9-cell vs. 6-cell laptop batteries

[Tempered81]

Hi,

I would like to know if anyone really prefers having the benefits of the extra capacity of a 9-cell 85wh battery for their laptops. I currently have a 6-cell battery (its a vostro 1400) in my laptop that fits flush with the back of the laptop and gives me about 3 hours battery life on the low power profile.

I am contemplating buying a 9-cell battery which provides about a 133% increase, and from reviews i've seen it gives about 5 hours of low-power profile usage. I would like to have both the batteries, 6-cell and 9-cell charged and ready for mobility. I just can't justify making the purchase just yet as my laptop is working fine with only the 6-cell and AC cord.

Does anyone out there own both a 9 and 6 cell for their lappy and have an opinion on wether or not it is a worthwhile purchase? I need the benefits to outweight the $70.00 purchase. I know that if I head off for a day-trip without 120v power, then i can run my lappy for about 8 hours constant. Still up in the air.

Thank you for your advice.

 

[corkyg]

I have both batteries. The 6-cell is smaller and lighter, and I prefer it for most mobile missions. But - the 9 cell is better for long air trips for watching a movie.

 

[Zap]

I never had a 6 cell, but only a 9 cell for my Inspiron D6000. That design had enough space, so the battery doesn't stick out (but I know what you mean). I am really happy with having the extra battery life. I do get around 5 hours when I manually set the CPU to a low speed.

 

[Tempered81]

Ah well thanks. I think i'm going to go ahead and pick up the 9 cell so that I will have the 56wh 6-cell and 85wh 9-cell. I can keep them both charged for flights or long trips. On my model the 9-cell does stick out about 3/4 inch on the rear of the computer, however it does remain flush on the bottom with the rest of the chassis. It will also add a little weight to the overall package, but I'm okay with that. Thanks for your opinions guys. I think the 9 cell will be worth it. I also dont like to use the laptop in my lap when the ac power is plugged in and im in the living room or something. I don't like how movement in your lap can cause stress to be put on the fragile power connector. and everyone knows how these power connectors are a notorious weak point in the laptop design. (i really liked the apple magnetic ac connection solution).

thanks again.