The fastest way to identify your monitor
The simplest method is to look at the back or bottom of your monitor for a label or sticker with the brand name and model number printed on it. Most manufacturers place this information on a white or silver label. Write down the brand (Dell, LG, ASUS, HP, Samsung, BenQ, or another maker) and the full model number — it usually looks like a combination of letters and numbers, such as "U2720Q" or "27GP850".
If the label has worn away or is not visible, your operating system can tell you basic information about what is connected. On Windows, right-click on your desktop, select Display settings, scroll down, and look for the resolution and refresh rate listed under "Display". On Mac, click the Apple menu, choose System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions), then Displays, and you will see the resolution and size.
This tells you what your monitor is doing, but not what model it is. To find the actual brand and model number when the physical label is missing, you need to check your monitor's built-in menu or search your computer's device history.
Key Takeaways
- The brand name and model number are printed on a label on the back or bottom of your monitor — this is the fastest way to identify it.
- Windows and Mac both show resolution and refresh rate in display settings, but not the monitor model itself.
- Your monitor's on-screen menu (accessed with buttons on the bezel) often displays the model number in an information or about section.
- Windows Device Manager lists connected displays by brand and model if you know where to look.
- If you bought the monitor recently, your receipt or email confirmation will have the model number.
Checking your monitor's built-in menu
Most monitors have physical buttons on the front bezel (usually at the bottom) that open an on-screen menu. Press the button labeled "Menu" or a similar control, and navigate using the arrow buttons until you find a section labeled "Information," "About," "System Info," or "Status." The model number is usually displayed there.
The exact button layout and menu structure varies by brand. Some monitors use a single joystick button instead of separate arrow buttons. If you are unsure which button opens the menu, check the back of your monitor for a small printed diagram, or search online for "[your monitor brand] menu button" if you already know the brand name.
This method works even if Windows or Mac cannot detect the monitor properly, because the information comes from the monitor itself rather than from your computer.
Finding the model in Windows Device Manager
Windows keeps a record of every display device connected to your computer. Right-click the Start button, select Device Manager, and look for a category called Monitors. Click the arrow next to it to expand the list. You should see one or more entries with the monitor brand and model number — for example, "Dell S2721DGF" or "LG 27UP550".
If the Monitors category is empty or missing, expand Display adapters instead. This shows your graphics card (GPU) rather than the monitor itself, but it confirms that Windows recognizes a display is connected. The monitor model may also appear under Universal Serial Bus controllers if it has a USB hub built in.
Device Manager sometimes shows generic names like "Generic PnP Monitor" if Windows does not have the specific driver installed. In that case, the physical label on your monitor is your most reliable source.
Checking your purchase history and receipts
If you bought the monitor within the last few years, your receipt or order confirmation email will list the exact model number. Check your email inbox for order confirmations from the retailer (Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, or the manufacturer's website). Search for keywords like "monitor" or "display" to narrow down the results.
If you purchased it in a physical store, your bank or credit card statement may show the retailer name and date, which you can use to contact the store and ask them to look up the transaction. Some retailers keep purchase history in your online account even if you paid in cash — log in to the retailer's website and check your order history.
This approach is slower than checking the monitor itself, but it is useful if the monitor is no longer accessible or if the label has become illegible.
Using the monitor's serial number to search online
If you have the brand name but not the full model number, the serial number on the back of your monitor can help. Search online for "[brand name] serial number lookup" and enter the serial number on the manufacturer's support website. Most major brands (Dell, LG, ASUS, HP) have tools that will return the full model name and specifications.
Alternatively, take a photo of the label on the back of your monitor and do a reverse image search using Google Images or Bing Images. This sometimes returns product listings or spec sheets that match your monitor. This method is less reliable than a direct lookup, but it can work when other options are not available.
What to do if you still cannot find the model
If the label is completely missing and Device Manager shows only a generic name, measure the screen diagonally (corner to corner) and note the resolution from your display settings. Search online for "[measurement] inch monitor [resolution]" — for example, "27 inch monitor 2560x1440". This will narrow down the possibilities to a few common models.
You can also contact the manufacturer's support team directly with a photo of your monitor and a description of where you bought it. They may be able to identify it based on the physical design, even without a model number. Include the resolution, refresh rate, and any distinctive features (curved screen, USB ports, built-in speakers) in your description.
Why knowing your monitor model matters
The model number tells you the exact specifications: screen size, resolution, refresh rate, panel type, and available ports. This information is useful when you need to troubleshoot a problem, find the correct driver or firmware update, adjust advanced settings, or replace a cable or stand. It also helps you understand what your monitor is capable of — whether it is designed for gaming, photo editing, general office work, or something else.
If you are selling or giving away your monitor, the model number helps the new owner set it up correctly. If you are buying a second monitor to match the one you have, the model number ensures you get the same specifications and appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the label on my monitor?
The label is almost always on the back of the monitor, usually in the lower half. Some monitors also have a label on the bottom or on the stand. It is a white or silver sticker with black text. If your monitor has a stand, the label may be underneath where the stand connects to the screen.
My monitor says "Generic PnP Monitor" in Device Manager. Does that mean I cannot find the model?
No. "Generic PnP Monitor" just means Windows does not have a specific driver for your monitor, but the monitor itself still has a model number printed on it. Check the physical label on the back, or open the monitor's on-screen menu to find the information.
Can I find my monitor model if I do not have the physical monitor anymore?
Yes, if you have your purchase receipt, order confirmation email, or bank statement showing where you bought it. You can also check your computer's Device Manager history or search your email for order confirmations. If none of those are available, you may not be able to identify it with certainty.
What if my monitor is very old and the label is faded or peeling?
Try taking a close-up photo with good lighting and zoom in on the label. Sometimes the text is still readable even if it looks faded to the naked eye. If the label is completely illegible, measure the screen size and check the resolution in your display settings, then search online for monitors matching those specs.
Do I need the model number to use my monitor?
No. Your monitor will work without you ever knowing the model number. You only need it if you are troubleshooting a specific problem, looking for a driver update, adjusting advanced color settings, or trying to match it with another monitor.