How to Check Generation of Laptop: 5 Easy Ways(Step by steps guide)

Wondering how to check generation of laptop? Your laptop’s processor generation impacts performance, compatibility, battery life, and upgrade options. Whether you’re buying a new laptop, selling your old one, or checking software requirements, knowing your laptop’s generation is essential.

In this guide, you’ll learn 5 easy ways to check your laptop’s generation, including:
✅ How to check laptop generation in Windows 10
✅ Which generation laptop is best for your needs
✅ Alternative methods to find your laptop’s generation

📌 What is a Laptop Generation?

A laptop generation refers to the version of the processor (CPU) inside it. It’s usually indicated in the processor name, such as:

• Intel Core i5-10th Gen → 10th Generation
• AMD Ryzen 5000 series → 5th Generation

Note: For AMD users, Ryzen 3000, 4000, 5000, and 7000 series indicate the generation. If you’re a MacBook user, head to the Apple Menu > About This Mac. There, you can view your chipset like “M1” or “M2,” which indirectly reflects the generation of Apple Silicon chips.

💡 Why Does Laptop Generation Matter?

✔ Performance Boost – Newer generations are faster & more efficient.
✔ Battery Life – Each new generation improves power efficiency.
✔ Software Compatibility – Some apps require specific CPU generations.
✔ Resale Value – Buyers often prefer newer-generation laptops.

Real Talk: Some software and OS versions won’t even install on older CPU generations. So if you’re asking “how to know laptop generation,” you’re actually asking how to unlock your system’s full potential.

🛠️ How to Check Generation of Laptop in Windows 10 (Easiest Methods!)

🔹 Method 1: Using System Information (Best for Beginners)

1️⃣ Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2️⃣ Type msinfo32 and hit Enter.
3️⃣ Look for Processor under System Summary.
4️⃣ Identify the generation:

• Example: Intel Core i7-1165G7 → 11th Generation

If you’re still wondering “how to find generation of laptop” – this is the simplest trick in the book!

🔹 Method 2: Using Command Prompt (Fastest Method)

• Open Command Prompt (Windows + X > Command Prompt)

• Type: wmic cpu get name

• Press Enter – Your CPU model appears.

• Check the first digit after i3/i5/i7/i9. That’s your generation!
  Example: i5-10210U = 10th Gen

This works for almost all Intel chips and is the go-to answer for those who ask:
“how to check the generation of a laptop without opening it?”

🖥️ How to Check Generation in Laptop (Alternative Methods)

🔹 Method 3: Check via Device Manager

1️⃣ Right-click This PC > Select Manage.
2️⃣ Click on Device Manager.
3️⃣ Expand Processors > Check your CPU model.

Easy peasy! That’s another way to check laptop generation without downloading anything.

🔹 Method 4: Use Third-Party Tools (Best for Detailed Info)

Techies, this one’s for you. Tools like CPU-Z, HWiNFO, or Speccy show you detailed processor info:

✔ Processor generation
✔ Cores & Threads
✔ Clock speed & cache

If you’re into system performance, this method is your geeky paradise!

🔹 Method 5: Check Laptop Box or Invoice

If you haven’t Marie-Kondo’d your laptop box, check the label. It usually includes the processor name and, you guessed it—the generation. This is also helpful for those asking:

“How to check computer generation in Windows 7?”
Since older systems may lack modern tools, boxes or invoices work like a charm.

🤔 Which Generation Laptop is Best? (Find Your Ideal Laptop!)

User Type	Recommended Generation
💼 Office & Browsing	8th Gen Intel or Ryzen 3000+
🎓 Students & Multitasking	9th-10th Gen Intel or Ryzen 4000+
🎮 Gaming & Video Editing	10th-12th Gen Intel or Ryzen 5000+
🚀 Future-Proof & High Performance	12th-13th Gen Intel or Ryzen 7000+

Pro Tip: If you’re shopping for a new laptop, always check for at least the 11th generation or higher. The performance jump is worth every penny—and so is the peace of mind.

Real-World Insight: Why Knowing Generation Matters

So you’re asking how to check laptop generation, but here’s the hidden gold:

• Software Compatibility: Some tools and games only support newer CPUs. For example, Windows 11 requires at least 8th Gen Intel or 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen.

• Upgrade Planning: Want to add RAM or switch to an SSD? Generation affects your laptop’s upgradeability and compatibility.

• Repair Decisions: Before booking a repair, knowing your laptop’s generation helps techs assess whether repair is feasible or if a replacement is smarter.

Still wondering “how to check computer generation in Windows 7?” → Try CPU-Z or box label!

❓ FAQs About Laptop Generations

1️⃣ How do I know if my laptop has the latest generation?

Check the processor model:
✔ Example: Intel Core i7-13700H → 13th Gen (Latest in 2024).

2️⃣ Can I upgrade my laptop’s generation?

❌ No! Laptop processors are soldered to the motherboard.
✔ The only way to upgrade is buying a new laptop.

3️⃣ Which generation laptop is best for gaming?

🎮 10th Gen Intel or Ryzen 5000+ and above provide the best gaming performance.

4️⃣ How to check laptop generation in Windows 10 without technical knowledge?

✔ Easiest method: Open System Information (msinfo32) and check the Processor name.

Also Read: 7 Guaranteed Fixes for Bright Patch on Laptop Screen

🔚 Conclusion

Now you know how to check generation of laptop using 7 simple methods! Whether you’re looking for an upgrade, resale value, or software compatibility, identifying your laptop’s generation helps you make the right decisions.

💡 Did this guide help you? Share it with someone who needs it! 😊