Where to find your laptop model on Windows

The fastest way on Windows is to open Settings and look in one place. Click the Start button, type "System Information" into the search box, and press Enter. A window will open showing your computer name at the top — but that is not your model. Scroll down until you see System Model. That line shows the actual model name and number your manufacturer assigned.

If System Information feels buried, there is a quicker visual method. Look at the bottom of your laptop screen, near the keyboard. Most manufacturers stamp the model name or number into the plastic bezel or on a sticker. Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Asus all do this. The label might say something like "HP Pavilion 15-eh1053dx" or "Dell XPS 13 Plus". Write down exactly what you see — manufacturers use these codes to match you with the right drivers and support pages.

A third option works if you have the original box or paperwork. The model is printed on the box exterior, on the receipt, or on any sticker inside the battery compartment. If you have already thrown those away, the Settings method will get you there.

Where to find your laptop model on Mac

On a Mac, click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select About This Mac. The window that opens shows Model Name at the top — this is what you are looking for. It will say something like "MacBook Pro" or "MacBook Air". Below that, you will see Model Identifier, which is a code like "MacBookPro18,1". Both pieces of information are useful; the model name is what most people need, but the identifier helps Apple support match you to the exact version.

You can also find this information by holding down the Option key and clicking the Apple menu, then selecting System Information. The model name appears in the same place. On newer Macs, you might also see a chip name like "Apple M3" — that tells you which processor your Mac uses, which is separate from the model.

Key Takeaways

  • On Windows, open Settings, search for "System Information", and look for the line labeled System Model to find your exact model name and number.
  • On Mac, click the Apple menu and select About This Mac to see your model name at the top of the window.
  • Most laptops have the model printed on a sticker on the bottom, back, or inside the battery compartment if you need to verify it physically.
  • Write down the complete model name and number exactly as it appears, because manufacturers use these codes to match you with correct drivers and support pages.
  • The model name (like "HP Pavilion" or "MacBook Pro") is different from the processor name (like "Intel Core i7" or "Apple M3"), and you may need both for different support purposes.

Why your laptop model matters

Your model number is the key that unlocks support for your specific machine. When you search for a driver, a manual, or a repair guide, the model number tells the manufacturer which version of the software or instructions you actually need. A driver built for one model often will not work on another, even from the same brand. Putting the wrong driver on your laptop can cause crashes or hardware failures.

Support pages also use the model to show you which parts are inside your machine, how to replace them, and what warranty you have. If you call a manufacturer's support line, the first thing they ask for is the model number — it tells them what they are troubleshooting before you say a word.

What to do if you cannot find the model in Settings

If System Information does not show a clear model name, try the Command Prompt on Windows. Right-click the Start button, select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin), and type this line exactly: wmic csproduct get name. Press Enter. The result is your system model. This method works even when the normal settings are hidden or corrupted.

On a Mac, if About This Mac does not show what you need, the model identifier is usually enough. You can search that code on Apple's support site and it will tell you exactly which MacBook you own. If you are still stuck, the physical sticker on the bottom of the machine is the most reliable source — manufacturers always print it there.

Telling the difference between model and processor

Many people confuse the laptop model with the processor inside it. The model is the product line — "Dell XPS 13" or "HP Pavilion 15". The processor is the chip that runs calculations — "Intel Core i7" or "AMD Ryzen 5". You need both pieces of information for different reasons. The model tells you which drivers and parts fit your machine. The processor tells you how fast your machine runs and whether it can handle certain software.

When you look in System Information, you will see both. On Windows, System Model is the laptop model, and Processor is the chip. On Mac, Model Name is the laptop model, and Chip is the processor. Write down both if you are troubleshooting, because support staff may ask for either one.

Keeping your model information handy

Once you find your model, save it somewhere you can find it later. Take a photo of the sticker on the bottom of your laptop and store it in your phone's photo library. Write the model in a document on your computer. Email it to yourself. The next time you need a driver, a manual, or support, you will have it ready without digging through Settings again.

If you ever sell or give away your laptop, the model number is also useful information for the next owner. It tells them what they are working with and where to find support for their new machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the serial number the same as the model number?

No. The model number is the product line — like "HP Pavilion 15-eh1053dx" — and thousands of identical laptops share the same model number. The serial number is unique to your individual machine, like a fingerprint. You need the model number for drivers and support, not the serial number.

What if my laptop has a custom or generic name?

Some laptops sold through retailers like Best Buy or Costco have generic names like "Laptop" or "Computer". Look at the physical sticker on the bottom instead — it always has the real model. If the sticker is missing or worn away, the System Information method will still show the manufacturer's actual model code.

Do I need the model number to buy replacement parts?

Yes. Parts are built for specific models, and using the wrong part can damage your laptop. Always search for parts using your exact model number. If you are unsure, contact the manufacturer's support line with your model and they can tell you which parts fit.

Can I find the model number on a Mac without turning it on?

Yes. Look on the bottom of the MacBook — Apple prints the model name and serial number on a sticker there. You can also check the original box or any paperwork that came with it. The model is always printed somewhere physical on the machine.