How Can I Tell What iPad I Have?

daily lives. Whether you’re using your iPad for work, study, entertainment, or creativity, understanding the specific model you own is essential for troubleshooting, upgrading, and optimizing its performance. Knowing the exact iPad model allows you to determine compatible accessories, software updates, and storage options. However, as Apple regularly releases new versions, it can sometimes be confusing to figure out which iPad you have.

In this guide, we’ll explore several effective methods for identifying your iPad model, from checking the physical features to using the settings menu and examining the serial number. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to tell which iPad you own.

1. Check the Model Number on the Device

One of the easiest ways to identify your iPad model is by checking the model number. This is especially useful because Apple uses model numbers to distinguish between different iPad generations and versions. Here’s how you can find the model number:

Finding the Model Number

• Back of the iPad: The model number is usually printed on the back of the device. It is a small string of numbers and letters, such as “A1822,” “A2316,” etc. Look for this model number in the lower part of the device’s rear, near the bottom.
• iPad Settings: If the model number is not visible on the back or it’s too faint to read, you can find it within the iPad’s settings:
  • Open the Settings app.
  • Tap on General and then About.
  • Look for the Model Number entry. If it shows a number beginning with “M,” tap on it to reveal the model number starting with “A,” such as A1822.

Once you have the model number, you can search online for the corresponding iPad version. Apple’s website and third-party resources provide detailed information on what each model number corresponds to.

2. Examine the iPad’s Physical Features

Apple frequently updates the design of the iPad, so examining the physical features can help you pinpoint your iPad model. These differences are often most noticeable between the various generations of iPads. Here’s what to look for:

Screen Size

The screen size is a simple way to narrow down the iPad model. Apple’s iPads are available in a variety of sizes, including:

• iPad Mini: 7.9-inch display
• iPad: 9.7-inch display (earlier models) and 10.2-inch display (newer models)
• iPad Air: 10.5-inch or 10.9-inch display
• iPad Pro: Available in two sizes, 11-inch and 12.9-inch

By measuring the diagonal screen size of your iPad, you can determine whether you have a standard iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Air, or iPad Pro.

Home Button

Older iPads (pre-2018) have a Home button at the bottom of the front screen, while newer iPads have a Full-Screen Display without a physical home button. Instead, these models have Face ID or Touch ID built into the screen.

• Home button: If your iPad has a physical Home button beneath the display, it’s likely an older model, such as the iPad Air (1st or 2nd generation), iPad (5th or 6th generation), or iPad Mini (3rd or 4th generation).
• No Home button: Newer models like the iPad Pro (3rd generation onward), iPad Air (4th generation), and iPad (8th generation) use Face ID or Touch ID as biometric authentication.

Camera Placement

In recent iPad models, Apple has updated the camera placement, and this can provide a hint about your iPad’s generation.

• Single Rear Camera: Most iPads have a single rear camera.
• Dual Rear Cameras: Some iPad Pro models, starting with the 2020 generation, feature dual rear cameras.

Connector Type

• Lightning Connector: Many iPads, especially models released before 2018, use the Lightning connector for charging and data transfer.
• USB-C: Newer iPad Pro, iPad Air, and some iPad models feature USB-C connectors for faster charging and data transfer, which started with the iPad Pro in 2018.

3. Use the Settings Menu to Identify Your iPad Model

The settings menu on your iPad can give you all the necessary information to figure out exactly which model you own. Here’s how to navigate the settings:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open the Settings app on your iPad.
2. Tap General in the left sidebar.
3. Tap About at the top of the General settings page.
4. Here, you’ll find a list of important details about your iPad, including:
   • Model Name: This tells you the exact name of your iPad model (e.g., iPad Air, iPad Pro).
   • Model Number: As mentioned earlier, the model number begins with “A” (e.g., A1822) and can help you identify the exact version of your device.

You can also find additional details here, such as the iPad’s software version and storage capacity.

4. Check the Serial Number

If the model number isn’t enough, you can also use the serial number to identify your iPad. The serial number is unique to each device, and you can look it up on Apple’s website or use it in their support tools.

How to Find the Serial Number

1. Go to Settings > General > About.
2. Look for the Serial Number field. This number is a unique identifier for your device.

Once you have the serial number, you can enter it into Apple’s Check Coverage website  to see detailed information about your device, including its model and warranty status.

5. Use Apple’s Support Page

If you’re still unsure about which iPad model you have, Apple’s official website has a support page where you can check your device’s specifications by entering the model number or serial number.

Here’s how:

1. Visit Apple’s Check Coverage page: .
2. Enter the serial number from your iPad into the provided field.
3. The website will return the details of your device, including the exact model, warranty status, and other important information.

6. Look at the iPad’s Original Box or Receipt

If you still have the original packaging or receipt for your iPad, this can provide all the information you need. The box typically has a label that lists the exact model name and other key details. Similarly, the receipt may contain information such as the iPad model and its configuration (e.g., storage size and color).

7. Third-Party Websites and Apps

Some third-party websites and apps can help you identify your iPad model. Websites like EveryMac.com or MacTracker offer comprehensive databases that list every Apple device ever made, including iPads. Simply enter your model number or serial number, and these websites will provide detailed specifications and other helpful information about your device.

8. Common iPad Model Comparisons

To give you a better understanding of how models differ, here’s a quick reference of the most recent iPad models:

9. Conclusion

Knowing which iPad model you have is essential for getting the most out of your device. Whether you’re troubleshooting a problem, purchasing accessories, or looking to update the software, having this information will ensure that you’re on the right track. By using the various methods outlined in this article—such as checking the model number, examining the physical features, or using Apple’s support tools—you can easily identify your iPad model.