How to Find a Serial Number on a Microsoft Tablet

If your tablet stops working and technical support asks for your device’s serial number, don't panic — it’s easy to find.

Here are several places where you can quickly locate your Microsoft Surface tablet’s serial number. (Hint: It's even on the device itself!)

Why Might You Need to Know the Serial Number of Your Tablet?

A serial number is a sequence of letters and numbers that's unique to an individual product. It's often used to track ownership, so you’ll need to know your tablet’s serial number when you register it. You’ll also need this number if you’re sending it for repairs. In the case your tablet is stolen, you might need to supply this number to the police and your insurance company.

How Do You Find the Serial Number on a Microsoft Surface Tablet?

1. On the Device

You can find the serial number directly on your tablet. Depending on the model, here's where to look:

• Surface Books: Disconnect the tablet from the keyboard. Look along the bottom edge, where the device connects to the keyboard.
• Surface Laptops: Look under the keyboard, near the hinge.
• Surface Duo: Use the ejector tool to open the SIM card tray. The serial number is located inside.
• Surface Pro, Surface Go and Surface RT models: Flip open the kickstand to find the serial number near its base.
• Surface Studio: The serial number is imprinted on the bottom of the unit’s base.

2. In the Settings

Regardless of the model, if you’re running Windows 10 or 11, you can also find your serial number in your system's settings. Turn on your tablet, then click on “Start,” then “Settings,” then “System,” then “About.” You'll reach a page that lists windows specifications, including your tablet’s serial number.

How Do You Find the Serial Number If You Don't Have the Tablet?

You can find the serial number even if you don’t have your tablet nearby, by using the Microsoft Surface app on your Android smartphone or iPhone. Open the app, select your Microsoft Surface tablet from the list of devices, and view the device information. Your serial number should be listed there.

If you've saved your tablet’s original packaging, you can also find the serial number on the barcode.

How Do You Find the Model Number?

You can determine a tablet's model number using the Surface app as well. Open the app and select “Device Information.” The model number is listed there.

Is a Serial Number the Same as IMEI?

IMEI numbers are different than serial numbers. The IMEI is a 15-digit number that identifies a device, such as a smartphone, on mobile networks. It only applies to communication devices, and it can keep a lost or stolen phone from being used by whoever has it.