You've got an iPad, but you're not entirely sure which iPad it is? Perhaps it was a gift, or maybe it's been a while since you unboxed it. Don't worry, you're not alone! Knowing your iPad's specific model is incredibly useful for a variety of reasons, from buying the right accessories to understanding its capabilities and compatibility with the latest software.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every method to identify your iPad model, ensuring you'll be an expert by the end. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Let's Start with a Quick Check – Do You Have the Original Box?
Before we delve into the more technical details, let's start with the easiest possibility. Did you happen to keep the original box your iPad came in? If so, congratulations! This is often the quickest way to find your iPad's model information.
- Look for a Label: On the back or bottom of the box, you'll typically find a sticker with a barcode and various pieces of information. Look for text like "Model No." or "Part No." followed by a string of letters and numbers. Sometimes, the actual model name (e.g., "iPad Air 2," "iPad Pro 11-inch") will be printed directly on the box as well.
- Check the Front of the Box: The front of the box might also display the model name prominently, especially on newer iPads.
If you found the box and identified your model, fantastic! You're all set. If not, no worries at all – we have plenty of other reliable methods to explore.
Step 2: Finding Your iPad Model Through the Settings App (The Most Common Method)
This is by far the most reliable and frequently used method, as it doesn't require any external accessories or original packaging. Your iPad itself holds all the secrets!
Sub-heading: Navigating to the "About" Section
- Open the Settings App: Tap the Settings app icon on your iPad's Home screen. It looks like a set of grey gears.
- Tap "General": In the left-hand sidebar (on iPads), scroll down and tap General.
- Tap "About": On the right-hand side, at the very top, tap About.
Sub-heading: Identifying Your Model Name and Model Number
Once you're in the "About" section, you'll see a wealth of information about your iPad. Here's what you're looking for:
- Model Name: This is the most user-friendly way to identify your iPad. Look for the entry labeled Model Name. It will directly tell you what kind of iPad you have, for example, "iPad Air (5th Generation)," "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Generation)," or "iPad mini (6th Generation)." This is usually all the information you need!
- Model Number: Below the "Model Name," you'll also see an entry for Model Number. This number will start with the letter A followed by four digits (e.g., A1234, A2345). This is the specific hardware identifier for your iPad. While the Model Name is more descriptive for everyday use, the Model Number is crucial for precise identification, especially when cross-referencing with Apple's official documentation.
- Pro Tip: Sometimes, initially, only a "Part Number" (which starts with letters like MQ, MY, etc.) is shown. If you tap on the "Model Number" field, it will toggle to display the "A" followed by four digits model number. Make sure you get the "A" number!
Step 3: Locating the Model Number on the Back of Your iPad (A Physical Inspection)
Even if your iPad isn't turning on, or you simply prefer a physical check, Apple also prints the model number directly on the device itself.
- Flip Your iPad Over: Carefully turn your iPad over so the back is facing you.
- Look for Small Print: Near the bottom, you'll find a small block of very fine print. You might need to tilt your iPad in good light or even use a magnifying glass to read it.
- Find "Model No.": Within this tiny text, you'll see "Model No." followed by the familiar A and four digits (e.g., A1234). This is the exact same model number you'd find in the Settings app.
- Important Note: This physical model number is always the "A" number, not the Part Number.
Step 4: Using the Model Number to Determine Your iPad's Specific Model (The Decoder Ring)
Now that you have your "A" model number (from either the Settings app or the back of your iPad), you can use it to definitively identify your iPad's full name, generation, and sometimes even its storage capacity and connectivity options.
- Open a Web Browser: On any device (your phone, computer, or another iPad), open a web browser.
- Go to Apple's Support Page: The most reliable place to look up model numbers is Apple's official support website. Search for "Identify your iPad model Apple support" or go directly to:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201471 - Match Your Model Number: On this Apple support page, you'll find a comprehensive list of all iPad models, organized by their "A" model numbers.
- Scroll through the list until you find your specific "A" number.
- Next to the number, you'll see the full model name (e.g., iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)), and often details like its year of release, screen size, and whether it's Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular.
- Example: If you found "A2197," the Apple support page would tell you it's an iPad (7th generation) (Wi-Fi only). If you found "A2229," it would be an iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation) (Wi-Fi only).
