How to Measure Laptop Screen Size: Complete Guide (2025)

January 19, 2025 Screen Size Checker Team 17 min read

How to Measure Laptop Screen Size: Complete Guide (2025)

Knowing your laptop screen size is essential when buying a replacement screen, choosing a laptop bag, or comparing laptops for purchase. Unlike desktop monitors, laptop screens have additional considerations like bezel size and overall portability. This comprehensive guide shows you multiple methods to accurately determine your laptop screen size.

Quick Answer: To measure laptop screen size, use a ruler or tape measure to measure the diagonal distance from one corner of the screen to the opposite corner, excluding the bezel (frame around the screen). This measurement in inches is your laptop screen size (e.g., 13.3", 15.6", 17.3"). Most laptops have this size in their model name or specifications.

In this guide, we'll cover 5 different methods to find your laptop screen size, troubleshooting tips, and everything you need to know about laptop screen dimensions.

Why Laptop Screen Size Matters

Understanding your laptop screen size is crucial for several reasons:

For Replacement and Repairs:

  • Ordering the correct replacement screen
  • Ensuring compatibility with your laptop model
  • Verifying warranty coverage and specifications

For Purchases and Upgrades:

  • Comparing screen sizes when buying a new laptop
  • Understanding screen real estate vs. portability trade-offs
  • Matching accessories like screen protectors and privacy filters

For Accessories:

  • Choosing the right laptop bag or sleeve
  • Selecting appropriate screen protectors
  • Finding compatible stands and risers

For Workstation Setup:

  • Planning dual-display configurations
  • Calculating optimal viewing distance
  • Designing ergonomic workspace layouts

Understanding Laptop Screen Terminology

Before measuring, let's clarify key terms specific to laptops:

Diagonal Measurement

What it means: Distance from one corner to the diagonally opposite corner
Standard: Always measured in inches (13.3", 14", 15.6", 17.3")
Industry convention: Same as desktop monitors, diagonal measurement is universal

Aspect Ratio

Common ratios:

  • 16:9 (Widescreen) - Most common, gaming and multimedia
  • 16:10 (Slightly taller) - Growing popularity, better for productivity
  • 3:2 (Taller) - Microsoft Surface line, excellent for documents
  • 4:3 (Traditional) - Rare on modern laptops, older models only

Screen vs. Laptop Size

Screen size: The diagonal measurement of the display only
Laptop size: Overall dimensions including chassis, bezel, and keyboard
Example: A 15.6" laptop (screen) might have 16" total width

Bezel

What it is: The frame/border around the screen
Modern trend: Thinner bezels ("narrow bezel", "edge-to-edge")
Impact: Same screen size can have different overall laptop dimensions

Resolution vs. Size

Screen size: Physical diagonal measurement (15.6")
Resolution: Number of pixels (1920×1080, 2560×1440)
Independent: Same size can have different resolutions

Method 1: Measure with a Ruler or Tape Measure (Most Accurate)

This is the gold standard for determining exact laptop screen size.

What You'll Need

  • Ruler or tape measure (at least 18 inches/45 cm)
  • Good lighting
  • Your laptop (powered off recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Laptop

Best practice:

  1. Power off your laptop (makes edges easier to see)
  2. Open the lid fully to 90-180 degrees
  3. Clean the screen (optional, but helps visibility)
  4. Place on flat surface for stability

Step 2: Identify the Screen Edges

Critical: Locate where the actual display ends and the bezel begins.

Tips for identifying screen boundaries:

  • Look for the border: Active display area vs. black frame
  • Touch test: Gently feel where glass/screen surface begins
  • Power on briefly: See where pixels end (then power off)
  • Check for subtle step: Often a slight physical edge where screen meets bezel

Common laptop screen boundaries:

  • Some laptops have thin bezels with no visible gap
  • Others have pronounced bezels with clear separation
  • Touch screens may have glass extending to bezel edge (measure actual display area, not glass)

Step 3: Position Your Measuring Tool

For diagonal measurement:

  1. Place ruler/tape end at bottom-left corner of the screen (not bezel)
  2. Extend diagonally to top-right corner of the screen
  3. Keep the ruler straight across the diagonal
  4. Ensure you're measuring only the screen, not the bezel

Pro tip:

