How to tell which iPad model you have

It's easy to tell the difference between any two Apple iPads if you know where to look.
  • Nick Mediati (PC World (US online))
  • 11 September, 2020 11:43
ipad-pro-lidar-100835846-orig.jpg

ipad-pro-lidar-100835846-orig.jpg

You might think you know which iPad you have. The new one. The big one. The rose gold one. The mini. But when you need to know exactly which model you have, or better yet, which generation, it can get a little trickier.

Fortunately, these days, you don't have to be an Apple Store Genius to figure it out. That being said, you do have to know where to look and what to look for. iPads aren't as easily distinguishable as iPhones are. Knowing the size of your iPad isn't the whole story.

To help out the confused, we've put together a quick guide to help you work out the differences between the iPad, iPad Air, iPad Mini and iPad Pro.

How to find your iPad model number

In addition to the marketing names that we all know so well, all iPads have a model number. Two of them, actually.

The first of these is located on the device itself. If you flip over your iPad, you'll see a bunch of tiny writing below the word "iPad." This is where you'll find the (first) model number.

Look closely at the fine print on the back, and you'll find your iPad's model number and serial number.

At the end of the top row, you'll find the world "Model," followed by an "A" and a four-digit string of numbers. The number string tells you what screen size and generation of iPad you have, as well as whether it's cellular-equipped. For example, the latest 10.5-inch iPad Pro is A1701 for the Wi-Fi model and A1709 for the LTE version.) There is also a serial number printed here, but it's unlikely you'll ever need it.

We've put together a set of charts to help you easily identify your iPad's model number below:

How To Tell Which iPad You Have

iPad model numbers explainedCredit: Fergus Halliday
iPad model numbers explained

How To Tell Which iPad Air You Have

iPad Air model numbers explainedCredit: Fergus Halliday
iPad Air model numbers explained

How To Tell Which iPad Mini You Have

iPad Mini model numbers explainedCredit: Fergus Halliday
iPad Mini model numbers explained

How To Tell Which iPad Pro You Have

iPad Pro model numbers explainedCredit: Fergus Halliday
iPad Pro model numbers explained

In addition, some cellular-equipped fourth-generation iPads and first-generation iPad minis have an "MM" version indicating CDMA compatibility—though you'll see that designation only on spec sheets. If you use one of these iPads on Verizon's network, the MM version is probably the one you've got.

ipad model settings IDG

You'll also find a model number in Settings. The number outlined in red here means I have an U.S. iPad Air 2 with 64GB of storage.

The second model number (which is really an internal SKU number) is in Settings. If you tap General and then About, you'll see a Model tab that lists a completely different number than the one on the rear of the device. This is a much more specific identifier, which provides information about the capacity and country, as well as the type of iPad.

If you're selling or buying one internationally on eBay, this can be an important detail you'll need. Otherwise, the number on the back will tell you everything you need to know.

This article originally posted September 27, 2013. It was updated by Fergus Halliday on the 11th of September, 2020.