How to pick the best laptop computer screen size for your needs

Wondering what’s the right laptop screen size for you? When it comes to choosing a laptop, screen size is one of the most critical factors to consider. It influences everything from how portable your device is to how comfortable and productive you feel during use. Whether you’re working on spreadsheets, enjoying your favourite shows, or carrying your laptop to classes or meetings, the screen size can define your overall experience.

This guide will walk you through the nuances of laptop computer screen sizes. It explains how they’re measured, the pros and cons of different options, and how to select the perfect fit for your needs. By the end, you’ll have all the insights needed to make an informed decision for your next laptop purchase.

How are laptop screen sizes measured?

Laptop sizes are measured diagonally across the screen, from one corner of the display area to the opposite. The display area refers to part of the screen showing the actual content, and excludes the bezel, the border or frame around the screen. For example, a laptop marketed as having a 15-inch screen will have a display area that spans 15 inches diagonally. This standardized measurement method ensures consistency across brands and models, making it easier for consumers to compare options.

Here are some of the most common laptop screen sizes and what they offer:

• 13-inch laptops: Compact and lightweight, they are ideal for users who are frequently on the go, so they’re great for commuters, students, and casual users who need a laptop that’s easy to carry around.
• 14-inch laptops: Striking a balance between portability and screen real estate, they’re suitable for professionals who need more space for work while maintaining mobility.
• 15-inch laptops: A popular choice for general use, they offer a good screen-to-size ratio, suitable for a range of tasks, from work to entertainment.
• 17-inch laptops: They’re perfect for users requiring larger screens for watching videos, gaming, or detailed work like graphic design. These laptops sacrifice portability for a more immersive viewing experience.
• Additional sizes: Less common options like 18-inch or 12-inch laptops cater to niche needs. A 12-inch laptop may appeal to ultra-portable device seekers, while an 18-inch laptop might suit hardcore gamers or creatives.

Choosing the right laptop screen size for your needs

Selecting the ideal laptop screen size requires evaluating your unique requirements and how you intend to use your laptop.

Factors to consider when choosing screen size:

• Work needs: Do you need more screen space for multitasking? A larger screen, like a 15- or 17-inch laptop, are preferable when you’re juggling different tasks. They provide more room for side-by-side app windows, improving productivity for demanding workloads. Similarly, larger screens work best when viewing detailed content, such as working on spreadsheets, graphic design, or video editing.
• Portability: Smaller screens are ideal for users who travel frequently. Lightweight laptops with 13- or 14-inch screens are easier to carry in backpacks or briefcases, making them a convenient choice for students or professionals on the go.
• Screen resolution: A higher resolution is crucial for tasks requiring detailed visuals, like graphic design, photography, or video editing. Smaller screens often pair well with 1080p resolutions for sharp images, while larger screens benefit from 4K resolutions for enhanced clarity.

Recommendations for different user types:

• Small screen: Because they’re easy to carry around, 13-inch laptops are ideal for students and commuters, as they’re light and quick to pack in the bag. Best for casual use, such as browsing, writing documents, or streaming, they don’t take too much desk space as those with larger screen size.
• Medium screen: Medium screens, like 14-inch or 15-inch laptops, offer a balanced option for productivity and moderate portability. They are well-suited for various professional tasks, such as handling emails, presentations, and light multi-tasking. Their versatility makes them a popular choice among professionals who require functionality without sacrificing portability.
• Large screen: Gamers and creative professionals working on detailed projects like CAD or video editing will benefit from 17-inch screens or larger. They provide ample screen real estate for multi-tasking, though they are less portable, making them better suited for home or office use where mobility is less of a concern.

Want to learn more about other considerations when choosing a laptop? Check out our Laptop Buying Guide.

Pros and cons of different laptop screen sizes

Understanding the pros and cons of various laptop screen sizes is crucial for making an informed decision. Each size impacts factors like portability, battery life, and screen space differently, which can affect your overall experience. The table below breaks down these considerations to help you choose the best screen size for your specific needs.

Screen resolution and laptop screen size

Screen resolution plays a significant role in the clarity and detail of your laptop’s visuals, particularly as screen sizes increase. Higher resolutions ensure that images and text remain sharp, reducing strain during extended use and enhancing the overall viewing experience.

• Larger screens: Higher resolutions like 1080p or 4K are often preferred. These resolutions provide sharper images and better detail, making them ideal for tasks like video editing, gaming, and detailed design work. The expansive screen space combined with high resolution creates an immersive and productive environment.
• Smaller screens: These laptops feature lower resolutions like 720p or 1080p. While these resolutions might lack the crispness of 4K displays, they still offer satisfactory visuals for everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and document editing, striking a balance between quality and efficiency.

When choosing a laptop, consider both screen size and resolution to ensure a clear and comfortable viewing experience. A higher resolution can make a significant difference in usability and enjoyment, especially for tasks that require attention to fine details or extended viewing periods.

Which screen size is best for me?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Your ideal laptop screen size depends on several factors, including your work requirements, how often you travel with your laptop, and the type of tasks you perform most frequently. By carefully evaluating these considerations, you can select a screen size that aligns with your priorities.

• Portability vs. productivity: If you’re frequently travelling or commuting, a smaller laptop (13-inch) ensures portability and ease of use. For tasks requiring extensive multi-tasking, a medium (14-15 inch) or large (17-inch) screen may be more productive, providing ample room for multiple windows and detailed work.
• Use case: Determine your primary laptop usage. Students and casual users may find smaller screens sufficient for their needs, while gamers, designers, or professionals benefit from larger displays. Casual users might prioritize portability, whereas professional users need screens that support productivity and clarity for complex tasks.
• Budget: Larger screens and higher resolutions generally come at a higher price point. Consider whether investing in a premium display aligns with your needs and usage, ensuring the features justify the cost.

Finding your perfect fit

Selecting the right laptop computer screen size is essential to enhancing your overall laptop experience. By considering your personal preferences, intended use, and the balance between portability and screen real estate, you can confidently choose a laptop that suits your needs. Whether you’re a student seeking a lightweight device, a professional needing a versatile machine, or a gamer craving immersive visuals, this guide equips you to make the best choice for your lifestyle.

From Windows laptops to Macbook, Chromebooks and two-in-one laptops, explore Best Buy Canada’s wide assortment of laptops to find the one that’s right for you.

This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.