To quickly check what iPad you have, open Settings > General > About and look for Model Name, Model Number, and Capacity. You can also locate the model number printed on the back label near the bottom. Use that model number to identify the exact generation, screen size, cellular or Wi‑Fi capability, and storage variant. This guide walks through several reliable methods that work across iPadOS versions and physical conditions, from an untouched device to one with a cracked screen.
Read Key Settings to Identify Your iPad Model
The fastest way to confirm which iPad you own is through Settings. This method works on any functioning iPad running iPadOS 13 or later. Follow these steps to reveal detailed model information directly from the software.
Use Settings > General > About
Within Settings, navigate to General and open About. The most useful fields here are Model Name, Model Number, and Capacity. Model Name provides a consumer-friendly label such as iPad Air or iPad mini. Model Number, often listed as Model, is a short string like A2566 or MKXY3LL/A that you can cross-reference to pinpoint the exact hardware.
Capacity shows the storage variant, which is essential when comparing prices or resale value. If your iPad runs an older version of iPadOS, you might need to scroll down to locate Model Number. For very old devices, you may only see a 16-character code; in that case, note it and look it up on Apple’s support pages. These fields together form the core data set needed to identify your device with high confidence.
Find the Model Number on the Physical Device
If Settings is not available, you can still determine the device by inspecting the hardware label. This approach is helpful for a lost device, a locked unit, or one with a broken screen.
Interpret the Back Label
On most iPads, the model number is printed on a small label affixed to the back near the bottom. The label includes a model number string such as A2566 or MRT72LL/A, along with regulatory text and country codes. The alphanumeric model code is the most important part for identification. Consumer-friendly names like iPad (9th generation) or iPad mini 6 are not printed here, so rely on the model code rather than the marketing name. If the label is scratched or missing, move to the SIM tray or Settings for alternate identifiers.
Check the SIM Tray (for Cellular Models)
On cellular iPads, a small SIM tray wedge on the side often carries the model number. Use the SIM ejector tool (or a paperclip) to pop out the tray and inspect the engraving. The tray is molded with a part number that corresponds to the iPad model and its regional variant. While this number is less commonly needed than the back label, it provides another cross-check if you already have the device in hand.
Decode the Model Number for Specifications
Once you have the model code, you can determine generation, size, connectivity, and storage. Apple’s model numbering follows patterns that allow you to infer key traits, though the most reliable source is official lookup tables rather than heuristics.
Map to Official Model Information
Visit Apple’s official support page or use a reputable device identification site. Enter or search for your model number to see a concise profile that lists display size, chip, supported connectivity (Wi‑Fi or cellular), camera specs, and typical storage options. This profile reduces ambiguity when you are comparing two similar-looking devices or confirming compatibility with accessories.
In many cases, the same model number can appear in multiple finishes. Do not rely on color alone to distinguish units. Focus on the model code and the listed specifications to confirm whether your unit is, for example, an iPad Air 5 with Wi‑Fi only or an iPad mini 5 with cellular.
Confirm Generation, Size, and Key Features
Knowing which generation and size you have is essential for finding the right accessories, estimating value, and troubleshooting issues. Below is a concise decision table that links common identifiers to the most relevant traits. It is not exhaustive but covers the majority of models sold since 2018.
| Model Identifier (Last 3–4 Digits) | Common Product Name | Screen Size | Key Feature Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| A2601, A2602, A2603, A2604 | iPad (10th generation) | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina | |
| A2566, A2567, A2568, A2569 | iPad Air (5th generation) | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina | |
| A2465, A2587, A2588, A2589 | iPad mini (6th generation) | 8.3-inch Liquid Retina | |
| A2229, A2230, A2231, A2232 | iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation) | 11-inch Liquid Retina XDR | |
| A2412, A2413, A2414, A2415 | iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) | 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR |
Use this table as a starting point, then verify with Apple’s official specifications using your model number to avoid mistakes caused by lookalike designs or regional variants.
Cross-Reference Purchases, Boxes, and Invoices
Old receipts, original boxes, and purchase emails often contain the model number or a partial SKU that maps to the exact unit. If you find a box or invoice, check the barcode area and the small print on the retailer’s packing slip. Retailer listings sometimes include the model identifier alongside the product name, which can speed up identification. When only a marketing name appears, treat it as a tentative guide and confirm with the model code from Settings or the label.
Use IMEI or Serial Number When Model Number Is Unavailable
In cases where the model code is illegible, you can use the IMEI for cellular iPads or the serial number for any iPad to look up device details. Go to Settings > General > About and copy the IMEI or Serial Number. Then enter it into Apple’s Check Coverage page or a trusted identifier tool to retrieve model information. Note that IMEI is primarily for cellular iPads, while the serial number applies to all units. These identifiers are also useful for warranty, insurance, or resale verification.
Why Accurate Identification Matters
Correctly identifying which iPad you have affects repair options, accessory compatibility, resale value, and warranty coverage. A small difference in model number can change supported accessories, maximum RAM, and even screen repair procedures. If you plan to sell or trade in the device, sellers often require confirmation of model and storage. For troubleshooting, knowing the generation and connectivity type helps you interpret support articles and avoid incompatible solutions.
Quick Recap and Final Tips
To confidently determine which iPad you own, prioritize these methods in order: Settings > General > About for Model Number; check the back label for the printed code; verify with Apple’s official model lookup; cross-reference purchases and boxes for context; fall back to IMEI or serial number when needed. Always use the model number rather than the product name shown in marketing materials, since names can overlap across generations. With the correct model code in hand, you can confidently identify your device for repairs, resale, or compatibility checks.