The fastest way to find your iPad model

Open Settings, then tap General, then About. Look for the line that says Model. What you see there — iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, or iPad mini — is your model. The number next to it (like "6th generation" or "2024") tells you which version you own.

If you want to know the exact technical name Apple uses internally, look for the line labeled Model Name instead. This shows something like "iPad Pro 11-inch (7th generation)" or "iPad Air (M2)". Both lines tell you what you need, but Model is simpler for most purposes.

You do not need to be connected to Wi-Fi or have a charged battery to see this information. The About screen works even if your iPad is nearly dead.

Key Takeaways

  • Your iPad model name appears in Settings > General > About under the line labeled Model.
  • The generation number (like "6th generation" or "M2") tells you which version of that model you have.
  • If you see a model name you do not recognize, search for it online along with "iPad" to find its release year and specs.
  • The physical back of your iPad also prints a model number starting with "A" (like A2316), but the Settings screen is faster to read.

What each iPad model line means

Apple makes four separate iPad lines, and knowing which one you own helps you find compatible accessories and understand what your device can do. iPad Pro is the largest and most powerful, sold in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes. iPad Air is mid-range in both size and power, usually 10.9 inches. iPad (sometimes called the standard iPad) is the entry-level model, around 10.9 inches. iPad mini is the smallest at 8.3 inches.

Each line gets updated on its own schedule, so an iPad Air from 2024 is not the same as an iPad Air from 2022, even though they are both called iPad Air. That is why the generation number matters. If someone asks what iPad you have, say both the model and the generation — "iPad Pro 11-inch, 6th generation" tells them far more than just "iPad Pro".

Reading the model number on the back of your iPad

Turn your iPad over and look at the back, near the bottom. You will see small text that includes a line starting with the letter A followed by four or five numbers, like A2316 or A2589. This is Apple's internal model identifier. You do not need to memorize it, but it is useful if you are searching for repair parts or checking compatibility with a specific accessory.

You can search for this number online (for example, "A2316 iPad") and find out exactly which model and generation it corresponds to. This is helpful if the Settings screen is not working or if you are buying a used iPad and want to verify what you are getting before you hand over money.

The back also prints the word "iPad" and sometimes the storage capacity (like "256GB"), but the model name in Settings is clearer and more complete.

Finding your iPad model if Settings does not open

If your iPad will not turn on or Settings will not load, the model number on the back is your only option. Write down the "A" number and search for it online, or take a photo of the back and show it to an Apple Store employee or a repair technician.

If your iPad turns on but Settings crashes, try restarting it first: press and hold the top button and either volume button until the power-off slider appears, then slide it to turn off the device. Wait 30 seconds, then press the top button again to turn it back on. Once it restarts, try Settings > General > About again.

If Settings still will not work, the model number on the back is your reliable backup. You can also check your original receipt or the box the iPad came in — both print the model name clearly.

Using your model information to find compatible accessories

Knowing your exact model matters when you buy cases, screen protectors, keyboards, or chargers. A case made for iPad Pro 11-inch will not fit an iPad Air, even though they are similar sizes. A keyboard designed for iPad (7th generation) might not work with iPad (10th generation) because the connector changed.

When you shop for an accessory, search for it with your full model name — "iPad Air 6th generation case" instead of just "iPad case". This narrows the results to products that actually fit your device. If you are buying from a seller who does not list the generation, ask them to confirm it matches your model before you buy.

The same rule applies to technical specs: if you want to know how much storage your iPad has, how much RAM it uses, or what processor it contains, search for your model name online. Apple's official tech specs page lists everything for each generation.

Checking your iPad model before you sell or trade it in

If you are selling your iPad or trading it in to Apple or another retailer, have your model information ready. Buyers and trade-in programs ask for the model and generation because they determine the price and whether the device is still worth buying. An iPad from 2024 is worth far more than an iPad from 2018, even if they are the same model line.

Write down the model name and generation from Settings > General > About before you contact a buyer or start a trade-in. You can also take a screenshot of the About screen to prove what you are selling. This prevents confusion and speeds up the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, and iPad mini?

iPad is the entry-level model with basic power and a 10.9-inch screen. iPad Air is mid-range with more processing power, also 10.9 inches. iPad Pro is the most powerful with the largest screens (11 or 12.9 inches) and the best display. iPad mini is the smallest at 8.3 inches with mid-range power. Choose based on what you use it for and how much you want to spend.

Does my iPad model number starting with "A" tell me the same thing as the model name in Settings?

Yes, but the model name in Settings is easier to read. The "A" number is Apple's internal code — searching for it online will tell you the model and generation, but Settings already shows you that information in plain language. Use the "A" number only if Settings is not working.

Can I find my iPad model if I do not have the device with me?

Yes, if you have the original box or receipt, both print the model name. You can also check your Apple ID account at iCloud.com — go to Find My > Devices and look for your iPad in the list, which shows the model. If you bought it from Apple, your purchase history also lists the model.

Will my iPad case fit if it says it is for the same model but a different generation?

Usually not. Even though two generations of the same model have the same name, they sometimes have different button placements, camera sizes, or overall dimensions. Always check that the case lists your specific generation, not just your model line.

What if my iPad shows a model name I have never heard of?

Search for the full model name online (for example, "iPad Pro 11-inch M4") and you will find articles and spec sheets that explain what it is, when it was released, and what it can do. Apple names its models consistently, so any search result from Apple's official site or a major tech publication will give you accurate information.