Batteries and Power

[MrMGA]

My Satellite M55 needs a new battery. A new Toshiba High Capacity 8-Cell battery pack (PA3457U-1BRS) costs $169.99 plus shipping at toshibadirect.com. On eBay, many non-OEM replacements for that part # are listed for $37 to $65 including shipping. Should I save a bundle and buy one on eBay? Are these batteries as good as Toshiba's own? What has been the experience of others?

[Rincewind]

Would I buy a battery on eBay? No. I did once, and regretted it.

[Veggiesaurus]

My husband and I have bought multiple batteries on ebay - rechargable ones for cameras and cell phones, and we have bought 2 for our laptops - one for each of our Gateways.  We never had a single problem with any of them, so I suspect your mileage may vary.  My husbands original battery in his Gateway was a 6 cell and he never got more than 2.5 hours of power, but he just bought a 9 cell and he gets nearly 4 hours from it on a 15.4" monitor.  He's quite happy.

If you're hesitant, try buying from an ebay seller that accepts returns.  If you're not happy, send it back.  I would at least give it a try...

[susancameo]

you know, the way large companies and corporations treat customers the last few years, yes, yes I would.  I would check out the stats of the seller and I sure would. 

I am ever so slowly learning that I do better buying from the small guy.

[Etop]

 I just did yesterday.  Never a problem.  Reason for me buying on Ebay is that it comes directly from China, the same way Walmart and other discount stores get their stuff.  No middleman, just the cost of manufacture and a little profit.  My Acer battery was 29.95 and free shipping vs. over 100.00 from a battery supplier.  You decide, for me its a no brainer. 

[MrMGA]

Thanks to those of you who offered opinions. I'll give eBay a try....