The fastest way to check your iPad model

Open Settings, then tap General, then About. The line labeled Model shows your iPad's full name — for example, "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)" or "iPad Air (5th generation)". This is the most direct method and works on every iPad running iOS 5 or later.

If you need the model number instead of the name, scroll down in the About screen and look for Model Number. This is a code like "A2379" or "A2696" that Apple uses internally. You will rarely need this unless you are contacting Apple Support or checking compatibility with a specific accessory.

The Settings method takes about 30 seconds and tells you everything you need to know about your device's generation and capabilities.

Key Takeaways

  • Your iPad model name appears in Settings > General > About under the line labeled Model.
  • The model name includes the screen size and generation number, such as "iPad (10th generation)" or "iPad mini (6th generation)".
  • A model number like A2379 is a separate code that appears below the model name and is only needed for technical support or accessory compatibility.
  • You can also find your model name on the back of the iPad, printed in small text near the bottom.

Finding the model name on your physical iPad

Turn your iPad over and look at the back, near the bottom. You will see small printed text that includes the word "iPad" followed by a descriptor like "Pro", "Air", "mini", or just "iPad". This text also usually includes the generation number in parentheses, though the print is small and can be hard to read in poor lighting.

This method works if your iPad is powered off or if you cannot access Settings for any reason. The information printed on the back is permanent and does not change, so it remains accurate even if the device is very old or has not been turned on in years.

Understanding iPad model names and what they mean

iPad models come in four main lines: iPad (the base model), iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. Each line has different screen sizes, processing power, and features. The base iPad typically starts at 10.9 inches, the mini is 8.3 inches, the Air is 11 or 13 inches, and the Pro comes in 11 or 12.9 inches.

The generation number tells you how old your model is. A higher number means a newer device. For example, an iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) is newer than an iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation). Each generation usually brings faster processors, better cameras, or new features, though the physical appearance may look identical.

Knowing your exact model helps you determine which apps will run on your device, whether a case or keyboard will fit, and what software updates are available to you.

How to find your iPad model if you do not have the device

If you are buying a used iPad or checking details on someone else's device, you can look up the model number on Apple's website. Visit support.apple.com, search for "identify your iPad", and use their tool to enter the model number you see on the back of the device. Apple's tool will tell you the exact name, release year, and specifications.

You can also check the original box or receipt if you still have them. The box always displays the model name prominently on the front, and the receipt from purchase will list the exact product sold.

If you bought the iPad from Apple, you can sign into your Apple ID at appleid.apple.com, go to Devices, and see a list of all iPads registered to your account with their model names and purchase dates.

Model number versus model name: which one you need

The model name is what you see in Settings under "Model" — it is the human-readable version like "iPad Air (5th generation)". This is what you need when you are shopping for cases, keyboards, or screen protectors, or when you want to know the general capabilities of your device.

The model number is a code like A2696 or A2379 that appears below the model name in Settings. You need this only when contacting Apple Support, checking if a specific technical fix applies to your device, or verifying compatibility with professional accessories or software. Most people never need to look at the model number.

If someone asks "what model iPad do you have?", give them the model name. If they ask for the model number specifically, that is when you scroll down to find the code.

Checking iPad specifications beyond the model name

Once you know your model name, you can find detailed specifications in the same About screen. Scroll down to see your storage capacity (64GB, 256GB, and so on), the amount of RAM your device has, the iOS version currently installed, and the serial number.

The storage capacity is important because it determines how many apps and files you can store. The iOS version tells you whether your device can run the latest software or if it has reached the end of its update cycle. The serial number is unique to your device and is what Apple uses to look up warranty information or service history.

All of this information lives in one place: Settings > General > About. You do not need to visit multiple screens or use external tools to find it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my iPad is too old to show the model name in Settings?

Very old iPads running iOS 4 or earlier may not display the full model name in Settings. In that case, check the back of the device for printed text, or use Apple's model identifier tool on their support website by entering the model number you find printed on the back.

Can I tell the difference between iPad models just by looking at them?

Not always. Many iPad generations look nearly identical from the outside. The only reliable way to know which model you have is to check Settings or look at the printed text on the back. Screen size and the presence of a home button can give you a clue, but the Settings method is the only way to know the exact generation.

Why does my iPad show a model number instead of a model name?

This usually means your iPad is very old or running an older version of iOS. Update your device to the latest available iOS version, then check Settings > General > About again. If the model name still does not appear, the device may be too old for that feature, and you will need to rely on the model number or the text printed on the back.

Do I need to know my model number to get technical support?

Not necessarily. When you contact Apple Support, they can look up your device using your serial number or by asking you to describe what you see in the About screen. However, having your model number handy can speed up the process, especially if you are calling about a hardware issue or compatibility question.

Will the model name change if I update my iPad to a new iOS version?

No. Your model name is fixed and does not change when you update the software. An iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) will always be that model, regardless of which iOS version it is running.