Check the iPad model name in Settings

The fastest way to find your iPad's generation is to open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says Model. You will see text like "iPad (7th generation)" or "iPad Air (5th generation)" or "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)". That line tells you exactly which generation you own.

If you see just "iPad" without a generation number, you have a first-generation model from 2010. The generation number only appears in Settings for models released after that.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings, tap General, then About to see your iPad's exact model and generation in one place.
  • The model name tells you the product line (iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPad mini) and the generation number in parentheses.
  • If you see a model number like "A2316" instead of a generation, you can search that number on Apple's official specs page to find the generation.
  • The back of your physical iPad also shows the model number, which you can use to look up the generation if Settings does not display it clearly.

Understand what the model name means

iPad comes in four product lines, and each line has its own generation count. An "iPad (7th generation)" is different from an "iPad Air (5th generation)" — they are not the same device, even though both are called iPad. The product line name comes first, then the generation number in parentheses.

The four lines are: iPad (the standard model, currently at 10th generation), iPad mini (smaller screen, currently at 6th generation), iPad Air (mid-range, currently at 5th generation), and iPad Pro (largest and most powerful, comes in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes, currently at 6th generation). Each line started at generation 1 and counts up independently, so generation numbers do not match across product lines.

Find the model number if Settings shows a code instead

Older iPads or iPads in some regions show a model number like "A2316" or "A2379" in the About section instead of a generation name. If this happens, write down that model number and visit Apple's iPad specifications page. Search for your model number on that page, and it will show you the full name and generation.

You can also find the model number printed on the back of your iPad, near the bottom. It starts with the letter A followed by four digits. If you cannot access Settings, this physical number is your backup way to identify the generation.

Use the physical appearance if you cannot access Settings

If your iPad will not turn on or Settings is not working, you can identify the generation by looking at the device itself. The back of every iPad has a model number printed near the bottom. Write down that number and search it on Apple's iPad specifications page or on a search engine — the results will tell you the generation, release year, and other details.

The physical design also gives clues. Newer iPad models have thinner bezels (the black border around the screen), flatter edges, and no home button on the front. Older models have thicker bezels and a round home button at the bottom. However, design alone is not reliable enough to pinpoint the exact generation, so the model number is always the safest method.

Check the serial number for additional details

Your iPad's serial number appears in the same About section in Settings, below the model name. The serial number is unique to your specific device. If you ever need to contact Apple Support or check warranty information, you will need this serial number. You can also find it on the back of the iPad, printed in small text.

The serial number does not tell you the generation directly, but Apple Support can use it to look up your exact model and configuration if you have questions about what your iPad can do or what accessories will work with it.

Know why the generation matters

The generation tells you how old your iPad is and what features it supports. Newer generations have faster processors, better cameras, longer battery life, and support for newer software updates. If you are trying to decide whether an app will run on your iPad, whether a new accessory will work, or how long your device will receive software updates, the generation is the key piece of information.

Apple typically supports iPads with software updates for five to seven years after release. Knowing your generation helps you understand when your device will stop receiving updates and when you might want to plan for a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

They are four separate product lines with different screen sizes, processors, and prices. iPad is the standard model with a 10.9-inch screen. iPad mini has a 8.3-inch screen for portability. iPad Air is mid-range with a 10.9-inch screen and better performance than standard iPad. iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes with the fastest processor and best display. Each line has its own generation count.

If my iPad says "iPad (7th generation)", is it old?

It depends on when the 7th generation was released. The standard iPad line is now at 10th generation, so 7th generation is a few years old. However, older iPads still work fine for email, web browsing, and most apps. Check the release year on Apple's specs page to see exactly how old it is.

Can I find the generation if I do not have the iPad with me?

Yes, if you have the model number or serial number. Search the model number on Apple's iPad specifications page, or contact Apple Support with the serial number and they can tell you the generation. You can also check your original receipt or the box the iPad came in.

Does the generation number tell me how much storage my iPad has?

No. The generation tells you which model year and product line. Storage capacity (64GB, 256GB, 512GB, etc.) is separate information that also appears in the About section. Two iPads of the same generation can have different storage amounts.