Laptop screen sizes usually range between 13 to 15 inches, wherein 14″ often works as a median laptop screen size. When comparing different laptops from different brands, specs like display type (LCD, LED, OLED) and resolutions matter substantially.
Standard laptop models feature an integrated 13- to 15-inch widescreen LCD screen with 1280×800 pixels resolution or 1366×768 pixels resolution. While this resolution is sufficient for basic Windows tasks, a bigger screen with a higher resolution is desirable for complete user satisfaction.
The specific size of a gadget is not a good marker of its quality or utility. The benefits and allure of a big laptop screen are difficult to top for many users. Others prioritize a small gadget that provides better portability. It all comes down to what you enjoy doing the most and how you plan to use your laptop.
Let’s take a comprehensive look at some of the various factors that help in determining your ideal laptop screen size.
Laptop Screen Sizes: Which is Best
Laptop displays typically range from 11” to 17”, with 14” or 15” being the most prevalent. However, bear in mind that your requirements as a user determine the best laptop screen size.
Take a look at the laptop size comparison chart below, including popular brands’ screen sizes for different laptops.
| Laptop Screen Size | Popular Laptop Model | Screen Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| 11.6-inches | ASUS L210 Ultra Thin | 1366 x 768 |
| 12.5-inches | Lenovo Thinkpad X280 | 1920 x 1080 |
| 13.3-inches | Apple MacBook Pro | 2560×1600 |
| 14-inches | HP Chromebook X360 | 1366 x 768 |
| 15.6-inches | ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo | 4K UHD |
| 17.3-inches | Lenovo Thinkpad P17 | 4K UHD |
The laptop size comparison chart shows that the laptop screen size does not always correspond to the highest resolution. But the higher resolution does bring a higher visual quality to a laptop with a smaller display.
For instance, 1366 x 768 pixels screen resolution will appear sharper on an 11-inch laptop than it will on a 17-inch laptop to a casual observer. However, it is reasonable to conclude that displays smaller than 13-inches are regarded as small, those between 13 and 15.6 inches are deemed moderate, and those above 15.6-inches are labeled large and rank lower on portability.
Typically, the most popular laptop screen size has been 15.6 inches. Lately, several other sizes have begun to make their way to consumers.
Nonetheless, some are gaining popularity depending on specific demands (for example, tiny 11.6-inch laptops are gaining popularity among student groups, whereas gamers, graphic designers, and others prefer 17.3-inch laptops).
However, how can you choose what laptop screen size is best for you and your needs?
How to Measure Laptop Screen Sizes
If you’re uncertain about the screen size of your laptop and do not even have the exact model number to do an instant Google search, you can easily measure your laptop screen size manually.
Every screen size is measured diagonally from one corner to another in inches. The following are the steps for measuring your laptop screen size by yourself:
How to measure laptop screen size with a measuring tape:
- Open your laptop and put the measuring tape in the upper-left corner of the screen. Only the screen should be measured, not the laptop as a whole
- Pull the measuring tape to the lower right corner of the screen and tighten it up
- Check the measurements on your measuring tape to know the exact laptop screen size
What Are Standard Laptop Screen Sizes
Let’s go over different laptop screen sizes and dimensions available on the market.
11-inch to 12-inch Laptop Sizes
This range of laptops is where you’ll find the tiniest and lightest models. They’re generally between 2.5 and 3.5 pounds in weight. 11-inch to 12-inch laptops are also called notebooks. They are ideal for moderate usage and best suited for those who want portability.
13-inch to 14-inch Laptop Sizes
Laptops in this size range are lightweight and convenient to carry around. They are heavier than notebooks but are still relatively portable. Some of Apple’s MacBooks fall in this size range and are highly recommended by professionals on the move. MacBook Air is a prime example as it is lightweight with a slim design.
15-inch Laptop Sizes
Laptops under this size range fall within the category of moderately sized. These laptops suit a majority of professions and weigh around 4.5 to 6 pounds. Most users appreciate the decent screen size. The screen size is also suitable for watching video content and carrying out design-related tasks.
17-inch to 18-inch Laptop Sizes
These are the biggest laptop screen sizes that you can buy right now on Amazon. The larger screen size offers the best of both worlds for professional and entertainment. Of course, the portability takes a minor hit, but with the right accessories like a sturdy laptop bag, you can still carry it around.
Laptop Screen Sizes: Advantages
Both larger screens and smaller screens have their own set of advantages. Let us explain the advantages below.
Larger Screens
Larger screens have what’s known as a broad field of vision as their main advantage. Because large displays are more expansive, you can stand farther away from them and still see clearly.
Wider viewing angles on screens may have various effects, and growing research suggests that large panels increase productivity and overall user experience.
Larger screens can benefit both business and leisure activities, although they may sacrifice mobility. That’s important because a larger display and keyboard have a greater total weight and size. With advances in technology, it’s now feasible to purchase 17-inch laptops around 1 inch thick.
