Now that Apple has increased the number of MacBook models where the user is not able to change the battery, external battery options are more important than ever. No matter how long the battery lasts inside your MacBook Pro, chances are you’re going to encounter a situation where it’s not long enough. This is where the HyperMac External Batteries come in.
I’m planning a trip later this month that will involve a 6 hour flight and I want the option of using my MacBook Pro as much as possible. I don’t have the most current model with the sealed battery, but even with two batteries, it won’t be enough for this trip. So I was intrigued by the HyperMac offerings.
Rather than trying to put this review into words, I recorded this video explaining how the product works along with the results of my "worse case scenario test":
The Bottom Line
The HyperMac solution is definitely worth it if you need to get longer than a few hours of portable use out of your MacBook. If you have one of the newer MacBook products with a sealed battery, then this solution can be even more of a must have for frequent or long haul travelers.
HyperMac Batteries are priced starting at $199.95 and go up to $499.95 for the largest capacity/longest life model. Learn more about the HyperMac batteries here.
Great review, thanks! For my laptop, iPod Classic and future iPhone 3GS this seems like a nice option for extra power on the road.
Very good review Terry. I think I might actually pick one up. I have never been happy with my Mac’s (Late 2008) battery life. Thanks
thanks for the review! will get one myself soon!
I really liked the way your video looked for the “HyperMac Extended MacBook Battery Review”. What software do you use? What hardware do you use? And what lighting? It looked very professional yet came across as something that others could do, if they knew your technique.
The review was very useful as always. And there are somethings that do come across better for me in a video format. I immediately sent it to two people I believe will get it right away.
Hey Terry have you visited this site http://www.gdgt.com
It lets you register your gadgets and follow your friend and what gadgets they have.
I bought the 150whr version of the hypermac just before heading out on my 3 week vacation to China. I have been extremely happy with it’s performance during my trip. I used my Macbook Pro 15 for the full 12 hour flights to and from China and used the Hypermac several times as a power source over the 3 weeks. I can’t give a stronger recommendation for this product.
How much weight is it in total?
How much weight is it for the charger for the external battery?
The MBP-100 weighs:
Battery and Cable 1lb 13.9 oz
Charger for the MBP-100 8.6 oz
Total for battery, charger, cables 2lbs 6.5 oz
Terry – thanks so much. This info was invaluable and your delivery was fantastic – and all off the cuff minus a teleprompter. You’re a hero.
I just got a 15″ mac book pro and I have the last powerbook (the aluminum edition) just before they went to the first macbook platform. I actually believe I like my powerbook better and am considering returning the macbook pro. The keyboard on the powerbook is more solid and the space bar is quieter (as is the keyboard in general) with less action.
This mac book pro is my 5th mac laptop. Just curious, do you think the mac book pro is that much better than the last powerbook?
Also, since I’m a writer I’ve always bought an extra battery for my laptops. If I keep the macbook pro, I’m definitely getting this external battery – especially since I also have an iphone.
Thank you so much. I’ll get the 100 model if I get the battery. The size looks portable enough to not weigh me down. Much much thanks for your research and great presentation.
Linda
Sounds like a great product. Will be checking that out more. Ever tried the Apple Airline Power Adapter?
It would be interesting to see the same test running the HyperMac battery to start rather than starting off the MBP battery. The company’s website suggests that as an option. The other question is the size of the HperMac charger. I have an MBA, and the battery life is poor. Using the Hypermac external would allow me to leave the MBA powerbrick behind, which might be a little smaller than the brick.
Great review Terry – thanks!
OK…we just spent a week with the MBP-100 and it is freakin’ amazing!
Never had we been able to just work and work and work…without having to look for an AC outlet!
FirstLook/FirstUse here:
http://www.rainydaymagazine.com/RDM2009/Home/November/Week2/RDMHomeNov1009.htm#HyperMac
Sincerely,
RainyDayInterns
Batterygeek.net has had these batteries for eons, though only in black and silver, for a lot less and they also include a free canvas carry case and a laptop cooling pad. Their 115Wh battery, for example, is $239 and their 222Wh battery is $475. Same size, same case shape, probably the same battery, though it’s hard to tell since the HyperMac site is more interested in displaying their models holding the batteries, as opposed to showing the batteries themselves. HyperMac also claims to have the world’s only external battery which works with all MacBooks and iPhones which is obviously not the truth.
The video actually makes you want to order one straight away. Although it looks a bit pricy it’s probably worth the money to avoid the frustration of running out of battery.