Which Chromebook Model Do I Have and How Can I Find Out?
If you’ve recently started using a Chromebook or have had one for a while, you might find yourself wondering, “How do I tell what Chromebook I have?” Knowing the exact model of your Chromebook is more important than you might think. Whether you’re troubleshooting an issue, looking to upgrade, or simply curious about your device’s specifications, identifying your Chromebook model is the first essential step.
Chromebooks come in a wide variety of designs and configurations, each tailored to different needs and preferences. However, unlike traditional laptops, Chromebooks often don’t display their model information prominently on the device itself, which can make it tricky to figure out exactly what you’re working with. Fortunately, there are straightforward methods to uncover this information directly through your Chromebook’s settings and system details.
Understanding your Chromebook’s model not only helps you find compatible accessories and software updates but also empowers you to make informed decisions about repairs or replacements. In the following sections, we’ll guide you through easy and reliable ways to identify your Chromebook, ensuring you have all the information you need at your fingertips.
Finding Your Chromebook Model Through System Settings
To identify your Chromebook model, one of the most straightforward methods is to access the system settings. This approach is particularly useful if you have the device in hand and can navigate through its interface.
Start by clicking on the time or battery indicator in the bottom-right corner of your screen to open the system menu. Then click the gear icon to open the Settings app. Within Settings, scroll down and select About Chrome OS. This section provides detailed information about your Chromebook, including the version of Chrome OS you are running and the device’s model name.
In addition to the model name, you can find the serial number, which is a unique identifier for your specific device. This number can be helpful when seeking technical support or verifying warranty status.
Key details available in the About Chrome OS section include:
- Device model name (e.g., Acer Chromebook 14, HP Chromebook x360)
- Chrome OS version
- Firmware version
- Serial number
If you need more technical details, you can click on Detailed build information within this menu to see the full hardware specifications and OS build.
Using the Chrome Browser to Access Hardware Information
Another effective method to identify your Chromebook model is by using the Chrome browser’s internal pages. Chrome OS includes special URLs that provide system information without requiring additional software.
Open the Chrome browser and type `chrome://system` into the address bar, then press Enter. This page displays a comprehensive list of system details, including hardware and software information.
To locate the model information:
- Scroll through the list or use the browser’s find function (Ctrl + F or Command + F) to search for “model” or “hardware”.
- Look for entries such as `board`, `model_name`, or `hardware_class`. These typically indicate the device’s model identifier.
- You may also find the manufacturer and model number under `cpuinfo` or `lsb_release`.
This method is helpful for advanced users or IT administrators who need precise hardware identifiers for inventory or troubleshooting purposes.
Physical Inspection and Model Identification
If you do not have access to the system interface or prefer a hardware-based method, inspecting the Chromebook’s physical casing can reveal model information. Manufacturers often place stickers or labels on the device containing key identifiers.
Common locations for these labels include:
- Bottom of the Chromebook chassis
- Underneath the battery compartment (for removable batteries)
- Inside the keyboard area, accessible by lifting or opening the device
Look for labels that include:
- Model number or name
- Serial number
- Regulatory information and certifications
Be cautious when handling the device to avoid damage. If you cannot find any labels, consult the user manual or manufacturer’s website for guidance on locating physical identifiers.
Comparison of Identification Methods
The following table summarizes the advantages and limitations of each method for identifying your Chromebook model:
| Method | How to Access | Information Provided | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| System Settings | Settings > About Chrome OS | Model name, serial number, OS version | General users needing quick info |
| Chrome System Page | chrome://system | Detailed hardware specs, model identifiers | Advanced users and IT professionals |
| Physical Label Inspection | Check bottom or inside device | Model and serial numbers on labels | When system access is unavailable |
Checking Chromebook Model Through System Settings
One of the simplest methods to identify your Chromebook model is by accessing the system settings. This approach provides detailed information about your device, including the model name, serial number, and Chrome OS version.
- Click on the time in the bottom-right corner of the screen to open the system menu.
- Select the gear icon to open Settings.
- Scroll down and click on About Chrome OS located at the bottom of the left-hand menu.
- Here, you will see the Chrome OS version. Click on Detailed build information or Additional details if available.
- The model number or name is usually displayed under the “Model” or “Device” section.
This method is effective for most Chromebooks running updated versions of Chrome OS and requires no additional tools or external resources.
Using the Chrome OS Diagnostics Tool to Identify Your Chromebook
The Chrome OS Diagnostics tool offers another way to find detailed hardware information, including the model of your Chromebook. This tool is built into Chrome OS and provides insights into system health, battery status, and device specifics.
- Open the Launcher by clicking the circle icon or pressing the Search key.
- Type Diagnostics and select the app from the results.
- Within the Diagnostics app, navigate to the System tab.
- Look for the section labeled Device Information or similar, where the model and manufacturer details are listed.
This method is particularly useful if you want to verify hardware details alongside system performance indicators.
Identifying Chromebook Model via the Chrome Browser
The Chrome browser itself provides system information through its internal URLs, which can be accessed directly without leaving the browser interface.
- Open Chrome on your Chromebook.
- Type
chrome://systemin the address bar and press Enter. - Scroll through the list or use the search function on the page to locate platform_info or cpuinfo.
- The platform_info entry typically contains the model name or code.
Alternatively, you can try chrome://version for a summary of the Chrome OS version and device model information.
Locating Model Information on the Physical Chromebook
If accessing software tools is inconvenient, you can also identify your Chromebook model by checking the physical labels on the device. Manufacturers typically place model and serial numbers on the device’s casing.
- Turn your Chromebook upside down and look for a sticker or engraved text near the hinges or battery compartment.
- The label usually includes:
- Model number or name
- Serial number
- Regulatory information
- For some models, this information may be located inside the battery compartment if the battery is removable.
Referencing this label allows for accurate identification of the specific Chromebook model, which is useful for warranty claims or technical support.
Using the Chromebook Recovery Utility for Model Identification
The Chromebook Recovery Utility is a tool designed to create recovery media but can also help in identifying your Chromebook model.
- Install the Chromebook Recovery Utility from the Chrome Web Store if it is not already installed.
- Launch the utility and select Get Started.
- When prompted to enter the model number, click on the link or button that says Identify my Chromebook or similar.
- Follow the on-screen instructions, which may involve pressing specific keys or checking labels, to automatically detect or manually enter your Chromebook model.
This method is particularly helpful if you plan to create recovery media and want to ensure you have the correct model details.
Comparing Chromebook Models Using Manufacturer Websites
Once you have retrieved the model number or name, you can cross-reference it with official manufacturer websites for detailed specifications and support documentation.