Step 5: Understanding What Your iPad Model Tells You
So, you've identified your iPad model. Now what? Knowing your specific model is crucial for several reasons:
- Accessories: This is perhaps the most immediate benefit. Screen protectors, cases, keyboards, and even some charging cables are often model-specific. Buying the wrong accessory is a common mistake!
- Software Updates: Older iPads eventually stop receiving the latest iOS/iPadOS updates. Knowing your model helps you understand if your device is still supported for new features and security patches.
- Performance Expectations: Newer iPads have more powerful processors, better cameras, and more RAM. Your model helps you set realistic expectations for its performance, especially with demanding apps or games.
- Trade-in Value/Resale: When selling or trading in your iPad, the model and generation are primary factors in determining its value.
- Troubleshooting: When seeking support or looking up solutions to problems, providing your exact iPad model ensures you get relevant advice.
- App Compatibility: Some apps require specific iPad models or newer hardware features to run optimally or at all.
Step 6: Bonus Method: Using iTunes/Finder (For Macs/PCs with Older Operating Systems)
If you have a Mac or a PC with iTunes installed, you can also identify your iPad model when it's connected.
Sub-heading: For Macs running macOS Catalina or later (using Finder)
- Connect Your iPad: Plug your iPad into your Mac using a USB cable.
- Open Finder: Click on the Finder icon in your Dock.
- Select Your iPad: In the Finder sidebar, under "Locations," click on your iPad's name.
- View Details: On the main Finder window, you'll see information about your iPad, including its model name. You might need to click on the "General" tab if multiple tabs are present.
Sub-heading: For Macs running macOS Mojave or earlier, or Windows PCs (using iTunes)
- Connect Your iPad: Plug your iPad into your computer using a USB cable.
- Open iTunes: Launch the iTunes application.
- Select Your iPad Icon: In iTunes, look for a small iPad icon near the top-left corner, just below the menu bar. Click on it.
- View Summary: You'll be taken to the Summary tab for your iPad. Here, you'll see details including the Model of your iPad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to find out what my iPad is if it's dead?
If your iPad is completely dead and won't turn on, you can find the model number printed in very small text on the back of the device, typically near the bottom. It will start with 'A' followed by four digits.
How to find out what my iPad is by its serial number?
You can find your iPad's serial number in the Settings app under General > About. Once you have the serial number, go to Apple's "Check Coverage" website (checkcoverage.apple.com) and enter the serial number. It will display your iPad's model name.
How to find out what my iPad is without turning it on?
The easiest way without turning it on is to check the back of the iPad for the 'A' model number, or check the original packaging if you still have it.
How to find out what generation my iPad is?
Once you know your iPad's model name (e.g., iPad Air), the generation is usually included in the name itself (e.g., "iPad Air (5th Generation)"). If not, you can look up the 'A' model number on Apple's support page, which will specify the generation.
How to find out what storage capacity my iPad has?
Go to Settings > General > iPad Storage. This will show you the total storage capacity of your iPad and how much of it is currently used.
How to find out what iOS version my iPad is running?
Go to Settings > General > About. The "Software Version" or "iOS Version" entry will display the current operating system version your iPad is running.
How to find out if my iPad is Wi-Fi or Cellular?
On the back of the iPad, if it's a Cellular model, you'll often see a black antenna line near the top. In Settings, go to Settings > General > About. If you see an entry for "Cellular Data Number" or "IMEI," it's a Wi-Fi + Cellular model. If these are absent, it's a Wi-Fi only model.
How to find out if my iPad supports Apple Pencil?
Once you know your iPad model, refer to Apple's official compatibility list for the Apple Pencil. Generally, newer iPads support the Apple Pencil 2nd generation, while older models support the 1st generation, and some very old models don't support either.
How to find out if my iPad is compatible with the latest iPadOS?
After identifying your iPad model and generation, check Apple's official website or a reliable tech news source for the latest iPadOS version. They always list which iPad models are compatible.
How to find out how old my iPad is?
While the iPad itself doesn't directly show an "age," knowing its model and generation allows you to look up its release year on Apple's support pages or general tech websites. This gives you a good indication of its age.