What Gen Is My iPad? A Simple Guide to iPad Generations

So, you’ve got an iPad, and you’re curious: what gen is my iPad? Maybe you’re looking to sell it, download the latest apps, or simply understand its capabilities. Figuring out your iPad’s generation is the first step. It’s like knowing the model year of your car; it tells you a lot about its features and what it can do.

Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. I’ll walk you through the process, from finding the model number to decoding the information. We’ll cover all the iPad models, from the original to the latest. No matter if you have an iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini, or iPad Pro, I’ll show you how to identify its generation.

Ready to become an iPad generation detective? Let’s get started!

Finding Your Ipad’s Model Number

The key to identifying your iPad’s generation is the model number. Apple uses a unique model number for each generation and configuration of their iPads. Here’s how to find it:

• Look on the iPad itself: The model number is usually printed on the back of your iPad. It’s often located near the bottom, in small print. You might need good lighting and a magnifying glass, depending on your eyesight!
• Check in Settings: This is often the easiest method. Go to Settings > General > About. Look for the ‘Model Name’ entry. Tap on it, and the model number (e.g., A2133) will appear.
• On the original packaging: If you still have the box your iPad came in, the model number is printed on a sticker. This is a great way to verify the information.

Once you’ve found the model number, you can use the tables below to determine your iPad’s generation.

iPad Generations: A Comprehensive Guide

Here’s a breakdown of all the iPad generations, including their model numbers and key features. This will help you quickly identify your iPad.

Original iPad (1st Generation)

The iPad that started it all! Released in 2010, the original iPad was a game-changer. It introduced the world to the tablet format. It was the first of its kind, and it was a revelation. It offered a large, multi-touch screen and a user interface. This first generation was the birth of the iPad era.

• Model Numbers: A1219 (Wi-Fi), A1337 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: 9.7-inch display, 1 GHz Apple A4 processor. It lacked cameras and had a limited feature set compared to later models.

iPad 2 (2nd Generation)

The iPad 2 brought significant improvements. It was thinner, lighter, and faster than the original. It also introduced front and rear-facing cameras. The iPad 2 was a more refined device. This generation made the iPad more accessible.

• Model Numbers: A1395 (Wi-Fi), A1396 (Wi-Fi + GSM Cellular), A1397 (Wi-Fi + CDMA Cellular)
• Key Features: Front and rear cameras, faster A5 processor, thinner design.

iPad (3rd Generation)

This iPad, often referred to as the ‘new iPad’, introduced the Retina display. The high-resolution screen was a major upgrade, making everything look sharper and more vibrant. It was a significant leap in display technology.

• Model Numbers: A1416 (Wi-Fi), A1403 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1430 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Retina display, improved graphics, faster A5X processor.

iPad (4th Generation)

The fourth-generation iPad, also known as the iPad with Retina display, continued the evolution. It included a faster A6X processor and the Lightning connector. This generation brought faster performance and a more modern charging port.

• Model Numbers: A1458 (Wi-Fi), A1459 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1460 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Lightning connector, faster A6X processor.

iPad Air (1st Generation)

The iPad Air marked a major shift in design, being significantly thinner and lighter than previous models. It was a huge improvement in portability. The iPad Air was a breath of fresh air, and it set the tone for future iPad designs. (See Also: What Size Is My Ipad Screen )

• Model Numbers: A1474 (Wi-Fi), A1475 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1476 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Thinner and lighter design, faster A7 processor.

iPad Air 2

The iPad Air 2 offered further improvements in performance and design. It featured a thinner profile and a laminated display for enhanced clarity. The iPad Air 2 was a sleek and powerful tablet.

• Model Numbers: A1566 (Wi-Fi), A1567 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Thinner design, laminated display, faster A8X processor.

iPad (5th Generation)

This iPad brought back a more affordable option with a focus on core features. It was a great value and a solid performer for everyday use. The iPad (5th generation) was a balanced choice for many users.

