The fastest way to check your iPad model

Open Settings, then tap General, then About. The line labeled Model shows your iPad's name — for example, "iPad Pro" or "iPad Air". The line labeled Model Name shows the generation, like "iPad Pro (7th generation)" or "iPad Air (6th generation)". This is the most direct path and works on any iPad running iOS 13 or later.

If you want to know the exact technical model number (the alphanumeric code Apple uses internally), it appears on the same About screen as Model Number. You do not need this for most purposes — the model name and generation are what you need to know whether your iPad can run a specific app, how much storage you have, or what accessories will fit.

Key Takeaways

  • Go to Settings > General > About and look at the Model line to see your iPad's type and generation.
  • The model name tells you whether you have an iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, or iPad mini, and which generation it is.
  • You can also check the back of your iPad or the original box for the model name printed on the device itself.
  • Knowing your model helps you find compatible apps, accessories, and repair information specific to your iPad.

Finding the model on the physical device

Look at the back of your iPad near the bottom. The model name is printed there in small text — you may need good light or reading glasses to see it clearly. It will say something like "iPad Pro" or "iPad (7th generation)". This method works even if your iPad will not turn on or if you forgot your passcode.

If you still have the original box your iPad came in, the model name is printed on the outside. Check the side or back panel. The box also lists the storage capacity and color, which can be useful if you are selling the iPad or looking up its original specifications.

Understanding iPad model names and what they mean

Apple makes four main iPad lines: iPad Pro (the largest and most powerful), iPad Air (mid-range size and performance), iPad (the standard model, sometimes called the base iPad), and iPad mini (the smallest). Each line has multiple generations. A newer generation usually means faster processor, better camera, and support for newer features, though the basic shape and size stay similar within a line.

The generation number tells you how old your iPad is. For example, an iPad Air (6th generation) is older than an iPad Air (7th generation). Generation numbers reset when Apple redesigns a line — so an iPad Pro (7th generation) is not necessarily newer than an iPad Air (6th generation), because they are different product lines. What matters for compatibility is the specific model name and generation, not just the generation number alone.

Why you need to know your iPad model

Apps and software updates have minimum requirements. When you look up an app in the App Store, it lists which iPad models and iOS versions it needs. If your iPad is too old, the app will not install. Knowing your exact model and generation lets you check this before you try to read something that will not work.

Accessories also depend on your model. iPad Pro models from different generations have different charging ports, speaker locations, and camera placements. A case or screen protector made for one generation may not fit another. Repair shops and online guides also use the model name to give you the right instructions for your specific iPad.

What to do if Settings does not show the model

If your iPad is very old or running an older version of iOS, the About screen may not show the generation number — it might just say "iPad" without specifying which generation. In this case, you can look up the model number (the code like "A1234") on Apple's official support page for iPad models. Apple maintains a complete list that matches every model number to its generation and release year.

You can also search online for your iPad's model number plus "iPad" to find articles and forums that identify it. However, the official Apple list is the most reliable source. If you are trying to determine whether your iPad can run a specific app or update, the model number is enough — you do not need to guess the generation.

Checking your iPad storage and other specs

On the same Settings > General > About screen where you find the model, you can also see Capacity (how much storage your iPad has) and Available (how much free space is left). Scroll down to see the iOS version, serial number, and other technical details. This screen is the single place to go when you need to know anything about your iPad's hardware or software.

If you are selling your iPad or sending it for repair, write down the model name, generation, storage capacity, and serial number. These details help the buyer or technician understand exactly what they are working with and whether parts or software will be compatible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between model and model number?

The model is the name — like "iPad Pro (7th generation)". The model number is a code like "A2696" that Apple uses internally. For most purposes, the model name is what you need. The model number is useful only if you are looking up very specific technical information or contacting Apple support.

Can I tell how old my iPad is from the model?

The generation number gives you a rough idea, but not an exact year. You can look up your model on Apple's support page to find the release year. The serial number also contains date information that Apple can decode, but the model name and generation are the fastest way to narrow it down.

Does my iPad model tell me if it can run a new app?

Not directly. You need to check the app's requirements in the App Store. Search for the app, scroll to "Information", and look for "Requires iOS [version] or later" and "Compatible with [list of models]". Your iPad model and iOS version must both meet the requirement.

What if my iPad is so old it does not show a generation number?

Very old iPads may only say "iPad" without a generation. Look up the model number on Apple's iPad models support page, which lists every iPad ever made. The model number is printed on the back of the device and also appears in Settings > General > About as "Model Number".

Is the model name the same as the product name on the box?

Usually yes. The box says "iPad Pro" or "iPad Air", and the model name in Settings matches that. However, the box may not always show the generation number, so Settings is more complete. If you have the box, it is a quick visual check, but Settings is the authoritative source.