Check the model name in Settings

The fastest way to find your iPad model is through the Settings app. Open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says Model — this will show you the iPad generation and size, like "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)" or "iPad Air (5th generation)".

This method works on any iPad running iPadOS 13 or later. The model name tells you exactly what you own, which matters if you need to buy a case, find compatible accessories, or check what software updates your device can receive.

Key Takeaways

  • The Settings app's About section shows your exact iPad model and generation in one tap.
  • The back of your physical iPad has a model number (like A2316) that you can look up on Apple's website to confirm what you have.
  • Your iPad's serial number and IMEI are also in Settings > General > About if you need them for warranty or repair purposes.
  • If you have an older iPad, the model name alone may not tell you the storage capacity — you may need to check the original box or receipt.

Look at the physical back of your iPad

If Settings is not working or you want a second confirmation, flip your iPad over. The back will have small printed text that includes a model number starting with the letter A, followed by four digits (for example, A2316 or A2589).

You can search this model number on Apple's official support page or paste it into a search engine to find the exact iPad name and year it was released. This method is especially useful if you are buying a used iPad and want to verify what the seller claims it is.

Find your serial number and IMEI if you need them

The Settings app also stores your serial number and IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), which you may need for warranty claims, repairs, or insurance. Both appear in Settings > General > About, below the model name.

Write down or screenshot these numbers if you are contacting Apple Support or sending your iPad for repair. Some repair shops and insurance companies ask for the serial number to confirm the device matches your claim.

Check the original box or receipt

If you still have the box your iPad came in, the model and storage capacity are printed on the outside. The receipt or order confirmation from where you bought it will also list the exact model you purchased, including whether it is WiFi-only or WiFi + Cellular.

This is the most reliable way to know the storage capacity if you have an older iPad, since the Settings app does not always display how much storage your device has.

Understand what each part of the model name means

iPad model names follow a pattern that tells you the product line, screen size, and generation. For example, "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)" means you have a Pro model with a 12.9-inch screen, released in the sixth generation of that product line.

The main iPad product lines are: iPad (the base model), iPad Air, iPad Pro, and iPad mini. Each line has different screen sizes and features. Knowing which line you have helps you find compatible cases, understand what software features your device supports, and decide whether to upgrade.

Use Apple's official lookup tool for model numbers

If you have only the model number (the A-number from the back of your device) and want to know everything about your iPad, visit Apple's official support page and search for "identify your iPad model." Apple provides a table that matches every model number to its product name, release year, and storage options.

This is more reliable than third-party websites because it comes directly from Apple and is updated whenever new models are released.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the storage capacity shown in Settings?

The storage capacity is not displayed in the About section. Instead, go to Settings > General > iPad Storage to see how much space your device has and how much is in use. If you need to know the total capacity you purchased (like 64GB or 256GB), check your original receipt or the box it came in.

What does the A-number on the back of my iPad mean?

The A-number is Apple's internal model identifier. It does not tell you the product name or generation by itself, but you can search it on Apple's website to find out exactly which iPad you have. For example, A2316 is an iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation).

Can I find out what iPad I have if I do not have it with me?

If you know your serial number, you can look it up on Apple's website or contact Apple Support with it. If you have your original receipt or order confirmation email, that will also show the exact model you purchased. You can also check your Apple ID's purchase history if you bought it from Apple directly.

Why does my iPad say "iPad (7th generation)" instead of a specific name?

Older iPad models and the base iPad line use generation numbers instead of product names like "Air" or "Pro." This is normal. The generation number tells you when it was released — higher numbers are newer. You can still look up the A-number to find the exact release year and specifications.

Is the IMEI number the same as the serial number?

No. The serial number identifies your specific device, while the IMEI (only on WiFi + Cellular models) identifies the cellular capability. Both appear in Settings > General > About. If you have a WiFi-only iPad, there will be no IMEI listed.