Purchasing a new laptop raises many questions. This is because one has to think of the many features that come with a laptop. One of the biggest considerations that you need to make is the screen size of the laptop. Normally laptop screen size ranges from 13” to 15”. On the other hand, 14” is considered as the median size. While comparing laptops from different brands, you will have to look at more variables such as the type of the screen as well as the resolution of the display itself.
You will find that the screen resolution of a typical screen of 13” to 15” ranges between 1500×800 pixels resolution, and 1366×768 pixels resolution. And although this resolution is adequate for normal windows tasks, it may prove inadequate for the more demanding laptop tasks.
However, it is important to note that the specific size of a laptop is not an indicator of its quality. To get the ultimate user satisfaction however, it’s important to consider laptops with a bigger screen and resolution.
A big laptop screen offers many benefits to the user. However, there are still people who prioritize a smaller laptop with a smaller screen. A smaller laptop is more portable and this means it can be easier to get around with it. It all goes with the taste and preferences.
The best laptop size for you
Most laptops on the market come with a screen size of 11” and 17”. However, the most common laptop screen se on the market is between 14” and 15”. However, it is important to note that your needs as a laptop user determines the right size of the screen.
It is also important to note that the laptop screen size does not always correspond to the pixels. Nevertheless, higher pixels on a smaller screen always add to the visual quality. For example 1920 x 1080 pixels will get sharper on an 11” screen than it would do on a 17”.
Generally, displays less than 13” are regarded as smaller. Those between 13” and 15.6” are regarded as medium while those above 15.6” are regarded as large. The larger screens ranks lower when it comes to portability.
And although the 15.6” screens are the most popular, the 11.6 inch laptops are becoming popular amongst students. However, gamers, graphic designers and others prefer laptop sizes of above 17.3 inches.
Measuring your laptop screen size
If you don’t know the exact model number of your laptop and are unsure of the screen size, you need to do a manual measurement to find that out. Laptop screen measurements are done manually and it is important for you to learn how to do it.
To measure a laptop screen, you need to use a tape measure. Begin by placing the tape measure on the top left of the screen before taking the horizontal measurements. Do the same diagonally. Please note that only the screen should be measured and in inches.
The standard laptop sizes
Below, we will look at the standard laptop sizes available on the market
11-inch to 12-inch laptop screens
The 11-inch to 12-inch Laptops is also called notebooks. In this category of laptop screen sizes, you will find the tiniest and the lightest brands on the market. The laptops normally range between 2.5 and 3.5 pounds in weight. The laptops are generally designed for moderate usage and are suitable with people who are looking for portability.
13-inch to 14-inch laptop screens
Most of the laptops in this range are lightweight and easy to carry around. And although they are bulkier than laptops, they are still easy to carry around.
There are many brands that fall in this category. In fact, many professionals on the move recommend them. A perfect example is Macbook air and Macbook prime which come in a lightweight but slim design.
15-inch Laptop screens
Laptops falling into this category are the majority in the market. They are loved by professionals owing to their moderate size and weight that range from 4.5 to 6 pounds. The screen size is ideal for watching videos and doing design tasks.
17-inch to 18-inch Laptop Sizes
Laptops falling into the 17-inch to 18-inch screen sizes are the biggest you can buy today. The large screen sizes offer convenience in both professional and entertainment fields. However, the laptops are not ideal for those who are always on the go as they require a sturdy bag to carry them around.
The benefits of different laptop screen sizes
Both the large and small laptop screen sizes have their own advantages. We look at them below
Large Laptop Screen Size
The larger laptop screen size has the advantage of offering a broader field of view. This means that with the more expansive screen you can view items from afar and still see them clearly.
In addition, the screens come with a wider viewing angle. This has good effects on users and has been reported to have increased productivity and user experience.
And although larger screens have a negative effect on portability, they have benefits on leisure activities and business. The bigger screen and wider keyboard can add to the overall weight of the unit. But with the advancement in technology, it is now possible to develop 17 inch laptops that are 1 inch thick.
The only shortcoming of these laptops is the increased size. However, this may not concern some people because the increased weight may come as a sense of security for some people as they believe that it will protect them from mishaps and slips. On the other hand, there are people who consider the larger laptops as cumbersome.
The smaller screens
Screen size for a laptop enables manufacturers to come up with units that are smaller and lightweight. This improves portability meaning that one can carry their laptops without feeling the weight.
Furthermore, the smaller laptops can fit into smaller luggage bags. You will find that there are good models on the market that come with higher resolution but with a reduced viewing angle. This means that you can get a lighter laptop with a slimmer design which could mean a lower weight when compared to units with larger Laptop sizes.
The smaller size is also ideal if you want the freedom to work anywhere. You can easily use these laptops in a bus park, car, and hotel and even in the garden.
Also, it is important to note that smaller screens use much less power compared to laptops with bigger screens. This means that your battery power will last longer with such laptops as well.
Factors to consider when looking for laptop screen
When looking for a perfect laptop screen size for your computer, it is important to consider several features. Below, we will look at the factors to consider when doing a Laptop sizes comparison.
Do you like your current laptop screen size?
When shopping for the right Laptop screen size, this is one of the main questions that you would like to ask yourself. If you are not happy with the current laptop screen size, you have to decide on a screen size that will make things easier.
Go for a screen size that solves your current hardships that you are encountering. Also, as we mentioned above, it is important to know the dimensions of a laptop.
With that information, it will be easier to do a comparison between your current standard laptop screen size and the one you are looking to purchase.
Portability of the laptop
The other thing that you need to consider when looking for a new laptop screen size is portability. Many laptop users treat them as portable PCs.
This means that they can carry them to wherever they want to go. A larger screen is less bothersome especially when you are doing intricate activities. In fact, using a larger laptop will generally improve your user experience.
For those who are looking for a portable unit for business, travel and other purposes, they will find that the smaller sized laptops are ideal for use. Also, a laptop with a smaller screen is ideal for use in a crowded environment.
Do you need multimedia entertainment from your laptop?
If you plan on doing some multimedia activities on your laptop such as listening to music, you are better off with a laptop with a bigger screen.
This is because the larger screen will come with better clarity and wider field of view. For this reason, the screen will also be ideal for video gaming and video streaming. Therefore, streamers, video gamers and others may want to upgrade to larger screens for better experience
Room in your workspace
The room at your workspace is also considered when looking for the right laptop screen size. If you do not have enough room in your space, you can just go for the larger screens. However, if your workspace is smaller, you may want to purchase laptops with smaller screens for convenience.
Conclusion
The choice for laptop screen size is all dependent on your intended use and needs. By knowing your current computer size, you will know whether you need to increase it or not. This is based on your past experience as well as how you use the computer.