How to Tell Your iPad Model: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn precise methods to identify your iPad model, from software checks to hardware markings. This educational guide from Tablet Info explains step-by-step how to verify the exact model for support, accessories, and software compatibility.
Identify your iPad model quickly by checking Settings, then verify with the back of the device or packaging, and cross-check against Apple’s official lists. This step-by-step approach works for all generations and helps you ensure compatibility with software, accessories, and support. Whether your iPad is Wi‑Fi only or cellular, the method remains the same. Start with Settings to pull model info, then confirm with the back or box, and finally match to Apple’s official lists.
Why identifying your iPad model matters
Identifying your iPad model matters for getting the right software updates, apps that rely on hardware features, and compatibility with accessories like cases, keyboards, and external drives. The exact model determines which iPadOS version you can install, which apps are optimized for your device, and how long you can expect warranty and service options to remain available. In practice, two devices with the same general name (e.g., iPad) can have different hardware revisions that affect performance, storage options, and display features. For a tech owner, knowing the precise model avoids wasting time chasing wrong fixes or incompatible parts. According to Tablet Info, model accuracy improves troubleshooting success rates and helps users avoid unnecessary purchases. In this section we explore the practical reasons to confirm your model before you buy accessories, request support, or plan repairs. We’ll also outline safe, official ways to verify the exact model without opening the device or risking data loss.
Where to start: quick software checks in Settings
The fastest way to identify your iPad model is through Software Settings. Open the Settings app, go to General, then About. Look for both the Model Name (the marketing label) and the Model Number (a precise code that identifies hardware). The Model Number is your taxicab to the exact generation, while the Model Name helps you confirm the broad family (iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPad mini). If you see Model Name and Model Number, you can cross-check them against Apple’s official lists to confirm the exact model. If your device is unresponsive, skip to the physical checks described in the next sections.
Finding the model number on the device and packaging
On many iPads, the model number is printed on the back of the device near the bottom edge. For cellular models, you may also find it on the SIM tray. If the back is smooth or the text is faint, check the original packaging or the receipt/shipping labels for a model number. Packaging often lists both the marketing name and the model number exactly, which makes cross-checking straightforward. Remember that the marketing name (e.g., iPad Pro) can differ from the hardware identifier, so always use the model number for precision.
Reading the model number: format and interpretation
The model number on iPads is a precise hardware identifier. In practice, you’ll encounter a string that starts with a letter (often A) followed by digits; this is the hardware model number. Separate from the Marketing name, the model number maps to a specific generation, storage option, and connectivity variant. Model Name and Model Number together give you a complete picture: Model Name tells you the family, and Model Number pinpoints the exact revision. If you’re unsure whether a label corresponds to your device, rely on an official Apple list to verify.
Using the Apple Support app and official lists
If you prefer guided verification, use the Apple Support app or Apple’s official model lists. The app can pull model identifiers directly from your device, while the lists provide a definitive cross-reference for each hardware revision. When in doubt, start with Settings to obtain the Model Number, then lookup the corresponding model in Apple’s resources. This method reduces guesswork and makes warranty and support requests smoother.
Cross-checking with official Apple lists
To ensure accuracy, compare your Model Number with the official Apple identifiers. Apple maintains updated lists for iPad generations, including standard iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, and iPad mini variants. If your model matches multiple entries due to regional differences or refurbishments, use the serial number alongside the model number for extra precision. This cross-check is essential for selecting compatible accessories and ensuring you receive the correct support options.
Special cases: refurbished models, older devices, and iPad generations
Refurbished devices can carry different internal identifiers than their retail siblings, and very old generations may use legacy labeling. If you inherited or bought a used iPad, verify both the model name and the model number, and consider checking the serial number to confirm origin and warranty status. For iPad Pro and iPad mini lines, the same approach applies, but the hardware revisions can be subtler—so exact model numbers become even more important for compatibility with refurbished parts and accessories.
Quick verification cheat sheet and mistakes to avoid
Keep this mini-checklist handy: (1) read Model Number from Settings or device back, (2) compare against Apple’s official lists, (3) verify with the packaging if available, (4) note any regional variations, (5) consider refurb status if applicable. Avoid relying solely on the marketing name, as it doesn’t indicate hardware revisions or future software compatibility. In short: cross-check, don’t assume, and always confirm with a trusted source before buying parts or seeking support.
