When buying a new laptop or looking for the right laptop bag or sleeve, you may wonder: “How do you measure laptop size?” It’s not always obvious, especially if you’re not familiar with how screen sizes work.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover
Laptop Size Guide
Understand, Measure, and Find the Right Fit
What Laptop Size Really Means
Laptop size refers to the diagonal measurement of the screen, not the overall dimensions of the body. It’s measured in inches from one corner of the screen to the opposite corner.
How to Measure It Using Inches or Centimeters
Use a measuring tape or ruler. Start from the bottom-left corner of the screen (not the bezel) and stretch it to the top-right corner. Convert inches to centimeters by multiplying by 2.54.
How to Find Laptop Size on Windows 10
On Windows 10, right-click on the desktop and select “Display settings.” Scroll down to view your screen resolution. While this doesn’t give you the physical size, it helps determine screen clarity (DPI). Use your model number to Google the exact size.
How to Measure Your Laptop for a Bag
- Measure the width (side to side)
- Measure the depth (front to back)
- Measure the height (top to bottom including screen)
Compare these measurements with the internal dimensions of the bag you’re planning to buy.
Standard Laptop Sizes in Inches and CM
- 11.6″ = 29.5 cm
- 13.3″ = 33.8 cm
- 14″ = 35.6 cm
- 15.6″ = 39.6 cm
- 17.3″ = 43.9 cm
FAQs
- Can I fit a 15.6″ laptop in a 15″ bag? – Usually no, always check bag dimensions.
- Is screen size the same as laptop size? – Mostly yes, but bezels vary slightly.
- Does resolution affect size? – No, resolution affects clarity, not physical size.
Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, knowing your laptop size helps you make better choices.
What Does “Laptop Size” Mean?
When we talk about “laptop size,” we usually mean the screen size, not the full laptop body. This screen size is measured diagonally—from one corner of the screen to the opposite corner. That means if your screen measures 15.6 inches from bottom-left to top-right (just the display, not the bezel), your laptop is called a 15.6-inch laptop.
How to Measure Laptop Size in Inches or CM
What You’ll Need:
- A measuring tape or ruler
- A steady hand
- Your laptop (opened)
Step-by-Step Guide
Place your laptop on a flat surface and open it all the way for a full screen view.
Start from the bottom-left corner of the actual screen (ignore the outer frame/bezel).
Pull the tape to the top-right corner in a straight diagonal line.
Done! You’ll see something like 13.3″, 14″, 15.6″, etc.
Multiply inches by 2.54.
🧠 Example: 15.6 inches × 2.54 = 39.62 cm
Now you know your screen size in both inches and centimeters — ready to shop for a laptop bag or sleeve!
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Open Your Laptop
Lay the laptop on a flat surface and fully open the screen. This makes it easier to measure diagonally.
2. Place the Measuring Tape at One Corner
Start at the bottom-left corner of the screen (not the outer case, just the screen).
3. Stretch It Diagonally to the Opposite Corner
Measure across to the top-right corner of the screen. Avoid including the black border (bezel) around the screen.
4. Read the Measurement
- If you’re using inches, your measurement will match standard laptop listings like 13.3″, 14″, 15.6″, etc.
- To measure laptop size in cm, just use a metric tape or multiply inches by 2.54.
Example: 15.6 inches × 2.54 = 39.62 cm
You can now describe your screen size both ways!
How to Know Screen Size of Laptop Without Measuring
What if you don’t have a ruler or tape?
Here’s how to check screen size of laptop in settings:
For Windows 10 Users:
- Click on the Start Menu
- Type “Display Settings”
- Scroll down to see the Resolution (like 1920×1080)
While this doesn’t show screen size directly, you can guess it based on the resolution and screen layout. But for an accurate size:
Try This:
- Open the Start Menu
- Type “About your PC”
- Scroll down to find your Device Specifications
- Some laptops will show screen size under “Device Name” (e.g., “HP Pavilion 15″ = 15.6”)
Or, search your laptop’s model number online, like “HP Laptop 15s-du1052tu screen size.”This is the best way to know how to measure laptop size in Windows 10 without a ruler.
How to Measure Laptop Size for a Bag
If you want a perfect-fit laptop bag, don’t stop at just screen size. Measure the full body of your laptop.
Dimension | How to Measure |
---|---|
Width | Side to side, across the keyboard |
Depth | Front to back, along the side edge |
Height | Thickness when closed (top to bottom) |
Why Full Dimensions Matter
Laptop sleeves and backpacks are sized based on the whole laptop body—not just the screen.
