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You’ve got a 15.6-inch laptop, but the bag you like says it fits up to 16 inches. Should be fine, right? Not always. Screen size alone doesn’t tell you whether your laptop will actually slip into the sleeve—the bezel, hinge, and overall width matter too. If you’ve ever tried to force a laptop into a case that’s a few millimeters too small, you know the frustration.
This guide shows you exactly how to measure your laptop (it takes two minutes) and then how to match those numbers to the right bag from Targus, SwissGear, Thule, and Eastpak—so you can stop second-guessing and just buy with confidence.
Laptop screens are measured diagonally, corner to corner. A 15.6-inch screen doesn’t mean the laptop body is 15.6 inches wide—it usually means the total width is around 14 to 15 inches, but it depends on the bezel size. Some 17-inch laptops are wider than others, and ultrabooks with thin bezels can be surprisingly compact.
Bag manufacturers list their laptop compartments by the largest screen size that typically fits—but they assume a standard width and thickness. That’s why a 15.6-inch laptop might not fit a bag labeled “fits 15-inch laptops” if it’s a chunky gaming laptop with a massive hinge.
Always use your laptop’s actual width, height, and thickness—not just the screen size—when comparing with bag dimensions.
Once you have these numbers, check the bag’s internal compartment dimensions. If the bag doesn’t list them, use the manufacturer’s stated max laptop size as a guide, but allow at least 0.5 inches of extra space for a snug fit.
Here’s a quick reference for common laptop sizes:
Remember: actual dimensions vary by brand. Always measure!
Different laptop sizes call for different bag types:
Targus lists the max screen size that fits each bag. The Targus Drifter II fits 17-inch laptops, while the Slim Briefcase (TCT027US) handles 15–16 inches. Always check the internal dimensions—Targus’s compartments are true to size, with padding that keeps your laptop snug.
SwissGear’s ScanSmart series is designed to speed through airport security. The 1900 model handles 17-inch laptops, while the SA1923 is for 15-inch ones. Their internal compartments are padded and slightly tapered—so if your laptop is 15.6 inches, it fits the 15-inch bag, but you should check the width.
Thule bags often feature dedicated 15- or 16-inch compartments with soft linings. For example, the Subterra line uses SafeZone compartments that cushion your laptop on all sides. While not in the current product selection, Thule’s general principle: measure both width and height—their sleeves are form-fitting.
If you’re carrying Thule gear beyond bags, like the One-Key locks, remember that sizing matters for accessories too—but that’s a different kind of fit.
Eastpak’s classic Padded Pak’r fits most 15-inch laptops, but the Padded Pak'r Classic listed here is designed for 15.6-inch laptops with a dedicated compartment. For commuting, the Springer and The One bags are lighter carriers for tablets or small notebooks—check the internal dimensions for anything bigger.
Now you’re ready to pick the perfect bag for your laptop—no more guessing.
