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 the exact name Apple uses, like "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)" or "iPad Air (5th generation)". This method works on any iPad running iOS 5 or later.

The model name tells you both the product line and how many generations old it is. A higher generation number means a newer iPad. If you see just "iPad" without a generation number, you have one of the base-model iPads from 2017 or earlier.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings, tap General, then About to see your exact model name and generation number in one place.
  • The model name includes the screen size and generation — for example, "iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation)" — which tells you both what you own and how current it is.
  • If you cannot turn on your iPad, check the back of the device for an engraved model number starting with "A" followed by four digits.
  • The serial number in Settings is unique to your device but does not tell you the model; use the model name instead.

Look at the physical device if you cannot turn it on

If your iPad will not power on or you need to identify it without unlocking it, flip it over and look at the back. Near the bottom, you will see small engraved text that includes a model number — something like "A2316" or "A2589". This number is unique to each iPad model and generation.

You can search this model number on Apple's website or in a search engine to find out exactly which iPad you have. The model number is the most reliable identifier if the device is broken or locked.

Find the model name on the original box or receipt

If you still have the box your iPad came in, the model name is printed on the outside. Look for text like "iPad Pro" or "iPad Air" along with the screen size and storage capacity. The receipt from your purchase also lists the model name, usually under "Product" or "Item Description".

This method is useful if you want to confirm what you bought without opening the device, or if you are selling or trading in your iPad and need to verify the exact model for the buyer.

Understand what the model name tells you

iPad model names follow a pattern: the product line (iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, or iPad Pro), the screen size for some lines, and the generation number in parentheses. For example, "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)" means it is a 12.9-inch iPad Pro from the sixth generation of that specific size.

Generation numbers reset for each product line, so a 1st-generation iPad Air is not older than a 6th-generation iPad mini — they are different products. If you are comparing two iPads to see which is newer, check the generation number only within the same product line and screen size.

Use Apple's support pages to match your model to specs

Once you know your model name, you can visit Apple's iPad tech specs page and search for your exact model to see the processor, RAM, storage options, and release year. This tells you whether your iPad supports the latest software updates and which accessories are compatible with it.

You can also check Apple's official iPad comparison tool, which lets you select your model and compare it side by side with other iPads. This is helpful if you are deciding whether to upgrade or if you want to understand what features your current iPad has.

Check the serial number if you need to verify ownership

The serial number is a unique identifier for your specific device, found in Settings under General > About. It is different from the model number — the serial number is unique to your iPad, while the model number is the same for all iPads of that type.

If you are registering your iPad with Apple, reporting it lost or stolen, or dealing with a warranty claim, you will need the serial number. It is also printed on the original box and receipt. Do not share your serial number publicly, as it can be used to track your device.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The model name is what Apple calls the product — like "iPad Air (5th generation)" — and you find it in Settings. The model number is a code like "A2589" engraved on the back of the device. Both identify your iPad, but the model name is more useful for finding specs and compatibility information.

Why does my iPad say "iPad" with no other name in Settings?

If you see just "iPad" without a product line name like "Air" or "Pro", you have one of the base-model iPads. These are the standard, entry-level iPads that Apple sells. Check the generation number in parentheses to see how old it is — for example, "iPad (9th generation)" is older than "iPad (10th generation)".

Can I find my model name if my iPad is locked with a passcode?

Yes. You can see the model name on the original box or receipt without unlocking the device. If you do not have those, you can check the model number engraved on the back and search it online. You cannot access Settings without unlocking the iPad.

Does knowing my model help me find compatible accessories?

Yes. Accessories like cases, screen protectors, and keyboards are often designed for specific iPad models or generations. Knowing your exact model name helps you search for accessories that fit. Some accessories work across multiple generations of the same product line, but others are model-specific.

What if the engraved model number on the back is worn off or hard to read?

If you can turn on your iPad, use Settings to find the model name — that is always readable. If the device will not power on and the engraving is too faint to read, contact Apple Support with the serial number from the original box or receipt, and they can tell you the model.