How to Check Generation of Laptop Easily (Windows & Mac Complete Guide)

It is of great importance to know the generation of laptop that you are using when you are upgrading hardware, installing the compatible software, or purchasing a new device. The model of the processor, be it an Intel Core, AMD Ryzen, or an Apple Silicon, is mostly used to identify the generation of laptops. One of the issues that many users are confused with regards to this information is the way to check it. Luckily, Windows and macOS do not have to do it separately, as there are in-built tools. In this guide, you will also be taught step-by-step procedures to locate the generation of laptop utilizing System Information, Systems settings, Task Manager, and Mac system tools without installing an additional software.

Why Knowing the Generation of Laptop Matters

Knowledge of the generation of laptop assists in making judgments based on performance, efficiency of power usage and compatibility in the future. Newer generations are in favor of faster RAM, improved graphics and higher battery life. When you are intending to upgrade windows, use high performances software, or purchase accessories, you will not make expensive mistakes by knowing the generation of the laptop.

Method 1: Check Generation of Laptop Using System Information (Windows)

This is the simplest and the most precise one.

1. Click windows + R to have a run dialog.
2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
3. under System Information window find Processor.
4. Example: Intel Core i7-12700H.

How to Identify Generation:
The succession of i3, i5 or i7 indicates the manufacture of laptop with the first number.

• i7-12700H → 12th Generation
• Ryzen 5 5625U → 5th Generation

Method 2: Check Generation of Laptop via About Settings (Windows 10/11)

The other straightforward method of searching the creation of laptop:

1. Click Start > Settings.
2. Go to System > About.
3. Under Device Specifications, check Processor.

Example:
Intel Core i5-8250U → 8 th generation laptop chip.

Method 3: Use Task Manager to Find Laptop Generation

The details of the processors are also displayed in Task Manager.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Go to the Performance tab.
3. Click CPU.

The name of the processor will be presented on the upper-right. Based on the numbers, it is easy to tell the generation of laptop.

How to Check Generation of Laptop on Mac (macOS)

Checking processor generation is also not complex with Mac users:

1. Click Apple Menu () > About This Mac.
2. The processor will be displayed.

For detailed info:

• Open Terminal.
• Type: sysctl -n machdep.cpu.brand_string.

Example: Intel Core i7-7820HQ → 7th Generation.
For Apple M1, M2, or M3 chips, the chip name itself indicates the generation.

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