To find out what kind of tablet you have, start by checking the device's settings menu, which directly lists the model number for most tablets. This quick check tells you exactly what kind of tablet you have without needing any extra tools or apps.
What kind of tablet do I have: Check the settings first
For an Android tablet, open the Settings app, then scroll down and tap "About tablet," "About phone," or "About device." The "Model number" or "Model" entry will display your tablet's exact model. On an Amazon Fire tablet, swipe down from the top of the screen to open Quick Settings, tap the Settings gear icon, select "Device Options," and look for "Device Model" or "About Fire Tablet." If you can’t find the Settings icon, you can locate Amazon Fire tablet tools through the search function instead.
Find the model number printed on the tablet
If your tablet won't turn on or you prefer a physical check, inspect the device itself. On Samsung tablets, the model number is often printed on the back of the device, typically near the base. For Microsoft Surface Pro tablets, the model number is found beneath the kickstand; on Surface Laptop models, it's printed on the underside. For most other brands, check the back or the edges of the tablet for a small, engraved model number or serial number. This is the primary method for identification if a tablet will not turn on.
Look up your tablet with the serial number online
If you have the serial number, you can find the exact model online. For a Microsoft Surface, sign into your Microsoft account and go to the "Devices" page to see your Surface model, or use the Microsoft Surface Support website. You can also find your Amazon Fire tablet model and serial number online by logging into your Amazon account, navigating to "Account," then "Content and Devices," and selecting "Devices" and "Fire Tablet." If you don't have the serial number handy, you can find my tablet model using the settings menu instead, or you can find serial number on Amazon Fire tablet directly on the device if you have it with you. The manufacturer's support site will then display your tablet's full model details.
Use an app to identify your tablet
If the model number from settings or the device itself isn't clear, download a hardware identification app like CPU-Z or AIDA64 from your device's app store. These apps analyze your tablet's components and display the exact model name and number, along with detailed specs like chipset and RAM. This is a useful secondary method to confirm your tablet's identity.
Check the original box or your purchase history
The tablet's model information is typically found on its original packaging or in the user manual. If you still have the box, look for a sticker or printed text listing the model number. Alternatively, check your online order history from retailers like Amazon or Best Buy, which will list the exact model you purchased. This is a reliable fallback if the device itself is inaccessible.
