Moore's Law still rings true with processor performance and hard-drive size, but notebook batteries haven't seen much of a bump in capacity in recent years. So the $300 Powergorilla portable notebook charger is a necessity for deep-pocketed notebook users who need to power their systems for extended periods without plugging in an AC adapter: It extends the battery life of your notebook computer and other electronic devices wherever you don't have access to a power outlet.

The Powergorilla packs an impressive 21,000 mAh of power into a package small enough to carry regularly in your laptop bag, providing additional juice whenever you happen to need it. A variety of power connectors--25, to be exact--are included with the Powergorilla, and include support for everything from notebooks to cell phones to portable gaming systems.

The device is also compatible with Apple notebooks, though you'll need to purchase the Apple airline adapter for use with the Powergorilla's car-charger socket. A USB power port allows you to charge any device with a USB power cable, including Apple iPhones and iPods.

I've been using the Powergorilla on a regular basis over the last two weeks, and it has been a lifesaver on several occasions, especially when compensating for my iPhone 3G's diminutive battery life while on the road. I took the device on a round-trip flight to St. Louis, and the Powergorilla was able to power my Apple MacBook for 5 hours of movie watching and Web surfing while it also charged my iPhone through its USB port.

A voltage selector allows you to choose between 16v, 19v and 24v depending on what you're powering. You can bump up the power when supporting multiple devices with the push of a button; the current output voltage is reflected on the Powergorilla's LCD.

In addition to output connectors, the 1.5lb Powergorilla includes an AC adapter with a variety of international plugs, and a neoprene zip case for storing the device and a selection of power connectors. You can also charge the Powergorilla with many notebook AC adapters, so you may be able to leave the device's AC adapter at home. The Powergorilla is available for purchase from EcoGeekLiving for just under $300. Unless the price drops closer to the $150 mark, however, it's difficult to justify spending $300 on a battery when many notebooks can now be had for only a couple hundred dollars more.