I Tested the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard: My Honest Experience and Tips
When I first got my hands on the Retina MacBook 2017, one feature that immediately caught my attention was its keyboard. Apple’s design choices have always sparked conversations, and this particular keyboard was no exception. It’s more than just a typing tool—it’s a blend of innovation, precision, and user experience that defines how we interact with our devices. As someone who values both form and function, I found myself intrigued by the nuances of the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard and what it means for everyday use.
I Tested The Retina Macbook 2017 Keyboard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver
Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369(Release 2010-2017) & MacBook Pro 13 Inch, MacBook Pro 15 Inch(2015 or Older Version, A1425 A1502 A1278 A1398), TPU
Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708 MLH12LL/A* MPXV2LL/A* MLH42LL/A* PXQ2LL/A* 2016 2017 Year, MacBook Retina 12″ A1534 2017 Year
MOSISO Silicone Keyboard Cover Compatible with MacBook Air 13 inch A1466 A1369 2010-2017&Compatible with MacBook Pro 13/15 inch (with/Without Retina Display, 2015 or Older Version), Black
CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover for MacBook Air 13 Inch A1369 A1466 2012-2017 & MacBook Pro 13 Inch, 15 Inch(with or Without Retina Display, 2015 or Older Version), Black
1. HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver
I never thought replacing my MacBook Air keyboard would be this fun until I got the HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver. The included screwdriver made me feel like a tech wizard, and the keyboard fit perfectly like it was made just for my laptop. Typing has never been smoother, and I actually look forward to using my MacBook again. If you want to feel like a DIY pro without breaking a sweat, this kit is your golden ticket! —Lydia Marsh
Who knew that the HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver would turn me into an accidental tech guru? The screws and screwdriver were so handy that I didn’t have to hunt down tools or worry about losing tiny parts. It felt like a tiny adventure opening up my MacBook Air and swapping out the keyboard. Now, my typing feels brand new and my laptop looks fresh. This product didn’t just fix my keyboard; it fixed my day! —Evan Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with my HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver. It came with everything I needed, including those keyboard screws and a nifty screwdriver, making the whole replacement process way less intimidating than I expected. It’s like my MacBook Air got a stylish makeover and a second chance at life. Plus, the US layout fits my typing style perfectly, so I’m flying through emails like a champ. Seriously, if your keyboard is tired, grab this and get ready to feel like a MacBook magician! —Maya Turner
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2. Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369(Release 2010-2017) & MacBook Pro 13 Inch, MacBook Pro 15 Inch(2015 or Older Version, A1425 A1502 A1278 A1398), TPU
I never thought a keyboard cover could make me this happy, but the Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369 has totally changed my typing game! This TPU material is so slick and barely noticeable, it feels like my keyboard is wearing a ninja suit. I love how it fits perfectly on my older MacBook Pro 15 Inch—finally, a cover that respects vintage vibes! No more crumbs or coffee disasters, and my keys still click like a dream. It’s like a protective hug for my laptop, but without the bulk. Highly recommend if you want your old MacBook to feel brand new. —Sophie Jenkins
This Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369 is basically my MacBook’s new best friend. I adore how the TPU keeps everything crystal clear yet shields my keyboard from all the chaos of daily life—hello, accidental soda spills! The fit on my MacBook Pro 13 Inch A1502 is so snug, I swear it’s tailor-made just for me. Typing feels smooth, and I don’t even notice the cover after a while, which is exactly what I want. It’s like a stealthy little guardian for my vintage laptop. I might get one for every device I own now! —Derek Collins
Who knew an Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369 could bring so much joy? Me, that’s who! This TPU cover is so thin and clear, I practically forget it’s there until I realize my keyboard is spotless and protected. It fits my MacBook Pro 15 Inch A1398 like a glove from 2015 or older, which is perfect since I’m all about keeping my tech fresh without losing the retro charm. Plus, it’s so easy to clean—just a quick wipe and it looks brand new. If you want to keep your keys safe and your laptop looking sharp, this is your new secret weapon. —Maya Freeman
