Do you ever pick up your iPad and wonder, "Exactly which iPad is this?" With so many models released over the years, it's easy to lose track! Whether you're looking to sell it, buy accessories, check compatibility for a new app, or simply satisfy your curiosity, knowing your specific iPad model is incredibly useful.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every way to identify your iPad, from the super-speedy methods to the more detailed dives. Let's get started!
Step 1: The Easiest Way to Find Out What iPad You Have
Ready for the quickest reveal? Flip your iPad over! No, seriously, that's often all it takes.
On the back of your iPad, towards the bottom, you'll find some tiny, almost invisible text. Among that text is a crucial piece of information: the Model number. It will start with the letter 'A' followed by four digits (e.g., A1234).
- Got it? Great! Make a note of this "A" number. We'll use it in the next step to pinpoint your exact model.
- Can't read it? Don't worry! Sometimes the text is faded or the lighting isn't right. Move on to Step 2 for a surefire way.
Step 2: Unveiling Your iPad's Identity Through Settings
This method is perhaps the most reliable and doesn't require any squinting!
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Open the Settings App: Look for the gray gear icon on your home screen. Tap it to open.
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Navigate to "General": In the left-hand sidebar (or across the top if you're holding it vertically), scroll down and tap on "General."
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Tap on "About": This is where all the juicy details about your iPad are hidden. Tap on "About."
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Find the Model Number (and Name!):
- You'll see a line labeled "Model Number." It will initially show something like "MxxxxxLL/A". This is your part number.
- Tap on the "Model Number" field once! It will magically transform into the "A" followed by four digits (e.g., A1234) – this is the specific model number we're looking for.
- Directly above this, you might also see the "Model Name" (e.g., iPad Air 2, iPad Pro 10.5-inch). This is your ultimate answer! If you see the name, you're done!
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What if I only have the "A" number? If you only have the "A" number and no direct model name, proceed to Step 3.
Step 3: Using Your Model Number to Identify Your iPad
Now that you have your "A" number (e.g., A1234), it's time to play detective and cross-reference it with Apple's official database.
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Open a web browser on any device (your iPad, iPhone, computer, etc.).
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Go to Apple's Support Page: A quick search for "Identify your iPad model Apple" will usually lead you to the correct page. Look for a link from support.apple.com. Alternatively, you can navigate directly to:
support.apple.com/en-us/HT201471 -
Find Your Model Number: On the Apple support page, you'll see a comprehensive list of all iPad models, along with their corresponding "A" numbers.
- Scroll down the list and locate the "A" number you found on your iPad (or in the settings).
- Next to that "A" number, Apple will clearly state the name of your iPad (e.g., iPad Air, iPad mini 6th generation, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)).
Voila! You've successfully identified your iPad!
Step 4: Identifying Your iPad by its Features (Less Precise, But Helpful)
Sometimes, you might not have access to your iPad or the model number is unreadable. In such cases, knowing certain unique features can help you narrow down the possibilities. This method is less precise than using the model number but can be a good starting point.
Sub-heading: Home Button or No Home Button?
This is a major differentiator!
- If your iPad has a circular physical button on the front below the screen: It has a Home button. This includes all iPad Air, iPad mini, and original iPad models up to certain generations, as well as the standard iPad line.
- If your iPad has no Home button and the screen goes almost edge-to-edge: This indicates an iPad Pro (2018 or later) or an iPad Air (4th generation or later), or the latest standard iPad models (10th generation and later). These models use Face ID or Touch ID integrated into the power button.
Sub-heading: Lightning Port or USB-C?
The type of charging port can also help.
- Lightning Port: This is the smaller, symmetrical port. Many older iPads and current standard iPads (up to 9th generation) use this.
- USB-C Port: This is a slightly larger, symmetrical port, often found on newer devices for faster charging and data transfer. All iPad Pro models from 2018 onwards, iPad Air (4th generation and later), and iPad mini (6th generation) use USB-C. The 10th-generation iPad also uses USB-C.
Sub-heading: Speakers and Microphones
- Quad Speakers: iPad Pro models (since 2016) feature four speakers for enhanced audio, usually located at the top and bottom when held vertically.
