To find the right size sleeve for your laptop, you primarily need to measure your laptop diagonally from edge to edge. This diagonal measurement provides your laptop's standard inch size, which is the most common specification used for sleeve sizing.
The Key Measurement: Diagonal Size
Laptop manufacturers and accessory makers typically size sleeves and bags based on the laptop screen's diagonal measurement. This is the standard way to refer to a laptop's size (e.g., 13-inch, 15-inch, 17-inch).
According to the reference, to determine your laptop's true inch size for selecting a sleeve or bag, you should:
- Measure diagonally from one corner of the screen to the opposite corner.
This measurement, usually taken in inches, will tell you the size category of your laptop.
Why Measure Diagonally?
Measuring diagonally gives you the advertised screen size of your laptop. While two laptops with the same diagonal screen size might have slightly different external dimensions due to bezel size or design, accessories are generally designed to fit the screen size category. Knowing this diagonal size is the crucial first step in selecting a compatible sleeve.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring
Here's how to accurately measure your laptop's diagonal size:
- Ensure your laptop is turned off.
- Use a ruler or measuring tape.
- Place the beginning of the measuring tool at one corner of the screen (the actual display area, not the bezel).
- Extend the tool straight across to the opposite corner of the screen.
- Read the measurement in inches. This is your laptop's diagonal size.
For example, if your measurement is approximately 15.6 inches, your laptop is considered a 15-16 inch size, and you would look for sleeves designed for that range.
Beyond Diagonal: Considering Exterior Dimensions
While the diagonal measurement is primary, it's also helpful to consider your laptop's exterior dimensions (length, width, and thickness), especially if your laptop is particularly bulky or slim compared to others of the same diagonal size.
- Exterior Length: Measure from left to right edge.
- Exterior Width (or Depth): Measure from front to back edge.
- Exterior Thickness: Measure the height when the laptop is closed.
Comparing these exterior dimensions to the internal dimensions listed for a potential sleeve can help ensure a snug or preferred fit. Some sleeve product descriptions include internal dimensions in addition to the recommended diagonal size.
Choosing the Right Sleeve Size
Once you have your diagonal measurement, you can select a sleeve.
- Look for sleeves explicitly stating they fit your laptop's diagonal size (e.g., "Fits 14-inch Laptops").
- If your diagonal measurement is between standard sizes (e.g., 14.5 inches), you might need to decide if a 14-inch or 15-inch sleeve is better, potentially checking exterior dimensions against sleeve internal dimensions.
- Consider if you want a very snug fit or a bit of extra room. Sleeves often offer a close fit for protection.
Using the diagonal measurement is the standard and most effective way to start when selecting a laptop sleeve.
