What’s the difference between a model number and a serial number? Manufacturers use these two identifications to label their products from broad to granular. A model number refers to all of a single product. For example, all 32GB SanDisk Extreme SD cards of the same generation have the same model number. A serial number references a single, specific product. So, there can be hundreds or even thousands of the same model number made. But, there is a serial number to identify each unit specifically.
When it comes to purchasing products, it’s important to pay attention to the details of the item you’re buying. One of the most important details to take note of are the model number and the serial number.
What is a model number?
A model number, or product number, is a unique identifier that distinguishes a specific product from others of the same type. Over time, there have been several iterations of the 32GB SanDisk Extreme. Giving each iteration a new model number helps identify the generations. A model number typically includes a combination of letters and numbers that refer to specific features and characteristics of the product. For example, a memory card’s model number will indicate the card type, storage size, region, speed, and generation. All of this can come from a short string of characters.
What is a serial number?
On the other hand, a serial number is a unique code that identifies a specific product within a particular production batch. A serial number is not always as easily “decrypted” as a model number. It is usually a combination of letters and numbers that is specific to that particular unit. Serial numbers are used for quality control purposes, and they help to track a product’s origin, production date, and other important information. For example, a memory card’s serial number can identify it within a production batch in the event of a contamination. Because the same model number can be made across months or years at a time, a serial number is put on the unit itself.
Practical Application
While both numbers are important for identifying a product, they serve different purposes. Knowing the model number can help you identify the features and specifications of a product, while the serial number can help you track its history and origin. In most scenarios, you’ll only need to know the model number. Rarely is it essential to have both pieces of information on hand when purchasing a product. If you have an issue that requires customer service, you will likely need your serial number at the ready.
This is a breakdown diagram of roughly how to interpret a model number.
SanDisk doesn’t release their numbering strategy so keep in mind this is just a guess from what we’ve observed. Additionally, it only applies to SanDisk products. Different manufacturers will use different strategies and character counts.
Richard Garrish
In conclusion, understanding the difference between a model number and a serial number is essential when purchasing products. Paying attention to both details will help you identify the right product and track its history, making it easier to make informed decisions and receive proper customer support.
FAQs
While both numbers are important for identifying a product, they serve different purposes. Knowing the model number can help you identify the features and specifications of a product, while the serial number can help you track its history and origin. In most scenarios, you'll only need to know the model number.
What is the difference between model and serial number? ›
Model and serial numbers are used to identify a specific product. The model number differentiates between models of devices—for example, iPhone® 13 and iPhone X. Many devices can share a model number, which means they're the same model. But every device has its own unique serial number, sometimes abbreviated as S/N.
Why do people ask for a model number for TV? ›
Television SKUs are long and complex strings of letters and numbers that define a variety of aspects of each model. They can show the product line, screen size, and even individual retailer variants of TVs, and they're the key to decoding just how good a TV on sale is.
Why would someone want a model number? ›
The model and serial number is the key reference to locating the correct parts for your appliance as well as if the manufacturer has issued any recalls. The appliance's serial number may identify if there are any revisions on the parts on your unit.
What is the difference between model number and product number? ›
Simply stated, the model name is for consumers while the product name (or more generally used, the number) is for the manufacture and store. The model name simply tells you which model device in question.
Where is the model number and serial number? ›
The model name and serial number can be found in several locations, depending on the product: A label on the back or bottom of the device. The original packaging and printed instruction manual inside it. The system menu in products with a user interface (e.g. TVs or cameras)
What is a model number example? ›
The model name is used to identify a specific product, is a combination of numbers and letters (e.g. W820NB Plus). The model number is a unique number given to each product, sometimes abbreviated as model, which also consists of letters and numbers (e.g. EDF200091).
Should I give someone my TV model number? ›
Watch Out for Fraudulent Warranty Claims
With that being said, you shouldn't be readily sharing them every chance you get. Both the serial and model numbers potentially open you up to warranty fraud. Basically, someone with both these numbers might be able to put in a fake warranty claim.
What does the model number on a TV tell you? ›
The first part refers to the screen technology – in this case OLED. LG's OLED screens are made by the company's LG Display arm, which also supplies most other major TV makers. The next part (55) refers to the screen size, measured in inches on the diagonal. Then comes the model: C3.
Can you tell how old a TV is by the serial number? ›
To Determine Manufacture Date Based on Serial Number: The 1st three numbers of your serial number will always provide your manufacture date. The 1st number is the YEAR of manufacture; the 2nd & 3rd numbers indicate the MONTH of manufacture.
In computing, a model number is a unique identifier associated with a particular computing device or system. It's used to distinguish one device from another and can help a manufacturer like Lenovo provide support and services related to each product.
What does a serial number tell you? ›
A serial number is a unique identifier assigned to a specific product by the manufacturer. It helps to distinguish one product from another and can be used for warranty purposes or to track inventory.
What can hackers do with your serial number? ›
It is possible that a hacker could clone the phone if they have that information. However, it is extremely unlikely as only a very high level hacker would be able to do that. If they cloned your phone they would then be able to make and receive phone and text messages from your phone number.
Are serial and model number the same? ›
Many devices or appliances can share a model number, indicating they are the same model. Serial number: Often abbreviated to S/N, this number is a unique hardware identification number chosen by a company and given to each device or appliance produced.
Why are model numbers important? ›
Model numbers have importance and can considerably narrow down a part search. Manufacturers rely on model numbers to identify the parts that were used to build a particular line of products.
Is serial number same as product number? ›
While both numbers are important for identifying a product, they serve different purposes. Knowing the model number can help you identify the features and specifications of a product, while the serial number can help you track its history and origin.
What is the model name and serial number? ›
What's the difference between a model name and a serial number? A model name is a combination of numbers and letters (e.g. KD-43X8000H or WH-1000XM4). A serial number consists of numbers only (e.g. 6007041). It's a unique identifier that designates a single device.
What is a model of a number? ›
A number model is a way to represent numbers (or integers) with the help of pictures or physical manipulatives, this can be helpful for students when a mathematical concept is first introduced. Number models help students to better understand a concept and can help them to explore and learn more about a new concept.
How to find device model number? ›
On your Android phone, go to Settings. Scroll down and tap About Phone or About Device > Model.
