IMEI vs MEID: What’s the Difference?
Learn the difference between IMEI and MEID numbers, how they identify mobile devices, and why both are used by carriers.
IMEI vs MEID: What’s the Difference?
When checking phone identifiers, you may encounter two different numbers: IMEI and MEID.
Both are used to identify mobile devices, but they come from different network technologies.
Understanding the difference between IMEI and MEID can help you verify a phone before buying or selling it.
What Is an IMEI Number?
IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity.
It is a unique 15-digit number assigned to most mobile phones around the world.
IMEI numbers are mainly used by GSM networks, which include many major carriers globally.
IMEI numbers are used for:
- Identifying phones on mobile networks
- Checking blacklist status
- Detecting stolen devices
- Verifying phone information
What Is a MEID Number?
MEID stands for Mobile Equipment Identifier.
It is similar to an IMEI but was originally created for CDMA networks.
CDMA networks were commonly used by carriers such as Verizon and Sprint in the United States.
Unlike IMEI numbers, MEID codes are usually 14 hexadecimal characters instead of 15 digits.
Main Differences Between IMEI and MEID
Here are the key differences:
IMEI
- Used in GSM networks
- 15-digit numeric format
- Most common worldwide
MEID
- Used in CDMA networks
- 14 hexadecimal characters
- Less common today
Why These Numbers Matter
Both identifiers help carriers manage mobile devices on their networks.
They allow networks to:
- Identify devices
- Block stolen phones
- Manage network compatibility
- Verify device information
How to Check a Phone Using IMEI
Even if a phone uses MEID internally, IMEI checks are still commonly used to verify device information.
An IMEI check can reveal:
- Phone model
- Manufacturer details
- Carrier lock status
- Blacklist status
👉 Run an IMEI check on IMEIFAST
Where to Find IMEI or MEID
You can find these identifiers in several ways.
Dial code
Dial: *#06#
Phone settings
Go to:
Settings → About Phone
Device box
Many phones have the IMEI or MEID printed on the retail packaging.
Conclusion
IMEI and MEID are both identifiers used to recognize mobile devices on carrier networks.
While IMEI is now the most common identifier worldwide, MEID was historically used in CDMA networks.
Understanding both can help you verify phones and avoid buying problematic devices.
Continue with related IMEI guides
Explore practical checks and verification guides before buying or selling a used phone.
Run a quick device screening before buying or selling a used phone.
Find out whether a phone may have been reported lost, stolen, or blocked.
Verify whether a phone is restricted to a specific mobile network.
Read the step-by-step guide to verify a phone safely before paying a seller.
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