<p>Which screen size is best for a college student in terms of portability and functionality? 13 inches, 14.1 inches, or 15.4 inches. I plan on taking my laptop to the library and maybe other places too.</p>
<p>I personally think 14.1 inches is the best. You screen is considerably larger than 13 inches, but you don't have to deal with all the added weight of a 15.4 inch model. But I would say 15.4 inches would be a close second to the 14.1 inch. I just think that 13 inches is too small. Maybe it's juts me, but I think paying more for an "ultraportable (read: small)" laptop is just dumb. I know you didn't ask, but I would stay away from 17 inches no matter what if you're looking for portability. I know a girl who got a 17-inch laptop and she says it is impossible to find any bag that will fit the laptop. Hope this helped.</p>
<p>I would say even 15.4 inches should be fine for portability. 13 is definitely way too small. Jyankees also brings up a good point about the 14.1 inch, it is a good middle ground, though I would recommend 15.4 because it's not too big (like a 17 would be) but 14.1, in my opinion, might be a little too small.</p>
<p>Of course, this is coming from someone who's got a 17-inch screen (for gaming, movies, and a desire for higher resolution). It's portable, but a bit on the heavy side.</p>
<p>Also, since 15.4" notebooks are considered "mainstream", you can get better features for a lower price. More hard drive space, too.</p>
<p>I use a 12.1" laptop and I don't think it's too small. If you are considering bringing your laptop to the library, I will also assume you will be bring books too. That can get heavy, weight was a very important factor when I bought my laptop. </p>
<p>It's all personal preference. I suggest you go to the store to look at and feel the laptops before you make your decision. Portability is very nice with a smaller laptop.</p>
<p>I love the 13.3" screen on my MacBook, it's perfect. Very portable, won't take up much room on my desk, and I don't find the screen to be too small at all.</p>
<p>I agree, I think the MacBook's 13.3" size hits the sweet spot in terms of portability and readibility.</p>
<p>Don't go any smaller than 13.3" unless you want eye strain.</p>
<p>i got a 14.1" after having two previous laptops with 15.4" inch screens. i like the smaller form a lot, and after a few minutes you get used to whatever size screen you have(any laptop is smaller than the 22" flatscreen on my desktop, so even a 17" would still be "small" for awhile)</p>
<p>for my next laptop, which will be a mac unless vista steps it up big time, i'm going to get the smallest screen option</p>