and heat indicator lights showing you the selected heat settings and how much battery is remaining. With over 5,000 Amazon reviews and an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5, this is the most popular on our list.
Customer review: "I am so impressed. I was sceptical when I ordered it, but it is amazing! I have used it on the school run and in the office. I have Raynauds, and it has helped that, my fingers do not lose all feeling. It heats quickly and cools down effectively. I wish I had 2!"
Pros
- Three temperature settings
- Battery and heat light indicator
Cons
- Can get extremely hot
Best double-sided rechargeable hand warmer
Lakelandwww.lakeland.co.uk
Description
Heating up in just 15 seconds and with heat provided from both sides of the warmer, the HotRox Double Sided Electronic Hand Warmer is sure to get those fingers warmed up in no time at all. The heat lasts for up to six hours so it's perfect for popping in your pocket when you're heading out for the day during colder weather spells. When it's run out, just simply plug it back on charge again.
Customer review: "This product does what it says it does. It provides warmth or power for your devices when needed, and is easy to carry."
Pros
- Heat up quickly
- Charges your phone too
Cons
- Cannot be used as a hand warmer and device charger at the same time
Best for heat-up time
AmazonDescription
With dual heat plates to provide even warmth and just a 10-second heat-up time, this neat gadget provides long-lasting heat that is ready to go in a few moments. The Lifesystems Electric Hand Warmer has four different heat levels so you can select your preferred level of hand toastiness, which is clearly indicated via small LED lights at the top.
Customer review: "Bought for the wife whose cold hands are only matched by her heart. Warms up within seconds. Level 2 or 3 is warm enough to beat the chill. Level 4 is too hot. Haven’t tried it as a power bank but no reason to think it wouldn’t be good. Highly recommended. I will buy another for me."
Pros
- Charges from low to full in approx. four hours
- Four heat levels
Cons
- Some reviews found the battery drained more quickly on the higher heat setting
Best for design variety
AmazonDescription
Available in black, blue and pink, the small and lovely shape of the infray Hand Warmer makes it easy to carry and comfortable to hold. With three levels of temperature heating, your hands will stay toasty and warm no matter the weather and feel the benefits instantly with the device heating up in seconds. It also doubles up as a power bank and comes with a charging port, helpful for charging on the go.
Customer review: "The device has a really nicely made feel - no sharp edges and not at all flimsy. Control of it is straightforward, with a long press to turn on/off and then a short press to switch between each heat setting. These range between 45 and 55 degrees so it does give out a good heat and will run for quite a few hours. My daughter has had a ligament injury in her hand recently and struggles in the cold weather, so I thought this may help, which I'm happy to say it has."
Pros
- Charging time is two-three hours
- Three heat settings
Cons
- Some people may prefer a bigger one
Best magnetic rechargeable hand warmer
AmazonDescription
This duo of INNOPAW Hand Warmers has a suction force so they can be used separately or synthesised into one. Whether you're heading out on a winter walk or playing sports outdoors, your hands will remain toasty for the duration when you've got these popped into your pocket.
Customer review: "These are really well made, work well and can also be used to recharge other devices. Better quality than I expected."
Pros
- Nice size and smooth to hold
- Can be used as a power bank for your phone too
Cons
- No information on how long the battery lasts
Best dual-purpose rechargeable hand warmer
Mountain Warehousewww.mountainwarehouse.com
Description
You can recharge your phone and keep your hands warm with this Thaw Rechargeable Handwarmer and Power Bank. Available in sizes small and large, this portable pebble heats up rapidly and is the ideal size for fitting in your hands while you're out for a walk on a chilly autumn-winter day.
Pros
- Three heat settings
- Charges your phone too
Cons
- Heating feature and power bank can't be used at the same time
Best for cold walks
AmazonDescription
Whether you're travelling to work, nipping to the shops or going for a roam around the countryside, the Jsdoin Hand Warmer will warm up your hands in a jiffy. Available in black or pink colourways, it can offer you double-side heat in just a matter of seconds, with three temperature levels so you can adjust the heat to just the way you like it.
Customer review: "Works as described. Good shape and size for the pocket"
Pros
- Double-sided heat
- Three temperature settings
Cons
- Reviewers found the instruction manual confusing
FAQs
What features should you consider when buying rechargeable hand warmers?
Double-sided heat
Most hand warmers will only offer one temperature setting, but it doesn’t need to perform magic as it’s only for your hands. But when it comes to how it performs, you will want to make sure it offers double-sided heat as this will mean your hands will heat evenly, and you’ll spend less time holding it to get yourself warm.
Shape and comfort
Just like you'd make sure a pair of thermal socks is the right size for your feet, you'll want to make sure your hand warmer of choice is the perfect fit for your palm. You also need to consider the shape and whether it is comfortable for you to do so. Especially if you suffer from arthritis or your grip is not as strong as it once was.
Cost
Rechargeable hand warmers are inexpensive when considering the amount you may already be paying for disposable chemical hand warmers. You only need to buy them once, but when doing so, you need to factor in the battery's performance, too, and what features you want or need.
Battery
You will want to consider battery capacity when selecting your rechargeable hand warmer, which ranges from 3000 to 8000 mAh (milliamp hours - a unit that measures electric power over time) as that will depend on the length and strength of the heat it provides.
Are rechargeable hand warmers worth it?
If you’re concerned about the environment and want to be more sustainable, rechargeable hand warmers are certainly worth a few extra pounds. You won’t be throwing away used chemical hand warmers. Instead, you’re investing in keeping your hands warm with repeated use.
How long do rechargeable hand warmers last?
The average time is around 4-8 hours for constant use. Some brands may offer up to 12 hours, but of course, these will come with a higher price point.
Are electric hand warmers safe?
Most hand warmers are perfectly safe if used correctly. Anything working at a high temperature with a battery can be dangerous, but well-made hand warmers have gone through lots of testing to ensure maximum safety for the user.
Stephanie Spencer is the Deputy Digital Editor for Yours. Having worked across a variety of topics, from travel and food to pharmaceuticals, she also has a particular interest in mental health and wellness having studied biosciences at University.