  • For rigid rulers: Hold firmly at both ends
  • For tape measures: Pull taut to avoid sagging in the middle
  • Alternative diagonal: Bottom-right to top-left (should match)

Step 4: Read the Measurement

Reading accurately:

  • Note measurement to nearest 0.1 inch or millimeter
  • Don't include bezel/frame in measurement
  • Round to nearest standard laptop size:
    • 11.6", 12.5", 13.3", 14", 15.6", 17.3"

Standard laptop screen sizes:

  • 11"-12": Ultra-portable, netbooks
  • 13"-14": Portable, mainstream ultrabooks
  • 15"-16": Most common, balanced portability
  • 17"+: Desktop replacement, gaming laptops

Step 5: Verify Your Measurement

Double-check by:

  • Measuring the opposite diagonal
  • Checking model specifications (if available)
  • Comparing to similar laptops
  • Ensuring measurement falls near standard size

Common Measurement Mistakes

❌ Including the bezel: Only measure active screen area
❌ Measuring width or height: Laptop screen size is always diagonal
❌ Measuring with laptop closed: Need access to screen
❌ Not holding ruler straight: Keep perfectly diagonal
❌ Including touchscreen glass overhang: Measure display area only

Special Cases

For touchscreen laptops:

  • Measure the active display area, not the glass edge
  • Glass often extends slightly beyond the display
  • Look for the backlit area when powered on

For laptops with thin bezels:

  • Screen edge is very close to laptop edge
  • Be precise with corner placement
  • May need to power on briefly to see exact boundary

For 2-in-1 convertibles:

  • Measure the same way as regular laptops
  • Tablet mode doesn't change screen size
  • Bezels often slightly thicker for handling

Method 2: Check Your Laptop Model Number (Fastest)

Most laptop manufacturers include screen size in the model number or name.

Finding Your Model Number

Physical locations:

  1. Bottom of laptop: Most common location (sticker)
  2. Inside battery compartment: Remove battery to check
  3. Palm rest area: Sometimes printed below keyboard
  4. Behind screen: On back of display panel
  5. Original packaging: Box and documentation

Windows method:

  1. Press Windows + R
  2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter
  3. Look for System Model or System Manufacturer
  4. Note the full model name/number

macOS method:

  1. Click Apple menu → About This Mac
  2. View model name (e.g., "MacBook Pro 16-inch, 2023")
  3. Screen size is in the name

Linux method:

sudo dmidecode -s system-product-name

Decoding Model Numbers

Many manufacturers encode screen size in model numbers:

Dell:

  • Inspiron 15 3000 = 15.6"
  • XPS 13 = 13.3" or 13.4"
  • Latitude 14 = 14"
  • Precision 17 = 17.3"

HP:

  • Pavilion 15 = 15.6"
  • EliteBook 14 = 14"
  • Envy 17 = 17.3"
  • Spectre x360 13 = 13.3"

Lenovo:

  • ThinkPad T14 = 14"
  • IdeaPad 15 = 15.6"
  • Yoga 13 = 13.3"
  • Legion 17 = 17.3"

ASUS:

  • ZenBook 14 = 14"
  • VivoBook 15 = 15.6"
  • ROG Zephyrus G14 = 14"
  • TUF Gaming 17 = 17.3"

Acer:

  • Aspire 15 = 15.6"
  • Swift 14 = 14"
  • Predator Helios 17 = 17.3"

MacBook (Apple):

  • MacBook Air 13 = 13.3" or 13.6"
  • MacBook Pro 14 = 14.2"
  • MacBook Pro 16 = 16.2"

General pattern: Look for 2-digit numbers (13, 14, 15, 17) in the model name.

Method 3: Check System Specifications

Your operating system can provide display information.

