Check the Settings app on your iPad

The fastest way to find your iPad model is to open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says Model — this shows you the exact name Apple uses, like "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)" or "iPad Air (5th generation)". This is the most reliable method because it comes directly from your device.

The About screen also shows your iOS version, storage capacity, and serial number. If you need to contact Apple Support or check warranty information, you'll want to note the serial number as well — it's listed on this same screen.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings, tap General, then About to see your exact iPad model name and generation number.
  • The back of your iPad has a small line of text that identifies the model, though it's harder to read than the Settings method.
  • Your serial number appears in Settings under About and on the original box, and you'll need it for warranty or repair claims.
  • If you've lost the box and can't access Settings, Apple can identify your iPad by serial number if you contact them directly.

Look at the back of your iPad

If you can't access Settings, flip your iPad over. Near the bottom, printed in small text, you'll see a line that starts with "iPad" followed by the model name. On newer iPads, this might say "iPad Pro" or "iPad Air" or just "iPad". The text is small and can be hard to read, especially on older models where the print has faded.

This physical label is useful if your iPad won't turn on or if Settings is inaccessible, but the Settings method is clearer because it includes the generation number, which the back label sometimes omits.

Check the original box or receipt

If you still have the box your iPad came in, the model name and number are printed on the outside. Look for a label on the bottom or back that lists the model identifier — this usually starts with "A" followed by numbers, like "A2316". You can also find this information on your original receipt or invoice from wherever you purchased it.

The box also shows your serial number and the storage capacity you bought. If you're selling or trading in your iPad, having this information on hand makes the process smoother.

Use Apple's support website if you have the serial number

If you know your iPad's serial number but aren't sure which model it is, you can visit Apple's support page and enter the serial number to look up the exact device. This works even if your iPad is damaged or won't power on. You'll need to go to Apple's official website — not a third-party site — and use their serial number lookup tool.

Your serial number is 12 characters long and appears in Settings under About, on the back of your device, and on the original box. Having this number also helps if you need to check your warranty status or contact Apple Support.

Understand iPad model names and generations

Apple names iPads in a way that can seem confusing at first. The main iPad lines are: iPad (the basic model), iPad Air, iPad Pro, and iPad mini. Within each line, Apple adds a generation number — so you might have an "iPad Air (5th generation)" or an "iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation)". The generation number tells you how old your model is; higher numbers are newer.

The screen size also matters for iPad Pro and iPad Air models. iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes, and iPad Air comes in 10.9-inch and 11-inch sizes. When you look up your model in Settings, the full name will include the screen size if it's relevant, so you'll know exactly which version you have.

What to do if you can't find your model information

If your iPad won't turn on, the screen is broken, or you've lost all documentation, contact Apple Support directly. You can reach them through Apple's website, by phone, or by visiting an Apple Store. Have your serial number ready if you can find it — it's on the back of the device or on the original box. If you don't have the serial number, Apple can often identify your device by asking you questions about when and where you bought it.

Apple Support can also help if you're trying to figure out which iPad you have for repair or warranty purposes. They may ask for proof of purchase, so if you have an email receipt or credit card statement showing the purchase, that speeds up the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between iPad model names and model numbers?

The model name is what you see in Settings — like "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)" — and it's what most people use when talking about their device. The model number is a code like "A2316" that Apple uses internally. Both identify your iPad, but the model name is easier to understand and use when searching for accessories or support.

Does the generation number matter when buying accessories?

Sometimes. Older and newer generations of the same iPad line often use the same chargers and cases, but not always. Always check the generation number when buying a case or screen protector, because some accessories are designed for specific generations. For chargers, check the wattage and connector type rather than relying on generation alone.

Can I find my iPad model if I forgot my Apple ID password?

Yes. You don't need to log in to your Apple ID to see your model information in Settings. Go to Settings, tap General, then About — this works whether or not you're signed in. If you can't access Settings at all, check the back of your device or the original box.

What if the text on the back of my iPad is worn off or unreadable?

Use the Settings method instead — Settings, General, About. If your iPad won't turn on, contact Apple Support with your serial number if you have it, or with information about when and where you bought it. Apple can identify your device even if all the physical labels are gone.

Is there a way to check my iPad model on a computer?

If you connect your iPad to a Mac or Windows computer with iTunes or Finder, you can see the model name in the device information. On a Mac, open Finder, click your iPad in the sidebar, and look for the model name. On Windows, open iTunes, select your iPad, and find the model in the Summary tab. This method works if your iPad is damaged but still powers on and connects to a computer.