• Model Numbers: A1822 (Wi-Fi), A1823 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Faster A9 processor, improved display.

iPad (6th Generation)

The 6th generation iPad added support for the Apple Pencil (1st generation), opening up new possibilities for creativity and productivity. The Apple Pencil compatibility expanded the iPad’s usefulness.

• Model Numbers: A1893 (Wi-Fi), A1954 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Apple Pencil (1st generation) support, faster A10 Fusion processor.

iPad (7th Generation)

This iPad featured a larger 10.2-inch display. This increased screen real estate improved the viewing experience. The larger display made it ideal for both work and play.

• Model Numbers: A2197 (Wi-Fi), A2198 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2200 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Larger 10.2-inch display, Smart Keyboard support.

iPad (8th Generation)

The 8th generation iPad offered a performance boost with a faster A12 Bionic chip. This made it a great choice for multitasking and running demanding apps. The faster processor improved overall responsiveness.

• Model Numbers: A2270 (Wi-Fi), A2428 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2429 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2430 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Faster A12 Bionic chip.

iPad (9th Generation)

The 9th generation iPad continued the trend of offering great value with improved performance. It included a faster A13 Bionic chip and a better front-facing camera. The 9th generation was a solid all-around tablet.

• Model Numbers: A2602 (Wi-Fi), A2603 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2604 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2605 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: A13 Bionic chip, Center Stage.

iPad Air (3rd Generation)

The 3rd generation iPad Air brought back the Air branding with a focus on performance and a sleek design. It filled the gap between the standard iPad and the iPad Pro. It offered a great balance of features and price.

• Model Numbers: A2152 (Wi-Fi), A2123 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2153 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2154 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: A12 Bionic chip, support for Apple Pencil (1st generation).

iPad Air (4th Generation)

The 4th generation iPad Air introduced a new design with flat edges and a larger display. It also moved the Touch ID sensor to the power button. This generation was a significant design refresh.

• Model Numbers: A2316 (Wi-Fi), A2324 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2325 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2072 (Wi-Fi), A2325 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: New design with flat edges, A14 Bionic chip, Touch ID in the power button.

iPad Air (5th Generation)

The 5th generation iPad Air featured the powerful M1 chip, bringing desktop-class performance to the iPad Air. It was a significant performance upgrade. The M1 chip made the iPad Air incredibly fast.

• Model Numbers: A2588 (Wi-Fi), A2589 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2591 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: M1 chip, Center Stage.

iPad Mini (1st Generation)

The iPad mini was a smaller, more portable iPad. It was perfect for those who wanted a tablet that was easier to hold and carry around. The iPad mini was a great option for on-the-go use. (See Also: Where Is Icloud Settings On Ipad )

• Model Numbers: A1432 (Wi-Fi), A1454 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1455 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Compact design, 7.9-inch display.

iPad Mini 2

The iPad mini 2 brought the Retina display to the mini lineup. This made the screen much sharper and more enjoyable to use. The Retina display was a major improvement for the mini.

• Model Numbers: A1489 (Wi-Fi), A1490 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1491 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Retina display, faster A7 processor.

iPad Mini 3

The iPad mini 3 added Touch ID for secure unlocking and Apple Pay. This brought added security and convenience. The Touch ID was a welcome addition to the mini.

• Model Numbers: A1599 (Wi-Fi), A1600 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1601 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Touch ID.

iPad Mini 4

The iPad mini 4 offered a thinner and lighter design. It also featured a faster processor. The mini 4 was a sleek and powerful compact tablet.

• Model Numbers: A1538 (Wi-Fi), A1550 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Thinner design, faster A8 processor.

iPad Mini (5th Generation)

The 5th generation iPad mini brought a faster A12 Bionic chip and support for the Apple Pencil (1st generation). This made it a great choice for those who wanted a powerful and portable tablet. The mini 5 was a significant performance boost.

