Ever found yourself wondering, "What generation is my iPad?" It’s a common question, and one with a surprising amount of utility. Knowing your iPad's exact generation is more than just a fun fact; it's crucial for everything from buying the right accessories to understanding its software update lifespan and resale value. Whether you’re looking to troubleshoot an issue, upgrade to a newer model, or simply curious, pinpointing your iPad's generation is simpler than you might think.
This guide will walk you through the most reliable methods to identify your iPad’s specific generation, connecting you with comprehensive resources to help you every step of the way. Understanding your device's place in Apple's lineage empowers you to make informed decisions about its care, upgrades, and functionality.
Why Knowing Your iPad's Generation Matters
Before diving into the "how," let's quickly touch on the "why." Your iPad's generation dictates its capabilities, compatibility with accessories like Apple Pencils or Smart Keyboards, and how long it will continue to receive the latest iOS updates. It affects app performance, charging port type, and even potential repair options. Without this information, you might accidentally purchase an incompatible case or struggle to determine if your device can run the newest applications. It's a foundational piece of knowledge for any iPad owner, and you can really Learn why your iPad generation matters for a deeper dive into all the benefits.
The Go-To Method: Using Your iPad's Model Number
The most straightforward and widely recommended way to identify your iPad's generation is by locating its model number. This unique identifier, usually starting with the letter 'A' followed by four digits (e.g., A1234), is the key to unlocking its specific generation and release year.
There are two primary places to find this crucial piece of information:
Finding the Model Number on the Back of Your iPad
Flip your iPad over. On the very bottom of the back casing, you'll find a line of small, often tiny, text. Look carefully for the word "Model" followed by an "A" and a four-digit number. This is your iPad's 'Axxxx' model number. It might require good lighting or even a magnifying glass to read, but it's consistently there across all iPad models. For a visual guide and more granular details, we've created a dedicated resource to help you Identify your iPad generation directly from the device's exterior.
Locating the Model Number in Your iPad Settings
If the text on the back of your iPad is too small or worn, don't worry! Your iPad itself holds the answer within its settings.
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Tap on General.
- Select About.
Here, you'll see a "Model Number" field. Initially, it might display a longer part number (e.g., MYFM2LL/A). Tapping this number usually toggles it to the simpler 'Axxxx' format you need. Below it, you'll often see the "Model Name" (e.g., iPad Air (4th generation)), which gives you the marketing name directly. This in-app method is often the quickest for many users. Our guide on Identifying iPad Generation through iPad settings provides step-by-step instructions with screenshots.
Once you have your 'Axxxx' model number, you can easily cross-reference it with Apple's official documentation or reliable online databases to pinpoint your iPad's exact generation and release year.
Unlocking Details with Your iPad's Serial Number
While the model number is excellent for quick generation identification, your iPad's serial number offers an even more specific level of detail. This unique alphanumeric string can reveal your device's precise manufacturing date, warranty status, and original configuration.
To find your serial number:
- On the back of the iPad: Similar to the model number, the serial number is printed in the tiny text on the lower back of your device.
- In Settings: Go to "Settings" > "General" > "About," and the serial number will be listed there.
With your serial number in hand, you can use Apple's "Check Coverage" page to verify its warranty and purchase date. There are also reputable third-party tools that can decode the serial number further, offering insights into its manufacturing specifics. For a complete walkthrough on how to leverage this powerful identifier, check out our guide on Identifying iPad Generation Using the serial number.
Decoding iPad Model Names and Generation Numbering
Apple's naming conventions for iPads can sometimes be a little confusing, especially with different lines like 'iPad,' 'iPad Air,' 'iPad Mini,' and 'iPad Pro,' each with its own generation numbering. For instance, an "iPad (9th generation)" is different from an "iPad Air (5th generation)." The 'Axxxx' model number helps cut through this complexity, providing a universal identifier. However, understanding the context of these marketing names helps round out your knowledge. Our dedicated resource on Decoding iPad Model Names and will help you make sense of the full Apple iPad product line.
Other Helpful Identification Methods
Beyond model and serial numbers, a few other clues can help you identify your iPad, especially if you're dealing with an older device or have its original packaging:
- Physical Features: Certain design elements are tell-tale signs of an iPad's era. Older models often feature a Home button, thicker bezels, and sometimes a 30-pin connector. Newer iPads typically boast slimmer bezels, Face ID, and a USB-C port.
