How To Measure a Laptop
When I first decided to buy a carrying case for my MacBook, I quickly realized how important it was to accurately determine the dimensions of my computer. I didn’t want to waste money on something that wouldn’t fit properly, causing a terrible experience of needing to return a too-small or too-large case. To save time and avoid potential problems, you need to take a few steps to measure your laptop accurately. Having a tape measure or a ruler is necessary to ensure your case is not just functional but also practical for school, your desk, or even a full day of work.
Start by checking the screen size, which is one of the most useful indicators of the laptop’s overall size. Then, figure out the length, width, and height by using your measuring tools. This helps in looking for the right case that not only protects your device but also accommodates your needs ahead of time. Whether you’re planning to take your laptop to school or a professional environment, these measurements are crucial for avoiding inconveniences after the item is purchased. A bit of care during the measuring process will help you select a case that will last and meet all your reasons for buying one.
Measuring laptop size for bags or sleeves:
Knowing your laptop’s brand and size, as well as how to measure it, is crucial for choosing the right sleeve or bag that fits perfectly and provides the best protection.
Laptop Screen Size
When it comes to measuring laptops, the first step is to focus on the screen size. This is one of the most important factors to consider, as the screen is typically measured diagonally in inches. Most LCDs only account for the viewable area, so you’ll need a measuring tape to get the actual size. Start from one corner of the screen and stretch the tape to the opposite corner to determine its diagonal size. The result is usually displayed in inches, which is the standard unit for laptops.
Once you know the screen size, you can decide if it will fit into a bag or sleeve along with your accessories like a keyboard, mouse, or other equipment. For instance, if you’ve bought a 15.6-inch laptop, its dimensions typically range from 14 to 15 inches in width, 9 to 10 inches in depth, and 0.7 to 1.5 inches in height, depending on the specific model and design. It’s helpful to take these measurements first so you can assess whether your current bag has enough room to accommodate everything without hassle.
For example, here are the dimensions of a few well-known brands:
- HP 15 Laptop:
Dimensions: 14.11 x 9.53 x 0.71 inches - Dell Inspiron 15:
Dimensions: 14.33 x 9.80 x 0.78 inches - ASUS TUF F15:
Dimensions: 14.1 x 9.1 x 0.78 inches - MSI Cyborg 15:
Dimensions: 14.13 x 9.99 x 0.85 inches
How to identify your laptop screen size without measuring it?
If you’re unsure how to measure your laptop screen, there’s an easy way to determine its size without doing any physical measurements. First, locate the model number of your laptop. This is often printed on the back of the LCD. The quickest way to figure out the screen size is to remove the LCD and check the model number sticker. Many LCD model numbers include the physical size of the screen in inches.
For example, in the LCD model number “LTN156AT01”, the first three digits after the letters show the screen size, which in this case is 15.6 inches diagonally. If you can’t find this info directly, you can also visit reputable websites that list the size based on the model number. This method is a simple and reliable way to find out your laptop‘s screen size without the need to physically measure it.
Height :
To measure the height of your laptop, first place it on a level surface like a desk or table. Ensure that the screen is closed, then use a centimeter-marked ruler or measuring tape. Position the ruler or tape in an upright position next to the laptop, aligning the bottom edge of the laptop with the beginning point of the tape. Hold the tape firmly but gently and check where the top edge of the laptop lines up to determine its height in centimeters.
Remember to account for the thickness of the laptop as it can impact its fit in shared spaces like cabinets and shelves. For instance, if your laptop has a height of 1.5 inches, this would convert to 3.81 cm when multiplied by 2.54. This step is particularly useful if you’re planning to store your laptop in tight spaces without any hassle. Also, keep in mind that the weight of the laptop is important when choosing a backpack or bag that won’t cause strain on your shoulders or be too heavy to carry comfortably.
Width:
- Start measuring with the tape at either the front left or right corner.
- The front is the easiest to measure because there are no exposed ports.
- Take an exact measurement from one front corner of the laptop to the other.
- Be sure to measure along all the rounded edges all the way to the end.
Depth:
- Start your measurements from the back corner’s left or right side.
- Take a measurement that includes the rounded borders and extend the tape all the way to the right corner.
- If necessary, change the measurements’ units to centimeters.
Centimeters To Inches Conversion
To convert centimeters to inches, you need to remember that 1 inch equals 2.54 cm. For example, if your laptop screen is 34 CM, you can divide it by 2.54 to get the size in inches. So, 34 CM equals 13.3 inches. This conversion is important for determining the screen size of your laptop and ensuring that it fits properly in backpacks, cases, or sleeves for protection against scratches, bumps, and other potential damages. A proper fit ensures that your laptop is shielded from damage and provides the defense it needs.
Taking accurate measurements also plays a key role in workplace organization. When setting up your desk, you’ll need to check if there’s enough space for your laptop and necessary equipment like a mouse, keyboard, or notepad. This process doesn’t take much time and can be done quickly. Following a few easy steps, you’ll finish measuring and be ready to ensure your laptop has the necessary protection and fits comfortably in the designated space.