How to Find Your MacBook Model, Year and A-Number

"Which MacBook do you have?" is the first question any repair shop, parts supplier or buyer will ask, and "the silver one" won't get you very far. Apple has released dozens of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models that look almost identical, yet use different batteries, screens and keyboards. In this guide you'll learn how to find your MacBook model number, year and A-number in under a minute, plus what to do if the Mac won't turn on at all.

Why your exact model matters

Two 13-inch MacBook Pros from back-to-back years can take completely different parts. The model name and year tell you which macOS versions your Mac can run, while the A-number (for example, A2338) and the model identifier pin down the exact hardware. Knowing them helps you:

• Get an accurate repair quote over the phone or online
• Check whether your Mac supports the latest version of macOS
• Buy the right charger, sleeve or replacement part
• Write an honest listing if you're selling it

Method 1: About This Mac

If your MacBook turns on, this is the fastest route.

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen.
2. Choose About This Mac.
3. On macOS Ventura and later, the window shows the model name and year (for example, "MacBook Air, M2, 2022"), the chip, memory and serial number.
4. On older versions of macOS, the Overview tab shows the same information, often with the year in brackets, such as "MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)".

Write down the serial number while you're there. You can enter it on Apple's Check Coverage page to see whether the Mac is still under warranty or AppleCare.

Method 2: System Information for the model identifier

For a more technical answer, open System Information.

1. Hold the Option key and click the Apple menu, then choose System Information. (You can also click More Info and then System Report from About This Mac.)
2. Select Hardware in the sidebar.
3. Look for Model Name and Model Identifier, such as "MacBookPro15,2".

The model identifier is useful when two Macs share a marketing name but differ inside. Repair technicians often use it together with the A-number to confirm compatibility.

Method 3: Read the A-number on the bottom case

The A-number is printed in tiny text on the underside of every MacBook, usually near the hinge. It reads something like "Model A1708".

1. Shut the MacBook down and close the lid.
2. Flip it over onto a soft cloth so you don't scratch the lid.
3. Use good light, or your phone's camera zoom, to read the small print. You'll see "Model A" followed by four digits, and often the serial number too.

Keep in mind that one A-number can cover several years. For example, a single A-number may span two production years with different processors, so pair it with the serial number or model identifier when ordering parts.

What if the MacBook won't turn on?

A dead Mac can still be identified. Try these in order:

1. Bottom case: the A-number and usually the serial number are printed there.
2. Original box: the barcode label lists the model, serial number and configuration.
3. Receipt or invoice: most retailers list the full model description.
4. Your Apple Account: sign in at appleid.apple.com on another device and open the Devices section. Each signed-in Mac is listed with its model and serial number.

If your MacBook truly won't power on, our guide on what to check when a MacBook won't turn on walks through the basics before you book a repair.

Need MacBook repair in Ottawa?

Once you know your model, getting a quote is simple. Fix Revolution offers MacBook repair in Ottawa and Gatineau with free pick-up and drop-off at your home or office, and most repairs are completed in 1–2 business days. Send us your model and A-number and we'll tell you what's possible, from batteries and screens to board-level repair done in-house. Get a free quote or call 613-265-4349. Not sure whether your Mac is worth fixing? Read should you repair or replace your MacBook.

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