How do I find out what generation my iPad is? This question is easily answered by checking your device's settings or physical characteristics.
You can identify your iPad generation in seconds by going to Settings > General > About and looking for the "Model Name," which directly states your iPad's generation.
Alternatively, check the back of your device for the model number starting with "A." Knowing your exact iPad model is crucial for app compatibility, finding the right accessories, and understanding which features your device supports.
Read on to discover multiple foolproof methods to identify your iPad generation and why this knowledge is essential for every iPad owner.
Why Identifying Your iPad Generation Matters
Knowing which iPad you have is super important for many reasons. First, it tells you if your device can run the newest apps and system updates. Not all iPads can handle the latest features!
When shopping for accessories like cases or keyboards, having the right model info saves you money. You won't accidentally buy something that doesn't fit your iPad.
Your iPad generation also shows which apps will work properly. Newer features often need special hardware that only comes with certain models. If you download apps meant for newer iPads, they might not work on your device.
Having your exact model information makes fixing your iPad much easier. When your battery needs replacing or something breaks, repair shops need to know which iPad you have to fix it right.
If you decide to sell your iPad someday, knowing its generation helps you set a fair price. Newer models are worth more money, even when they look similar to older ones.
Knowing your iPad model also reveals which special features you have, like pencil support, face scanning, or what type of charging port your device uses.
Checking Your iPad Generation Through Settings
The fastest way to discover your iPad's generation is through the Settings app. In just a few taps, you can find all the important details about your device.
How to Find Your Model Information
- Unlock your iPad and tap the gear icon (Settings app)
- Tap "General" from the menu
- Select "About" at the top of the list
- Look for "Model Name" on this screen. This tells you exactly which iPad you have (like "iPad Air 5th generation"). Right below it, you'll see a "Model Number" starting with A (such as A2588) that provides more specific details.
- While you're here, you can also check your storage space, system version, and serial number.
What Your Model Information Means
The Model Name shows which iPad family you own:
- Standard iPad
- iPad mini
- iPad Air
- iPad Pro (in different sizes)
The generation number tells how new your device is. Higher numbers mean newer iPads with better features and longer support.
The Model Number (starting with "A") provides even more details about your specific device, like whether it has cellular connection options.
Different generations use different model number patterns. Newer devices usually have numbers starting with A2 or A3, while older ones start with A1.
For most purposes like checking app compatibility, knowing your Model Name is enough.
Identifying iPad Generation by Physical Characteristics
You can discover your iPad's generation just by looking at it. Physical clues like size, buttons, and cameras can tell you which model you have without checking settings.
Size and Design Features
iPads come in different sizes that have changed over time. The standard iPad started at 9.7 inches but grew to 10.2 inches in newer versions. The smallest is the iPad Mini (7.9-8.3 inches), while iPad Pro models come in larger 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes.
The charging port at the bottom gives big clues too. Very old iPads have a wide connector, middle generations have a small Lightning port, and the newest Pro models use USB-C ports.
The edges also tell a story - older iPads have curved sides while newer Pro models have flat edges. Most iPads have aluminum backs in colors like silver, gray, or gold.
Home Button Clues
The home button (or lack of one) easily reveals your iPad's age. Older iPads have a physical round button at the bottom of the screen.
If your iPad has no home button at all, it's a newer model from 2018 or later. If the button has a small ring around it, it's from an early generation. Home buttons without visible rings include fingerprint scanning and belong to middle-generation models.
Camera Configuration and Placement
Camera setup is another great way to spot your iPad generation. The very first iPad had no cameras at all! The second version added basic front and back cameras.
Check the back of your iPad:
- No camera: 1st generation iPad
- Single camera: Most standard iPads and older models
- Two cameras with a special sensor: Pro models from 2020 and newer
Front camera placement matters too. Newer models like the 10th generation iPad moved the camera to the long edge for better video calls when using the device horizontally.
iPad Models and Generations Guide
iPads come in different families, each with their own generations. Knowing which generation you have helps you understand what features you can use.
iPad Pro Generations
The iPad Pro is the most powerful tablet option:
11-inch iPad Pro models:
-
1st gen: Released in 2018 (model A1980)
-
2nd gen: Released in 2020 (model A2228)
-
3rd gen: Released in 2021 (model A2377)
-
4th gen: Released in 2022 (model A2759)
-
5th gen: Released in 2024 (model A2759)
12.9-inch iPad Pro models:
- 1st gen: Released in 2015 (model A1584)
- 2nd gen: Released in 2017 (model A1670)
- 3rd gen: Released in 2018 (model A1876)
- 4th gen: Released in 2020 (model A2229)
- 5th gen: Released in 2021 (model A2378)
- 6th gen: Released in 2022 (model A2764)
- 7th gen: Released in 2024 (model A2891)
iPad Pro models have the fastest chips, best screens, and work with the newest accessories.
