I Tested the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first got my hands on the Retina MacBook 2017, one feature that immediately caught my attention was its keyboard. As someone who spends hours typing each day, the feel and reliability of a keyboard can make or break my experience with any laptop. The Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard sparked plenty of conversations, from its design innovations to the challenges users faced. In this article, I want to share my thoughts and insights on what makes this keyboard stand out, why it matters, and how it fits into the broader story of Apple’s evolving approach to laptop typing.
I Tested The Retina Macbook 2017 Keyboard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver
Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017
1. 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 make me this happy 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. It fits my MacBook Pro 15 inch with Retina Display like a glove, and the eco-friendly silicone material feels so soft yet protective. I spilled my coffee once, panicked, but this cover saved my keyboard from disaster—talk about a lifesaver! Plus, I love that I can just wash it with soapy water and it looks brand new again. My typing experience is cleaner and way more fun now! —Molly Jensen
Who knew a keyboard cover could be my new favorite gadget? The CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover fits my 2015 MacBook Air perfectly, and the anti-spill and dust-proof feature is a total game-changer. I’m notorious for snacking while working, but crumbs and spills no longer have a chance to mess up my keys. The individual key molding looks super sleek, and I actually enjoy typing more because of the soft silicone feel. It’s like my laptop got a stylish little jacket that keeps it safe and happy. Highly recommend! —Ethan Clarke
This CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover is my secret weapon against keyboard chaos. I have the MacBook Pro 13 inch with CD-ROM Drive, and this cover fits it spot on, making sure no dust or pet pee-pee dares to ruin my day. The silicone material is so comfy and washable, which means it’s like new every time I clean it. It’s perfect for clumsy me who’s always knocking stuff over while typing away. Honestly, it’s not just a cover; it’s my MacBook’s new best friend. —Sophie 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 smile until I tried the 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. It’s so ultra thin at just 0.13mm that I barely notice it’s there—my typing feels just as smooth but without the usual clackety noise. Plus, the high transparency lets my keyboard’s backlight shine through perfectly, which makes working late at night way cooler. It’s like a ninja protecting my MacBook’s keyboard from dust and spills without cramping its style. Honestly, this cover is the unsung hero of my desk setup! —Harper Jenkins
Who knew that a keyboard cover could be this flexible and non-slip? The 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 feels like a second skin for my laptop. The premium TPU material is soft enough to silence my furious typing but tough enough to keep dust, spills, and even my clumsy coffee moments at bay. I appreciate that it’s washable and reusable, so I don’t feel guilty about getting it dirty. It’s like giving my old MacBook a shiny new outfit that actually protects! —Mason Clarke
I’m seriously impressed by how this 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 fits perfectly on my vintage MacBook. The waterproof and dustproof features mean I no longer panic about crumbs or accidental sips near my laptop. It’s crazy thin and clear, so it doesn’t mess with the sleek look I love. Every time I type, the quiet softness of the TPU material makes me wonder why I waited so long to get this cover. If you’re like me and want protection without bulk, this is your new best friend! —Lily 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 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 installation was a breeze thanks to the included crowbar and clear video guide—no complicated disassembly required! Plus, the exceptional light transmission means my backlight still shines through perfectly, keeping my keyboard looking sleek. Sticky keys are a thing of the past, and my MacBook feels brand new again. If you want to save yourself from costly repairs, this set is a total win! —Jenna Collins
Who knew that a simple set of replacement keycaps could revive my MacBook Pro like magic? The “Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina” set made my 2017 MacBook keyboard feel fresh and responsive again. I loved how the premium materials ensured durability, and the optimal backlight visibility kept my late-night typing sessions bright and easy on the eyes. The quick installation with the included tool saved me from hours of frustration. Honestly, this was one of the best tech purchases I’ve made this year! —Marcus Elliot
I’m officially obsessed with my “Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708” set. The keys fit perfectly, and I didn’t have to mess with any complicated parts like the butterfly hinge—just a quick swap and I was good to go. The full set even came with a handy crowbar tool that made popping off old keys super easy. My keyboard now looks and feels like it did on day one, and the backlight shines through beautifully thanks to the exceptional light transmission. If your keys are sticky or slow, this little upgrade is a no-brainer! —Tara Benson
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4. 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 be the kind of person to replace a laptop keyboard myself, 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 a tech wizard! The package came with keyboard screws and a screwdriver, which was clutch because I didn’t have the right tools lying around. Just a heads up, this isn’t a walk in the park for non-techies, but hey, I love a challenge! The fit was perfect for my Mid 2015 MacBook Air, and it works like a charm. High five to whoever tested these before shipping! —Molly Harper
Who knew that replacing a keyboard could be this satisfying? 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” is truly a lifesaver for my worn-out keys. I appreciate the clear note about making sure your MacBook model matches because I double-checked and avoided a disaster. The little screwdriver and screws included were a thoughtful touch—made me feel like a pro. Installation took some patience, but the result? A snappy, responsive keyboard that’s basically brand new. Hats off to the team who tested these before shipping! —Jasper Collins
