How to tell what iPad you have

A promotional image of the iPad 10th generation (2022).
Credit: Apple Inc.


A promotional image of the iPad 10th generation (2022).
Credit: Apple Inc.

iPads have been quite a sough-out piece of tech for the last couple of years. Since its first edition was released in 2010, there have been various models of iPads that consumers have struggled to keep count of, focusing on just simply buying the latest iPad of the season. While having an iPad is great and all, you should be aware of its model so your local service center can easily help you when your device runs into problems and they'll know how to troubleshoot them. If you can't remember how to know your iPad model, don't worry because we've prepared a simply guide below on how to tell what iPad you have.

While most tablets have unique model names, iPads have editions labeled in their types and generations. Some examples include the seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth-generation iPads which may all seem confusing because their names don't have any distinguishable attributes in comparison to specifically named iPads like the iPad Air, iPad Pro, and the iPad Mini. With all these iPads, it's understandable that not everyone may remember exactly what kind of iPad they have.

With that taken into consideration, we'll now guide you on how to tell what iPad you have.

How to tell what iPad you have by looking at the back of your device

One of the first ways to find out what iPad model you have is to look at the back of your device. This method is very helpful when you can't boot up your device due to internal issues. Here are some steps to determine your iPad's model by doing that:

An image of the fine print on the back of the iPad.
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Credit: Apple Support
  1. First, look at the back of your iPad and you'll see a fine print underneath the label "iPad." You'll see some details on your iPad such as where your iPad was designed and assembled.
  2. Next, you'll notice the model number after the assembly details. Usually, the iPad model starts with "A" (e.g. A1701). Make sure to write down the model number since you'll be looking this up in the next step.
  3. You'll then search for your model number and match it up with a list of iPad models. To make it easier for you, here's a list of the iPad models with their respective model numbers.

Doing these things, you'll be able to determine your iPad's model when your device has software issues.

How to tell what iPad you have through your iPad's settings

Another way to determine your iPad model is to use the Settings application on your device. To do this, here are simple steps you can follow:

A screenshot of the General section in the Settings app.
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A screenshot of the About section in the Settings app.
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  1. Open the Settings app on your device and then tap "General," then tap on the "About" section.
  2. In the "About" section, you'll see a list of information of your iPad such as its name, operating software version, available storage, and its model name and number.
  3. If the model number you see has a slash "/" in it, you'll know that's the part number.
  4. Then, tap the part number to reveal the model number. This is usually starting with a letter such as "A" followed by four numbers and it contains no slash (e.g. A2602).
  5. Once you take note of the number, you can then match it up by searching online on the model. You'll then know what iPad you have.

That's how you can determine your iPad type through its settings.

Why it's important to know how to determine what iPad you have

When you own an iPad, it's crucial to know which model you have. This information can be helpful when it comes to troubleshooting as mentioned earlier. Additionally, knowing your device's model will be very useful when you're trying to sell iPad or when you need to know if it's compatible with a certain application or accessory such as which Apple Pencils work with particular iPad models.

In terms of selling your iPad, knowing its model number will help you accurately describe your product in its listing. It can also give potential buyers enough transparency on your device and further solidify your transparency as a seller. It will definitely make your transactions go by more smoothly.

Furthermore, it's important to know which iPad model you have when it comes to updating your device's software. As Apple regularly rolls out software updates, you should know that not all iPads are compatible or will work bug-free with a new system. Knowing your iPad model and searching up issues on the model in line with new software can help you avoid bugs and issues that come with software updates.

Besides knowing your iPad model, it's also good to know other information about your device such as storage, how many applications you have, photos, and even the warranty of your device. This information can also be found in the "About" section of the Settings app on your iPad.

In conclusion, there are two ways to figure out what kind of iPad model you have: looking at the fine print on the back of your device or by going to the Settings app. Once you know your iPad's model and model number, you can use this information to help in the maintenance of your device, the compatibility of apps, accessories, and device software.

That's pretty much everything you need to know about how to tell what iPad you have. If you want more content like this, feel free to check out our other how-to guides such as how to repost and un repost on TikTok and how to mount PS5 on the side. We also have an article on how to inspect on an iPad if you're interested in that.

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