I don't know what you mean by a "normal laptop". I disagree with the view that the battery should be expected to recharge to 100%. Rechargeable battery will undergo self-discharging when left unused for a long period of time.
Also new batteries are hard to be charged. Sometimes, your electronic device may indicate a fully charged condition about 10 to 15 minutes when the new battery pack is being charged for the first time. When this happens, remove the battery pack and let it cool down for about 10 to 15 minutes then repeat the charging procedure. Sometimes, a new battery will suddenly refuse to be charged. If this happens, a suggested solution is trying to remove the battery from the device and insert it again.
Hope this helps!!