Finding out exactly which iPad model you own might seem like a small detail, but it's surprisingly important for a lot of reasons. Whether you're looking to sell it, buy accessories, troubleshoot an issue, or simply brag about your cutting-edge tech (or lament your vintage model!), knowing your iPad's identity is the first step.
So, are you ready to embark on a quest to uncover your iPad's true identity? Let's dive in!
Step 1: The Grand Unveiling – Checking the Back of Your iPad
Let's start with the most straightforward method. Don't worry, you don't need any special tools or software for this!
Take your iPad and turn it over. On the aluminum back, usually near the bottom, you'll find some very fine print. It might be a bit hard to read in dim lighting, so position it well under a light source.
Look for a line that starts with "Model A" followed by four numbers (e.g., Model A1234). This "Axxxx" number is your golden ticket! It's a unique identifier for your iPad's hardware.
- Pro Tip: If you're struggling to read the tiny text, try using your phone's camera to zoom in, or even snap a picture and then zoom in on the photo.
Step 2: Deciphering the "A" – Using the Model Number
Now that you have your "Axxxx" model number, it's time to decode it. This is where you'll need a quick reference. You can either use a search engine or refer to a comprehensive list of iPad models.
-
Option A: The Quick Search Method
- Open your preferred web browser (on your phone, computer, or even the iPad itself if it's working!).
- In the search bar, type in "iPad model A[your four numbers]" (e.g., "iPad model A1234").
- Press Enter or search. The top results should quickly tell you exactly which iPad model you have (e.g., "iPad Air 2," "iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)," etc.).
-
Option B: The Comprehensive List (for the detail-oriented) For those who prefer a more structured approach, here's a general guide to common iPad model numbers. Keep in mind this isn't exhaustive, but it covers a vast majority.
- Original iPad Series:
- A1219 (Wi-Fi)
- A1337 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad 2:
- A1395 (Wi-Fi)
- A1396 (Wi-Fi + 3G CDMA)
- A1397 (Wi-Fi + 3G GSM)
- iPad (3rd generation):
- A1416 (Wi-Fi)
- A1430 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1403 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, Verizon)
- iPad (4th generation):
- A1458 (Wi-Fi)
- A1459 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1460 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, MM)
- iPad Air:
- A1474 (Wi-Fi)
- A1475 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1476 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, TD-LTE)
- iPad Air 2:
- A1566 (Wi-Fi)
- A1567 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Air (3rd generation):
- A2152 (Wi-Fi)
- A2123 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2153 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2154 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- iPad Air (4th generation):
- A2316 (Wi-Fi)
- A2324 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2325 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2072 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Air (5th generation):
- A2588 (Wi-Fi)
- A2589 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2591 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad mini:
- A1432 (Wi-Fi)
- A1454 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1455 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, MM)
- iPad mini 2 (Retina):
- A1489 (Wi-Fi)
- A1490 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1491 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, TD-LTE)
- iPad mini 3:
- A1599 (Wi-Fi)
- A1600 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad mini 4:
- A1538 (Wi-Fi)
- A1550 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad mini (5th generation):
- A2133 (Wi-Fi)
- A2124 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2126 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2125 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- iPad mini (6th generation):
- A2567 (Wi-Fi)
- A2568 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2569 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation):
- A1584 (Wi-Fi)
- A1652 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Pro 9.7-inch:
- A1673 (Wi-Fi)
- A1674 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1675 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Pro 10.5-inch:
- A1701 (Wi-Fi)
- A1709 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1852 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation):
- A1670 (Wi-Fi)
- A1671 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1821 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation):
- A1980 (Wi-Fi)
- A2013 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1934 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1979 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation):
- A1876 (Wi-Fi)
- A2014 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1895 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A1983 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation):
- A2228 (Wi-Fi)
- A2068 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2230 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2231 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation):
- A2229 (Wi-Fi)
- A2069 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2232 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2233 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation - M1):
- A2377 (Wi-Fi)
- A2459 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2301 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2460 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation - M1):
- A2378 (Wi-Fi)
- A2461 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2379 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2462 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation - M2):
- A2759 (Wi-Fi)
- A2761 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2762 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2435 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation - M2):
- A2436 (Wi-Fi)
- A2764 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2437 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2766 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad (5th generation):
- A1822 (Wi-Fi)
- A1823 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad (6th generation):
- A1893 (Wi-Fi)
- A1954 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad (7th generation):
- A2197 (Wi-Fi)
- A2200 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2198 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad (8th generation):
- A2270 (Wi-Fi)
- A2428 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2429 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2430 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad (9th generation):
- A2602 (Wi-Fi)
- A2604 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2603 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2605 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- iPad (10th generation):
- A2696 (Wi-Fi)
- A2757 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A2777 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- A3162 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China)
- Original iPad Series:
Step 3: The Digital Dive – Checking in Settings (If Your iPad is Working)
If your iPad is powered on and accessible, there's an even easier way to find its model name and number directly within the device's settings.
