Different format's for iPad model numbers

HS_Tech wrote:

I see different model #'s some are MLON2LL/A and others are A1416?

The MLON2LL/A is an iPad Pro. The A1416 is an iPad 3rd generation.

Refurbished 12.9-inch iPad Pro Wi-Fi 128GB - Space Gray - Apple

Identify your iPad model - Apple Support

Frankly, I don't know why Apple uses two different model numbers. This briefly talks about the two different model numbers for each device.

How to Find Your iPad's Model Number

Apple uses the A+4digits model numbers on their website to identify each one.

Identify your iPad model - Apple Support

I used to be under the impression that refurbs had a letter at the end that identified them as such and that one of the letters indicated what part of the world the device was made or shipped in, but I can't find any documentation to support that. That is where this model number would come into play. MLON2LL/A

HS_Tech wrote:

Any reason why a difference in the format of the model #, M**** and A**** ?

The "A****" is Apple's model number as Demo described.

The "M****" is Apple's order number.

I'm not clear on the exact difference, but I did find a writeup about it here:

https://everymac.com/systems/apple/ipod/ipod-faq/ipod-nano-mini-shuffle-apple-mo del-numbers.html

Following up on Demo's comment about refurbished iOS devices, I believe their order number starts with "N" consistently.

Yes, I still don't really understand why there are two different numbers.

On thinking about it, I think I misstated the "N" meaning at the beginning of an order number. I said the "N" was for refurbished devices. I now think the "N" is for replacement devices given out by Apple Stores or AASPs that replace returned defective devices. Sorry about the mistake.

A numbers are model numbers on the back of device

M numbers are SKU with different configs (in Settings - General - About)

I am not 100% sure, but N numbers (in Settings) means refurbished

Thanks for the input/clarification. I couldn't remember what the difference was between the two numbers or why Apple uses two different numbers.