Windows 10/11

Method 1: Display Settings

  1. Right-click desktop → Display settings
  2. Scroll to Advanced display settings
  3. View Display name (may include size)
  4. Note Resolution (helps confirm size)

Method 2: System Information

  1. Press Windows + R
  2. Type dxdiag and press Enter
  3. Go to Display tab
  4. View monitor name and specifications

Method 3: Device Manager

  1. Open Device Manager
  2. Expand Monitors
  3. Right-click monitor → Properties
  4. Check Details tab for hardware ID

What this tells you:

  • Display resolution (not physical size directly)
  • Sometimes manufacturer and model
  • Connection type and refresh rate

macOS

Built-in display info:

  1. Apple menu → About This Mac
  2. Click Displays
  3. View display specifications
  4. Screen size shown directly

System Information method:

  1. Hold Option while clicking About This Mac
  2. Or Apple menu → System Information
  3. Select Graphics/Displays
  4. View detailed display information

Linux

Using terminal:

# View display info
xrandr | grep " connected"

# Get detailed info
hwinfo --monitor

# Check display specs
lshw -C display

Using system settings:

  • Settings → Displays
  • View resolution and refresh rate
  • Some distros show physical size

Method 4: Check Manufacturer Specifications Online

For official specifications, search online using your model number.

Where to Find Specifications

Manufacturer websites:

  1. Visit brand's official support site
  2. Enter your model number
  3. View Technical Specifications section
  4. Find Display or Screen specifications

Search strategy:

  • Search "[your model number] specifications"
  • Look for official product pages
  • Check PDF manuals and datasheets

Retail sites:

  • Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg product pages
  • Filter by your exact model
  • Check Technical Details section

Specification databases:

  • Notebook Check: Comprehensive laptop database
  • Laptop Mag: Reviews with full specs
  • CNET: Product specifications

What to Look For

Display specifications typically include:

  • Screen size: "15.6-inch diagonal"
  • Resolution: "1920 x 1080 (Full HD)"
  • Panel type: IPS, TN, OLED, etc.
  • Aspect ratio: 16:9, 16:10, 3:2
  • Touchscreen: Yes/No
  • Brightness: Measured in nits
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz, etc.

Method 5: Use Our Online Tool

Our Screen Size Checker can help verify your laptop screen size.

Using Screen Size Checker

What our tool provides:

  1. Auto-detect resolution: See your current display resolution
  2. Device information: Including browser and OS details
  3. PPI calculator: Input your screen size to verify pixel density
  4. Visual ruler: Calibrate and measure on-screen

How to use for verification:

  1. Visit our Screen Size Checker
  2. Note your detected resolution
  3. Compare with typical resolution/size combinations
  4. Use PPI calculator to verify your measurement

Typical laptop resolution/size combinations:

Resolution Common Laptop Sizes
1366×768 11.6", 13.3", 15.6" (budget)
1920×1080 (FHD) 13.3", 14", 15.6", 17.3"
2560×1440 (QHD) 13.3", 14", 15.6"
2560×1600 (16:10) 13", 14", 16"
3840×2160 (4K) 15.6", 17.3"
2880×1800 15" (MacBook Pro)
3024×1964 (3:2) 13.5", 15" (Surface)

Common Laptop Screen Sizes Explained

Ultra-Portable (11"-12")

Typical specs:

  • Weight: 2-2.5 lbs (0.9-1.1 kg)
  • Resolution: 1366×768 or 1920×1080
  • Use cases: Travel, basic tasks, students

Pros: Extremely portable, long battery life
Cons: Limited screen real estate, sometimes uncomfortable for long use

Popular models:

  • 11.6": HP Stream, some Chromebooks
  • 12.5": Lenovo ThinkPad X260 (older)

Portable (13"-14")

Typical specs:

  • Weight: 2.5-3.5 lbs (1.1-1.6 kg)
  • Resolution: 1920×1080, 2560×1440, or 2560×1600
  • Use cases: Professionals, students, travelers

Pros: Best balance portability/usability, premium builds
Cons: More expensive, limited GPU options

Popular models:

  • 13.3": MacBook Air, Dell XPS 13, HP Spectre x360
  • 14": Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, ASUS ZenBook 14

Mainstream (15"-16")

Typical specs:

  • Weight: 3.5-5 lbs (1.6-2.3 kg)
  • Resolution: 1920×1080 or 3840×2160
  • Use cases: General purpose, home/office, students

Pros: Most popular size, best value, upgradeable
Cons: Less portable, larger laptop bags needed

Popular models:

  • 15.6": Dell Inspiron 15, HP Pavilion, Acer Aspire
  • 16": MacBook Pro 16", Dell XPS 15

Desktop Replacement (17"+)

Typical specs:

  • Weight: 5-8+ lbs (2.3-3.6+ kg)
  • Resolution: 1920×1080 or 3840×2160
  • Use cases: Gaming, content creation, stationary use

Pros: Maximum screen space, best performance, full keyboards
Cons: Heavy, poor battery life, rarely portable

Popular models:

  • 17.3": ASUS ROG, MSI gaming laptops, Dell Precision

Understanding Aspect Ratios

16:9 (Widescreen) - Most Common

Dimensions example (15.6"):

  • Width: 13.6" (34.5 cm)
  • Height: 7.7" (19.5 cm)

Best for:

  • Gaming (matches most games)
  • Video watching (matches movies/TV)
  • General multimedia

Found in: Most gaming and budget laptops

16:10 (Productivity) - Growing Trend

Dimensions example (15.6"):

  • Width: 13.3" (33.8 cm)
  • Height: 8.3" (21.1 cm)

Best for:

  • Productivity (more vertical space)
  • Document editing
  • Web browsing (less scrolling)

Found in: Dell XPS, MacBook Pro, business laptops

3:2 (Taller) - Productivity Focused

Dimensions example (13.5"):

  • Width: 11.2" (28.4 cm)
  • Height: 7.5" (19.0 cm)

Best for:

  • Document work
  • Reading
  • Vertical scrolling tasks

Found in: Microsoft Surface line

4:3 (Traditional) - Rare

Found in: Older laptops (pre-2010 mostly)
Modern equivalent: Nearly extinct, replaced by 3:2

Troubleshooting Common Issues

My Measurement Doesn't Match Standard Sizes

Possible reasons:

  1. Unusual aspect ratio: Check if 16:10 or 3:2 instead of 16:9
  2. Measurement error: Re-measure carefully, excluding bezel
  3. Older laptop: Pre-2010 laptops had non-standard sizes
  4. Custom/industrial laptop: Specialized models

Solution:

  • Search your model online for exact size
  • Check manufacturer specifications
  • Measure again, being very precise with corners

Can't Find Model Number

Alternative methods:

  1. Original purchase receipt: Has model number
  2. Contact seller: If recently purchased
  3. BIOS/UEFI: Often shows model during boot
  4. Windows System Info: Sometimes reveals model
  5. Physical measurement: When all else fails

Model Number Doesn't Include Size

Some manufacturers use alphanumeric codes without size indication.

Examples:

  • Dell: "Inspiron 5570" (need to look up: it's 15.6")
  • ASUS: "X540UA" (need to look up: it's 15.6")

Solution: Search the full model number online.

Screen Seems Smaller Than Advertised

Common scenarios:

  1. Large bezels: Old laptops have big bezels, making screen seem smaller
  2. Aspect ratio: 16:10 looks different than 16:9 at same diagonal
  3. Actual vs. advertised: Usually accurate, but verify measurement
  4. Comparison issue: Comparing to different aspect ratio

Laptop Screen Size Buying Guide

Choosing the Right Size for Your Needs

For frequent travelers:

  • Recommended: 13"-14"
  • Why: Best portability without sacrificing too much usability
  • Consider: Weight, battery life, build quality

For students:

  • Recommended: 14"-15.6"
  • Why: Balance of portability and screen space for multi-tasking
  • Consider: Budget, durability, battery life

For professionals (office work):

  • Recommended: 14"-15.6"
  • Why: Adequate screen space, still reasonably portable
  • Consider: 16:10 aspect ratio for productivity

For content creators:

  • Recommended: 15"-17"
  • Why: Larger screen for editing, color accuracy important
  • Consider: High resolution, color gamut, calibration

For gamers:

  • Recommended: 15.6"-17.3"
  • Why: Immersion, performance hardware requires space
  • Consider: High refresh rate (144Hz+), response time

For home/stationary use:

  • Recommended: 15.6"-17"
  • Why: Portability less important, prioritize screen space
  • Consider: Adding external monitor for dual setup

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common laptop screen size?

15.6 inches is the most common laptop screen size globally, accounting for approximately 40-50% of laptop sales. It offers the best balance between screen real estate, portability, cost, and component availability. The second most popular is 13.3-14 inches for ultraportable laptops.

How do I measure a laptop screen with a broken screen?

