Why Checking Your iPhone Model Number Is Crucial
You think you know which iPhone you're buying. Until you receive a used device that doesn't work with your SIM card. Or order accessories that don't fit. Or discover that that "European" iPhone actually came from America with different network restrictions. Costly mistakes you could easily have avoided.
But here's what no one tells you: behind every iPhone is a model number that reveals everything . Not just which variant you have, but also what region it's from, which networks are available, and even whether you'll have problems with AirPods or other Apple products.
The funny thing is: most people completely ignore this. They rely on the seller, the product photo, or the box. While with just five seconds of browsing through your settings, you know exactly what you're getting. No hassle, no surprises, just certainty about what you're buying.
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Why you should know the model number before you buy
It might sound like overkill, but that tiny model number can make the difference between a perfect purchase and weeks of hassle. Imagine buying an iPhone online, everything seems perfect. Until you discover that this specific model doesn't work with your carrier. Or that the accessories you already own don't fit.
Every model number tells a complete story. It reveals not only which generation of iPhone you have, but also which factory the device came from, the market it's intended for, and the network technology it uses. For example, a US version may have different LTE bands than a European version. This means you might not have 4G on certain networks in the Netherlands.
How to check the model number in five seconds
Finding your model number is surprisingly simple:
- Open Settings on your iPhone
- Tap on General
- Select Info
- Scroll to Model Number
- Tap to see the full A number
You'll first see a code like MQ8N3ZD/A. Tap this and you'll see the actual model number, for example, A2633. This A-number is what you need.
Complete list of recent model numbers
iPhone 15 series (2023)
- iPhone 15 : A2846, A3089, A3090, A3092
- iPhone 15 Plus : A2847, A3093, A3094, A3096
- iPhone 15 Pro : A2848, A3101, A3102, A3104
- iPhone 15 Pro Max : A2849, A3105, A3106, A3108
iPhone 14 series (2022)
- iPhone 14 : A2649, A2881, A2882, A2883, A2884
- iPhone 14 Plus : A2632, A2885, A2886, A2887, A2888
- iPhone 14 Pro : A2650, A2889, A2890, A2891, A2892
- iPhone 14 Pro Max : A2651, A2893, A2894, A2895, A2896
iPhone 13 series (2021)
- iPhone 13 mini : A2481, A2626, A2628, A2629, A2630
- iPhone 13 : A2482, A2631, A2633, A2634, A2635
- iPhone 13 Pro : A2483, A2636, A2638, A2639, A2640
- iPhone 13 Pro Max : A2484, A2641, A2643, A2644, A2645
What do the different numbers actually mean?
Multiple model numbers for the same device? That's right. Apple produces different variants for different markets. The first number in the list is usually for the US market. The other numbers are for Europe, Asia, and other regions.
The differences are mainly in:
- Network chips : some models have only eSIM, others dual-SIM with nano card
- Frequency bands : not every model supports all 4G/5G frequencies
- Regulations : Certain countries have specific requirements for, for example, volume limits.
- Warranty : An American model may not have a valid warranty in Europe
Warning signs when buying second-hand goods
When buying a refurbished or used device, you need to be extra careful. A seller who refuses to share the model number? Red flag. A model number that starts with letters instead of an A? Probably a fake.
Always check:
- Whether the model number matches what the seller claims
- Whether it is a European model (often ending in ZD or NF)
- Whether the model supports dual SIM if you need it
- Whether the warranty status is correct via Apple's website
Practical tips for accessory compatibility
Not all cases fit all models, even if they have the same name. For example, an iPhone 12 Pro case won't fit an iPhone 12, even though they look almost identical. The camera cutout is slightly different.
With screen protectors, it's even more complicated. The screen size may be the same, but the notch or Dynamic Island differs between generations. A screen protector for an iPhone 13 won't work on an iPhone 14, even though both have a 6.1-inch screen.
When the model number really becomes crucial
There are situations where knowing your model number can save you a lot of money:
- Repairs : Ordering the wrong parts is expensive
- Insurance : Specifying the correct model prevents problems with claims
- Sales : Buyers want certainty about what they are buying
- Software updates : not every model receives the same updates for the same amount of time
The future of model numbers
Apple is making things increasingly complex with more variants per model. Where there used to be three versions, there are now sometimes eight different model numbers for a single device. This is due to different markets, network providers, and regulations worldwide.
The trend? More eSIM-only models, especially in America. In Europe, the physical SIM card remains standard for now. This means you'll need to pay extra attention to which version you buy when importing.
The good news: refurbished suppliers are becoming increasingly transparent about model numbers. They understand that customers want certainty. With a reliable supplier, you'll always see the exact model number before you buy.
How to avoid costly mistakes with your next iPhone purchase
Checking the model number takes five seconds, but it saves weeks of hassle . Whether you're buying a refurbished iPhone or selling your current one, that little A-number tells the whole story. No surprises with faulty SIM cards, incompatible accessories , or network issues abroad.
Just check your settings and you'll know exactly what you have. That's how simple it can be to be sure about your next iPhone purchase.
