Knowing your iPad model can be quite useful, whether you’re looking to buy accessories, get a tech upgrade, or download the right software. If you’re unsure about your model, the quickest way to find it is by checking the Settings app on your iPad. Follow a few simple steps within the General section to uncover this information. To identify your iPad model, open the Settings app, tap General, and then tap About. You will see a variety of details about your device.
Look for the model number, which typically starts with an ‘A’, and compare it with official lists to know your exact model. In addition to checking the Settings, you can also find the model number physically on the back of your iPad. This information will help you understand which generation and type of iPad you have, ensuring compatibility with apps and accessories.
How to Identify Your iPad Model
Apple has released dozens of iPad models since 2010 — and many look nearly identical. To find out exactly which iPad you own, you’ll need to locate its model number and match it with Apple’s official list.
This guide walks you through how to find your iPad’s model number, where to check it in settings or on the device, and how to identify your iPad generation.
🔍 Step 1: Find Your iPad’s Model Number
You can find your iPad’s model number in two main ways:
✅ Option 1: In the Settings App
- Open Settings.
- Tap General → About.
- Look for Model Number.
- You’ll see something like “M1234LL/A.”
- Tap it once — it will change to a shorter number starting with A (e.g., A1893).
That’s your official Apple model number.
✅ Option 2: On the Back of Your iPad
If your iPad won’t turn on or you can’t access Settings:
- Flip your iPad over.
- Look at the small text near the bottom.
- You’ll see something like “Model A1893.”
🧩 Step 2: Match Your Model Number to the iPad List
Once you have the A-number, use the chart below to identify your iPad model and generation.
(Source: Apple Support – Identify your iPad model)
iPad (Standard Models)
| Model Number | Model Name | Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1432, A1454, A1455 | iPad mini (1st gen) | 2012 |
| A1489, A1490, A1491 | iPad mini 2 | 2013 |
| A1599, A1600 | iPad mini 3 | 2014 |
| A1538, A1550 | iPad mini 4 | 2015 |
| A2133, A2124, A2126, A2125 | iPad mini (5th gen) | 2019 |
| A2567, A2568, A2569 | iPad mini (6th gen) | 2021 |
iPad (Mainline Series)
| Model Number | Model Name | Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1219, A1337 | iPad (1st gen) | 2010 |
| A1395, A1396, A1397 | iPad 2 | 2011 |
| A1416, A1430, A1403 | iPad (3rd gen) | 2012 |
| A1458, A1459, A1460 | iPad (4th gen) | 2012 |
| A1822, A1823 | iPad (5th gen) | 2017 |
| A1893, A1954 | iPad (6th gen) | 2018 |
| A2197, A2200, A2198 | iPad (7th gen) | 2019 |
| A2270, A2428, A2429, A2430 | iPad (8th gen) | 2020 |
| A2602, A2603, A2604, A2605 | iPad (9th gen) | 2021 |
| A2696, A2757, A2777 | iPad (10th gen) | 2022 |
iPad Air Series
| Model Number | Model Name | Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1474, A1475, A1476 | iPad Air (1st gen) | 2013 |
| A1566, A1567 | iPad Air 2 | 2014 |
| A2152, A2123, A2153, A2154 | iPad Air (3rd gen) | 2019 |
| A2316, A2324, A2325, A2072 | iPad Air (4th gen) | 2020 |
| A2588, A2589, A2591 | iPad Air (5th gen) | 2022 |
| A2902, A2903, A2904 | iPad Air (6th gen, M2) | 2024 |
iPad Pro Series
| Model Number | Model Name | Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1584, A1652 | iPad Pro (12.9‑inch, 1st gen) | 2015 |
| A1670, A1671 | iPad Pro (12.9‑inch, 2nd gen) | 2017 |
| A1876, A2014, A1895 | iPad Pro (12.9‑inch, 3rd gen) | 2018 |
| A2229, A2069, A2232 | iPad Pro (12.9‑inch, 4th gen) | 2020 |
| A2378, A2461, A2379 | iPad Pro (12.9‑inch, 5th gen, M1) | 2021 |
| A2436, A2764, A2766 | iPad Pro (12.9‑inch, 6th gen, M2) | 2022 |
| A2922, A2923 | iPad Pro (13‑inch, M4) | 2024 |
| Model Number | Model Name | Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1673, A1674, A1675 | iPad Pro (9.7‑inch) | 2016 |
| A1701, A1709 | iPad Pro (10.5‑inch) | 2017 |
| A1980, A2013, A1934 | iPad Pro (11‑inch, 1st gen) | 2018 |
| A2228, A2068, A2230, A2231 | iPad Pro (11‑inch, 2nd gen) | 2020 |
| A2377, A2459, A2301 | iPad Pro (11‑inch, 3rd gen, M1) | 2021 |
| A2759, A2435, A2761 | iPad Pro (11‑inch, 4th gen, M2) | 2022 |
| A2906, A2907 | iPad Pro (11‑inch, M4) | 2024 |
🧠 Step 3: Verify with Apple’s Official Page
If you’re unsure which iPad you have after checking the chart, you can confirm it directly with Apple:
👉 Identify your iPad model – Apple Support
🧾 Step 4: Why Knowing Your Model Matters
Knowing your exact iPad model helps you:
- Buy compatible accessories (cases, keyboards, Apple Pencil, etc.)
