The HP KS526AA laptop battery improves on the standard battery by adding more cells for greater battery life. It features 12 cells instead of the standard 6 cells in the factory supplied battery. Also, instead of the typical 2 to 3 hours of battery life expected from the standard model, the HP KS526AA laptop battery can provide up to 8 hours of battery life depending on user behavior.

In addition, the HP KS526AA has some very convenient features that make it easier to use. There is a “fuel gauge” feature that allows users to press a button and see an indicator of the battery’s charge. Perhaps the most convenient feature, however, is the ability to plug an AC adapter into the battery directly, without having to connect it to a laptop for charging. This opens up many options for users. With two AC adapters, for example, users could charge both batteries at a time. Travelers could charge the 12 Cell battery while running the laptop from their standard battery, or even from a second battery.

All of this extra capacity and great features come at a bit of a cost, however. The HP KS526AA is both bulkier and heavier than the standard battery it is replacing. It measures 8 inches by 2.1 inches by 0.8 inches and weighs 11.7 ounces. This is nearly double the size and weight of the standard model. Because the battery is much larger, it also sticks out from the bottom of the laptop. Some users may not mind this as it merely raises the back of the laptop up in the same way that some laptop stands do.

The HP KS526AA is compatible with many models of both HP and Compaq laptops, including the HP Pavilion dv4, dv5, dv6, G50, G60, G70 and HDX series laptops and some Compaq Presario CQ Series laptops.

Students and travelers who need more battery life and don’t mind a little extra weight and size will be very pleased with the HP KS526AA. Buying more than one could provide enough power for very long plane trips and other times where long periods of time away from AC power is mandatory.