If you are wondering how to know which iPad you have, you are not alone. Many people inherit older devices, receive hand-me-downs, or simply forget details after years of use. This guide walks you through reliable ways to identify your exact iPad model and generation using software and hardware clues.
You can confirm the model name, internal specifications, supported accessories, and software update eligibility by following a few consistent steps. The methods below work for iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro models, whether your device is new, several years old, or partially damaged.
| Model Name | Key Specs | Release Year | Supported iOS/iPadOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPad (10th generation) | A14 Bionic, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina | 2022 | iPadOS 17 and later |
| iPad Air (5th generation) | M1, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina, Touch ID in top button | 2022 | iPadOS 17 and later |
| iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation) | M2, 11-inch, Face ID, Center stage camera | 2021 | iPadOS 17 and later |
| iPad mini (6th generation) | A15 Bionic, 8.3-inch, larger camera bump | 2021 | iPadOS 17 and later |
Identify your iPad model from Settings
The quickest way to see exactly which iPad you own is to check the About section in Settings. This screen lists the model name, model number, software version, and internal capacity without requiring physical inspection.
Check About on iPadOS
Open the Settings app, tap General, then scroll to About. The first line shows the Model Name, such as iPad Pro or iPad mini. Below it, the Model Number starts with an "A" followed by four digits, which you can cross-reference with Apple charts.
Decode the model number physically
If you cannot access Settings due to a locked screen or broken interface, you can still identify your iPad by reading the small text printed on the back near the bottom. This model number uses an "MQ" or "LL" style code that maps to specific generations and capacities.
Find the model code on the back
Turn the iPad over, locate the text that begins with a space and then a letter, such as MYD73LL/A. Visit Apple's official model identifier page and enter this code to see the exact device name, year, and specs.
Use physical features to narrow down the generation
When the screen is unresponsive and Settings are unavailable, examining physical traits becomes the main method to determine which iPad you have. Look at the shape of the device, the position of the camera, and the type of charging port to narrow the possibilities.
Key design clues to check
- Charger port: Lightning versus USB-C
- Home button: Touch ID integrated into the button or Face ID
- Camera layout: Single lens versus dual lenses and camera bump size
- Speaker placement: Bottom speaker only or additional side speakers
Confirm software compatibility and updates
Another practical way to confirm which iPad you have is to check which iPadOS versions it can run. Newer chips and models support the latest features, while older models stop receiving updates after several years.
Check supported iPadOS versions
Open Settings, tap General, then Software Update. The page shows your current version and the latest available version. If you see options like iPadOS 17, your device is likely an iPad (8th generation) or later, iPad Air 3 or later, or iPad mini 5 or later.
Cross-reference specs for confident identification
Use this checklist to match your observations with the correct device profile, ensuring you know which iPad you have regardless of its condition or settings access.
- Confirm the display size and technology, from 8.3-inch mini to 12.9-inch pro display.
- Check the processor: A14 Bionic, M1, M2, or other chip variants.
- Verify the camera layout, number of lenses, and presence of center-stage features.
- Confirm the connectivity port: Lightning, USB-C, or Smart Connector compatibility.
FAQ
Reader questions
How can I tell the difference between iPad Air and iPad Pro?
The main differences include the processor, display technology, camera systems, and connectivity. iPad Pro models typically feature Face ID, a more advanced chip like the M series, center-stage cameras for video calls, and USB-C connectivity, while iPad Air uses Touch ID in the top button, an A series chip, and a Lightning port.
What does the model number on the back mean?
The model number, such as MYD73LL/A, uses a code where the first letter indicates the region and the following characters identify the specific device, capacity, and year. You can enter this exact code on Apple's support site to reveal the display size, chip, camera features, and supported accessories.
Can I identify my iPad if the screen is cracked?
Yes, you can still identify your iPad by looking at the back panel for the model number, checking the charging port type (Lightning or USB-C), and feeling whether a home button with Touch ID is integrated into the top button or whether the device uses Face ID.
Will checking Settings delete any data?
No, opening Settings or viewing the About screen does not delete data or change any files. These steps are read-only and only display information already stored in your device, such as model name, capacity, and current software version.