The fastest way to find your iPad model

Open Settings on your iPad, then tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says Model — this tells you exactly which iPad you own. The name will be something like "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (7th generation)" or "iPad Air (5th generation)". That single line is what you need.

If you want to know the storage size and color as well, they appear on the same screen. The storage size is listed as Capacity, and the color is listed as Color. Write down the model name if you plan to look up repair costs, trade-in value, or compatibility with a specific app or accessory.

Key Takeaways

  • Your iPad model name appears in Settings > General > About under the line labeled Model.
  • The model name includes the product line (iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPad mini) and the generation number in parentheses.
  • Storage capacity and color are on the same screen if you need those details for resale or repair purposes.
  • If you cannot turn on your iPad, the model name is printed on the back of the device near the bottom.

Reading the model name correctly

iPad model names follow a pattern that tells you what product line you have and how old it is. The first part — iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, or iPad mini — is the product line. The second part in parentheses is the generation number. A newer generation means newer hardware, faster performance, and longer software support.

For example, "iPad Pro 11-inch (7th generation)" means you have a Pro model with an 11-inch screen, and it is the seventh generation of that size. An "iPad Air (5th generation)" means you have an Air model, and it is the fifth generation overall. The generation number matters because older generations eventually stop receiving software updates.

Finding the model if your iPad won't turn on

If your iPad is broken or will not power on, flip it over and look at the back. Near the bottom, you will see text printed directly on the device. It will say something like "iPad Pro" or "iPad Air" followed by the screen size and generation in smaller text. This is the same information that appears in Settings, just printed on the physical device instead.

You can also look at the original box if you still have it. The model name is printed on the outside and inside of the box, usually on the side panel or the bottom. The box also lists the storage capacity and color, which can be useful if you are selling the device or looking up its trade-in value.

Why knowing your model matters

Your iPad model determines what software it can run, what accessories will work with it, and how much it is worth if you sell it. Newer models support the latest version of iPadOS, while older models may be stuck on an older version. Some apps require a certain generation or newer to run.

If you are buying a case, keyboard, or stylus, the model name tells you whether it will fit. A case made for iPad Pro 11-inch will not fit an iPad Air, even though the screens are similar sizes. Knowing your exact model prevents buying the wrong accessory and having to return it.

Storage capacity and what it means

The Capacity line in Settings shows how much storage space your iPad has. Common sizes are 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. This is the total amount of space available for apps, photos, videos, and files. The more storage you have, the more content you can keep on the device.

Storage capacity affects the resale value of your iPad. A 256GB model is worth more than a 64GB model of the same generation. If you are trading in your iPad or selling it, knowing the storage size helps you price it correctly and find the right buyer.

Finding your iPad's serial number and IMEI

On the same About screen where you find the model name, you will also see the Serial Number and IMEI (if your iPad has cellular). The serial number is a unique identifier for your specific device. The IMEI is a number that identifies your iPad on cellular networks.

You need the serial number if you are registering your iPad for warranty coverage, contacting Apple Support, or reporting it as lost or stolen. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe, separate from the iPad itself. You can also find the serial number on the original box and on the back of the device in very small print.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the model name in Settings looks different from what I expected?

iPad model names changed over time. Older iPads may show just "iPad" or "iPad 4th generation" instead of including the screen size. If you see a model name you do not recognize, search for it online along with "iPad" to find out what you have. The generation number is the most important part for determining age and compatibility.

Can I find my iPad model from a different device?

Yes. Go to iCloud.com, sign in with the same Apple ID, and click Find My. Your iPad will appear in the device list with its model name next to it. You can also check your Apple ID settings on any device to see a list of devices connected to your account, though the model name may not always appear there.

Does the color affect what software or apps my iPad can run?

No. Color is purely cosmetic and has no effect on performance, software support, or app compatibility. Only the model name and generation number matter for those things. The color only matters if you are buying a case or selling the device.

What if I see two different model names for the same iPad?

This can happen if you look at the Settings screen and then the back of the device. The Settings version is more detailed and accurate. Use the model name from Settings when looking up compatibility or support information. The printed version on the back is simplified for space.