- Open the "Settings" app. This is the grey gear icon on your home screen.
- Tap on "General." It's usually near the top of the left-hand menu.
- Tap on "About." This is typically the first option under "General."
Here, you'll see a wealth of information about your iPad. Look for:
-
Model Name: This will tell you the friendly name of your iPad, like "iPad Air (5th generation)" or "iPad Pro 11-inch (M2)."
-
Model Number: You might see two model numbers here. One will be the part number (e.g., MLQ32LL/A), and if you tap on it, it will change to the familiar "Axxxx" number we discussed in Step 1.
-
Why is this useful? If the text on the back is worn off or you simply prefer a digital approach, this is your go-to method. It also gives you the exact marketing name of your iPad, which is often more helpful for accessory compatibility.
Step 4: The Mac/PC Connection – Using Finder or iTunes
If your iPad is not booting up or you prefer to use your computer, you can also identify your iPad by connecting it to a Mac or a PC with iTunes installed.
-
For Macs running macOS Catalina (10.15) or later:
- Connect your iPad to your Mac using a USB cable.
- Open Finder.
- In the Finder sidebar, under "Locations," select your iPad.
- At the top of the Finder window, click "General."
- You'll see information about your iPad, including its model name and serial number. To see the model number (Axxxx), you might need to click on the model name or serial number itself to toggle the display.
-
For PCs and Macs running older macOS versions (Mojave 10.14 or earlier) with iTunes:
- Connect your iPad to your computer using a USB cable.
- Open iTunes.
- In iTunes, click on the device icon that appears in the upper-left corner of the window (it looks like a small iPad).
- On the Summary tab, you'll see details about your iPad, including its model name and serial number. Similar to Finder, you might need to click on the serial number to cycle through to the model number (Axxxx).
Why Knowing Your iPad Model Matters:
- Accessories: Cases, screen protectors, keyboard folios – they are all model-specific. A case for an iPad Air 2 won't fit an iPad Air 5!
- Trade-in Value: When selling or trading in your iPad, the exact model and generation significantly impact its value.
- Software Updates: Older iPads eventually stop receiving the latest iOS updates, which can affect app compatibility and security. Knowing your model helps you determine its update lifespan.
- Troubleshooting: When seeking support or looking up solutions to problems, providing the correct model ensures you get relevant advice.
- App Compatibility: Some graphics-intensive or advanced apps may only run on newer iPad models.
- Repair Parts: If you need to replace a screen or battery, the parts are unique to each iPad model.
By following these steps, you'll be able to confidently identify your iPad model, empowering you with the knowledge needed for all your iPad-related endeavors!
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to know if my iPad is Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular?
Look for a SIM card tray on the side of your iPad. If it has one, it's a Wi-Fi + Cellular model. The model number on the back will also be different for cellular models (e.g., Axxxx for Wi-Fi vs. Ayyyy for Wi-Fi + Cellular).
How to know what generation my iPad is?
Once you have the model name (e.g., "iPad Air 2" or "iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)"), the generation is usually included in the name or easily found by searching that specific model name.
How to know what iOS version my iPad is running?
Go to Settings > General > About. The "iOS Version" or "iPadOS Version" will be listed there.
How to know if my iPad supports the Apple Pencil?
Refer to Apple's official compatibility list, or look up your specific iPad model online. Generally, newer iPads support Apple Pencil 2nd generation, while older ones might support 1st generation, or none at all.
How to know if my iPad is compatible with a Smart Keyboard Folio?
Smart Keyboard Folios are typically compatible with specific iPad Pro and iPad Air models that have a Smart Connector on the side or back. Check Apple's accessory compatibility information for your iPad model.
How to know the storage capacity of my iPad?
Go to Settings > General > iPad Storage. This will show you the total storage and how much is used. Alternatively, in Settings > General > About, look for "Capacity."
How to know my iPad's serial number?
Go to Settings > General > About. The "Serial Number" will be listed there. You can also find it on the original packaging or by connecting to a computer.
How to know if my iPad is still under warranty?
Go to Settings > General > About, then tap on "Limited Warranty" or "Coverage." Alternatively, enter your serial number on Apple's "Check Coverage" website.
How to know if my iPad is refurbished?
There's no direct setting to show if an iPad is refurbished by Apple. However, if you bought it from Apple's certified refurbished store, it's explicitly stated. For third-party purchases, it's harder to tell.
How to know the screen size of my iPad?
Once you know the exact model (e.g., "iPad Pro 12.9-inch"), the screen size is part of its name. If not, you can easily look up the specifications for your identified model online.
