What are a laptop's serial number, model and specs
These details describe different parts of your laptop. Knowing which one you need can make it easier to find a replacement accessory, request support or complete a trade-in form.
Serial number
A unique identifier assigned to one physical laptop. It can help a manufacturer or service team identify the exact device.
Model name
The product family or name, such as a laptop range and screen-size variant. Several configurations can share a similar model name.
Product or part number
A more specific code for a configuration or regional version. It can be especially useful when checking accessories or manufacturer support.
Do not rely on a short range name alone A laptop family can include several processors, memory sizes, storage options and screen configurations. Copy the full model or product code where possible.
How to find the details on a Windows laptop
Windows Settings is a useful first stop for your device name, model, Windows version and core specifications. The location of the serial number can vary between laptop manufacturers.
Windows 11
Right-click Start, choose Settings, select System and open About.
Windows 10
Open Start > Settings > System > About to view device and Windows specifications.
More detailed information
Search Windows for System Information to view additional hardware and system details.
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Open the About page
Under Device specifications, note the processor, installed RAM and system type. Under Windows specifications, note the edition and version.
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Check the model name
Windows can display the device name and model on the About page. Copy the complete model wording rather than shortening it to the brand or range.
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Find storage information
Open Settings > System > Storage to check available space. For a fuller hardware record, open System Information and review the entries under System Summary and Components.
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Find the serial number if it is not in Settings
Check the label on the underside of the laptop, the original packaging, the BIOS or UEFI information screen, or the manufacturer's support application. The exact route depends on the laptop brand and model.
Windows support tip If the laptop will not start, check the underside label or packaging first. Avoid posting a photograph of the full label online because it may show the serial number and other identifying information.
How to find the details on a MacBook
Apple places the model name, serial number, chip or processor information and macOS version in the Mac information screens. The exact detail shown depends on the Mac and its installed version of macOS.
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Open About This Mac
Choose Apple menu > About This Mac. The window can show the Mac model, serial number, chip or processor information and macOS version.
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Open System Information for more detail
Hold Option while choosing Apple menu > System Information, then select Hardware. This can show the serial number and additional hardware information.
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Check the Mac if it will not start
Look for the serial number on the underside of the MacBook or on its original packaging. You can then use Apple's official support pages to match the serial number or model details.
Need the exact Mac configuration? Record the model name alongside the chip, memory and storage shown in About This Mac or System Information. That gives you more useful information than the MacBook family name alone.
How to find the details on a Chromebook
ChromeOS can show software and hardware information through Settings. The model and serial number can also appear on the device label or in the sign-in screen information.
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Open About ChromeOS
Open Settings > About ChromeOS to see the ChromeOS version and update information. On supported devices, open Diagnostics from this area for information about the battery, processor, memory and connectivity.
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Show the serial number at sign-in
Sign out so the Chromebook is at the sign-in screen, then press Alt + V. Google says the serial number can be shown before signing in this way.
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Check the model label
Look on the underside of the Chromebook or its packaging for the manufacturer's model information. If the Chromebook will not start, the model ID may also appear on a recovery screen.
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Check whether it is managed
If the Chromebook belongs to a school or workplace, ask the administrator before changing settings or removing accounts. Managed devices can have organisation-specific support and return processes.
Chromebook storage reminder The Downloads folder is local to the device. Copy anything important to approved cloud storage or external storage before a reset, repair or return.
Which laptop specs should you record
The right information depends on what you are trying to do. This checklist covers the details most often needed for accessories, support, a trade-in valuation or a future purchase decision.
| Task | Record first | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Battery replacement | Brand, model, product code and battery part number | These details help narrow down the correct battery route. |
| Charger replacement | Brand, model, charger output and part number | The label on the existing charger can provide useful power information. |
| Technical support | Serial number, model, operating system and error message | A support team can use the device details to narrow down the relevant guidance. |
| Trade-in valuation | Model, processor, RAM, storage, screen size and condition | Accurate information can help you complete the valuation form correctly. |
Find the right battery or charger
Your laptop's model and product information can help you start a battery or charger search. Before ordering, compare the information you have with the individual accessory details and check the label on your existing power supply where possible.
Prepare for a laptop trade-in valuation
If you are thinking about trading in your laptop, write down the model and key specifications before you start. You may also need to describe its condition, accessories and any faults, so check the details carefully before submitting the form.
Record the configuration
Note the model, processor, memory, storage, screen size and operating system shown on the laptop.
Check the physical condition
Look for marks, damage, missing parts, battery issues and faults that may need to be described in the valuation process.
Remove your personal data
Back up anything you want to keep, sign out of your accounts and follow a secure wipe process before sending the laptop in.
Laptop identification questions, answered
Is the serial number the same as the model number?
No. The serial number identifies one individual laptop, while the model and product numbers describe its product family or specific configuration.
What if my laptop will not turn on?
Check the label on the underside, the original packaging, the existing charger label or any purchase records. Windows and Mac laptops can also show some details in manufacturer or recovery screens.
Do I need the serial number to find a battery or charger?
Not always. The brand, model, product code and power information on the existing charger can all be useful. If you are unsure, use the Battery Finder, Charger Finder or Power Enquiries page.
Should I share my laptop serial number online?
Keep it private. Share it only through an official manufacturer, service or trade-in process when the information is requested and make sure you are using the correct website.
Which specs matter most for a trade-in valuation?
Record the full model, processor, memory, storage, screen size, operating system and physical condition. Follow the official valuation form for the information it asks you to provide.
Further reading: Microsoft's Windows device information guidance, Apple's MacBook model identification guidance, Google's Chromebook Diagnostics guidance and Google's ChromeOS device details guidance.