Laptop Bag Size Chart for 13 to 17 Inch Laptops

On this page (10 sections)

1. How to use a laptop bag size chart
2. How do you measure a laptop for a bag?
3. What do laptop bag dimensions mean?
4. Which laptop bag size suits a 14 inch laptop?
5. Which laptop bag size suits a 15.6 inch laptop?
6. Which laptop bag size suits a 17.3 inch laptop?
7. Should you size up for a laptop bag?
8. What common laptop bag sizing mistakes should you avoid?
9. How should you set up and care for a laptop bag?
10. Which laptop bag size should you choose?

How to use a laptop bag size chart

A laptop bag size chart helps narrow your search, but your laptop’s actual measurements decide the fit. Measure the device’s width, depth, and thickness, then compare those numbers with the bag’s internal laptop compartment.

Screen size is measured diagonally. Bag compartments are measured by length, width, and depth, so a 15.6 in screen label does not tell you whether the laptop body fits.

Two computers with the same screen size may have different dimensions.

Use the chart below as a starting point, then check the exact measurements for your computer and bag. If you’re also choosing a style, our plain guide to briefcases and laptop bags explains common options.

These ranges are not universal standards. A bag marked for a certain screen size may still be too narrow or shallow for your device, especially if you carry it in a shell or sleeve.

How do you measure a laptop for a bag?

Measure the closed laptop’s outer body, not the screen. Record its widest width, front-to-back depth, and thickness at the thickest point.

1. Close the laptop and remove anything attached to it.
2. Measure from the left edge to the right edge.
3. Measure from the front edge to the back edge.
4. Measure the thickest point, including fixed feet or raised parts.
5. Repeat the measurements with the case or sleeve you plan to use.

Compare each number with the bag’s internal laptop compartment dimensions. Don’t compare the laptop’s width with the bag’s outside width, because fabric, seams, padding, and pockets use some of that space.

If only the outside dimensions are available, look for a separate compartment measurement before deciding. For a close fit, confirm that the internal dimensions are published and compare them with your measurements.

A little clearance makes it easier to slide the laptop in and out. The compartment should still hold it securely, so it doesn’t move freely every time you set the bag down or change direction.

What do laptop bag dimensions mean?

Internal dimensions describe the usable space inside the bag, while external dimensions describe the bag’s full footprint. For fit, internal compartment dimensions matter most.

Check these details when they’re available:

• Compartment width and depth: Both should be larger than the laptop body measurements.
• Compartment thickness: This matters for thick laptops and devices carried in a case.
• Opening size: A roomy compartment may still have a narrow opening that makes insertion awkward.
• Padding and dividers: These may reduce usable space, while helping separate the laptop from other items.
• Accessory room: A snug compartment may leave limited space for a charger, notebook, or tablet.
• Outside size: A bulky bag can feel awkward on a crowded commute, even when the laptop fit is right.

Measure the computer in the configuration you’ll carry. If a sleeve adds bulk, include it in your measurements rather than assuming the bare laptop dimensions will be enough.

Our guide to protecting a laptop inside a bag covers ways to limit scratches and movement. A fitted sleeve can help when the bag has extra room around the laptop.

Which laptop bag size suits a 14 inch laptop?

A 14 in laptop bag suits a computer that fits within the compartment in all three dimensions. The tomtoc Laptop Shoulder Bag has a compact compartment, so compare its measurements carefully if your laptop is thick or has a case.

The tomtoc’s internal compartment measures 12.80 x 9.13 x 0.91 in. It has two separate compartments, small accessory pockets, a detachable shoulder strap, and a hidden back pocket for personal items.

Choose it if your measured laptop fits those internal dimensions and you want an organized shoulder bag for a compact computer. Skip it if your laptop is larger than the compartment, if it needs a thick case, or if you need a roomier bag for clothes and bulky work items.

Pack the laptop in its own compartment, then use the smaller pockets for items such as a cable or USB hub. Avoid forcing a tight charger or other hard accessory beside the laptop, where pressure could build against the screen or case.

Which laptop bag size suits a 15.6 inch laptop?

A 15.6 in label is only a screening clue; compare your laptop’s body with the compartment before choosing. Two bags made for this screen class can differ in layout, padding, and carrying style.

The MOSISO 360 Protective Laptop Shoulder Bag has 15.36 x 10.83 x 0.79 in internal dimensions, foam padding, and a fleece lining. Four front zipper pockets provide separate places for small items, and a rear trolley belt attaches to luggage handles.

Choose it if your laptop fits those measurements and you want accessible pockets or a bag that can attach to luggage. Skip it if your laptop and case exceed the compartment depth, or if you need substantial space for bulky travel items in the same bag.

Keep smaller items in the front pockets so they don’t crowd the laptop compartment. Before closing the zippers, check that a pen, charger plug, or other firm item isn’t pressing against the computer.

The Targus CityLite offers a separate laptop compartment for a 15.6 in laptop, a workstation compartment for accessories, a padded shoulder strap, and a luggage strap. Its internal compartment dimensions aren’t available here, so choose it only after confirming that the laptop compartment fits your device.

Choose the Targus if you prefer a briefcase layout with a separate place for tech accessories and a strap for attaching it to luggage. Skip it if you can’t confirm the internal laptop measurements or need a size-specific fit before ordering.