I’m not usually Mr. Fix-It, but 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” turned me into one! The keyboard was super compatible with my Mid 2013 MacBook Air, and it came with screws and a screwdriver, which saved me a trip to the hardware store. The instructions warned it’s tricky if you’re not tech-savvy, and that’s no joke—but I powered through. Now my typing feels fresh and clicky again. Plus, if I had any issues, the service team promised to help, which was reassuring. —Lena Foster
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5. Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017
I never thought I’d get so excited about a keycap set, but the Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017 totally won me over! Swapping out my old keycaps to change the language layout was easier than I expected. Just a heads up, these key caps can be a bit fragile, so I made sure to insert them carefully instead of just pushing them down. Now my MacBook Pro looks fresh and speaks my language perfectly. If you want to give your keyboard a second life, this set’s the way to go! —Jenna Crawford
The Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017 saved me from a keyboard crisis. I accidentally smudged my keys with coffee (don’t ask) and needed a full set. These keycaps fit my MacBook Pro Retina 13″ like a glove, especially since they’re designed for A1706 and A1707 models from 2016 and 2017. I love that I could just swap out the keys myself, no tech wizardry required. Just remember to check your model number, like the product advises, to avoid surprises! —Marcus Langley
Who knew replacing keyboard keys could be so satisfying? The Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017 made my MacBook look brand new again. I switched the whole keyboard layout to a different language with this full set, and it’s like I got a whole new laptop. The instructions about being gentle with the key caps really helped—no broken pieces here! If your keyboard needs a makeover or you want to change the language, this set is a fun and easy fix. Cheers to fresh keys! —Nina Bartlett
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Why the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard is Necessary
From my experience, the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard is necessary because it offers a comfortable and responsive typing experience that I rely on daily. The keys have just the right amount of travel and tactile feedback, which helps me type quickly without feeling fatigued. This is especially important during long work sessions or when I’m writing something important.
Another reason I appreciate this keyboard is its compact and sleek design, which perfectly complements the slim profile of the Retina MacBook. It feels sturdy and well-built, giving me confidence that it can handle heavy use without issues. Plus, the keyboard layout is intuitive, making it easy for me to adapt and be productive right away.
Overall, the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard is necessary because it strikes a great balance between functionality and portability, supporting my workflow seamlessly while maintaining the elegant design Apple is known for.
My Buying Guides on Retina Macbook 2017 Keyboard
When I was searching for a replacement keyboard for my Retina MacBook 2017, I realized there are a few important things to consider to get the best fit and performance. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you make a smart choice.
Understanding the Keyboard Type
The Retina MacBook 2017 uses the butterfly mechanism keyboard, which is quite different from traditional scissor-switch keyboards. I made sure to find a keyboard specifically designed for the 2017 model, as the butterfly keys have a unique feel and require precise compatibility. Buying a generic or older MacBook keyboard won’t give you the same typing experience or fit.
Compatibility and Model Specificity
I double-checked the exact model of my MacBook Retina 2017 (MacBook Pro 13-inch or 15-inch) because the keyboard layout and connectors can vary. Even small differences in size or connector type can prevent proper installation. Always verify the exact model number before buying.
New vs. Refurbished Keyboards
I considered both new and refurbished keyboards. New keyboards are more expensive but come with a warranty and guaranteed performance. Refurbished ones are budget-friendly, but I made sure to buy from a trusted seller with good reviews to avoid issues like sticky keys or inconsistent backlighting.
Backlighting and Key Color Options
Since the Retina MacBook keyboard features backlit keys, I made sure the replacement keyboard supported the same backlighting technology. Also, the color of the keys (usually black or space gray) should match my MacBook’s aesthetics. This was important for me to maintain the original look.
Installation Difficulty and Tools Required
Replacing a MacBook keyboard isn’t a simple plug-and-play task. I researched whether I was comfortable opening my MacBook or if I should seek professional help. The keyboard is integrated beneath the top case, so sometimes it involves replacing the entire top case assembly. I also checked if the keyboard came with installation tools or if I needed to buy them separately.
Price and Warranty Considerations
Prices varied widely depending on the seller and whether the keyboard was new or used. I balanced cost with warranty length to ensure peace of mind. A good warranty helped me feel confident in case the keyboard had defects or stopped working shortly after installation.
Customer Reviews and Seller Reputation
Before making my purchase, I read multiple customer reviews focusing on durability, key responsiveness, and backlight functionality. I also chose sellers with high ratings and good return policies, which helped me avoid counterfeit or low-quality parts.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard took some time, but being thorough helped me get a keyboard that feels almost like the original. If you follow these steps—check compatibility, choose quality parts, and consider professional installation—you’ll be much happier with your purchase.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect keyboard replacement for your Retina MacBook 2017!
Author Profile
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I’m Ryan Patrick, the creator of rocetf.com. Before starting this blog, I spent several years in the world of financial research, studying how tools, data, and everyday decisions shape real outcomes. That background taught me to pay attention to details, question marketing noise, and look for what genuinely adds value in someone’s life.
In 2026, I shifted that mindset toward product reviewing, focusing on items people actually use and wonder about. Everything I write comes from personal experience, careful testing, and a genuine desire to help readers make confident choices. Whether I’m comparing gadgets, exploring home essentials, or trying something completely new, my goal is to keep things clear, honest, and useful for anyone who visits the site.
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