F8Sn battery options?

My friend and I have been shopping around for the best 14.1" laptop we can get, and the F8Sn (particulary the C1 config) appears to be exactly what we want. But one thing is giving us pause about buying it: the dismal 2hr battery life. I've noticed that Asus doesn't exactly do well with power management in most of their models, many of which I see seem to only offer a 6-cell as the main option. I really don't intend to carry a second 6-cell battery around with me to swap out in order to do something as simple as watch a long movie. The only things keeping me from getting a Dell 1420 or HP dv2700t, which offer 9-cell and 12-cell options respectively, are 1) the weaker 8400M GS GPU and 2) the Asus is simply an all-around better unit. Does Asus typically eventually get around to releasing stronger batteries for their more popular brands? Does anyone know if any other Asus or 3rd-party higher-capacity batteries are compatible with F8Sn? Although I will have the system plugged into the a/c outlet most times, I do travel enough that I need it to last longer than 2hrs. I'm accustomed to getting 4-5 hrs out of my past 15.4" systems, but I'd prefer a 14.1" one now for portability. And I'd really rather not have to downgrade to the W7Sg just to get the option for a 9-cell. Any news or advice are greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

There is no 9 cell battery for F8S series and that's because there is no room for bigger battery:




unlike other models M51Sn, M50Sv the battery can stick out to the back for lager battery:

 

Thanks a lot for the quick reply, Ken. I guess I've got some hard thinking to do...

 

Yeah, ASUS aren't very good with power mgmt and if battery life is a main concern for you I suggest you stay away from the current ASUS models, perhaps even those that do accept 9-cell batts...

Also, I wouldn't exactly call F8Sn --> W7Sg a "downgrade". Maybe so in configuration, but it is not so in build quality.

 

What's wrong with the F8Sn build quality? I am looking at purchasing a notebook and this seemed like the one for me.

Prior to investigating the F8Sn, I was thinking of a Dell M1330 but the 9500M and general look of the ASUS made it seem more appealing. However I believe the Dell has much better battery life.

Basically what I am looking for:
-Half decent performance in games
-Not that heavy (nothing over 15"... smaller is better)
-Battery life a big bonus

Is the F8Sn really going to suck down the battery juice?

 

I guess the low battery life can't be changed then. I wish it could be extended though since I was considering buying this notebook.