- Original Packaging or Receipt: The easiest way to know for certain is to check the original box your iPad came in or its purchase receipt. Both typically list the full model name and sometimes the generation.
- Third-Party Apps: Apps like "Mactracker" for macOS and iOS can be incredibly useful. They contain a comprehensive database of Apple products, allowing you to look up devices by their specifications or visual characteristics to determine their generation and compatible software.
iPad Model Numbers and Release Years Reference
Here's a quick reference table to help you match your 'Axxxx' model number to its generation and release year. Remember, if your specific model isn't listed, a quick online search with your full 'Axxxx' model number will yield results.
Standard iPad Models
| Model Number(s) | Generation | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1219, A1337 | 1st Generation | 2010 |
| A1395, A1396, A1397 | 2nd Generation | 2011 |
| A1416, A1430, A1403 | 3rd Generation | 2012 |
| A1458, A1459, A1460 | 4th Generation | 2012 |
| A1822, A1823 | 5th Generation | 2017 |
| A1893, A1954 | 6th Generation | 2018 |
| A2197, A2198, A2200 | 7th Generation | 2019 |
| A2270, A2316, A2324, A2325 | 8th Generation | 2020 |
| A2567, A2568, A2569 | 9th Generation | 2021 |
| A2602, A2604, A2603, A2605 | 10th Generation | 2022 |
iPad Mini Models
| Model Number(s) | Generation | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1432, A1454, A1455 | 1st Generation | 2012 |
| A1489, A1490, A1491 | 2nd Generation | 2013 |
| A1599, A1600 | 3rd Generation | 2014 |
| A1538, A1550 | 4th Generation | 2015 |
| A2133, A2124, A2126, A2125 | 5th Generation | 2019 |
| A2567, A2568, A2569 | 6th Generation | 2021 |
iPad Pro Models
| Model Number(s) | Generation | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1584, A1652 | 1st Gen (12.9-inch) | 2015 |
| A1673, A1674, A1675 | 1st Gen (9.7-inch) | 2016 |
| A1701, A1709 | 2nd Gen (12.9-inch) | 2017 |
| A1822, A1823* | 2nd Gen (10.5-inch) | 2017 |
| A1876, A1895, A1983 | 3rd Gen (12.9-inch) | 2018 |
| A1934, A1979 | 3rd Gen (11-inch) | 2018 |
| A2228, A2068, A2230 | 4th Gen (12.9-inch) | 2020 |
| A2229, A2069 | 4th Gen (11-inch) | 2020 |
| A2378, A2461, A2379, A2462 | 5th Gen (12.9-inch) | 2021 |
| A2301, A2377, A2459, A2460 | 5th Gen (11-inch) | 2021 |
| A2435, A2764, A2436, A2766 | 6th Gen (12.9-inch) | 2022 |
| A2588, A2589, A2591* | 6th Gen (11-inch) | 2022 |
| A2777, A2779 | 7th Gen (13-inch) | 2024 |
| A2780, A2782 | 7th Gen (11-inch) | 2024 |
| * Note: Per the provided source, A1822/A1823 are listed as 2nd Gen 10.5-inch iPad Pro, though commonly associated with the 5th Gen standard iPad. Similarly, A2588, A2589, A2591 are listed as 6th Gen 11-inch iPad Pro, while often linked to iPad Air 5th Gen. This list reflects the provided context research directly. |
iPad Air Models
| Model Number(s) | Generation | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| A1474, A1475 | 1st Generation | 2013 |
| A1566, A1567 | 2nd Generation | 2014 |
| A2152, A2123, A2153, A2154 | 3rd Generation | 2019 |
| A2072, A2316, A2324, A2325 | 4th Generation | 2020 |
| A2588, A2589, A2591 | 5th Generation | 2022 |
| A2924, A2797, A3072 | 6th Gen (11-inch) | 2024 |
| A2798, A3073 | 6th Gen (13-inch) | 2024 |
Taking the Next Step
Now that you're equipped with the knowledge of how to find your iPad's generation, you're ready to unlock a deeper understanding of your device. Whether you're researching compatible accessories, evaluating upgrade options, or troubleshooting an issue, knowing your iPad's generation is the essential first step. Keep this information handy, perhaps by taking a screenshot of your "About" page, and you'll always be ready for whatever comes next.