Three-dimensional MoS2 nanosheets uniformly embedded within NiTe nanorods are synthesized via one-step hydrothermal method and subsequently coated with a carbon layer to form stable NiTe@MoS2@C heterojunctions. The heterojunctions exhibit moderate lattice mismatch (δ =20.0 %), strong electric fields, and uniform carbon shells, resulting in unique electronic configurations and abundant active sites. As an anode for potassium-ion batteries, NiTe@MoS2@C demonstrated an high reversible capacity of 258.4 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at a rate of 200 mA g−1. Moreover, it showed a stable reversible capacity of 177.5 mAh g−1 at a high rate of 5000 mA g−1, indicating excellent rate performance. Notably, even in the NiTe@MoS2@C//perylene tetracarboxylic dianhydride full battery configuration, a significant reversible capacity of 87.4 mAh g−1 was maintained after 100 cycles at a rate of 200 mA g−1, manifesting its remarkable potential for practical applications in potassium-ion batteries. Theoretical calculations further revealed that the well-designed NiTe@MoS2 heterojunction significantly enhances K+ ion diffusion.