You’re shopping for a new laptop bag, a screen protector, or maybe just comparing models, and you hit a wall: what size is my laptop screen? It seems like a simple question, but measuring it incorrectly is a common mistake. Knowing the correct screen size ensures you buy the right accessories and helps you make informed decisions when upgrading your device.
The Right Way to Measure Your Screen
To measure your laptop screen correctly, you need to focus on the viewable area, not the plastic bezel surrounding it. Grab a soft measuring tape for the most accurate result. Place your laptop on a flat surface and measure from the top-left corner of the screen to the bottom-right corner. Remember, you are measuring only the glass part of the display, diagonally. This diagonal measurement in inches is the standard size used by manufacturers.
Why Measuring the Bezel is a Mistake
A common error is to include the black or colored plastic border (the bezel) in the measurement. If you measure from the outer edge of the bezel, you will get a number that is significantly larger than the actual screen size. This can lead to ordering a screen protector that is too big or a laptop sleeve that doesn’t account for the true dimensions of your device. The screen size always refers to the illuminated, rectangular area where you see your windows and applications.
Finding Your Screen Size Without a Tape Measure
Don’t have a measuring tape handy? There’s an easier way. Almost every laptop has a model number printed on it, usually on the bottom casing or inside the battery compartment. A quick search for that model number online will bring up the manufacturer’s specifications, which always list the precise screen size. You can also check your computer’s operating system information; on Windows, typing “Display Settings” will often show your screen resolution, which can help narrow it down when cross-referencing with your model.
Knowing your laptop’s true screen size is a small piece of knowledge that makes a big difference. With the right measurement, you can shop for accessories with confidence and better understand the specifications of your machine. A quick diagonal measure is all it takes to get it right.
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