The quickest way to find your screen size

Your laptop's screen size is the diagonal measurement in inches from one corner of the display to the opposite corner. The easiest way to find it is to check your original paperwork or the manufacturer's website using your laptop's model number — but if you don't have those, you can measure the screen yourself or look it up through your operating system.

Most laptops come in standard sizes: 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, or 17 inches. Knowing your exact size matters if you're buying a replacement screen, a carrying case, or a docking station, since these parts are sized to fit specific models.

Key Takeaways

  • Your laptop's screen size is printed on the original box, in the system settings, or on a sticker underneath the laptop.
  • You can measure the screen yourself with a ruler or measuring tape from the bottom-left corner to the top-right corner diagonally.
  • The model number on the bottom or back of your laptop lets you search the manufacturer's website for exact specifications.
  • Screen size and screen resolution are different things — a 15-inch screen can have different resolutions depending on the model.

Check the original box or paperwork

If you still have the box your laptop came in, the screen size is printed on the outside. Look for text like "15.6-inch display" or "14 in FHD" on the front or side of the box. The manual that came with your laptop also lists the screen size in the specifications section, usually near the front.

If you bought the laptop used or no longer have the box, move to the next method. The information is still accessible through your system or the manufacturer.

Find the model number and search the manufacturer's website

Every laptop has a model number printed somewhere on the device itself. On most laptops, you'll find it on a sticker on the bottom of the machine. On some Dell, HP, or Lenovo models, it's also on the back near the hinges or on the inside of the battery compartment.

Once you have the model number, go to the manufacturer's website — Dell.com, HP.com, Lenovo.com, Apple.com, or whoever made your laptop. Use their search bar to enter the model number. The product page will list the screen size under "Specifications" or "Technical Details." This method works even if your laptop is several years old.

Measure the screen yourself

If you want a physical measurement, use a ruler or measuring tape. Measure diagonally from the bottom-left corner of the screen to the top-right corner. Measure only the glass or display area itself, not the black bezel (the frame around the screen). Round to the nearest half-inch — if you measure 15.4 inches, your laptop is a 15-inch model.

This method is less precise than checking the manufacturer's specs, but it gives you a close enough answer for buying cases or replacement parts. Keep in mind that the actual usable screen size is slightly smaller than the advertised size because of the bezel.

Check your operating system settings

On Windows, right-click on the desktop and select "Display settings." Scroll down to the "Display" section. Windows does not always show the screen size directly, but you can see the resolution (like 1920 x 1080). Search for your laptop model plus the resolution online, and the results will usually confirm the screen size.

On Mac, click the Apple menu in the top-left corner, then "About This Mac." Go to the "Displays" tab. The screen size is listed as "Built-in Retina Display" followed by the diagonal measurement in inches.

Screen size versus screen resolution

Screen size and resolution are not the same thing. Size is the physical diagonal measurement (13 inches, 15 inches, etc.). Resolution is the number of pixels displayed on that screen (1920 x 1080, 2560 x 1600, etc.). Two laptops can both be 15 inches but have different resolutions.

When you're buying a replacement screen or a case, you need the size. When you're troubleshooting display problems or adjusting text size, you might need the resolution instead. Both pieces of information are usually listed together on the manufacturer's website.

What to do if you can't find the model number

If the sticker on the bottom is worn away or missing, try these alternatives. On Windows, open the Command Prompt and type systeminfo, then press Enter. Look for "System Model" in the results. On Mac, click the Apple menu, select "About This Mac," and the model identifier appears near the top.

You can also contact the manufacturer's support team directly with a photo of your laptop. They can often identify the model from the design and color alone, then provide the screen size and other specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the screen size the same as the laptop size?

No. A 15-inch screen size refers only to the display. The laptop itself is larger because of the bezel, keyboard, and chassis. When buying a carrying case, use the screen size as a starting point, but check the case's dimensions against your laptop's full width and depth.

Why do some laptops say 15.6 inches instead of 15 inches?

Manufacturers measure to the nearest tenth of an inch. A 15.6-inch screen is slightly larger than a 15-inch screen, but both are usually called "15-inch laptops" in everyday conversation. The exact measurement matters if you're buying a replacement screen or a very snug carrying case.

Can I change my screen size?

No. The screen size is a physical part of your laptop and cannot be changed. You can adjust the text and icon size in your settings to make things easier to read, but the actual display dimensions stay the same.

Does a larger screen use more battery?

Generally yes. Larger screens require more power to light up, so a 17-inch laptop typically has shorter battery life than a 13-inch model, all else being equal. This is one reason many people choose smaller screens for portable work.