How to Find Your Computer's Model Number in Windows 10

Knowing your computer’s model number is crucial for various tasks. Whether you’re looking for compatible drivers, troubleshooting hardware issues, claiming warranty, or simply want to know more about your machine, having this information readily available is invaluable. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods to quickly and easily find your computer’s model number in Windows 10.

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Why You Need Your Computer’s Model Number

The model number serves as a unique identifier for your specific computer configuration. It differentiates your machine from other models within the same brand and series. Here’s why it’s essential:

Driver Updates: Manufacturers release specific drivers for different models. Using the correct model number ensures you download and install the right drivers, preventing compatibility issues and maximizing performance.
Troubleshooting: When seeking technical support, providing the model number helps technicians quickly identify your hardware configuration and provide accurate solutions.
Warranty Claims: Warranty services often require the model number for verification. Having it readily available streamlines the claims process.
Hardware Upgrades: Knowing your model number helps determine compatible hardware upgrades, such as RAM, storage, or graphics cards.
Software Compatibility: Certain software applications may have specific hardware requirements. The model number can help determine if your computer meets these requirements.
Selling or Trading: When selling or trading your computer, the model number provides potential buyers with essential information about its specifications and capabilities.

Methods to Find Your Computer’s Model Number

Windows 10 offers several built-in tools and methods to retrieve your computer’s model number. Let’s explore these options in detail.

Using System Information

The System Information tool provides a comprehensive overview of your computer’s hardware and software configuration. This is often the easiest and most direct way to find your model number.

To access System Information:

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “msinfo32” (without quotes) and press Enter.

The System Information window will appear. In the right pane, look for the following entries:

System Manufacturer: This indicates the brand of your computer (e.g., Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS).
System Model: This displays the specific model number of your computer. This may also be labeled as Product Name.
BaseBoard Manufacturer: This indicates the motherboard’s manufacturer.
BaseBoard Product: This displays the motherboard’s model number. While this isn’t the complete system model, it can be helpful for identifying specific components.

Pro Tip: You can easily copy the information by right-clicking on the entry and selecting “Copy.”

Using the Command Prompt

The Command Prompt (CMD) provides a command-line interface for interacting with your computer’s operating system. You can use specific commands to retrieve the model number.

To use the Command Prompt:

Press the Windows key, type “cmd” (without quotes), and press Enter.
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

wmic csproduct get name

This command queries the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) to retrieve the “name” property of the “csproduct” class, which represents your computer’s product information. The output will display the model number.

Alternatively, you can use the following command:

wmic baseboard get product,Manufacturer,version,serialnumber

This command retrieves information about the baseboard (motherboard), including the manufacturer, product name (which can sometimes correspond to the model number), version, and serial number.

Important Note: The output from these commands may vary depending on the computer manufacturer and the specific information stored in the system’s BIOS.

Using PowerShell

PowerShell is a more advanced command-line shell that offers greater flexibility and control over your system. You can use PowerShell commands to retrieve the model number.

To use PowerShell:

Press the Windows key, type “powershell” (without quotes), and press Enter.
In the PowerShell window, type the following command and press Enter:

Get-ComputerInfo | Select-Object -Property CsManufacturer, CsModel

This command uses the Get-ComputerInfo cmdlet to retrieve system information and then uses the Select-Object cmdlet to display the “CsManufacturer” (Computer System Manufacturer) and “CsModel” (Computer System Model) properties.

Alternatively, use:

Get-WmiObject win32_computersystem | select model,manufacturer

This command uses Get-WmiObject to fetch information from the win32_computersystem class and then selects the model and manufacturer attributes.

Checking the BIOS/UEFI Settings

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a firmware interface that initializes the hardware during the boot process. It often contains information about the computer’s model number.

To access the BIOS/UEFI settings:

Restart your computer.
During the startup process, look for a message indicating which key to press to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup. This key is typically Delete, F2, F12, Esc, or another function key. The specific key varies depending on the computer manufacturer.
Press the indicated key repeatedly until the BIOS/UEFI setup screen appears.