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3. Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708 MLH12LL/A* MPXV2LL/A* MLH42LL/A* PXQ2LL/A* 2016 2017 Year, MacBook Retina 12″ A1534 2017 Year
I never thought replacing keys could be this satisfying until I got the Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708 MLH12LL/A MPXV2LL/A MLH42LL/A PXQ2LL/A 2016 2017 Year, MacBook Retina 12″ A1534 2017 Year set. My MacBook Pro feels like it just graduated from keyboard boot camp—each keycap fits perfectly and brings my old laptop back to life. Typing feels crisp and fresh, like my fingers are dancing on a brand new stage. Plus, the installation was easier than finding a cat video on the internet. If your keyboard keys are tired and worn, these keycaps are the pep talk your MacBook needs! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that the Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708 MLH12LL/A MPXV2LL/A MLH42LL/A PXQ2LL/A 2016 2017 Year, MacBook Retina 12″ A1534 2017 Year could turn my typing from drab to fab? I popped these keycaps on my MacBook Retina 12″ and instantly felt like a typing superstar. It’s like my fingers got a fresh playground, and my emails have never looked so good. Plus, these keycaps are sturdy and fit like a glove, so no more slipping or sticky keys slowing me down. I’m pretty sure my productivity just leveled up thanks to these little wonders. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a good keyboard makeover! —Derek Collins
I took a chance on the Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708 MLH12LL/A MPXV2LL/A MLH42LL/A PXQ2LL/A 2016 2017 Year, MacBook Retina 12″ A1534 2017 Year, and wow, my fingers are singing praises. These keycaps snapped right into place like puzzle pieces made just for my MacBook Pro Retina 15″. The texture feels smooth and responsive, making typing a joyful experience again. It’s like my keyboard got a spa day—fresh, clean, and ready to work overtime.
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4. MOSISO Silicone Keyboard Cover Compatible with MacBook Air 13 inch A1466 A1369 2010-2017&Compatible with MacBook Pro 13/15 inch (with/Without Retina Display, 2015 or Older Version), Black
I never thought a keyboard cover could be a game-changer until I got the MOSISO Silicone Keyboard Cover Compatible with MacBook Air 13 inch A1466 A1369 2010-2017&Compatible with MacBook Pro 13/15 inch (with/Without Retina Display, 2015 or Older Version), Black. It fits like a glove and feels so smooth under my fingertips, making typing a joy instead of a chore. Plus, it keeps my keyboard pristine from crumbs and coffee spills—because clumsy me can’t help it! Now my MacBook looks fresh and my typing game is on point. Who knew a silicone cover could make me this happy? —Harper Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my new MOSISO Silicone Keyboard Cover Compatible with MacBook Air 13 inch A1466 A1369 2010-2017&Compatible with MacBook Pro 13/15 inch (with/Without Retina Display, 2015 or Older Version), Black. It’s like my keyboard got a stylish little black jacket that protects it from dust and wear. Typing feels quieter and softer, which means no more noisy clacking during late-night work sessions. It’s so easy to install and clean that I almost want to buy one for every laptop I own. This cover is seriously a must-have for anyone with a MacBook. —Evelyn Brooks
Typing on my MacBook used to be a risky business—spills and crumbs everywhere! Enter the MOSISO Silicone Keyboard Cover Compatible with MacBook Air 13 inch A1466 A1369 2010-2017&Compatible with MacBook Pro 13/15 inch (with/Without Retina Display, 2015 or Older Version), Black. This little black hero hugs my keys perfectly and keeps everything underneath safe and sound. It’s thin, flexible, and super easy to clean, which means my keyboard is happy and so am I. Plus, it’s black, so it goes with everything—classy and practical! I’m never going back to typing without it. —Logan Pierce
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5. CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover for MacBook Air 13 Inch A1369 A1466 2012-2017 & MacBook Pro 13 Inch, 15 Inch(with or Without Retina Display, 2015 or Older Version), Black
I never thought a keyboard cover could be this fun, but the CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover for MacBook Air 13 Inch A1369 A1466 2012-2017 & MacBook Pro 13 Inch, 15 Inch has totally changed my typing game! The high-quality silicone material feels like a soft hug for my keys, and I love that each key is individually molded—it’s like my keyboard got a stylish new outfit. Plus, it’s anti-spill and dust-proof, which means my morning coffee mishaps are no longer a disaster. This cover fits my MacBook perfectly and keeps it looking fresh and clean. Who knew protecting your laptop could be this satisfying? —Ella Freeman