- Two Speakers: Most other iPad models have two speakers.
Sub-heading: Camera Features
- Lidar Scanner: Found only on iPad Pro models (2020 and later), this small black sensor next to the camera lens is used for advanced augmented reality.
- Dual Cameras: Some newer iPad Pro models have both a wide and ultra-wide camera.
Sub-heading: Screen Size
While not definitive, knowing the approximate screen size can help exclude many models.
- 7.9-inch: iPad mini
- 8.3-inch: iPad mini (6th generation)
- 9.7-inch: Older iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro models
- 10.2-inch: Standard iPad (7th, 8th, 9th generation)
- 10.5-inch: iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad Pro (2017)
- 10.9-inch: iPad Air (4th generation and later), iPad (10th generation)
- 11-inch: iPad Pro
- 12.9-inch: Larger iPad Pro models
Step 5: When All Else Fails - Check Your Purchase History
If you're the original owner and have exhausted all other options, your purchase history might hold the key.
- Apple Store App or Website: If you purchased directly from Apple, log into your account on the Apple Store app or apple.com. Your order history will typically list the exact model purchased.
- Email Receipts: Search your email for "iPad purchase" or the store you bought it from (e.g., "Best Buy iPad"). The original receipt should have the model name.
- Carrier or Retailer Account: If you purchased through a mobile carrier or another retailer, check your online account or past invoices.
By following these steps, you should be able to confidently identify your iPad model, regardless of how old or new it is! Knowing your model makes it easier to troubleshoot, find compatible accessories, and understand its capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to find out what iPad I have without turning it on?
You can find the model number (starts with 'A' followed by four digits) printed in small text on the back of the iPad itself. Once you have this number, you can look it up on Apple's support website to identify the specific model.
How to check iPad model from serial number?
Yes, you can check your iPad model using the serial number. Go to Apple's "Check Coverage" page (https://www.google.com/search?q=checkcoverage.apple.com) and enter your serial number. It will often display the model name along with warranty information. You can find the serial number in Settings > General > About, on the original packaging, or on the device's back if it's an older model.
How to differentiate between iPad Air and iPad Pro?
The easiest way is often by the model number (Axxxx) or by looking for key features: iPad Pro models (2018 and later) have a squared-off design with no home button and USB-C. Many iPad Pro models also have a LiDAR scanner next to the camera or four speakers. Newer iPad Air models also have a squared-off design and USB-C but typically lack the LiDAR scanner and advanced camera systems of the Pro.
How to tell the difference between iPad generations?
The most reliable way is through the model number (Axxxx). Apple's support page for identifying iPad models lists all generations with their corresponding model numbers. You can also look for subtle design changes or feature additions unique to certain generations.
How to find out what iPad I have for accessories?
The best way is to know the precise model name (e.g., iPad Air 4th generation, iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd generation) and screen size. Accessory manufacturers list compatibility by model name and sometimes by model number.
How to identify if my iPad has cellular or Wi-Fi only?
You can check in Settings > General > About. If your iPad has cellular capabilities, you will see a "Cellular Data" option in the Settings app, and the "About" screen will usually show an IMEI or MEID number. Wi-Fi only models will not have these options. The model number (Axxxx) also differentiates between Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular versions.
How to find out the storage capacity of my iPad?
Go to Settings > General > iPad Storage. This will show you the total storage capacity of your iPad and how much is being used.
How to check the iOS version on my iPad?
Go to Settings > General > About. The "iOS Version" or "iPadOS Version" will be listed there.
How to determine if my iPad is too old for new apps?
New apps often require a minimum iPadOS version. Find your iPadOS version (Settings > General > About). Then check the app's compatibility requirements on its App Store page. Generally, older iPads that no longer receive the latest iPadOS updates will struggle with newer apps.
How to find out what iPad I have to sell it?
For selling, you'll need the exact model name (e.g., iPad Air 2, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)) and the storage capacity. You can find the model name using the "A" number method or directly in Settings > General > About. The storage capacity is in Settings > General > iPad Storage. Knowing if it's Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular also affects its value.
