Have you ever owned a laptop or netbook? If you have, does your battery still hold a charge? In these portable devices, batteries are a big component. As you use the batteries on these devices like a Dell Laptop, over time the battery degrades. It will not hold a charge like it used to. Instead of getting 2 hours of mobile time, it will go down to 1 hours of usability time. Then down to one hour and so on until you need to replace it. Manufacturers like Dell create certain specifications and requirements that each battery must pass before it is approved to be used in one of their laptops.

If for example you own a Dell Laptop, you may look to replace your Dell Battery. As consumers we have choice especially when it comes to computer components. Many manufacturers provide comparable products for consumers to use instead of purchasing products from that computer’s manufacturer. Price is usually the biggest reason why a consumer strays from the brand name replacement. Comparable products can be purchased cheaper. However, purchasing generic laptop batteries may not be in your best interest.

Just like purchasing generic alkaline batteries, when you purchase generic laptop batteries, you get what you pay for. For instance, each battery that is manufactured for Dell must meet specific specifications. I will use Dell battery as a comparison for the rest of this story. In most circumstances with a generic battery, this battery is produced to meet general needs for multiple computers. The following are some items that you need to consider before you purchase a generic laptop battery vs. purchasing a manufacturer’s battery, like a certified Dell Battery: internal controls, longevity, quality, chargeability, and price.

One important aspect of a battery that people do not realize is that a Dell Battery has been designed to work in unison with your power supply. When it is time to charge, the battery accesses the power supply, when it is fully charged, the battery tells the charger it is full and stops the flow. Generics may or may not have this control in it. You may get a battery the continually charges even when charged. That will add to your electricity consumption.

Two other important aspects of purchasing a Dell battery vs. a generic are the longevity and quality. Dell batteries are specified to meet certain durability, quality, and usability in each battery. If Dell states the battery should last two hours, it will last two hours. Generics cannot make that claim. Many times generics may only last or the time that a Dell battery would last. Additionally, chargeability is important. Dell batteries are designed to charge up quickly and hold the charge. Generics may take longer to charge or not hold the charge as long.

Price, for many, will be a deal breaker. Generic batteries are cheaper, but by choosing a manufacturer’s battery like Dell Batteries, it may pay in the long run. All of the above reasons to purchase a Dell battery should provide credence that by going with the more expensive battery would actually be the better value. Plus it gives you peace of mind that it will be dependable. If it is not, Dell and other manufacturers usually give a one year warranty on the battery to replace it. Usually generics battery warranties are for 90 days.

Dominic Munroe.