Finding your monitor model on Windows

The fastest way to find your monitor model is through Windows display settings. Right-click on your desktop and select Display settings. Scroll down to the bottom of the window and click Advanced display settings. At the top of the next screen, you'll see the monitor name and resolution — but this often shows only a generic name like "Generic PnP Monitor" rather than the actual brand and model.

For the real model number, you need to check the physical monitor itself. Look at the back or bottom of the screen for a sticker or label with the brand name and model number printed on it. This label is the most reliable source because Windows sometimes cannot identify older monitors or less common brands. Write down the exact model number — it usually looks like a combination of letters and numbers, such as "Dell U2720Q" or "LG 27GN950".

If the label is worn or missing, try the Device Manager method. Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager. Expand the Monitors section by clicking the arrow next to it. Right-click on the monitor listed and select Properties. Click the Driver tab to see if the driver name contains the model information. This works better with newer monitors that have proper drivers installed.

Finding your monitor model on Mac

On a Mac, click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select About This Mac. Click the Displays tab. You'll see the monitor name and resolution listed, but like Windows, this may show only a generic name. The physical label on your monitor remains the most accurate source.

If you're using an external monitor with a Mac, the system information page usually shows more detail than Windows does. Look for a line that says "Resolution" and another that identifies the display by name. If you see something like "LG UltraFine" or "Dell P-series," that's your actual monitor brand and line. For the exact model number, check the back or bottom of the monitor itself.

Reading the monitor label correctly

When you find the physical label on your monitor, you'll see several pieces of information. The brand name is always at the top — Dell, LG, ASUS, BenQ, Samsung, or another manufacturer. Below that is the model number, which is what you actually need. The model number is usually a short code like "24UP550" or "S2721DGF," not the full product name.

You may also see a serial number on the label, which is different from the model number. The serial number is unique to your specific monitor and looks like a longer string of characters. For finding specs and drivers, you need the model number, not the serial number. If the label lists both, the model number is usually shorter and comes first.

Some monitors have the model number printed on the front bezel as well as the back. If the back label is damaged, check the front. The model number is the same either way — it identifies which version of the monitor you own, not which individual unit it is.

Key Takeaways

  • The physical label on the back or bottom of your monitor is the most reliable way to find the exact model number.
  • Windows display settings and Mac system information show monitor information but often display only generic names rather than the actual brand and model.
  • The model number is a short code like "U2720Q" or "27GN950," not the full product name or serial number.
  • Once you have the model number, you can search the manufacturer's website for specifications, drivers, and user manuals.
  • If the back label is missing or worn, check the front bezel or use Device Manager on Windows for alternative identification methods.

What to do once you know your monitor model

After you've found your model number, you can search for the monitor's specifications online. Go to the manufacturer's website — Dell.com, LG.com, ASUS.com, or whichever brand you have — and use the search bar to find your exact model. The product page will list the resolution, refresh rate, panel type, input ports, and other technical details.

You can also read the user manual and driver software from the manufacturer's page. The manual explains how to adjust settings like brightness, color, and input source. Some monitors have software that lets you control these settings from your computer instead of using the buttons on the monitor itself. Drivers are usually only necessary if you're having display problems or want to use advanced features.

When the monitor won't identify itself

Older monitors sometimes don't appear in Windows Device Manager or Mac system information at all. This is normal and doesn't mean anything is wrong — it just means the monitor is old enough that the operating system doesn't have a specific driver for it. The monitor will still work fine. In this case, the physical label is your only reliable source, so photograph it or write down the model number carefully.

If you cannot find a label and the monitor doesn't show up in your system information, try searching for the monitor by its physical appearance. Look for distinctive features like the brand logo, the shape of the stand, or any unique design elements, then search online for "monitor that looks like [description]." You can also try searching "monitor with [number] inch screen and [color] bezel" if you know the size. This is slower but often works for older or less common models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the model number the same as the serial number?

No. The model number identifies which version of monitor you own — for example, all Dell U2720Q monitors are the same model. The serial number is unique to your specific monitor and is used for warranty and repair purposes. You need the model number to find specifications and drivers.

Can I find my monitor model if I don't have the physical monitor anymore?

If you still have the monitor connected to your computer, Windows and Mac will show you the name in display settings, though it may be generic. If the monitor is disconnected, you would need to check your purchase receipt or the original box if you still have it. The model number is usually printed on the box.

What if Windows shows a different monitor name than what's on the label?

This happens often and is not a problem. Windows sometimes uses generic names or older driver names that don't match the current product name. The label on the monitor itself is always correct. Use the model number from the physical label when searching for specifications or drivers.

Do I need to install drivers for my monitor?

Most monitors work without drivers — Windows and Mac can display an image on any monitor without special software. Drivers are only necessary if you want to use advanced features like color calibration software or if you're having display problems. Check the manufacturer's website to see if drivers are available for your model.

Where exactly should I look for the label on my monitor?

The label is usually on the back of the monitor, often near the bottom or on the stand. Some monitors also have it on the bottom of the base. If you don't see it on the back, check the underside of the stand or the sides of the monitor. Avoid looking inside the monitor or removing any parts — the label is always on an easily visible external surface.