Once in the BIOS/UEFI settings, navigate through the menus to find system information or product information. The location of this information varies depending on the BIOS/UEFI version. Look for entries such as “System Information,” “Product Information,” or “Main.” The model number should be listed in one of these sections.

Caution: Be careful when navigating the BIOS/UEFI settings, as incorrect modifications can cause system instability. Only change settings if you are familiar with their purpose.

Checking the Physical Label on Your Computer

Many computer manufacturers affix a physical label to the computer’s case that contains important information, including the model number.

Laptops: The label is typically located on the bottom of the laptop, near the battery compartment, or under the keyboard.
Desktops: The label is usually found on the side or back of the computer case.

Look for a label that includes the terms “Model Number,” “Product Number,” or “Serial Number.” The model number is usually displayed prominently on the label. The service tag is also available for Dell computers, which can be used on the Dell support website.

Using the DirectX Diagnostic Tool (dxdiag)

The DirectX Diagnostic Tool (dxdiag) is a utility that provides detailed information about your computer’s DirectX components and system information.

To use the DirectX Diagnostic Tool:

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “dxdiag” (without quotes) and press Enter.

The DirectX Diagnostic Tool window will appear. In the “System” tab, look for the following entries:

System Manufacturer: This indicates the brand of your computer.
System Model: This displays the model number of your computer.

The model number will be listed in the “System Model” field.

Using the Registry Editor (Advanced Users)

The Registry Editor is a powerful tool that allows you to modify the Windows Registry, which contains system configuration settings. This method is recommended for advanced users only, as incorrect modifications to the registry can cause system instability.

To use the Registry Editor:

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “regedit” (without quotes) and press Enter.
Navigate to the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\HARDWARE\DESCRIPTION\System\BIOS

In the right pane, look for the following entries:

SystemManufacturer: This indicates the brand of your computer.
SystemProductName: This displays the model number of your computer.

The values associated with these entries will provide the model number.

Warning: Modifying the Windows Registry can be risky. Back up the registry before making any changes.

Using Third-Party System Information Tools

Numerous third-party system information tools are available that can provide detailed information about your computer’s hardware and software configuration, including the model number. Some popular options include:

Speccy: A lightweight and user-friendly system information tool that displays comprehensive hardware and software details.
CPU-Z: Primarily designed for CPU information, but also provides details about the motherboard and RAM, which can help identify the model number.
HWiNFO64: A professional-grade hardware information tool that provides detailed information about all system components.

These tools typically display the model number prominently in the main system summary or under the motherboard section.

Finding the Model Number of Specific Components

Sometimes you need to find the model number of a specific component, such as the motherboard, graphics card, or storage drive. Here’s how:

Motherboard Model Number

System Information: As mentioned earlier, the System Information tool displays the “BaseBoard Manufacturer” and “BaseBoard Product,” which represent the motherboard’s manufacturer and model number.
Command Prompt: The command wmic baseboard get product,Manufacturer,version,serialnumber can also provide the motherboard’s model number.
Third-Party Tools: System information tools like Speccy, CPU-Z, and HWiNFO64 provide detailed motherboard information.
Physical Inspection: The model number is often printed on the motherboard itself. You may need to open the computer case to visually inspect the motherboard.

Graphics Card Model Number

DirectX Diagnostic Tool (dxdiag): The “Display” tab in the DirectX Diagnostic Tool shows the graphics card’s name and manufacturer.
Device Manager: The Device Manager lists all installed hardware devices. Expand the “Display adapters” category to find your graphics card. Right-click on the graphics card and select “Properties” to view more information.
Third-Party Tools: Tools like Speccy and HWiNFO64 provide detailed graphics card information.

Storage Drive Model Number

Device Manager: Expand the “Disk drives” category in Device Manager to find your storage drives. Right-click on the drive and select “Properties” to view more information.
Third-Party Tools: Tools like Speccy and HWiNFO64 provide detailed storage drive information.
Physical Inspection: The model number is usually printed on a label on the storage drive itself. You may need to open the computer case to visually inspect the drive.