What difference the excess weight and inches make is ultimately your call. You may not be too concerned about the weight. Some people find that carrying a heavier laptop gives them a greater sense of security because they believe it will protect them from mishaps or slips. Others, on the other hand, complain that it’s cumbersome and infuriating.
Smaller Screens
Smaller screen laptops tend to be more lightweight and compact compared to larger screen laptops. There are versions available that have an excellent resolution but have a reduced viewing angle. With a smaller screen, you get a laptop with a significantly slimmer aesthetic, which could be many pounds lighter than larger screen laptops.
Small screens are ideal if you want portability and freedom to work anywhere, even in a bustling cafeteria or park. Smaller displays usually use much less power than bigger ones, so consider this when choosing a compact laptop, also known as a notebook.
Important Things to Remember While Shopping Laptop Screen Sizes
Although we’ve tried to be as thorough as possible, there may be more factors to consider when distinguishing laptop screen sizes. We provide answers to questions that you need to ask yourself when deciding on a laptop screen size.
Do You Like Your Current Laptop Screen Size
This is the most critical question you need to ask yourself when researching laptop screen sizes. Are you happy with the screen size of your current laptop? We presume that you question whether the screen size is ideal, and that’s why you want to know more about different laptop screen sizes. Go for a screen size that solves the hardship that you are facing on your current laptop.
Also, do you know the exact size of your existing laptop’s screen? We’ve already discussed how to figure out screen size, but we cannot emphasize how important it is to steer clear of any misunderstandings.
It’s important to make a laptop screen size comparison between your current laptop and what you’re looking for in a new laptop.
How Portable Do You Need Your Laptop To Be
Some laptop users treat them as a portable desktop PC and take them everywhere they go. A larger screen is less of a hassle when you use it occasionally, improving your overall user experience.
Those who want something portable for their business, education, or travel will find that smaller screen laptops are the best option. Having a laptop with a smaller screen size makes it easier to concentrate on your work while you’re in a crowded environment.
Do You Use Your Laptop For Multimedia Activities
Simple: “What am I most likely to do on my laptop?” Having a bigger screen is helpful if you use your laptop to watch movies or listen to music. It gives you a wider field of view and more clarity, so you can use and enjoy content on streaming services or video games.
This may be the most significant factor for some users. For gaming enthusiasts and streamers, upgrading to a larger or higher-resolution display may make all the difference.
How Much Room Do You Have In Your Current Workspace
If you are using your laptop mainly in a particular setting, such as a home office or a business, the size of that room will help decide the best possible display size. Most laptop users who work from home connect an external monitor with their laptop for productivity. They only unplug the laptop when they are moving and want to get work done outside their home. However, other users acquire a laptop-only habit. They like to have the freedom of movement, at home and outside.
A larger display may be heavy and inconvenient in a small or congested environment, eliminating many of its advantages. However, if it’s your only screen, you may want bigger screen real estate nonetheless. Keep in mind that a larger screen also means a requirement for a larger space to keep it. This means you’ll have less free space on your desk, especially if your external monitor takes up some of that space.
How To Choose Your Display Dimensions
If you’re torn between different laptop dimensions, your decision is likely based more on personal taste. The decision comes down to your preferences and lifestyle because laptops provide convenience and increasingly advanced capabilities. Although laptops come in various sizes, you can quickly narrow down your laptop search by choosing your preferred screen size.
Even though larger screens can be more productive and provide an enhanced visual experience, smaller screens are more practical for travelers and daily commuters. The most important considerations are comfort and ease of usage, not size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answers to some of the most googled questions about laptop screen sizes.
What size is 15.6 laptop screen?
The standard measurement for a 15.6-inch laptop is 13.6-inch in width (side by side). Diagonally that comes to 15.6-inches which is your laptop screen size.
What is the best size of laptop screen?
Laptop screen sizes between 13.3-inch to 15.6-inch offer an ideal balance between user experience and portability. Larger than 15.6-inch is best for those who don’t move much, while smaller than 13.3-inch is best suited for general tasks.
Is an 11.6 inch screen big enough?
11.6-inch laptops have a screen size closer to tablets. Although they score high marks on portability, users can struggle with a small keyboard and trackpad on such laptops. They are big enough for kids but may not be for adults.
Is 11 inches too small for laptop?
Yes, 11-inches is not a large enough laptop meant for adult users. However, for kids, these laptops are the best option.
Is a 10 inch laptop too small?
Yes, a 10-inch laptop is too small. However, if you are not going to use it for long hours and just want a laptop with you while on the move for basic tasks, you might be able to work with it. It’s worth remembering that a 10-inch laptop will have a pretty small keyboard and trackpad too.
Conclusion
To sum up, a smaller screen laptop is best for those who travel a lot and work on the move, while a larger screen laptop is for those who desire the best visual experience and entertainment. You can visit a physical store to check the size yourself and then make the purchase online since that’s where you find better offers, right?
We hope our guide helps you better understand laptop screen sizes and make the best buying decision well-suited to your requirements. Let us know in the comments!
