All rechargeable batteries fade out over time. With prolonged use and accumulated wear, the performance of the battery will suffer. Generally, this reduction will happen gradually, then suddenly, over the course of the eighteen months. Gamers and power users might even see a degradation of battery capacity after only twelve months of use. However, unlike aqueous, nickel-metal, and other commercial batteries, Dell batteries take advantage of lithium ion technology to extend the life of a battery up to two years before any substantial decrease.

The advantages of a lithium ion battery depends largely on the materials and the design that make up the particular battery. Dell batteries are both highly effective and safe for personal use. The batteries used with all notebooks are in compliance with a number of EU and North American regulatory directives, and contain no elements of mercury, lead, and cadmium. The battery works by moving lithium ions from a negative electrode to a positive electrode during its discharge. When it charges, it simply moves the ions in the opposite direction.

Lithium ion technology is an excellent charger for portable electronics for a number of reasons. First of all, the battery does not need to be fully discharged and recharged to maintain maximum life. Second, it has one of the best energy to weight ratios and has a slow loss of energy when the device is on standby or not in use. For example, the power discharge of Dell Batteries is in the range of five to ten percent per month, whereas nickel metal hydride batteries can lose over thirty percent. Nickel cadmium batteries were shown to lose roughly ten percent on average, still relatively higher than their lithium ion counterparts. In addition, with no memory effect, Dell batteries do not lose total capacity after a single discharge. A high open circuit voltage further increase the amount of power transferred to your device, and does so with less current.

Another factor that allows Dell batteries to last longer than the competition is their intricate design. Typically, a heavier, higher capacity battery will last longer than a lighter, smaller battery. Not only does a bigger battery have a longer runtime, they also retain their power for more charge cycles. By seamlessly merging these larger, corpulent batteries into the crook of the laptop, Dell batteries are able to displace weight without sacrificing form and aesthetic appeal. As a result, the notebook or portable device is still relatively comfortable, while being large and durable enough to last prolonged use.

While the lifespan of Dell batteries are relatively long, you as the consumer can also take measures to ensure the battery operates at peak efficiency. Set your notebook or portable device to the lowest possible power settings for the task you require. For instance, you can turn wireless or bluetooth functions off when they are not required. During the day, you can set your screen brightness lower than you would at night. Processing power can be set to lower settings when doing light work or browsing the internet. If a system is exposed to inclement temperatures, let the device reach room temperature before charging the battery. If you are storing your battery for four or more days, charge the battery in advance, and do not store it in extreme temperatures or attached to a power source. It is also important to dispel common myths associated with lithium ion and Dell batteries. For instance, there is no such thing as overcharging a battery, and draining and recharging your battery has no effect on its overall lifespan.




Most Dell devices allow you to modify your energy settings depending on whether you are plugged in. By following these simple precautions, you can make your already powerful Dell batteries last longer and more effectively.