The fastest way to identify your iPad

Open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says Model — this shows you exactly which iPad you own. The model name appears as something like "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)" or "iPad Air (5th generation)". This is the most reliable method because it comes directly from Apple's system on your device.

If you cannot access Settings — for example, if the iPad is locked or not turning on — you can find the model number on the physical device itself. Look on the back of the iPad near the bottom. You will see a small line of text that starts with "Model A" followed by four numbers, like "Model A2379". This is the technical model number, which is different from the marketing name but identifies your exact iPad.

The model name and model number are two different things. The model name is what Apple calls it in stores and marketing. The model number is the internal identifier. Both tell you what you have, but the model name is usually more useful because it tells you the generation and screen size.

Key Takeaways

  • Go to Settings > General > About and look at the Model line to see your iPad's name and generation in one place.
  • If your iPad will not turn on or you cannot access Settings, check the back of the device for the Model A number printed on the case.
  • The model name (like "iPad Pro 12.9-inch") is different from the model number (like "A2379"), but both identify your device.
  • Knowing your exact model matters when you need to buy accessories, check storage capacity, or find out which software updates your iPad can run.

Reading the Settings screen correctly

When you open Settings > General > About, you will see several lines of information. The Model line is what you need — not the "Model Number" line below it. The Model line shows the marketing name Apple uses, which includes the screen size and generation number. For example, "iPad (10th generation)" or "iPad mini (6th generation)".

Below the Model line, you will also see a "Model Number" line. This shows a code like "A2696" or "A2757". This number is useful if you are looking up technical specifications or checking compatibility with very specific accessories, but for most purposes the Model line above it is what you want.

You may also see lines for Storage, iOS Version, and Serial Number on this same screen. The Storage line tells you how much space your iPad has. The iOS Version tells you which version of iPadOS is running. The Serial Number is unique to your device and is useful if you ever need to contact Apple Support or file a warranty claim.

Finding the model number on the physical device

Turn your iPad over and look at the back. Near the bottom edge, you will find small printed text. This text includes the model number, which always starts with "Model A" followed by four digits. The complete line might read something like "Model A2379" or "Model A2696".

The model number is printed in very small type, so you may need good lighting or a magnifying glass to read it clearly. It is usually printed in black or gray ink on the aluminum or plastic back of the device. On some older iPads, this information may be printed on the bottom edge instead of the back.

Once you have the model number, you can search for it on Apple's website or on tech support sites to find out the marketing name, screen size, and generation. For example, if you find "Model A2379", you can search that number and learn it is an iPad Air (5th generation) with a 10.9-inch screen.

What to do if you cannot read the back of the device

If the back of your iPad is too damaged, scratched, or worn to read the model number, or if you simply cannot access Settings, there are other ways to find out what you have. If you have the original box your iPad came in, the model information is printed on the outside of the box, usually on the bottom or back panel.

If you bought the iPad from an Apple Store or authorized retailer and still have your receipt, the receipt may show the model name. You can also contact Apple Support with your serial number (if you can see it anywhere) or your purchase information, and they can tell you the exact model.

If you have an Apple ID and purchased the iPad through that account, you can sign into your Apple ID on any web browser, go to your account settings, and look at your purchase history. The iPad will be listed there with its full model name.

Why knowing your model matters

Knowing your exact iPad model is important for several reasons. First, it tells you which accessories will work with your device. iPad Pro models use different charging cables and docking connectors than regular iPad models, and screen sizes vary. Buying a case or screen protector for the wrong model will not fit.

Second, your model determines which software updates your iPad can run. Older iPad models cannot run the newest versions of iPadOS. If you are thinking about updating your device, knowing the model tells you whether that update is available for you. You can check Apple's website to see which iPads support the current iPadOS version.

Third, if you are selling your iPad or trading it in, the buyer or retailer will ask for the model and storage capacity. Having this information ready makes the transaction faster. It also helps you price the device fairly, since different models and generations have different resale values.

Common places people look but should not

Do not look for the model name on the front of the iPad. The front is blank or shows only the Apple logo and screen. The model information is never printed there.

Do not confuse the model name with the storage capacity. An iPad might say "64GB" or "256GB", but this is not the model — it is how much storage space it has. You need both pieces of information: the model name (like "iPad Air") and the storage size (like "256GB").

Do not assume all iPads with the same name are the same model. Apple releases new generations of the same iPad line regularly. An "iPad Air" from 2022 is a different generation than an "iPad Air" from 2024, and they have different technical capabilities. The generation number in the model name (like "5th generation" or "6th generation") is what distinguishes them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the model name and model number?

The model name is what Apple calls your iPad in marketing and stores — for example, "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)". The model number is an internal code that starts with "Model A" followed by four digits, like "A2696". Both identify your device, but the model name is more useful for finding accessories and checking software compatibility.

Can I find my iPad model if it will not turn on?

Yes. Check the back of the device for the Model A number printed near the bottom edge. You can also check the original box, your receipt, or your Apple ID purchase history. If none of these work, contact Apple Support with your serial number or purchase information.

Does the storage capacity matter when I am looking up my model?

The storage capacity is separate from the model. Your model name stays the same whether you have 64GB or 256GB. However, when you are buying accessories or checking software compatibility, you usually only need the model name and generation, not the storage size.

Why does my iPad say "Model Number" and "Model" as two different things in Settings?

Apple uses "Model" for the marketing name (like "iPad Air 5th generation") and "Model Number" for the internal code (like "A2379"). The Model line is what you need for most purposes. The Model Number is useful only if you are looking up very specific technical details or contacting support.

Can I tell which iPad model I have just by looking at it?

Not reliably. Many iPad models look very similar from the outside, especially different generations of the same line. The only sure way is to check Settings or read the model number on the back. Do not guess based on appearance alone.