Tools & Materials
- iPad device(Power on and accessible to Settings or back panel inspection)
- Original packaging or receipts(Useful for matching model numbers or serials with the box)
- Access to Settings app on the iPad(Navigate to General > About for the model information)
- Pen or tools for removing SIM tray (cellular models only)(Needed if the SIM tray label holds the model number)
- Notepad or notes app(Record the model number and cross-check later)
- Internet access(Access official Apple model lists or support pages)
Steps
Estimated time: 15-25 minutes
- 1
Open Settings and view About
Power on the iPad, open the Settings app, then tap General and About. Note the Model Name and the Model Number displayed on this screen. The Model Number is the most precise identifier for hardware revisions.
Tip: If you can’t access About due to a crash, try a hard reset or connect to iTunes/iCloud for device information. - 2
Record the model number
Copy or photograph the model number exactly as shown. Do not rely on the marketing name alone, since the same name can cover multiple hardware revisions.
Tip: Use the screenshot tool to capture the entire line containing the code to avoid transcription errors. - 3
Check the back of the device
Look at the bottom edge of the back surface; on many iPads the model number is engraved there. If the text is faint, use a magnifier or take a high-resolution photo to read it clearly.
Tip: If you can’t read it, proceed to the packaging or supported Apple resources for confirmation. - 4
Inspect the SIM tray (cellular models)
For cellular models, the model number is sometimes printed on the SIM tray. Ejecting the tray carefully can reveal the code without opening the device. Do not force the tray if it’s stuck.
Tip: Only attempt when you feel confident; otherwise skip to the packaging or official lists. - 5
Compare with official lists
Visit Apple’s official model lists and cross-check the model number you found with the entries. Ensure you’re matching the exact digits and the A-series code.
Tip: If you’re between entries, check regional variants and refurb notes on the official page. - 6
Check the packaging or serial number
If you have the box, use the model number alongside the serial number to confirm the device identity. Serial numbers can help validate warranty status and origin.
Tip: Keep a simple record of model, serial, and purchase date for future support needs. - 7
Note any special cases
Refurbished devices, regional variants, or special edition models may use slightly different labeling. Verify these nuances with Apple support or the official lists.
Tip: When in doubt, contact Apple Support with your model number to get a definitive confirmation. - 8
Store the model information securely
Save the model name and number in a notes app or your device profile. This makes future updates, repairs, or accessory shopping faster and less error-prone.
Tip: Keep the original packaging aside if possible for quick verification later.
Questions & Answers
What is the quickest way to tell my iPad model?
The fastest method is to open Settings > General > About and note both the Model Name and Model Number, then cross-check with Apple’s official lists. If the device is unresponsive, check the packaging or the serial number for confirmation.
Open Settings and look for the model name and number, then verify on Apple’s official lists. If you can’t access Settings, use the box or serial number as backup.
Is the model name the same as the model number?
No. The model name is the marketing label (like iPad Pro), while the model number identifies the exact hardware revision. Use the model number for precise verification and compatibility checks.
Model name is the marketing label, but the model number is the exact hardware code you should trust for accuracy.
Where can I find the model number on the iPad?
Model numbers are typically on the back of the device near the bottom edge and may also appear on the SIM tray for cellular models. If inaccessible, packaging or the Settings screen can provide the same information.
Look on the back near the bottom or check the SIM tray for cellular models. Settings is another reliable source.
Can refurbished iPads have different model numbers?
Yes. Refurbished devices can have the same marketing name but different hardware identifiers. Always verify the model number against Apple’s official lists and, if possible, confirm via the serial number.
Refurbished units can differ in hardware IDs; verify with the model number and serial number on Apple’s lists.
Do iPad models vary by region or storage option?
There can be regional variations in labeling or availability, and storage configurations may align with specific hardware revisions. Use the model number to ensure you’re matching the exact version when purchasing accessories or checking compatibility.
Yes, regional differences can affect labeling; always verify with the exact model number.
What should I do if the model number isn’t readable?
If the model number is unreadable, rely on the packaging, serial number, or Apple Support resources to confirm the device identity. Avoid buying accessories based on guesswork.
If you can’t read the number, use the serial or packaging to confirm with Apple Support.
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Highlights
- Identify model using Settings as the first step
- Model numbers uniquely identify hardware revisions
- Cross-check with Apple’s official lists for accuracy
- Keep packaging or serial data for validation