- Check software compatibility (some older iPads can’t run iPadOS 17+)
- Determine trade-in or resale value
- Get the right repair parts or screen replacements
✅ Summary
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Find your model number in Settings or on the back |
| 2 | Match the “A” number to Apple’s list |
| 3 | Confirm on Apple’s official support page |
| 4 | Use that info for updates, accessories, or resale |
💡 Pro Tip:
If you plan to sell or trade in your iPad, note both the model number and storage capacity — buyers often look for this combination.
How to Determine Your iPad Model
Apple releases new iPad models regularly, with varying features and designs. Knowing your iPad model can be useful for checking compatibility with accessories, troubleshooting issues, or simply satisfying your curiosity.
How to Locate Your iPad Model Number
Every iPad has a unique model number etched on its back, usually towards the bottom. This number starts with the letter “A” followed by four digits. You can use this model number to identify your iPad’s specific model and generation.
Using the iPad Settings to Find Your Model
Another way to determine your iPad model is through the Settings app:
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Tap on General.
- Select About.
- Look for the Model Name or Model Number fields. The Model Name will show the marketing name (e.g., iPad Pro 12.9-inch), while the Model Number will display the code (e.g., A2342).
iPad Models and Their Model Numbers
Here’s a table listing the model numbers for some popular iPad models:
| iPad Model | Model Number(s) | Released |
|---|---|---|
| iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 6th generation) | A2436, A2764, A2766 | 2022 |
| iPad Pro (11-inch, 4th generation) | A2759, A2761, A2762 | 2022 |
| iPad Air (5th generation) | A2588, A2589, A2591 | 2022 |
| iPad (10th generation) | A2696, A2757, A2777 | 2022 |
| iPad mini (6th generation) | A2567, A2568, A2569 | 2021 |
Please note that this table only includes a selection of models. For a complete list and additional details, you can refer to Apple’s official website or other online resources.
Additional Tips
- If your iPad is in a case, remove it to easily see the model number on the back.
- You can use online tools or search engines to look up your iPad model based on the model number you find.
- Keep your iPad’s model information handy for future reference or when seeking technical support.
Key Takeaways
- Find the model number in Settings or on the back of your iPad.
- Use the model number to identify your iPad’s type and generation.
- Knowing the model helps with compatibility for apps and accessories.
Determining Your iPad’s Model
To identify your iPad model, you can check the model number on your device or use the settings app. Each method provides specific details regarding your iPad’s version and generation, helping ensure accurate identification.
Locate Your iPad Model Number
One way to find your iPad’s model is to look directly on the device. Turn your iPad over and check the back. Near the bottom, you will see a series of small letters and numbers. Look for the “Model” label followed by a number starting with an “A” such as A1822 or A1893. This number specifically indicates the model of your iPad.
Note: If the number has a slash (e.g., MY3K2LL/A), it could refer to the part number instead. Detailed lists of model numbers can be found on Apple’s website or support pages.
Use the Settings App to Identify Your Model
Another method involves using the settings on your iPad. Open the Settings app, tap on “General,” then select “About.” Here, you’ll see multiple pieces of information, including the model name and the model number. For example, it might display “iPad Air 2” and a model number like “A1566.”
You will also find your iPad’s name, storage capacity, software version, and serial number. This information can be very useful, especially if you need to provide these details for tech support, selling your iPad, or checking for upgrade eligibility.
Physical Characteristics and Features
Different iPad models have distinct physical features. For example, the iPad mini models are smaller and more compact, with a screen size of 7.9 inches. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is larger and often used for more demanding applications.
Other features like the presence of a SIM card slot can indicate a Cellular model. The iPad Air models are known for being lighter and slimmer compared to other iPads. Devices like the iPad mini 2 with Retina display distinguish themselves with higher screen resolution.
Identifying these physical characteristics helps differentiate models when pixel differences or internal settings information alone isn’t enough. Features like storage capacity and battery health can also play a role in identifying your specific iPad model more precisely.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common questions about identifying your iPad model, including finding the model number, looking up specifications, determining the generation and age, and verifying authenticity.
What are the steps to find the model number on my iPad?
To find the model number of your iPad, you can look on the back of your device. Alternatively, open the Settings app, tap General, and then tap About. The model number should be listed there.
How can I look up the specifications for my specific iPad model?
Once you have the model number, visit the Apple Support website or search online to find detailed specifications for your iPad model. Websites like Macworld and AppleInsider also provide this information.
In what ways can I determine the generation and age of my iPad?
To determine the generation and age of your iPad, check the model number and match it with Apple’s official list of iPad models. You can also find this information in the Settings app under General > About.
What method can be used to identify an iPad model using its serial number?
To identify an iPad model using its serial number, enter the serial number on the Apple Support website’s coverage check page. This will provide you with the model and some details about your device.
How can I discern the differences among iPad model numbers?
The differences among iPad model numbers can often be subtle. Look closely at the letters and numbers in the model designation. Refer to the Apple Support site or reliable tech websites for a detailed comparison.
Is there a way to verify the authenticity of an iPad’s model designation?
Yes, you can verify the authenticity of an iPad’s model designation by checking the model number and serial number on Apple’s official website. This ensures that the iPad is genuine and its specifications match the listed details.
