How to Identify Which Raspberry Pi Model You Have?

Imagine this: You’re about to build a retro gaming console. You have to download the image for the OS and it gives you different options for different Pi models.

How do you know which Raspberry Pi model you have? You can check the board itself as the model details are printed on it.

raspberry pi 4 and 5 board with the name etched on the board itself — Model details are printed on the Raspberry Pi board

Now, consider another scenario: You’re remotely accessing your Pi via SSH to set up a new server or tweak configurations.

While troubleshooting an issue, you come across a tutorial that specifies steps for a particular model. Without physically inspecting the board, how do you confirm which model you’re working on? You can use the following command:

cat /proc/cpuinfo

At the end of the command output, you can see the Raspberry Pi version.

using the cpuinfo command which also prints out the model name of the board

Let's see the ways of finding the Raspberry Pi model in detail.

1. Check the packaging (If you still have it)

If you’ve kept the box or anti-static bag your Pi came in, you’re in luck. Full-sized boards like the Raspberry Pi 3, 4 and 5 typically have their model number printed on the box.

raspberry pi 4 packaging box — Image Credit: Jeff Geerling

Smaller models, like the Raspberry Pi Zero, often come in anti-static bags with an FCC ID code.

For example:

Raspberry Pi 5 boxes clearly label the model and specifications.
Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W anti-static bags might have a code like ABCB-RPIZ2.

But let’s be real, most of us lose the packaging. Don’t worry, there are plenty of other methods.

2. Look at the board itself

Flip over your Raspberry Pi and take a close look. Almost every model has its name and version printed directly on the board. For example:

On the Raspberry Pi 5 or 4, you might see “Raspberry Pi 4 Model B” etched near the GPIO pins.

On smaller models, like the Raspberry Pi Zero 2, this text can be located on the back. It's tiny, so grab a magnifying glass if needed.

raspberry pi zero 2 name etched on the back of the board

Even if the text doesn’t give a full model name, it might include a processor label, which leads us to the next step.

3. Identify the processor

Each Raspberry Pi family uses a specific Broadcom processor. You can spot the processor label on the main chip:

2712 for Raspberry Pi 5

2711 for Raspberry Pi 4 and Raspberry Pi 400

2837 for Raspberry Pi 3

2835 for Raspberry Pi Zero and earlier models

This method is particularly helpful when distinguishing models that look similar, like the Raspberry Pi 3 and 2.

4. Count the ports

The number and type of ports can give away the model:

USB Ports: The Raspberry Pi 3A has just 1 USB port, while the Raspberry Pi 3B has 4 USB ports.
HDMI Ports: Raspberry Pi 4 & 5 uses two micro-HDMI ports, while older models use standard HDMI or mini HDMI.
Ethernet: Only “B” models have Ethernet, so if your board lacks this, it’s an “A” model or a Zero.
Or if you have zero ports at all, it might be a Compute Module 😜

different models of raspberry pi to highlight the changing ports trends

5. Get Raspberry model details using command line

If your Raspberry Pi is running an operating system, you can identify the model through Linux commands.

cat /sys/firmware/devicetree/base/model

This command reads a special file containing your Pi’s hardware information. You might see output like:

using a terminal command to print out the pi's model

An alternative command is cpuinfo. It is typically used to get CPU information in Linux but it also prints the Raspberry Pi model is:

cat /proc/cpuinfo

To check the RAM size, use the free command:

free -h

using a command to print out the ram details of the raspberry pi

This will display the available memory, helping you distinguish between models like the Raspberry Pi 4 with 4 GB or 8 GB of RAM.

6. Check your purchase records

If all else fails, dig through your purchase history or receipts. Retailers often list the model and specifications.

Alternatively, if the Pi was a gift, ask the giver they might remember what they bought.

This will only work if you have a single Pi device. If you have got a bunch of them, then you'll have a difficult time.

Wrapping Up

Knowing your Raspberry Pi model doesn’t have to be a guessing game.

Whether you use packaging, inspect the board, or leverage terminal commands, you’ll be equipped to identify your Pi in minutes.

This knowledge will help you choose the right projects, accessories, and operating systems. So, the next time you find a Raspberry Pi in the wild or your own forgotten drawer, you’ll know exactly what you’re working with.

Now go ahead and start that amazing project!