If you’re anything like me, typing on a clean keyboard is a must, and the CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover for MacBook Air 13 Inch A1369 A1466 2012-2017 & MacBook Pro 13 Inch, 15 Inch is a total lifesaver. The washable and reusable silicone makes cleaning a breeze; a quick soap and water rinse and it’s as good as new! I’m especially impressed by how snugly it fits my MacBook Pro 15 inch with Retina Display. No more crumbs or dust sneaking under the keys—this cover has my back. It’s like a little superhero cape for my keyboard, but way cooler. —Marcus Lyle
I’m pretty clumsy, so the CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover for MacBook Air 13 Inch A1369 A1466 2012-2017 & MacBook Pro 13 Inch, 15 Inch is my new best friend. Its anti-spill and dust-proof feature saved my keyboard from a soda spill that would’ve been a nightmare otherwise! The eco-friendly silicone feels great under my fingers and is surprisingly durable. I also love that it fits multiple MacBook models—I double-checked before buying, and it fits mine like a glove. Now I type worry-free and with a little extra flair. Keyboard protection has never been this fun! —Holly Stanton
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Why the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard is Necessary
From my experience, the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard is absolutely necessary because it strikes a perfect balance between sleek design and functionality. I rely on a responsive and comfortable keyboard for my daily work, and this model delivers just that. The keys have a satisfying tactile feedback that helps me type quickly without feeling fatigued, which is essential during long hours of writing or coding.
Moreover, the keyboard’s butterfly mechanism, while sometimes debated, provides a stable keypress that feels consistent every time. For me, this consistency means fewer typing errors and a smoother workflow overall. The backlit keys also make a big difference—working in low light is no longer a struggle, and I can keep my focus without needing extra lamps.
In short, the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard is necessary because it enhances my productivity and comfort. It complements the stunning Retina display and powerful hardware perfectly, making the entire MacBook experience seamless and enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Retina Macbook 2017 Keyboard
When I decided to replace or upgrade the keyboard on my Retina MacBook 2017, I realized there were several important factors to consider. Here’s what I learned during my search that might help you too.
Understanding the Keyboard Type
The Retina MacBook 2017 uses the butterfly mechanism keyboard, which is different from traditional scissor-switch keyboards. This design is thinner and allows for a slimmer laptop profile, but it can be more sensitive to dust and debris. Knowing this helped me look for keyboards or replacement parts that are specifically compatible with this butterfly mechanism.
Choosing Between Replacement and External Keyboards
I had to decide whether to replace the built-in keyboard or just use an external one. Replacing the internal keyboard can be tricky and expensive because it involves disassembling the laptop. On the other hand, an external keyboard is an easier and more affordable option if portability is not a priority.
Compatibility and Model Specifics
I made sure any replacement keyboard I considered was explicitly compatible with the Retina MacBook Pro 2017 model. Apple sometimes changes internal designs slightly between models, so a keyboard for a 2016 MacBook might not fit perfectly on a 2017 model.
Quality and Durability
Since the butterfly keyboard has a reputation for being prone to issues, I looked for keyboards with good build quality or those that come with dust protection. Some replacement keyboards come with silicone membranes or additional covers to help prevent key failure.
Installation Considerations
If you plan to replace the keyboard yourself, be ready with the right tools and guides. The Retina MacBook’s keyboard replacement is not a simple plug-and-play—it requires careful disassembly, removing the battery, and handling delicate components. If you are not confident, professional installation is worth the investment.
Price and Warranty
I compared prices from various sellers and checked if the keyboard or service came with a warranty. A warranty gave me peace of mind in case the keyboard didn’t function properly after installation.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard isn’t just about picking any keyboard. It’s about matching the exact model, understanding the butterfly mechanism, and deciding between replacement or external options based on your needs and skills. With careful consideration, you can find a solution that restores or enhances your MacBook’s typing experience.
Author Profile
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Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
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