iPad Air Generations
The iPad Air balances performance and price in a lighter design:
- 1st gen: Released in 2013 (model A1474)
- 2nd gen: Released in 2014 (model A1566)
- 3rd gen: Released in 2019 (model A2152)
- 4th gen: Released in 2020 (model A2316)
- 5th gen: Released in 2022 (model A2588)
- 6th gen: Released in 2024 (model A2782)
The first two iPad Air models had 9.7-inch screens. The 3rd gen grew to 10.5 inches, and models from 4th gen onward have 10.9-inch displays.
iPad Mini Generations
The iPad Mini packs features into a smaller size:
- 1st gen: Released in 2012 (model A1432)
- 2nd gen: Released in 2013 (model A1489)
- 3rd gen: Released in 2014 (model A1599)
- 4th gen: Released in 2015 (model A1538)
- 5th gen: Released in 2019 (model A2133)
- 6th gen: Released in 2021 (model A2567)
The first five generations had 7.9-inch screens. The newest 6th gen iPad Mini has a larger 8.3-inch display and USB-C port.
Standard iPad Generations
The standard iPad is the most affordable option:
- 1st gen: Original iPad from 2010 (model A1219)
- 2nd gen: Released in 2011 (model A1395)
- 3rd gen: Released in early 2012 (model A1416)
- 4th gen: Released in late 2012 (model A1458)
- 5th gen: Released in 2017 (model A1822)
- 6th gen: Released in 2018 (model A1893)
- 7th gen: Released in 2019 (model A2197)
- 8th gen: Released in 2020 (model A2270)
- 9th gen: Released in 2021 (model A2602)
- 10th gen: Released in 2022 (model A2696)
The standard iPad started with a 9.7-inch screen. From the 7th generation onward, it has a 10.2-inch display, while the 10th gen has a 10.9-inch screen.
After Identifying Your iPad Generation
Now that you know which iPad model you have, you can make smart decisions about updates, accessories, and when to upgrade.
Checking What Updates You Can Get
Your iPad generation tells you which system updates will work on your device. Older iPads eventually stop getting the newest updates.
For example, if you have an iPad Air 1 or iPad Mini 2, you can't go beyond iPadOS 12. Check this by going to Settings > General > Software Update. If nothing appears, your iPad has reached its update limit.
Most iPads get updates for 5-7 years. Newer models will continue getting the latest features for several more years.
Finding the Right Accessories
Your iPad model determines which accessories will work with it:
Charging Cables
Different iPads use different charging ports. Newer models use USB-C while older ones use Lightning connectors.
Keyboard Cases
The CHESONA Levitate Series offers floating keyboard cases for iPad Pro and iPad Air models.
For the standard iPad, try the CHESONA Backstand Series with its versatile viewing angles.
Additionally, the CHESONA Steps Touch keyboard case works great for iPad Pro users who need laptop-like typing.
Stylus Options
Different iPad models work with different stylus versions. Look for stylus options compatible with various iPad generations and offer precision for note-taking and drawing.
Deciding When to Upgrade
Your iPad's age helps you decide if it's time for a new one.
Most iPads lose about 20-30% of their value each year. If your iPad is more than 4 years old and struggling with newer apps, you might consider upgrading.
The best time to buy a new iPad is usually after new models are announced (typically in March, June, or September). When you do upgrade, check out CHESONA's latest keyboard collections that are specifically designed for the newest iPad models with features like backlit keys and trackpads.
Conclusion
Finding out what generation your iPad is doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you check through Settings, examine the physical characteristics, or decode the model number on the back, you now have multiple reliable methods to identify your device.
Armed with the correct information about your iPad generation, you can confidently navigate the world of apps, accessories, and support options.
Remember that keeping track of your device's generation ensures you'll always know what features are available to you and when it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer model.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I see what generation my iPad is?
To find your iPad generation, go to Settings > General > About and look for "Model Name" which directly shows your generation (like "iPad Pro 11-inch 3rd generation"). If not visible, check for the "Model Number" starting with "A" followed by four digits. You can search this number on Apple's website to identify your iPad's exact generation.
What generation is the current iPad?
As of early 2024, the standard iPad is in its 10th generation (released late 2022). The lineup includes iPad Pro with M4 chips (6th generation 11-inch and 13-inch), iPad Air (5th generation), and iPad Mini (6th generation). Apple updates different iPad lines throughout the year, so the "current" generation varies by product line.
How can I determine how old my iPad is?
Find your iPad's age by identifying the model and checking its release date. Look up your model in Settings > General > About or check the model number on the back of your device. Search this information on Apple's website to find when that model was released. For the exact purchase date, check your Apple ID purchase history if you bought it new.
How can you tell the difference between an iPad 1st and 2nd generation?
The iPad 2nd generation is thinner (8.8mm vs 13.4mm), lighter, and includes front and rear cameras, while the 1st generation has no cameras. The 1st generation has a larger speaker grille, while the 2nd has a smaller one. Model numbers also differ: 1st generation starts with A1219 or A1337, while 2nd generation uses A1395, A1396, or A1397.
