Find your tablet model using the settings menu

The fastest way to identify your tablet is to open the Settings app and look for a section called "About" or "Device Information." On an iPad, go to Settings > General > About and look for the line that says "Model." On an Android tablet, go to Settings > About Tablet (or About Device) and you will see the model name listed there. Write down exactly what you see — the full model number if one appears.

If you see a model number instead of a friendly name, that number is your key to finding the exact tablet. Model numbers look like "SM-T870" for Samsung or "A2232" for iPad. Search that number on the manufacturer's website or in a search engine to match it to the tablet's real name and release year.

The Settings method works even if your tablet is old, damaged, or you have forgotten where you bought it. You do not need the original box or receipt.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings, find the About section, and look for "Model" to see your tablet's name and number in one place.
  • If you see only a model number like "SM-T870," search that number online to find the tablet's brand and generation.
  • The back of the tablet or the original box will also show the model name if you still have access to them.
  • Knowing your exact model helps you find compatible chargers, cases, and software updates for your device.

Check the back of the tablet or the original box

If you prefer not to dig through settings, the model name is usually printed on the back of the tablet itself. Look for text that says "iPad Air 2," "Samsung Galaxy Tab S7," or similar. The back may also show a model number in smaller print — that number is just as useful as the name.

If you still have the original box, the model name appears on the outside and inside. The box also lists the storage size and color, which can help you narrow down the exact version if multiple models share the same name.

Use the model number to search online

Model numbers are short codes that manufacturers use to track different versions of the same tablet. An iPad might be listed as "A2232" while a Samsung tablet might be "SM-T870." These numbers look random but they are specific — each one points to exactly one tablet model.

Copy the model number from your tablet's back or Settings menu and paste it into a search engine. The first result will usually be the manufacturer's product page or a retailer listing that shows you the tablet's real name, release date, and specs. This method is especially useful if you inherited the tablet or bought it secondhand and do not know its history.

Identify iPad models by their appearance

If you own an iPad, you can often guess the model by looking at it. iPad Pros from 2018 onward have flat edges and no home button — older iPad Pros and regular iPads have rounded edges and a home button at the bottom. iPad minis are smaller than regular iPads. iPad Airs fall between the two in size.

The easiest visual clue is the home button: if your iPad has one, it is not a recent Pro model. If it does not have one, it is a newer Pro, Air, or regular iPad. Screen size also helps — iPad Pros are 11 inches or larger, regular iPads are around 10 inches, and iPad minis are 8 inches or smaller. These visual clues narrow the field, but the Settings menu will always give you the exact answer.

Identify Android tablet models by brand and design

Android tablets come from many manufacturers — Samsung, Lenovo, Amazon, and others — so appearance alone will not tell you the exact model. However, you can usually spot the brand from the logo on the back or boot screen. Samsung tablets say "Samsung" and often have a distinctive curved back. Amazon Fire tablets have the Amazon logo and a simpler design.

Once you know the brand, the Settings menu will show you the model name. If the name is unclear, the model number will be there too. Android tablets are more varied than iPads, so the Settings method is more reliable than trying to guess from appearance alone.

What to do if the Settings menu does not show a clear model name

Older tablets or heavily customized devices sometimes show only a model number in Settings, not a friendly name. If you see something like "SM-T530" or "A1395," that is still the right information — it is just in code form. Copy that number and search it online. You will find the tablet's real name, brand, and release year within seconds.

If Settings shows nothing useful at all, check the back of the tablet, the battery (if removable), or the original box. One of these will have the model name or number. If none of those options work, take a photo of the back and search for "tablet that looks like this" — forums and product databases can often match a photo to a model.

Why knowing your tablet model matters

Your tablet's model number determines what charger, case, and screen protector will fit it. It also tells you which software updates are available and whether your tablet can run new apps. If you need to sell or trade in your tablet, the buyer will ask for the model number to verify the device and its condition.

Knowing the model also helps you find the right manual, troubleshooting guides, and warranty information. Manufacturers organize support by model, so searching for your exact model will take you to pages written specifically for your device rather than generic tablet information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a model name and a model number?

A model name is the friendly version — like "iPad Pro 12.9-inch" or "Samsung Galaxy Tab S8." A model number is a code — like "A2232" or "SM-X700." They refer to the same tablet. The name is easier to read; the number is more precise. Both will help you find what you need.

Can I find my tablet model if I forgot my password?

Yes. The model name is printed on the back of the tablet itself, so you do not need to unlock it. If the back does not show a clear name, look for the model number there and search it online. You can also check the original box or receipt if you still have them.

Does the model number change if I update the software?

No. The model number is hardware — it never changes. Software updates do not affect it. Your tablet will have the same model number whether it is running an old version of the operating system or the newest one.

What if my tablet has a sticker covering the model number?

Open Settings and go to About or Device Information. The model will be listed there in text form, not as a physical sticker. This is the most reliable method if the back of the tablet is damaged or covered.

Can I use the model number to check if my tablet is still under warranty?

The model number alone is not enough — you will also need the serial number or purchase date. Both are usually in Settings under About or Device Information. Write down both the model number and serial number, then contact the manufacturer or retailer with that information to check your warranty status.