Flexi working — or the ability to work out of two or more places every day may seem like a dream come true, but it comes with the added responsibility of lugging your laptop back and forth.
To make sure you are investing enough in a laptop bag that can handle the entire day’s worth of work, the first thing you need to do is to determine the correct laptop screen size. But it is not as easy as it seems.
Worry not because this blog has got you covered. Here are a few simple steps to help you measure the screen size of your laptop.
What Is the Screen Size Of Your Laptop?
It is a general question most people will ask when they are investing in a laptop bag. The laptop screen size, or the size of a laptop called in general, refers to its diagonal measurement across its width and length. The screen dimensions are measured in centimeters.
In general, the laptop screens of most laptops are 19 to 20 inches. Laptop screens tend to come in different sizes, and their measurement can be a bit confusing. Since most laptops have the same or similar screen sizes, it is best to know what size you should look for when hunting for a laptop bag.
Here’s what you need to know:
The width is measured across the center of the screen, and this is usually about 12 inches or so. The length of the laptop is measured from the bottom to the top of the screen. They are usually 18 inches or so, but it all depends on different laptops, brands, models, etc.
Note: Laptop brands are not always consistent in measuring their laptop screens. For instance, Apple uses a different dimension to measure their laptops than other brands such as Acer and HP. Consequently, each measurement might be slightly different from each other depending on brand and model.
How To Measure Laptop Size?
Now, time to know your laptop size. Check out the steps below to help you determine the screen size of your laptop:
Use A Standard Tape Measure
A tape measure is a common tool used to measure small objects and distances. These are usually more accurate than any other measuring tool.
To start, place your laptop on a flat working area, such as a table. The aluminum outer case of the laptop should face up to make it easier to measure the screen size. Now, hold the end of the tape measure at one end of the screen; let’s say the top left corner for this example.
Start Measuring Your Laptop Screen Size
Then bring it down the length until it reaches the bottom right screen corner; mark.
Then, lift the tape measure up and bring it to the top right corner and grab the next corner on the laptop screen. It is your laptop dimensions.
Of course, you will need to measure all corners on your laptop screen, including left, right, and bottom sides, for a more accurate measurement.
Record the measurements
Take note of the measurements you took. Also, make sure you repeat these measurements once again to ensure accuracy.
Convert the size in inches
Whether you measure metric or inches, you will need to convert the size unit. To do this, multiply the width by the length’s decimal value.
Here’s an example:
- computer screen width (in) = 12 x 0.236 = 2.36 inches
- computer screen length (in) = 18 x 0.236 = 3.48 inches
This is crucial when choosing the right size bag for your laptop.
Check the Size
Now, make sure you have chosen an appropriate bag that can fit your laptop and accessories based on the screen size. Make sure it has enough space to fit extra cables, mouse, keyboard, documents, and other peripherals.
It is best to measure the screen dimensions of your laptop first before measuring the laptop dimensions. This will help you determine if your current bag is enough to hold your laptop.
However, if there is some amount of space left at the bottom and top of the screen, this doesn’t mean it will fit a larger laptop bag.
How to Identify Your Laptop Size Without Measuring It?
With the laptop screen size, you will know what size laptop bag to get. However, if you don’t know how to measure your laptop screen, you can still identify its size. It is pretty simple and straightforward.
The easiest way would be to check your manuals and specifications. The majority of laptops usually have their measurement printed on them somewhere. You can also check the plastic sticker located at the bottom of your laptop or on its side. It will probably say what size of bag to use.
If you do not have the laptop manual or specification, you can always identify the size of your laptop without measuring it. Here are some tips:
The first thing you want to do is look at your device and see its size. Some laptops are pretty standard sizes, such as 13 inches, 15 inches, 17 inches, etc.
Check its dimensions. If you do not know the dimensions of your laptop, you can always look at an image online. You can find these images of laptops in different online stores, magazines or catalogs.
Ensure that the bag that you’re planning to buy is a horizontal bag or a laptop backpack and not vertical. Vertical bags will not be useful for laptops because vertical bags or backpacks are meant for tablets and other portable devices and not laptops.
If you are trying to buy a laptop skin or sleeve, you may want to consider getting the same exact size as the device. This way, it will look more modern and appealing.
If There Is Less Space
Here’s the point where you have to make your decision. If there is less space, it will be difficult for you to carry your laptop at both ends and shoulders, or decide if it could be a laptop bag that has the right characteristics to fit your laptop.
Remember that the size of the bag is measured on how much space is left between your laptop and body; this does not include any extra space between the case of the laptop and other stuff inside.
So, you need to make the decision if it is worth the risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a 15.6-inch laptop?
A 15.6-inch laptop is a standard size for many laptops. It is the average screen size used for most laptops because it gives you enough space to do your work without being too big to carry around.
Can a 15.6-inch laptop fit in a 15-inch case?
Yes, depending on the laptop manufacturer and the bag itself, 15.6-inch laptops will fit into a 15-inch laptop case. You may have to push them in a little bit more, but it should be fine. Just make sure that they are an even distance apart. The thickness of the sleeve or bag should be about an inch so that it does not break or crack.
Is laptop size measured diagonally?
Yes, laptop size is measured in two directions. When you’re looking at the dimensions of your laptop’s screen and reading its dimensions, it is crucial to measure both on the left and on the right. These are called diagonal dimensions. It does not matter which way you measure them because it is entirely up to you which direction you choose.
What is the standard laptop size?
The standard laptop size is 15.6 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, or 17.3 inches. These are relatively common sizes that most laptops use for their screen. We highly recommend the 15.6 inches size if you’re really on the fence because it is the most popular laptop size out there.
What are the dimensions of a 17-inch laptop?
The dimensions of a 17-inch laptop are 19.75 inches by 1.75 inches by 13.43 inches. You may check the dimensions of your laptop before you buy or when you’re looking at the actual screen size.
A 17-inch laptop case weighs 2 pounds, 2 ounces because it is made out of durable plastic and then rubberized using silicon. When it is put together, the weight of the sleeve is usually between 3 to 5 pounds.
Conclusion
Measuring your laptop is not a difficult task as it seems. You just have to follow these few simple steps and you will be done in no time. If you go online then there are several websites that will give you a printable laptop sleeve size chart.
