What Generation Of IPad Do I Have? A Simple Guide

So, you’ve got an iPad, and you’re wondering, “What generation of iPad do I have?” It’s a common question, and thankfully, it’s pretty easy to figure out. Knowing your iPad’s generation is crucial for everything from getting the right accessories to understanding which software updates it supports. It’s like knowing the model year of your car – it helps you with maintenance, upgrades, and even resale value.

Don’t worry, you won’t need to be a tech expert to crack this. We’ll walk you through several methods, from the most straightforward to some slightly more involved ones. I’ll show you how to find this information quickly, whether you have the iPad in your hands or are just trying to help a friend. Let’s get started and find out what generation of iPad you’re holding!

Why Knowing Your iPad Generation Matters

Before we jump into the ‘how,’ let’s quickly cover the ‘why.’ Understanding your iPad’s generation is important for several reasons:

Compatibility: Different generations of iPads support different accessories, like Apple Pencils, keyboards, and cases. Knowing your generation ensures you buy compatible products.
Software Updates: Apple provides software updates for a certain number of years. Knowing your generation tells you how long you can expect to receive the latest iOS or iPadOS updates, which include new features and security patches.
Resale Value: When you decide to sell or trade in your iPad, the generation is a key factor in determining its value. Newer generations generally fetch higher prices.
Troubleshooting: When seeking help with a problem, knowing your iPad’s generation helps you find the correct solutions and support resources.

Method 1: Checking the Ipad’s Settings

This is often the quickest and easiest way to identify your iPad’s generation, especially if you have the device with you. Here’s how:

Open the Settings App: Find the gray gear icon on your Home Screen and tap it to open the Settings app.
Go to General: Scroll down the left-hand menu and tap on ‘General’.
Select ‘About’: In the General settings, tap on ‘About’, usually the first option.
Find the Model Name: In the ‘About’ section, you’ll see a ‘Model Name’ field. This will tell you the exact name of your iPad (e.g., iPad Air, iPad mini, iPad Pro). The model name is often enough to identify your iPad, but the following steps provide even more detail.
Look for the Model Number: Also within the ‘About’ section, you will see a ‘Model Number’. This is a string of characters (e.g., A2152). This number is the most precise way to identify your iPad.
Use the Model Number to Identify the Generation: You can use the model number to look up your iPad’s generation. We’ll provide a table below with model numbers and their corresponding generations.

Important Tip: If your iPad is a Wi-Fi + Cellular model, the ‘About’ section will also display a ‘Capacity’ field, indicating the storage space available on your iPad.

Method 2: Using the Model Number (more Precise)

This method is particularly useful if you don’t have access to your iPad right now, but you know the model number. The model number is usually printed on the back of your iPad or on the original packaging. (See Also: How Does 4g Work on iPad? A Comprehensive Guide)

Find the Model Number: Look on the back of your iPad. It’s usually printed near the bottom, in small text. It will start with the letter ‘A’ followed by four numbers (e.g., A2152). If you have the original box, the model number is also printed on a sticker.
Consult the Table: Use the table below to find the corresponding generation for your model number.

Here’s a table to help you identify your iPad generation based on the model number. This table covers a wide range of iPad models:

