I Tested the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard: My Honest Experience and Tips
I’ve always been fascinated by how Apple manages to blend sleek design with powerful performance, and the Retina MacBook 2017 is no exception. One feature that often catches my attention—and sometimes my frustration—is the keyboard. As someone who spends countless hours typing, the experience of using the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard is something I’ve come to know intimately. In this article, I want to dive into what makes this keyboard unique, how it fits into the overall MacBook experience, and why it continues to be a topic of interest among users and tech enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The Retina Macbook 2017 Keyboard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver
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
Replacement Keyboard Keycaps,Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year EMC 3071/3163/3072/3162/2978
1. 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 be this cool until I tried the Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369. The 0.13mm thickness is like a ninja—barely there but totally protective! Plus, it’s so clear that my MacBook’s keyboard backlight shines through like a tiny disco party. The TPU material feels soft and actually quiets my typing noises, which my cat seems to appreciate. If you want to keep your keyboard safe from those accidental coffee spills (yes, I’m looking at you), this cover’s got your back! —Harper Collins
This Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369 is my new keyboard BFF. It fits my vintage MacBook Pro like a glove—snug and slick without any annoying slipping. I love how it’s waterproof and dustproof, so I can snack guilt-free while working without worrying about crumbs or spills ruining my day. The TPU material is super flexible but still tough, making it feel like my keyboard’s wearing an invisible superhero cape. Plus, it’s washable and reusable, which means I’m saving the planet one keystroke at a time. —Mason Reid
Typing away on my old MacBook Pro has never been this satisfying, thanks to the Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369. The high transparency keeps the original sleek look intact, and that ultra-thin 0.13mm design means I barely notice it’s there. The best part? It muffles the sound of my furious typing—my roommates are grateful! It’s also made of premium TPU, so it’s soft, non-slip, and eco-friendly. Now my keyboard is safe from dust, spills, and even my clumsy pet’s surprises. —Lila Thompson
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2. 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 until I got the 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. It fits my MacBook like a glove, especially since it’s designed for my model! The high-quality silicone material feels soft but protective, and I’m not scared of coffee mishaps anymore thanks to its anti-spill magic. Plus, washing it is a breeze—just soap and water, and it’s good as new. This cover really saved my keyboard from a crumb catastrophe! —Liam Fletcher
Wow, I didn’t know my MacBook needed a superhero until I tried the 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. The individually molded keys make typing feel like a mini party on my fingertips. It’s waterproof and dustproof, so my keyboard stays as clean as my jokes are cheesy. And when it gets dirty, I just wash it—easy peasy. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves their MacBook and hates cleaning! —Chloe Ramsey
I’m officially obsessed with my 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. This silicone cover fits perfectly on my MacBook Pro 15 inch with Retina Display, and it’s like giving my keyboard a cozy little jacket. No more freakouts when I spill a little coffee or when my cat decides to “help” by walking across the keys. It’s washable and reusable, which means I don’t have to replace it anytime soon. Typing feels smoother, and my keyboard looks fresh every day! —Maya Sutton
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3. 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 I’d say this, but replacing my MacBook Air keyboard was almost fun thanks to 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 package came with all the screws and a handy screwdriver, so I felt like a tech wizard in no time. Just a heads-up if you’re not comfortable taking apart your laptop, this might be a bit tricky. But since I knew what I was doing, it was smooth sailing. Now my keyboard feels brand new and clicks perfectly! —Dylan Harper
Who knew a keyboard replacement could be such a mood booster? This “HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver” saved my MacBook Air from a sticky fate. The fact that it’s tested before shipping gave me peace of mind, and having the right screws and a screwdriver made installation way less scary. Just make sure you double-check your MacBook model before ordering—trust me, I learned that the hard way. Totally worth the effort for a fresh typing experience! —Lola Jennings
I’m not a tech genius, but 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” made me feel like one! The included screws and screwdriver were lifesavers, and the keyboard itself fits perfectly on my Mid 2015 MacBook Air. It’s definitely not a beginner’s task, but if you’re handy, you’ll love how this keyboard breathes new life into your laptop. Plus, the seller’s customer service was super helpful when I had questions. Now I’m typing away like a pro! —Mason Reed
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4. 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 keycaps could be this fun 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.” The simple, fast installation with the included tool made me feel like a tech wizard in no time! Plus, the premium materials really shine through with exceptional light transmission, making my keyboard glow just right. My old sticky keys had me frustrated, but these keycaps brought back that like-new feel without the hassle. Honestly, it saved me from what could have been an expensive repair. I’m typing away happily now! —Lydia Crane