Which laptop bag size suits a 17.3 inch laptop?

A 17.3 in laptop needs a compartment built for a large computer, but the screen label still doesn’t confirm the body fit. The VANKEAN briefcase is the largest option here and adds storage depth for travel.

The VANKEAN 17.3 in Expandable Laptop Briefcase has a wide main compartment for a 17.3 in laptop and other items. Its depth expands from 7.5 to 9.5 in, and a luggage strap attaches it to a trolley handle.

Choose it if your measured laptop fits the compartment and you want extra depth for electronics, files, or a few travel items. Skip it if you carry a smaller laptop and want a compact daily bag, or if you need exact laptop compartment dimensions before buying.

Expansion adds depth for other belongings; it does not add width or length to the laptop compartment. Confirm the laptop’s fit separately, then expand the bag only when your daily load needs the extra room.

Should you size up for a laptop bag?

Size up only when the larger bag still holds your laptop securely and gives useful room for your everyday load. Extra capacity can fit a charger, notebook, or change of clothes, but an unsecured laptop may slide around.

Look for a padded compartment, divider, or strap that helps keep the laptop in place. If the compartment is much larger than the computer, a fitted sleeve can reduce movement, but measure the laptop with that sleeve before choosing the bag.

Think through a typical day before adding space. A commuter carrying only a laptop and charger may prefer a close-fitting shoulder bag, while a traveler with documents and a change of clothes may value the depth of an expandable briefcase.

The bag’s style also affects how size feels. A shoulder bag keeps the computer at your side, while a briefcase may offer a wider layout for papers and accessories.

For a backpack, the same measurements apply, along with how the bag sits against your back; see our laptop backpack fit guide.

What common laptop bag sizing mistakes should you avoid?

The most common mistake is choosing by screen label alone. Measure the laptop and compare the compartment, including any case or sleeve, before relying on a “14 in” or “15.6 in” label.

Avoid these sizing errors:

• Using the screen diagonal as the laptop width: Diagonal screen size and body width are different measurements.
• Checking only external dimensions: Outside measurements include padding and fabric that reduce interior space.
• Ignoring laptop thickness: A deep laptop or protective shell may not fit a shallow compartment.
• Forgetting the opening: The laptop can fit inside the bag but be hard to insert through a narrow opening.
• Choosing a much larger bag without a secure compartment: Extra space can let the laptop shift.
• Packing accessories against the laptop: Hard items can press against the computer while the bag is carried.

Make a short packing list as well as a measurement list. If you carry a charger, tablet, notebook, or documents, check whether the bag has room for those items without crowding the laptop.

Our work bag packing list can help you estimate the space your routine needs. Count the items you carry most days, rather than choosing a larger bag for occasional extras you rarely bring.

How should you set up and care for a laptop bag?

Set up the bag so the laptop sits in its intended compartment and small items stay away from the computer’s surfaces. A simple packing routine makes it easier to check the fit and close the bag without pressure.

Before the first commute, insert the laptop and close the compartment gently. Confirm that the zipper moves freely and the laptop can slide out without catching on an edge or divider.

Put chargers, cables, pens, and keys in accessory pockets where possible. Keep heavy or firm items from pressing directly against the laptop, and avoid overfilling the main compartment until the zipper strains.

Adjust the shoulder strap so the bag stays close enough to control while walking. For travel, use a trolley strap if the bag has one, and keep quick-access items in pockets that remain reachable without opening the laptop compartment.

After carrying the bag in rain or near spills, empty it and let damp areas dry fully before storing it. Follow the bag’s care instructions for cleaning, and don’t assume water-resistant fabric makes the contents waterproof.

Which laptop bag size should you choose?

Choose the smallest bag whose internal compartment fits your measured laptop with its case, then confirm it has room for the essentials you carry every day. If you need travel storage, choose a larger design with a secure laptop compartment and space that matches your actual load.

For a compact 14 in device, compare the tomtoc’s compartment dimensions. For a 15.6 in laptop, compare the MOSISO’s measurements or confirm the Targus compartment size; for a 17.3 in device with travel needs, check the VANKEAN’s laptop fit separately from its expandable depth.

A laptop bag size chart narrows the options, but the measurements make the final decision. Measure first, check the compartment and opening, then pick the layout that suits your commute.

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose the right laptop bag size?

Measure your laptop’s width, depth, and thickness, then compare all three with the bag’s internal laptop compartment dimensions. Leave enough room to insert and remove the computer without forcing it, and check whether a sleeve, padding, or case changes the fit.

Does a 15.6 inch laptop fit in a 15.6 inch bag?

Not always. The screen measurement is diagonal, and laptops with the same screen size can have different body dimensions.

Compare your laptop’s width, depth, and thickness with the bag’s internal measurements, including any limits from the padded compartment.

Should a laptop fit tightly in its bag?

A laptop should stay in place without being squeezed into the compartment. A little clearance helps with insertion and removal, but too much movement can let the device shift.

Check the compartment dimensions and look for a strap or padding to help hold it steady.

Is a 17 inch laptop bag too large for a 15 inch laptop?

It may leave extra space around a smaller laptop, which can allow it to move during a commute. Check whether the bag has a secure laptop compartment or strap, and decide if the added room for documents and accessories is useful for your routine.