laptop batteries

[joshg]

OK, if a computer originally comes with a NiMH battery, could I use any other kind, such as Lithium Ion, as long as it is the same form factor? Would it have a different connector or something? Also, if this flexibility is true, what kind of batteries are the best?

 

[jschuk]

I doubt they are compatible. The limited experience I have with Ni-MH batteries is that they have a different amount of pins. Li-ION batteries are much better. They are lighter and provide longer power. Ni-MH batteries are heavier and don't pack in the power like Li-IONs, but supposedly they do last 2-3 years with constant use rather than 1-2 years with Li-ION. I have seen Li-ION batteries that are 3-4 years old that work great. Ni-MH may be slightly more susceptible to a memory effect.

 

[Gunbuster]

Laptop batterys are proprietary.

Most of the time you have to shell out big $$$ to the OEM for an extra.

If your lucky you will be able to buy a knock off lesser quality battery a year or two after the model line comes out

 

[Burnt]

My Gateway solo takes Ni-mh batteries and lithium ion ones

 

[MWink]

<< supposedly they do last 2-3 years with constant use rather than 1-2 years with Li-ION. I have seen Li-ION batteries that are 3-4 years old that work great >>



I don't agree with that at all. From what I have seen NIMH are the absolute worst. I have yet to find a single laptop with a good NIMH battery. I have seen numerous older Li-Ion batteries that still hold almost a full charge. In fact even NICD batteries seem to last longer than NIMH.

To answer the original question, the laptop has to be designed to use Li-Ion batteries. Otherwise, even if you could find a battery that will fit, it would not charge it properly. (which could possible lead to BOOM :Q )