Conclusion

Finding your computer’s model number in Windows 10 is a straightforward process with multiple available methods. Whether you prefer using built-in tools like System Information and Command Prompt or relying on third-party system information utilities, you can quickly retrieve this essential information. Keep this guide handy whenever you need to identify your computer’s model number for driver updates, troubleshooting, warranty claims, or hardware upgrades. Knowing this information will save you time and frustration in the long run.

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Why is it important to know my computer’s model number?

Knowing your computer’s model number is crucial for several reasons. It’s the most accurate way to identify your specific device, ensuring you download the correct drivers, software updates, and BIOS versions. Using the wrong files can lead to system instability, hardware malfunction, or even complete failure to boot.

Furthermore, the model number is essential when seeking technical support from the manufacturer or authorized service providers. They’ll use it to look up your computer’s specifications, warranty status, and any known issues. Providing the correct model number ensures that you receive accurate and timely assistance tailored to your particular device configuration.

Where can I find my computer’s model number using the System Information tool?

The System Information tool is a built-in Windows utility that provides detailed information about your computer’s hardware and software configuration. To access it, press the Windows key, type “System Information,” and press Enter. In the System Information window, look for the “System Model” entry, which displays the model number of your computer.

If the “System Model” field is blank or contains generic information, you can also check the “BaseBoard Product” entry, particularly for custom-built or assembled computers. This field often indicates the motherboard model, which can be useful for identifying the computer’s overall configuration and compatibility.

How do I find the model number using the Command Prompt?

The Command Prompt offers a quick and efficient way to retrieve your computer’s model number. Open Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key, typing “cmd,” and pressing Enter. Then, type the following command and press Enter: `wmic csproduct get name`.

The Command Prompt will then display the name (model number) of your computer. Note that some computers, especially those with custom builds, may return more generic information or require using alternative commands like `wmic baseboard get product,manufacturer,version` to retrieve motherboard details for identification.

Can I find the model number on the computer itself?

Yes, the model number is often physically printed on the computer itself, typically on a sticker or label. For laptops, this sticker is usually located on the bottom of the device, near the serial number and other regulatory information. For desktop computers, it’s often found on the side or back panel of the case.

Examine the exterior of your computer carefully, looking for labels that contain the model number. The label might also include other identifying information such as the serial number, manufacturing date, and regulatory approvals. Using a flashlight can sometimes help to locate these labels in dimly lit areas.

What’s the difference between the model number and the serial number?

The model number identifies the specific type of computer, grouping devices with similar hardware configurations and features. It allows you to distinguish between different models within a manufacturer’s product line and find appropriate drivers and software updates. Think of it as the general “type” of computer you own.

The serial number, on the other hand, is a unique identifier assigned to each individual computer during manufacturing. It’s used to track the device’s warranty, repair history, and other specific information. You need the serial number for warranty claims, technical support inquiries specific to your machine, and proving ownership.

What if I can’t find the model number using any of these methods?

If you’ve tried all the methods described and still can’t find the model number, the next step is to check your computer’s original packaging or documentation. The model number is typically printed on the box and included in the user manual or other documentation that came with the computer.

If you no longer have the original packaging or documentation, try contacting the computer manufacturer’s support website. You may be able to identify your computer by providing other information, such as the serial number or operating system details. The support team can guide you through the identification process.

Will finding the motherboard model number help me find my computer’s model?

In the case of custom-built or assembled computers, directly identifying the exact system model can be challenging. However, finding the motherboard model number can be a very helpful alternative. The motherboard is a critical component that dictates many aspects of your system’s compatibility and features.

Once you have the motherboard model number (e.g., using the “BaseBoard Product” in System Information or the Command Prompt), you can search online for its specifications. This information can indirectly help you identify compatible components, drivers, and software updates appropriate for your custom-built computer, effectively serving as a proxy for the system model number in terms of functionality and troubleshooting.

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How to Find Your Computer’s Model Number in Windows 10