When looking to purchase a new laptop, one of the most important factors to consider is the screen size. A laptop’s screen size will determine its overall portability and how comfortable it is to use for long periods of time. It also affects the viewing experience when watching videos or playing games.
In general, larger screens are better for gaming and media consumption, while smaller screens are more portable and convenient for on-the-go use. In this guide, we will discuss the different screen sizes available and the pros and cons of each, so you can choose the best laptop for your needs.
Laptop Screen Sizes
Laptop screen sizes typically range from 11 inches to 17 inches, with a few variations in between.
| Screen Size | Approximate Dimensions | Portability | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 inches | Small | Highly portable | Travel, school, and work |
| 13 inches | Compact | Portable | Work and entertainment |
| 14 inches | Slightly larger than 13 inches | Portable | Work and entertainment |
| 15 inches | Medium | Portable | Work and entertainment |
| 16 inches | Larger than 15 inches | Somewhat portable | Work and entertainment |
| 17 inches | Very large | Less portable | Work and entertainment |
How to Choose the Right Size Laptop for Your Task
When choosing the right size laptop, there are a few key factors to consider:
Purpose
Consider what you will primarily be using the laptop for. If you plan to use it primarily for work or school, a larger laptop with a larger screen may be more suitable. If you plan to use it primarily for travel or on the go, a smaller, more portable laptop may be a better fit.
Portability
Consider how often you will be transporting the laptop and how important portability is to you. Laptops come in a range of sizes, from small netbooks to large 17-inch models.
Display size
Think about how important the screen size is to you, and how you plan to use it. If you plan to use the laptop for media consumption or gaming, a larger screen may be desirable.
Budget
Keep in mind that larger laptops tend to be more expensive than smaller ones, so consider your budget when making your decision.
Ultimately, the right size laptop for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s a good idea to try out different sizes in person, if possible, to get a sense of which size feels most comfortable for you.
Who Should You Buy Small Screen Laptops?
Small-screen laptops, also known as netbooks, are good for individuals who prioritize portability and have basic computing needs such as web browsing, email, and document editing.
These laptops are typically lightweight, have smaller screens (usually around 10 inches), and have less powerful hardware compared to larger laptops. They are also typically more affordable. They are well-suited for students, travellers, and anyone who frequently works on the go.
Who Should You Buy Large Screen Laptops?
Large-screen laptops, also known as desktop replacement laptops, are good for individuals who prioritize screen real estate and have more demanding computing needs such as video and photo editing, gaming, and running multiple applications simultaneously.
These laptops typically have larger screens (usually 15 inches or more), more powerful hardware, and often a dedicated graphics card. They are also usually heavier and less portable compared to smaller laptops. They are well suited for professionals, content creators, and gamers who need a more powerful machine and more screen space.
FAQ
Is 15.6 inches good for a laptop?
A 15.6-inch laptop is a popular size and can be a good choice for many people. The advantages of a 15.6-inch laptop include:
The 15.6-inch screen size is large enough to comfortably display most content, making it a good choice for media consumption, gaming, and working with multiple windows open at once.
Laptops with 15.6-inch screens often have more powerful hardware and better performance than smaller laptops, making them a good choice for tasks that require more processing power.
The larger size of a 15.6-inch laptop can provide a more comfortable typing experience and a larger touchpad, making it easier to use.
What is the most popular size laptop?
The most popular size laptop is the 15.6-inch laptop. This site is considered a “sweet spot” for many people as it offers a balance of portability and screen size. The 15.6-inch screen size is large enough to comfortably display most content, making it a good choice for media consumption, gaming, and working with multiple windows open at once.
Additionally, laptops with 15.6-inch screens often have more powerful hardware and better performance than smaller laptops, making them a good choice for tasks that require more processing power.
However, it’s worth noting that with the increasing popularity of 2-in-1 laptops, detachable laptops and tablets, the demand for smaller laptops like the 13.3-inch, 12-inch and 11-inch laptops has been increasing as well.
And the trend of working from home and remote learning has increased the demand for larger laptops like 17-inch and 18-inch laptops. So, depending on your usage and preference, you can choose the size that best fits your needs.
How do you determine the size of a laptop?
The size of a laptop is typically determined by the size of the screen. It’s measured diagonally from one corner of the screen to the opposite corner. The most common sizes for laptops are 11.6 inches, 13.3 inches, 14 inches, 15.6 inches and 17.3 inches.
Some manufacturers may also give the dimensions of the laptop in terms of width, depth, and height. These measurements can give you an idea of how compact or bulky the laptop is, and can be useful when trying to determine if a laptop will fit comfortably in a bag or on a desk.
It’s also worth noting that the size of a laptop also includes its weight. Laptops with larger screens tend to be heavier than those with smaller screens, so if you plan to travel frequently with your laptop, it’s important to consider the weight of the device as well as its size.
When choosing the size of a laptop, it is important to consider how you will use it, for example, a larger screen may be more suitable for media consumption or gaming, while a smaller, more portable laptop may be better for travel or on-the-go use.