This is especially helpful if you’re wondering how to measure laptop size for bag shopping.
Standard Laptop Size in CM and Inches
Here’s a helpful conversion chart showing common laptop screen sizes in inches and centimeters:
Screen Size (Inches) | Approx. Size in CM | Usage Type |
---|---|---|
11.6″ | 29.5 cm | Travel, Chromebooks |
13.3″ | 33.8 cm | Lightweight business laptops |
14″ | 35.6 cm | Students, daily use |
15.6″ | 39.6 cm | Common standard size |
17.3″ | 43.9 cm | Gaming or editing laptops |
This chart is useful if you want to measure laptop size in cm for comparison or shopping abroad.
Bonus Tip: Measuring Laptop Screen vs Full Body
Many people confuse screen size with laptop dimensions. Here’s the difference:
- Screen Size: Diagonal size of only the display panel (used for marketing)
- Laptop Dimensions: Actual physical body (used for bags and accessories)
So if you’re buying a laptop sleeve or case, don’t only rely on the “15.6-inch” label. Check the body dimensions too!
How to Check Standard Laptop Sizes (By Brand)
Looking for HP laptop size in cm or another brand?
Use this shortcut:
- Search your laptop’s full model number online
- Type “screen size” or “dimensions”
- Example: HP Pavilion 15s-du3020tu size in cm
This method works for HP, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, ASUS, and more.
It’s a smart way to know the standard laptop size in cm without doing manual measuring.
Key Takeaways
So, how do you measure laptop size?
Just remember:
- Laptop screen size is measured diagonally
- Use inches or cm
- Don’t include the bezel when measuring
- To find the right bag, measure the full laptop body
- Use Windows settings or model search to check size without tools
Whether you’re comparing screen sizes, shopping for accessories, or choosing a new bag, now you know exactly how to find your laptop’s true size.
Conclusion
Understanding how to measure laptop size is essential, whether you’re buying a new device, comparing models, or selecting the right bag. By measuring diagonally across the screen and using the right units, you can easily determine the exact size in inches or centimeters. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions, ensuring your laptop fits comfortably into your lifestyle.
As you explore different laptop sizes like 11.6″, 13.3″, 15.6″, and 17.3″, remember that these dimensions may vary slightly based on the bezel and design. Knowing how to measure laptop size will guide you in selecting the perfect device for your needs, from lightweight travel options to powerful gaming laptops. Keep this guide handy for your next laptop purchase or shopping experience abroad, and ensure you’re always choosing the best laptop size that suits your personal or professional use. Laptop’s size and space both are the important specifications to buy. It is important to know that how much storage do you need on your laptop. Read the complete blog here: https://softuls.com/how-much-storage-do-you-really-need-on-your-laptop/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I measure my laptop screen size?
Measure diagonally from the bottom-left corner to the top-right corner of the screen using a measuring tape. Be sure to exclude the bezels and measure only the visible screen.
2. What is the difference between laptop screen size and laptop dimensions?
Screen size is the diagonal length of the display, while laptop dimensions refer to the width, depth, and height of the entire laptop body.
3. Can I use centimeters instead of inches to measure my laptop?
Yes, simply convert inches to centimeters by multiplying by 2.54. For example, a 15.6-inch laptop is approximately 39.6 cm.
4. Does the laptop bezel affect the screen size?
The bezel does not affect the official screen size, as it is not included in the measurement. However, it can influence the overall dimensions of the laptop body.
5. How can I check my laptop size without measuring it physically?
Search your laptop model online or check the specifications in your user manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
6. What size laptop bag should I get for a 15.6-inch laptop?
Choose a bag that supports 15.6″ or slightly larger laptops. Always check the internal dimensions (length, width, and height) of the bag to ensure a proper fit.
7. Is 13.3-inch considered a small laptop?
Yes, 13.3-inch laptops are typically lightweight and compact, ideal for travel, students, and remote work.
8. Are all 15.6-inch laptops the same size?
Not exactly. While the screen size is consistent, overall laptop dimensions may vary slightly depending on design, bezels, and keyboard layout.
9. Does resolution affect screen size?
No. Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen, not its physical size. A 13.3-inch screen can have a higher resolution than a 15.6-inch screen.
10. Can I carry a 17.3-inch laptop in a standard backpack?
A 17.3-inch laptop is larger than most standard backpacks. You’ll need a dedicated laptop backpack that supports 17″+ laptops.