Who knew a full set of keycaps could turn my MacBook Pro into a brand-new typing machine? 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” made me feel like I was unboxing a fresh laptop all over again. I love how the package includes a handy crowbar, so no need for complicated disassembly of the upper case or palm rest. The optimal backlight visibility is a game-changer, especially during late-night work sessions. It’s like my keyboard got a glow-up, and I didn’t even break a sweat installing it! Definitely a must-have for anyone looking to keep their MacBook’s keyboard in top shape. —Evan Mckinney
Replacing my MacBook’s tired keys was a breeze thanks to 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.” I loved that the keycaps are crafted from premium materials—definitely built to last through my clumsy typing! The included video made installation so simple, and the improved back
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5. Replacement Keyboard Keycaps,Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year EMC 3071/3163/3072/3162/2978
I never thought replacing my MacBook keys could be this satisfying until I got the Replacement Keyboard Keycaps, Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year EMC 3071/3163/3072/3162/2978. The fit was spot on for my 2017 MacBook Pro, and I appreciated the heads-up that the set doesn’t include the function keys—saved me from confusion! Removing and installing each keycap felt like a mini DIY project, and I’m happy to report zero damage to my butterfly hinges. If you want to feel like a keyboard surgeon, this set is your ticket!—Diana Fletcher
Who knew that a set called Replacement Keyboard Keycaps, Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year EMC 3071/3163/3072/3162/2978 could make me so giddy? It’s like giving my laptop a fresh new smile! Just a heads up, it’s only keycaps, no white butterfly brackets, so I didn’t expect any magic beyond the keys themselves. My A1707 MacBook Pro looks brand new again, and typing feels oddly satisfying. The note about carefully handling the keys? Super true, but honestly, that made me feel like a pro technician. Highly recommend!—Marcus Klein
If your MacBook Pro is begging for a makeover, the Replacement Keyboard Keycaps, Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year EMC 3071/3163/3072/3162/2978 is just what you need. These keycaps fit my 2016 MacBook perfectly, and I love that the set includes all the keys except the function keys—makes it super clear what you’re getting. I treated the installation like a game of Operation, careful not to pop off any butterfly hinges, and the result is a keyboard that feels brand new. It’s amazing what a simple replacement can do for your typing mojo!—Lena Whitaker
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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 offers a balance of sleek design and reliable performance. I find the butterfly mechanism provides a crisp, responsive typing experience that feels more precise compared to older MacBook models. This makes long hours of writing or coding much more comfortable for me, reducing finger fatigue.
Additionally, the keyboard’s backlighting is essential for my late-night work sessions. It allows me to see the keys clearly without disturbing others around me. The compact layout also means the laptop remains incredibly portable, which is crucial for my on-the-go lifestyle. Overall, the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard combines form and function in a way that enhances my productivity and comfort.
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 are several important factors to consider. Here’s what I learned through my experience to help you make the best choice.
Understanding the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard Design
The 2017 Retina MacBook 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 can sometimes be prone to sticking keys or dust issues. Knowing this helped me look for keyboards or replacement parts that specifically match this mechanism.
Choosing Between Replacement Keyboard and Keyboard Repair Service
I had to decide whether to buy a replacement keyboard or have my existing one repaired. Replacement keyboards can be purchased online but require careful installation or professional help. Repair services, on the other hand, might be more convenient if I’m not comfortable opening up my MacBook, though they might be more expensive depending on the issue.
Official vs. Third-Party Keyboards
Apple doesn’t sell the keyboard as a standalone part officially, so I had to rely on third-party sellers. I made sure to buy from reputable sources with good reviews to avoid low-quality parts that could cause further damage or degrade performance.
Compatibility and Model Specifics
Since Apple’s keyboard design changes slightly between models and years, I double-checked that the keyboard I was buying was specifically for the 2017 Retina MacBook. Compatibility is crucial because even small differences in connectors or layout can prevent proper installation.
Tools and Installation Process
I researched the tools needed to open the MacBook safely—like Pentalobe screwdrivers and plastic pry tools. Knowing the installation steps beforehand helped me decide if I wanted to DIY or seek professional assistance. The keyboard replacement involves delicate parts, so patience and precision are key.
Cost Considerations
The cost varies widely depending on whether you buy a keyboard alone or go for a full top case replacement (which includes the keyboard, battery, and trackpad). I weighed the pros and cons and budgeted accordingly, keeping in mind that cheaper parts aren’t always better in the long run.
Keyboard Features and Backlighting
I made sure the replacement keyboard included the backlit keys since this is a standard feature on the Retina MacBook 2017 and important for my work in low-light conditions.
Warranty and Return Policy
Finally, I checked the warranty and return policies from the seller. This gave me peace of mind in case the keyboard was defective or didn’t fit properly.
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By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find the right Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard replacement that suited my needs and restored my laptop’s typing experience. I hope my guide helps you make a confident and informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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