iPad Model	Model Number(s)	Generation
iPad (1st generation)	A1219, A1337	1st generation
iPad (2nd generation)	A1395, A1396, A1397	2nd generation
iPad (3rd generation)	A1416, A1430, A1403	3rd generation
iPad (4th generation)	A1458, A1459, A1460	4th generation
iPad Air (1st generation)	A1474, A1475, A1476	5th generation
iPad Air 2	A1566, A1567	6th generation
iPad (5th generation)	A1822, A1823	7th generation
iPad (6th generation)	A1893, A1954	8th generation
iPad (7th generation)	A2197, A2198, A2200	9th generation
iPad (8th generation)	A2270, A2428, A2429, A2430	10th generation
iPad Air (3rd generation)	A2152, A2123, A2153, A2154	11th generation
iPad Air (4th generation)	A2316, A2324, A2325, A2072	12th generation
iPad Air (5th generation)	A2588, A2589, A2591	13th generation
iPad mini (1st generation)	A1432, A1454, A1455	1st generation
iPad mini 2	A1489, A1490, A1491	2nd generation
iPad mini 3	A1599, A1600	3rd generation
iPad mini 4	A1538, A1550	4th generation
iPad mini (5th generation)	A2124, A2126, A2133	5th generation
iPad mini (6th generation)	A2567, A2568, A2569	6th generation
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation)	A1584, A1652	1st generation
iPad Pro 9.7-inch	A1673, A1674, A1675	2nd generation
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation)	A1670, A1671, A1821	2nd generation
iPad Pro 10.5-inch	A1701, A1709, A1852	3rd generation
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)	A1876, A2014, A1895	3rd generation
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation)	A1980, A2013, A1934	3rd generation
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation)	A2229, A2069, A2232, A2233	4th generation
iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)	A2228, A2068, A2230, A2231	4th generation
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)	A2378, A2461, A2379, A2462	5th generation
iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)	A2377, A2459, A2301, A2460	5th generation
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)	A2436, A2764, A2437, A2766	6th generation
iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation)	A2759, A2435, A2761, A2762	6th generation

Important Note: Apple often releases multiple models within a single generation. The model number is the key to differentiating between them. This table provides a comprehensive overview, but always double-check the model number if you need absolute certainty.

Method 3: Using the Serial Number

The serial number is another piece of information that can help you identify your iPad’s generation, especially if you have the serial number but not the iPad itself. You can find the serial number in the Settings app or on the original packaging.

Locate the Serial Number:
- On the iPad: Go to Settings > General > About. The serial number is listed there.
- On the Original Packaging: The serial number is printed on the box your iPad came in.
Visit Apple’s Check Coverage Website: Go to the Apple Check Coverage website: https://checkcoverage.apple.com/.
Enter the Serial Number: Enter your iPad’s serial number in the provided field and follow the instructions.
Review the Results: The website will provide information about your iPad, including its model and the date of purchase. This can help you determine the generation.

Note: While this method provides helpful information, it may not always pinpoint the exact generation, especially for older models. It’s most useful for verifying the model type and purchase date, which can then be cross-referenced with the model number.

Method 4: Using Itunes or Finder (for Older Ipads)

If you have an older iPad or are using a computer, you can identify your iPad’s generation using iTunes (on older macOS versions and Windows) or Finder (on newer macOS versions). (See Also: Does iPad Have Hard Drive? Storage Explained)

Connect Your iPad to Your Computer: Use a USB cable to connect your iPad to your computer.
Open iTunes or Finder:
- iTunes (Older macOS and Windows): Open iTunes. Your iPad should appear as a device in the top menu bar.
- Finder (Newer macOS): Open Finder. Your iPad should appear in the ‘Locations’ section of the sidebar.
Select Your iPad: Click on your iPad’s icon in iTunes or Finder.
View Device Information: In the summary or general tab, you should see information about your iPad, including the model name and, potentially, the model number.

Important Considerations: This method is most effective for older iPads. Newer iPads may not display as much detailed information in iTunes or Finder. If you have a newer iPad, the Settings app method is generally more reliable.

Method 5: Checking the Ipad’s External Design

While not as precise as the other methods, the physical design of your iPad can sometimes give you a clue about its generation. This is particularly helpful when you can’t access the iPad’s settings or model number.

Home Button: iPads with a physical Home button are generally older models. The original iPad, iPad 2, iPad 3rd and 4th generation, iPad Air 1 and 2, and the iPad mini 1-3 all have a physical Home button. Newer models, such as the iPad Air 3rd generation and later, and the iPad Pro models, feature an all-screen design with no Home button.
Bezel Size: Older iPads often have larger bezels (the black border around the screen) compared to newer models. The iPad Air and iPad Pro models tend to have thinner bezels.
Camera Placement: The placement of the rear camera and the presence of a flash can also provide clues. Newer iPads often have a more prominent camera bump.
Lightning Port vs. USB-C: Older iPads use a Lightning port for charging and data transfer, while newer models (especially iPad Pro models) use a USB-C port.

