So, you’ve got an iPad sitting in your hands, and you’re wondering, “How old is this thing, anyway?” Maybe you’re planning to sell it, trade it in, or just satisfy your curiosity. Whatever the reason, figuring out your iPad’s age can feel a little tricky if you don’t know where to start.

The good news? It’s actually super easy once you know the right steps. This guide will walk you through every method to check your iPad’s age, from simple settings tweaks to using Apple’s own website. Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Why Does Knowing Your iPad’s Age Matter?

Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Why should you care about how old your iPad is?

Resale Value – Older iPads usually sell for less, while newer ones can fetch a good price.
Compatibility – Some iOS updates aren’t supported on older iPads.
Warranty & Support – Knowing the purchase year helps check if Apple support or warranty still applies.
Battery Life Expectations – Older devices often have weaker batteries.

Think of it like knowing the age of a car—helpful for understanding its condition and future potential.

Method 1: Check in the iPad Settings

The easiest way to start is by diving into your iPad’s Settings app.

Step 1: Open the Settings App

Tap the gray gear-shaped Settings icon on your home screen.

Step 2: Navigate to General > About

Head to General, then tap About.

Step 3: Look for Model Name & Serial Number

Here, you’ll see important info like:

Model Name (e.g., iPad Pro 11-inch, iPad Air, etc.)
Serial Number
Software Version

The serial number is the real key to figuring out your iPad’s age. We’ll use it in the next method.

Method 2: Use Apple’s Check Coverage Website

Apple has a handy tool to check your device’s details using its serial number.

Step 1: Find the Serial Number

As explained above, grab your serial number from Settings > General > About.

Step 2: Visit Apple’s Check Coverage Website

Head to Apple’s Check Coverage page.

Step 3: Enter the Serial Number

Type in your iPad’s serial number, complete the CAPTCHA, and hit Continue.

This will show you warranty status, support eligibility, and (indirectly) how old your iPad is. If the warranty has expired, you’ll know your iPad is at least a year old.

Method 3: Decode the Serial Number

If you want to get really specific about your iPad’s age, decoding the serial number is your best bet.

Understanding the Serial Number Format

Apple serial numbers often contain info about:

Factory location
Production year
Production week

For example, the 4th character in the serial number may reveal the year of production, and the following number often indicates the production week.

Step 1: Copy Your Serial Number

Get it from the About section.

Step 2: Use an Online Decoder

Websites like SNDeepInfo or Chipmunk let you paste in your serial number to see detailed manufacturing info.

This method can pinpoint your iPad’s exact production date, almost like reading its birth certificate.

Method 4: Check the Original Box or Receipt

If you’re the type who saves boxes and receipts (kudos to you!), then finding your iPad’s age just got super easy.

Look at the Box

The original iPad box usually includes the model number and serial number. If you know when you bought it, that gives you a direct answer.

Check the Receipt or Invoice

Digital or physical receipts will list the purchase date, which equals the iPad’s “age in use.”

Method 5: Use the Model Number

Not all iPads look the same, and their names can be confusing (seriously, how many iPad Airs are there now?).

Step 1: Find the Model Number

Go to Settings > General > About and look for the “Model Number.”

Step 2: Match It With Apple’s Website

Apple maintains a list of iPad models with their release years. By comparing your model number, you can easily figure out which year it came out.

Method 6: Look at the iPad’s Design Features

If you don’t have settings access (maybe the iPad won’t turn on), you can still estimate its age by design.

Home Button: Newer iPads ditched the physical home button.
Lightning vs. USB-C: Older iPads use Lightning ports, while newer ones lean toward USB-C.
Bezel Size: Chunky bezels = older iPads; slim bezels = newer models.

This won’t give you the exact year, but it narrows things down.

Method 7: Use iTunes or Finder on a Computer

Your computer can also spill the beans on your iPad’s age.

For Windows (iTunes):

Connect your iPad to your PC.
Open iTunes.
Click the device icon.
Look under Summary for serial number and model details.

For Mac (Finder):

Connect your iPad via USB.
Open Finder.
Select your iPad from the sidebar.
The General tab will show serial number and model info.

Method 8: Check Apple ID Purchase History

If you bought your iPad directly from Apple and used your Apple ID, you can find its purchase date in your account.

Log in to Apple ID.
Check purchase history or receipts tied to your ID.

What If You Can’t Access the iPad?

Sometimes you don’t have access to the iPad’s settings because it’s locked or broken. Don’t worry—there are still workarounds.

Check the back of the device (model number is etched there).
Look at the original box.
Use iTunes/Finder if it powers on but is locked.

How to Tell If Your iPad Is Too Old

Knowing the age is one thing, but knowing if it’s too old is another. Here’s how to spot it:

No Software Updates: If your iPad can’t update to the latest iOS, it’s aging.
Sluggish Performance: Apps crash often, or the device freezes.
Battery Woes: Drains super quickly.
App Compatibility Issues: Some apps refuse to install.

If these sound familiar, your iPad may be past its prime.

Tips to Extend Your iPad’s Lifespan

Even if your iPad is older, you can keep it running smoothly with a few tricks.

Keep it updated with the latest iOS version available.
Delete unused apps to free up storage.
Use a protective case and screen protector.
Lower brightness and turn off background app refresh to save battery.

Think of it like maintaining an old car—you can’t make it brand new, but you can keep it running longer.

Common Myths About iPad Age

Myth 1: Age doesn’t matter.
Wrong! Age affects resale, support, and usability.
Myth 2: You can tell the age just by looking at it.
Not always—some designs stick around for years.
Myth 3: Apple tells you the exact age automatically.
Nope—you’ll need to do a bit of digging.

Conclusion

Finding out how old your iPad is doesn’t have to be rocket science. Whether you use the serial number, Apple’s website, or even just the model number, you’ve got plenty of ways to uncover the truth.

Knowing your iPad’s age helps with everything from selling it at the right price to understanding its performance and future updates. So next time someone asks, “Hey, how old is that iPad?”—you’ll have the answer ready.

FAQs

1. Can I find my iPad’s age without the serial number?
Yes! You can use the model number, design features, or original purchase receipt.

2. Does AppleCare extend the age of my iPad?
Not exactly. It extends coverage but doesn’t make the device newer—it just gives you peace of mind.

3. How long does an iPad typically last?
On average, iPads last 5–7 years with proper care before showing major performance issues.

4. Can I still use an old iPad that no longer updates?
Definitely! You may just face compatibility issues with certain apps, but it can still handle basics like browsing and reading.

5. Is it worth selling an old iPad?
Yes, if it’s still functional. Even older iPads can fetch some value on resale or trade-in programs.

How to Find the Age of Your iPad: A Step-by-Step Guide