A MacBook’s model number tells you exactly what you have, and it’s the fastest way to get an accurate trade-in quote. Here’s where to find it, on the case and in System Settings.

If you want to know exactly which MacBook you own, the model number is the most reliable way to find out. It’s a short code, usually starting with A followed by four digits, and it’s printed on the underside of the machine or stored in System Settings. Once you have it, you can look up the exact year, screen size and chip, which matters a lot if you’re trying to get an accurate instant quote for it.

Why the model number matters

Apple has made a lot of MacBooks that look almost identical from the outside. Several generations of the MacBook Air share the same silver wedge shape, and more than one MacBook Pro generation shares the same body. Going by looks alone, it’s easy to think you have a newer or older machine than you actually do.

The model number strips all of that guesswork out. It’s specific to a single design and production run, so once you have it, there’s no ambiguity about what you’re holding. That matters because value depends heavily on year and specification, not just on which family of Mac it belongs to. A wrong guess can mean a quote that doesn’t match what you actually own, which slows things down for everyone.

Finding the model number on the case

On most MacBooks, the model number is printed on the underside of the machine, in small text near the regulatory markings. Turn the MacBook over and look for a line that starts with “Model” followed by a code such as A2338 or A2179. You may need good light or a magnifying glass, as the text is genuinely tiny on some generations.

Older MacBooks, particularly those from before 2016, sometimes have this information on a sticker instead of etched text, and stickers can wear away over years of use. If yours has faded or peeled, don’t worry, there’s a more reliable method that doesn’t depend on the case at all.

Finding it in System Settings

If the MacBook still turns on, this is the quickest and most accurate route. Click the Apple menu in the top left corner, then choose “About This Mac.” You’ll see the MacBook’s marketing name, such as “MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2023),” along with the chip and memory.

For the precise model number, click “More Info,” then look under “Regulatory Certification” or a similar heading depending on your macOS version. On some versions, you’ll find it by clicking the serial number area, which cycles through additional details including the model identifier. This route also gives you the serial number in the same place, which is useful if you’re getting a quote or arranging a trade-in, since Mac Recycle can use either to confirm the exact specification. For a full walkthrough on identifying your Mac’s year, chip and storage in one go, our finding your spec guide covers all of that in more detail.

What if the MacBook won’t turn on?

A dead MacBook doesn’t rule out finding the model number. The etched or stickered code on the underside of the case is still your best bet, and it doesn’t need power to read. If that’s worn away and the machine won’t boot, the serial number etched nearby (or on the original box, if you kept it) can also be looked up.

Even without a model number to hand, you don’t need to hold off getting a valuation. We can often still work out a fair figure from photos and a description of the fault, and the assessment gets confirmed properly once we’ve had a look at the device. A MacBook that doesn’t power on isn’t worthless, it just needs a slightly different approach to valuing.

Why this helps when you’re selling

Once you know the model number, everything downstream gets easier. You can check exactly which year and chip you have, compare it against current market values, and make sure the quote you’re given reflects the real specification rather than an estimate based on a rough description.

At Mac Recycle, we look at the model, year, specification and condition together to work out what a MacBook is worth. Knowing your model number in advance means the whole process moves faster, and there’s less chance of a mismatch between what you expect and what gets confirmed once the device arrives. It’s a two-minute job that saves back-and-forth later.

If you’re weighing up whether to sell now or wait, it’s also worth checking your storage size at the same time, since specification affects value just as much as year does. We’ve written a separate guide on how to check your MacBook’s storage size, which walks through the same System Settings menu.

Ready to sell?

Once you’ve got your model number, you’re ready to see what your MacBook is worth. Head to our instant quote page and enter the details, or browse our Sell Your Mac pages if you’d rather find your exact model first. Postage and collection are free, and if you decide not to go ahead once you see the offer, returns are free too.

FAQs

Where exactly is the model number printed on a MacBook?

On the underside of the case, near the regulatory text and legal markings. It’s usually a small code beginning with “A” followed by four numbers.

Is the model number the same as the serial number?

No. The model number identifies the design and generation, such as A2338. The serial number is unique to your specific device and is used to check things like warranty status.

My MacBook’s underside sticker has worn off. What now?

Use System Settings if the machine still turns on. If it doesn’t, we can usually still provide a quote based on photos and a description, and confirm the exact specification once we receive the device.

Does the model number affect how much my MacBook is worth?

Yes. It confirms the year and generation, both of which are major factors in valuation alongside condition, specification and any faults.

Can I find my model number without turning the MacBook on?

Yes, it’s printed on the case. You don’t need the machine to boot to read it there.

Do I need to know my model number before requesting a quote?

It helps, but it isn’t essential. If you’re not sure, our finding your spec guide can help you narrow it down, or you can send us what you know and we’ll confirm the rest.