If the screen is broken but display boundaries are still visible, measure the diagonal of the visible display area (not the bezel). If completely shattered, check your laptop model number on the bottom sticker or search online for your model's specifications. The screen size is almost always listed in official specs.

Does laptop screen size include the bezel?

No, laptop screen size does not include the bezel (frame). It only measures the active display area - the diagonal distance of the actual screen. This is why two laptops with the same screen size (e.g., 15.6") can have different overall dimensions if one has thinner bezels.

Can I replace my laptop screen with a different size?

Generally no. Laptop screens are specifically designed for each model. The screen size, mounting points, connector type, and cable length are model-specific. However, you can sometimes find screens with the same physical size but different resolution or panel type (IPS vs. TN) that are compatible. Always verify compatibility before purchasing.

What's the difference between laptop screen size and resolution?

Screen size is the physical diagonal measurement in inches (e.g., 15.6"). Resolution is the number of pixels (e.g., 1920×1080). They're independent - the same 15.6" screen can have 1366×768 (HD), 1920×1080 (Full HD), or 3840×2160 (4K) resolution. Higher resolution means sharper image but requires more GPU power.

Is a 15.6" laptop too big to carry?

It depends on your needs and tolerance. A 15.6" laptop typically weighs 4-5.5 lbs (1.8-2.5 kg) and fits in most backpacks. For daily commuting or frequent travel, 13-14" is generally more comfortable. For occasional carry between home and office, 15.6" is manageable. Consider a lightweight 15.6" model (under 4 lbs) if you need the screen space but want better portability.

How do I measure a MacBook screen?

Measure exactly the same way as any laptop: diagonal distance from corner to corner of the active display area only, excluding the black bezel. MacBooks make this easy because the aluminum bezel is clearly distinct from the glass display. For recent models, the size is in the product name (MacBook Pro 14-inch, 16-inch, MacBook Air 13-inch).

What laptop screen size is best for gaming?

15.6" to 17.3" is ideal for gaming laptops. 15.6" offers the best balance - still somewhat portable, fits gaming hardware, large enough for immersion. 17.3" provides maximum immersion but sacrifices portability. Screens smaller than 15" often can't fit high-performance gaming components. Also consider high refresh rate (144Hz+) which is more important than size for competitive gaming.

Best Practices for Laptop Screen Care

Protecting Your Screen

Daily care:

  • Close lid gently (don't slam)
  • Keep food and drinks away
  • Clean regularly with microfiber cloth
  • Avoid touching screen (especially non-touch models)

When traveling:

  • Use laptop sleeve or padded bag
  • Don't place heavy items on top in bag
  • Remove items from keyboard area before closing
  • Consider screen protector for touchscreens

Cleaning Your Screen

Safe cleaning method:

  1. Power off laptop
  2. Use microfiber cloth (dry for dust)
  3. For smudges: Slightly dampen cloth with distilled water
  4. Wipe gently in circular motions
  5. Dry with separate dry microfiber cloth

Don'ts:

  • Never use paper towels (scratches)
  • Avoid household cleaners (damage coating)
  • Don't spray directly on screen
  • Never use excessive pressure

Use Our Tools

Screen Size Checker: Check your current screen resolution and size
PPI Calculator: Calculate your screen's pixel density
Compare Tool: Compare different laptop screen sizes visually

Learn More

Related guides:

External resources:

  • Laptop manufacturer support sites for model specifications
  • Notebook Check for comprehensive laptop reviews and specs
  • Display specifications databases

Conclusion

Measuring your laptop screen size is straightforward with the right approach. Whether you use a physical ruler for the most accurate measurement, check your model number for quick identification, verify through system settings, or search specifications online, you now have multiple reliable methods.

Remember the key points:

  • ✅ Always measure diagonally from corner to corner
  • ✅ Exclude the bezel - measure only the active screen area
  • ✅ Most laptop sizes are standardized (11.6", 13.3", 14", 15.6", 17.3")
  • ✅ Check your model number - often includes screen size
  • ✅ Screen size ≠ resolution - they're independent specifications

With this knowledge, you can confidently determine any laptop screen size, make informed purchasing decisions, order the correct replacement parts, and choose accessories that fit perfectly.

Need help? Use our Screen Size Checker tool to verify your measurement and explore detailed information about your display.

Last updated: January 19, 2025

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