• Model Numbers: A2133 (Wi-Fi), A2124 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2126 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2125 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: A12 Bionic chip, Apple Pencil (1st generation) support.

iPad Mini (6th Generation)

The 6th generation iPad mini introduced a new design with flat edges and a larger display. It also featured the A15 Bionic chip. The mini 6 offered a modern design and impressive performance.

• Model Numbers: A2567 (Wi-Fi), A2568 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2569 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: New design with flat edges, A15 Bionic chip, Center Stage.

iPad Pro (1st Generation – 12.9-Inch)

The first iPad Pro introduced a larger 12.9-inch display and a focus on professional-level features. It was designed for productivity and creative tasks. This was Apple’s first foray into the professional tablet market.

• Model Numbers: A1584 (Wi-Fi), A1652 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: 12.9-inch display, powerful A9X processor, support for Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard.

iPad Pro (1st Generation – 9.7-Inch)

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro offered the same features as its larger sibling but in a more compact size. It was a versatile tablet for both work and play. This iPad Pro was a great choice for portability.

• Model Numbers: A1673 (Wi-Fi), A1674 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1675 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: 9.7-inch display, powerful A9X processor, support for Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard.

iPad Pro (2nd Generation – 12.9-Inch)

The second-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro offered a faster processor and a brighter display. It was a powerhouse for creative professionals. This iPad Pro was a significant performance upgrade.

• Model Numbers: A1670 (Wi-Fi), A1671 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1821 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Faster A10X Fusion processor, ProMotion technology.

iPad Pro (2nd Generation – 10.5-Inch)

The 10.5-inch iPad Pro was a great balance of size and performance. It featured a fast processor and a beautiful display. This iPad Pro was a versatile choice for many users.

• Model Numbers: A1701 (Wi-Fi), A1709 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1852 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: Faster A10X Fusion processor, ProMotion technology.

iPad Pro (3rd Generation – 12.9-Inch & 11-Inch)

The third-generation iPad Pro introduced a new design with slimmer bezels, Face ID, and a USB-C port. These iPads were a significant design and technology overhaul. These were a major step forward for the iPad Pro. (See Also: Is Ipad 8th Gen Waterproof )

• Model Numbers (12.9-inch): A1876 (Wi-Fi), A2014 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1895 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Model Numbers (11-inch): A1980 (Wi-Fi), A2013 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1934 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: New design, Face ID, USB-C, powerful A12X Bionic chip.

iPad Pro (4th Generation – 12.9-Inch & 11-Inch)

The fourth-generation iPad Pro offered even more power and features, including a LiDAR scanner. The LiDAR scanner improved augmented reality capabilities. The fourth-generation iPad Pro was a powerhouse for professionals.

• Model Numbers (12.9-inch): A2229 (Wi-Fi), A2069 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2232 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2233 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Model Numbers (11-inch): A2228 (Wi-Fi), A2068 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2230 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2231 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: LiDAR scanner, faster A12Z Bionic chip.

iPad Pro (5th Generation – 12.9-Inch & 11-Inch)

The fifth-generation iPad Pro introduced the M1 chip, bringing desktop-class performance to the iPad Pro. It also featured a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display on the 12.9-inch model. These iPads were incredibly powerful.

• Model Numbers (12.9-inch): A2378 (Wi-Fi), A2461 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2379 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2462 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Model Numbers (11-inch): A2377 (Wi-Fi), A2459 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2301 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2460 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: M1 chip, Liquid Retina XDR display (12.9-inch), Thunderbolt port.

iPad Pro (6th Generation – 12.9-Inch & 11-Inch)

The sixth generation iPad Pro continued to refine the iPad Pro experience with the M2 chip. This generation offered even more performance and features. The M2 chip delivered incredible speed and responsiveness.

