Compared to other models, MacBooks rank high in quality and reliability. Hence, many users don’t question their MacBook’s age unless it’s not functioning correctly. But, malfunctioning shouldn’t be the only reason to know your MacBook’s age. Your MacBook’s age is essential to getting a fair resale price when troubleshooting or simply informing your MacBook ownership journey.
Age is also crucial in understanding which software works best with your MacBook and learning how yours compare to other models. Luckily, figuring out the age of your MacBook is pretty straightforward. You only need to go to the Apple menu, then click on the “Overview” tab to see the year and model.
This article details the exact steps to find out how old your MacBook is.
Overview of Finding Your MacBook’s Age
As mentioned above, there are several significant reasons to know your MacBooks age. But, the most notable is that it helps you make well-informed decisions regarding pricing, maintenance, and longevity. Thus, the age of your MacBook depends on its year of introduction. If Apple introduced a specific MacBook model in 2015, and you purchased it in 2020, it’s still a 2015 MacBook Pro. Additionally, each MacBook model has specific part numbers, model identifiers, and specs based on the year of release.
You should know that your MacBook’s age is not equal to how long it’s been in your possession. For instance, if you bought a new MacBook Pro in 2020, its age is not necessarily two years. If you’re using a MacBook for the first time, knowing the age of your MacBook will help you understand the warranty. It will also help you diagnose problems faster and find the best accessories and software to match your MacBook model.
Next, let’s get into the steps to learn your MacBook’s age.
How Old Is My MacBook: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow the steps below to learn how old your MacBook is:
- Switch on the MacBook and scroll to the Apple Menu.
- Tap on the Apple icon.
- On the dropdown menu, click on “About This Mac.”
- A screen will appear with information about your MacBook.
At the top right corner of the screen, you will see the age and type of your MacBook. You will also see other helpful information like the processor, memory size, and serial number. If you want to know the model identifier in more detail for your MacBook, click on “System Report” > “Hardware.” This section will see the model name, identifier, and other spec details. You will also learn further essential information about your MacBook, like how much warranty time remains, whether it’s within AppleCare coverage, the cover limit, etc.
If your MacBook is dead or you can’t switch it on at that exact moment, there’s a different way to learn how old your MacBook is. Hence, you can follow these steps below:
- Turn over your MacBook.
- There is a small print with the MacBook’s model and serial number on the backside, possibly on the top-left.
- Note the serial and model number on a piece of paper.
- Open your phone’s browser.
- Go to Apple’s Check Coverage Page, input the serial number, and click on the “Continue” button.
- Next, you’ll see details about your MacBook, including its age.
If the methods above are not convenient for you, you can use the purchase invoice to check the MacBook’s serial number. If you can’t find the invoice, check the original MacBook package. If you find the serial number on the box, use Apple’s Check Coverage Page to know the age of your MacBook.
If you don’t have your MacBook’s serial number, you can access it through your Apple ID account. To access the serial number, use your Apple ID to sign in to the Apple ID Account website. On the page appearing on your screen, scroll for the model of your MacBook under devices. Next, you’ll see your MacBook’s serial number.
Summary
As you have learned, checking the age of your MacBook takes a few simple steps. Remember that knowing the age of your MacBook can help you with the resale value, deciding the best software, and purchasing compatible hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the age of your MacBook depends on the specific model’s release date.
You can use the purchase invoice or original MacBook package to find the serial number. Alternatively, log into the Apple ID Account and check the serial number under Devices.
To check your MacBook’s model, open the “Apple Menu” > “About This Mac“. Highlight and copy the serial number, then paste it on Apple’s Check Coverage Page. After Clicking On the “Continue” button, you’ll see your MacBook’s model details.
