Serial numbers are printed or engraved on your device, usually on the back or bottom, and also stored in your device's settings

The physical location depends on what you own. On laptops, the serial number is typically on a sticker on the underside of the device or inside the battery compartment. On phones and tablets, it's usually on the back casing or under the SIM card tray. On desktop computers, it's often on the case itself, sometimes on the side or rear panel. Look for a label with small text that includes a barcode and a string of letters and numbers — that's your serial number.

You don't have to open anything or remove parts to find it. If you can't locate a physical sticker, your device's operating system stores the serial number in settings, and you can pull it from there instead. This matters because physical labels fade, peel off, or wear away over time, especially on older devices.

Key Takeaways

  • Physical serial numbers are usually on a sticker on the back, bottom, or inside a removable panel of your device.
  • If the physical label is missing or unreadable, you can find the serial number in your device's settings without opening anything.
  • Write down or photograph your serial number and store it somewhere safe — you'll need it for warranty claims, repairs, or if your device is lost or stolen.
  • The serial number is different from your device model number; both are useful but they identify different things.

Finding the serial number on Windows computers

On a Windows laptop or desktop, the easiest route is the Settings app. Open Settings, go to System, then About. Scroll down to find "Device name" and "System serial number" — the serial number will be listed there. Write it down or take a screenshot.

If you're looking at a physical sticker, it's usually on the bottom of a laptop or the back of a desktop tower. The label may also include the model number, service tag, or asset tag — these are all different identifiers, but the serial number is the one you need for warranty or repair purposes.

Finding the serial number on Mac computers

On a Mac, click the Apple menu in the top left corner and select About This Mac. A window will open showing your device information. Look for "Serial Number" — it's usually near the top of the window. Copy it or write it down.

If you need the physical label, it's typically on the bottom of a MacBook or on the back of an iMac or Mac mini. The label may be small and hard to read, especially on older devices, so checking the About This Mac window is often faster and more reliable.

Finding the serial number on iPhones and iPads

On an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings, then General, then About. Scroll down until you see "Serial Number" — it's a string of letters and numbers. You can also find it under "IMEI" or "ICCID" if you're looking for those identifiers instead, though the serial number is what most repair shops and Apple support will ask for.

The physical serial number is printed on the back of the device, usually near the bottom. On newer iPhones, it's engraved into the aluminum casing. On iPads, it's on a sticker on the back. If the physical label is worn away, the Settings method is your best option.

Finding the serial number on Android phones and tablets

On most Android devices, go to Settings, then About Phone (or About Tablet). Look for "Serial Number" or "Device Serial Number" — the exact wording varies by manufacturer. Some devices also list it under "IMEI" or "Build Information." Write down the serial number you find.

The physical serial number is usually on a sticker on the back of the device or under the battery if your device has a removable battery. On newer Android phones, it may be engraved on the back casing. If you can't find it physically, the Settings method will give you what you need.

What to do with your serial number once you have it

Write it down or take a clear photo and store it somewhere you can find it later — a notes app, a document, or a physical notebook. Keep it separate from the device itself. You'll need the serial number if your device breaks and you want to claim warranty coverage, if you need to send it in for repair, or if it's lost or stolen and you need to report it to police or your insurance company.

Some people keep a list of all their device serial numbers in one place, along with purchase dates and warranty information. This takes five minutes now and can save you hours of searching later when you actually need the number.

Serial number versus model number

The serial number identifies your specific device — it's unique to that one phone, laptop, or tablet. The model number identifies the type of device, like "iPhone 14 Pro" or "Dell XPS 13." Both appear on the same label, but they do different things. Repair shops use the serial number to look up your device's history and warranty status. You use the model number when you're looking for compatible chargers, cases, or software updates.

If someone asks for your serial number, they're asking for the unique identifier, not the model. If you're unsure which one you're looking at, the serial number is usually longer and contains both letters and numbers, while the model number is often shorter and may be just letters or just numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my device doesn't have a physical serial number sticker?

Newer devices often have serial numbers engraved directly into the casing instead of printed on a sticker. Check the back or bottom of your device carefully — you may see numbers etched into the metal or plastic. If not, the Settings method will always work, since every device stores its serial number in the operating system.

Is my serial number the same as my IMEI or ICCID?

No. The serial number identifies your device. The IMEI identifies your device on a cellular network (phones and tablets with cellular service). The ICCID identifies your SIM card. All three are different. For most purposes — warranty, repair, or loss reporting — you need the serial number, not the IMEI.

Can I find someone else's device using their serial number?

No. The serial number alone doesn't tell you where a device is or who owns it now. If your device is lost or stolen, report it to the police and your insurance company with the serial number, and contact the manufacturer. They may be able to help if the device is recovered, but the serial number itself is not a tracking tool.

What if I can't read the physical serial number because it's worn away?

Use the Settings method instead — it's faster and more reliable anyway. Your device's operating system always stores the serial number, so you don't need the physical label. Take a screenshot or write it down so you have it saved.