Caveat: Design clues are not definitive. Design changes can vary within a generation, and it can be easy to confuse one model with another. Always try to confirm your iPad’s generation using the settings or model number methods for accuracy.

iPad Generations: A Quick Overview

Here’s a brief overview of the main iPad generations to help you put things into perspective. This is not an exhaustive list, but it highlights some key milestones:

1st Generation (2010): The original iPad.
2nd Generation (2011): Introduced a thinner design and a front-facing camera.
3rd Generation (2012): Introduced the Retina display.
4th Generation (2012): Featured the Lightning connector.
iPad Air (1st Generation, 2013): Significantly thinner and lighter design.
iPad Air 2 (2014): Improved performance and display.
iPad Pro (1st Generation, 2015): Introduced the larger 12.9-inch display and the Apple Pencil.
iPad (5th Generation, 2017): A more affordable iPad model.
iPad (6th Generation, 2018): Added Apple Pencil support.
iPad Air (3rd Generation, 2019): Slimmer design with a faster processor.
iPad (7th Generation, 2019): Larger display.
iPad Pro (2nd Generation, 2020): Improved cameras and performance.
iPad Air (4th Generation, 2020): Redesigned with a thinner bezel and USB-C.
iPad (8th Generation, 2020): Faster processor.
iPad mini (6th Generation, 2021): Redesigned with a larger display and USB-C.
iPad Air (5th Generation, 2022): M1 chip.
iPad (9th Generation, 2021): Faster processor and improved camera.
iPad (10th Generation, 2022): Redesigned with a larger display and USB-C.
iPad Pro (6th Generation, 2022): M2 chip.

Note: This is a simplified overview. Each generation has multiple models with variations in features and specifications. Refer to the model number or the Settings app for the most accurate information about your specific iPad. (See Also: Why Is My iPad So Dark? Troubleshooting & Fixes)

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Sometimes, even with the best methods, you might encounter issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Model Number Doesn’t Match: Double-check the model number on your iPad and in the table. Make sure you’re looking at the correct number (often printed in small text).
Settings Don’t Show Model Number: Ensure your iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS. Sometimes, outdated software can cause display issues. Try restarting your iPad.
Unclear Packaging: If you don’t have the original box, try searching online for images of the iPad models. This may help you identify the generation based on the design.
Still Unsure: If you’re still uncertain, contact Apple Support. They can help identify your iPad’s generation using the serial number or other information. You can visit the Apple Support website or call them directly.

Keeping Your iPad Updated

Once you know your iPad’s generation, it’s important to keep it updated with the latest software. Software updates improve performance, add new features, and provide important security patches. To update your iPad:

Connect to Wi-Fi: Make sure your iPad is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
Open Settings: Tap the Settings app icon.
Go to General: Tap ‘General’.
Select Software Update: Tap ‘Software Update’.
Download and Install: If an update is available, tap ‘Download and Install’. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Important: Back up your iPad before installing any major software update. This ensures you can restore your data if something goes wrong during the update process.

Final Verdict

Determining your iPad’s generation might seem daunting at first, but it’s really quite straightforward once you know where to look. Using the Settings app, the model number, or even the serial number are all effective methods. Remember to cross-reference the information you find, especially when using online resources. Knowing your iPad’s generation is crucial for compatibility, software updates, and even resale value.

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By following these steps, you’ll be able to quickly and confidently identify your iPad’s generation and make informed decisions about accessories, software updates, and the overall usage of your device. Now, you can confidently navigate the world of iPad accessories and updates, knowing exactly what your device needs. Enjoy using your iPad!

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What Generation of iPad Do I Have? A Simple Guide