IMEI vs Serial Number: 5 Key Differences
Confused about IMEI and serial numbers? They're both unique identifiers on your phone, but they serve very different purposes. Here's what you need to know.
What is an IMEI?
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile device that connects to a cellular network. It's used by carriers, regulators, and manufacturers to identify devices on cellular networks. The IMEI is embedded in the device's hardware and cannot be easily changed (tampering with it is illegal in many countries).
Key facts about IMEI:
- Always 15 digits (some newer devices have 16-digit IMEISV)
- Assigned by the GSMA and manufacturers
- Used for blacklist checking, carrier lock verification, and network registration
- Find it by dialing
*#06# - Essential for buying, selling, and insuring phones
What is a Serial Number?
The serial number is a unique identifier assigned by the manufacturer to track an individual device through production, distribution, and warranty service. Unlike the IMEI, the serial number is not tied to cellular network functionality—it's purely a manufacturer identifier.
Key facts about serial numbers:
- Format varies by manufacturer (alphanumeric, typically 10-12 characters)
- Used for warranty tracking, repairs, and product registration
- Not related to cellular network access
- Found in Settings, on the device, or on packaging
- Essential for manufacturer support and warranty claims
The 5 Key Differences
1. Purpose
The most fundamental difference is their purpose. The IMEI is designed for cellular network identification—it tells carriers which device is connecting to their network. The serial number is designed for manufacturer tracking—it tells the manufacturer which specific unit was produced, when, and where.
| Aspect | IMEI | Serial Number |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Cellular network ID | Manufacturer tracking |
| Used by | Carriers, GSMA, insurance | Manufacturers, repair centers |
| Format | 15 digits | Varies (alphanumeric) |
| Can be checked via | Dial *#06# | Settings, packaging |
| Used for blacklist | Yes | No |
2. Format and Length
The IMEI is always exactly 15 digits (purely numeric). The first 8 digits identify the model and origin (TAC code), the next 6 digits are the unique serial portion, and the last digit is a checksum. The serial number format varies by manufacturer—Apple uses 12-character alphanumeric strings, Samsung uses 11-15 characters, and other brands vary.
3. What They Reveal
An IMEI check reveals network-related information: blacklist status, carrier lock, country of origin, and device model. A serial number check reveals manufacturer information: warranty status, purchase date, repair history, and production batch. For a complete picture, check both.
4. Who Uses Them
IMEIs are used by carriers (for network registration and blacklisting), GSMA (for the global blacklist database), insurance companies (for claim verification), and law enforcement (for stolen phone tracking). Serial numbers are used by manufacturers (for warranty and repair tracking) and retailers (for inventory and returns).
5. When to Use Each
Use the IMEI when:
- Checking blacklist status before buying a used phone
- Verifying carrier lock status
- Filing an insurance claim
- Reporting a stolen phone to your carrier
- Unlocking a phone from a carrier
Use the serial number when:
- Checking warranty status on the manufacturer website
- Scheduling a repair with the manufacturer
- Registering your product
- Verifying product authenticity with the manufacturer
How to Find Both Numbers
| Location | IMEI | Serial Number |
|---|---|---|
| Dial code | *#06# |
N/A |
| iPhone Settings | Settings → General → About → IMEI | Settings → General → About → Serial Number |
| Android Settings | Settings → About phone → IMEI | Settings → About phone → Serial Number |
| Original packaging | Barcode label | Barcode label |
For more details on finding these numbers, see our Android IMEI check guide.
IMEI vs MEID vs ESN
You may also encounter MEID and ESN, which are related identifiers:
- IMEI: 15-digit number for GSM/LTE/5G networks (global standard)
- MEID: 14-digit hexadecimal number for CDMA networks (primarily US)
- ESN: Older format, mostly replaced by MEID
- EID: 32-digit number for eSIM chips (see eSIM status guide)
Most modern smartphones use IMEI as the primary identifier. For more on blacklist types, see our stolen phone check guide.
FAQ
What is the difference between IMEI and serial number?
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number used to identify a device on cellular networks and check blacklist status. The serial number is a manufacturer-assigned identifier used for warranty tracking and product registration. IMEI is required for cellular network access, while serial number is used for manufacturer support and warranty.
Can I use serial number instead of IMEI?
It depends on the purpose. For warranty checks on Apple, Samsung, and other manufacturer websites, you can often use either IMEI or serial number. However, for blacklist checks, carrier unlock, and cellular network verification, only the IMEI works. The serial number cannot be used for blacklist or carrier checks.
Where can I find my IMEI and serial number?
Both can be found by dialing *#06# (IMEI only), in Settings > About phone (both), on the original packaging (both), and on the purchase receipt. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About. On Android, go to Settings > About phone > Status.
Is IMEI the same as MEID?
No, IMEI and MEID are similar but not identical. IMEI is a 15-digit number used for GSM/LTE/5G networks, while MEID is a 14-digit hexadecimal number used for CDMA networks. However, the MEID is essentially the IMEI without the last check digit. Most modern phones show both or use IMEI universally.
Conclusion
While both IMEI and serial number are unique identifiers for your phone, they serve fundamentally different purposes. The IMEI is your phone's cellular identity—essential for blacklist checks, carrier verification, and insurance. The serial number is your phone's manufacturer identity—essential for warranty claims and repairs. For complete device verification, check both numbers through the appropriate channels.
Check your phone by IMEI at IMEICheck for comprehensive blacklist, carrier, and device information.