• Model Numbers (12.9-inch): A2764 (Wi-Fi), A2437 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2766 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2436 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Model Numbers (11-inch): A2759 (Wi-Fi), A2435 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2761 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A2762 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
• Key Features: M2 chip, Apple Pencil hover.

iPad Models Comparison Table

To help you quickly compare different iPad models, here’s a table summarizing their key features:

Identifying Your Ipad’s Features Based on Generation

Knowing your iPad’s generation helps you understand its capabilities. Each generation brings improvements in performance, display quality, and features. Here’s how you can estimate the capabilities based on the generation:

• Performance: Newer generations generally have faster processors, making them better for multitasking, gaming, and running demanding apps. The A-series and M-series chips are designed for efficiency and speed.
• Display: The Retina display is a common feature on newer models, offering sharper and more vibrant images. Some models also include ProMotion technology, which provides a smoother scrolling experience.
• Apple Pencil Support: The Apple Pencil is a great tool for creative tasks and note-taking. Different generations of iPads support different generations of the Apple Pencil.
• Operating System (iPadOS): The latest iPadOS versions offer new features and improvements. Newer iPads typically receive software updates for longer.
• Connectivity: Newer iPads often have faster Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Some models also support 5G cellular connectivity.

Why Knowing Your Ipad’s Generation Matters

Understanding your iPad’s generation is important for several reasons:

• Compatibility: Some apps and accessories are only compatible with specific iPad generations. Knowing your generation ensures you can use the apps and accessories you want.
• Software Updates: Apple provides software updates for a certain period. Knowing your iPad’s generation helps you understand how long it will continue to receive updates.
• Resale Value: The generation of your iPad affects its resale value. Newer models typically sell for more.
• Features and Capabilities: Different generations have different features, such as display quality, processor speed, and Apple Pencil support. This knowledge helps you understand what your iPad is capable of.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, you might encounter issues with your iPad. Here are some common problems and how knowing your iPad’s generation can help:

• App Compatibility: If an app isn’t working, check if it’s compatible with your iPad’s generation and iPadOS version.
• Performance Issues: If your iPad is running slowly, it might be due to an older processor. Knowing the generation can help you determine if it’s time for an upgrade.
• Battery Life: Older iPads may have reduced battery life. Knowing your generation can help you assess if it’s time to replace the battery or upgrade.
• Software Updates: If your iPad isn’t receiving the latest software updates, it might be an older model that’s no longer supported.

Final Thoughts

Now you have a better understanding of how to determine what gen is my iPad. You can identify your iPad’s model number, and use the information to determine its generation. I hope this guide helps you navigate the world of iPad generations.

Knowing your iPad’s generation is more than just a matter of curiosity. It impacts app compatibility, software updates, and the device’s overall capabilities. From the original iPad to the latest models, knowing your iPad’s generation gives you useful information.

With the information in this guide, you should be able to confidently identify your iPad’s generation. This knowledge will help you make the most of your device.

Recommended For You

King Size 4 Piece Sheet Set - Comfy Breathable & Cooling Sheets - Hotel Luxury Bed Sheets for Women & Men - Deep Pockets, Easy-Fit, Extra Soft & Wrinkle Free Sheets - Dark Grey Oeko-Tex Bed Sheet Set

Buy on Amazon

MAELOVE Glow Maker Vitamin C Serum with Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid & Hyaluronic Acid, Award-Winning Brightening and Hydrating Facial Serum, Unscented, 1.0 fl oz

Buy on Amazon

BioEmblem Triple Magnesium Complex | 300mg Magnesium Glycinate, Malate & Citrate | High Absorption Chelated Formula | Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free | 90 Capsules

Buy on Amazon

Bestseller No. 1

Apple iPad 11-inch: A16 chip, 11-inch Model...

Buy on Amazon

Bestseller No. 2

Apple iPad 11-inch: A16 chip, 11-inch Model...

Buy on Amazon

Bestseller No. 3

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5): Ultra Retina XDR...

Buy on Amazon