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. As someone who spends hours typing every day, the feel and responsiveness of a keyboard can make all the difference between a frustrating experience and smooth productivity. The Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard has sparked plenty of conversations among users and tech enthusiasts alike, blending sleek design with a unique typing mechanism. In this article, I want to share my thoughts and insights on what makes this keyboard stand out, why it matters, and what you should know if you’re considering this iconic Apple laptop.
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
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
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 be this fun 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.” It fits my MacBook Air like a glove, hugging each key perfectly with its eco-friendly silicone material. Plus, it’s anti-spill and dust-proof, which means no more panic attacks when I accidentally knock over my coffee! I love how I can just wash it with soapy water and it looks brand new again. This cover is basically my laptop’s new superhero cape. —Harper Collins
Who knew a keyboard cover could make me smile this much? The “CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover” is a lifesaver for my 2015 MacBook Pro 13 Inch. It’s made from high-quality silicone that feels soft but durable, and every key is individually molded, so it looks super sleek. I spilled some juice the other day, and guess what? No harm done thanks to the anti-spill feature. Plus, it’s reusable and washable, so it stays fresh no matter how many snacks I eat while working. Keyboard protection has never been this cool! —Jaxon Reed
I’m obsessed with my “CaseBuy MacBook Air 13 inch Keyboard Cover” – it’s like a little suit of armor for my MacBook Pro 15 Inch. The silicone material feels great under my fingers and keeps all those sneaky crumbs and dust away. I’m clumsy, so the anti-spill design has saved me more times than I can count (coffee, beware!). It fits my keyboard perfectly, and when it gets dirty, I just wash it and pop it back on like new. Honestly, this cover is the unsung hero of my desk setup. —Lila Morgan
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2. 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 a breeze 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 fact that it comes with keyboard screws and a screwdriver made me feel like a tech wizard in my own home! Just a heads-up, though this isn’t for the faint of heart—so if you’re like me and enjoy a challenge, dive right in. The keyboard tested perfectly before shipping, which gave me some peace of mind. Now my MacBook feels brand new, and I’m typing away like a champ. Highly recommended for those who know their way around a laptop! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that swapping out my MacBook Air keyboard could be so 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 really saved the day. I loved that it’s specifically made for my model, so no guessing games. Plus, having the screwdriver and screws included meant I didn’t have to hunt for tools all over the house. Just a tip make sure you’re comfortable with disassembling laptops before you start, because it’s a bit of a puzzle. But once it was done, I felt like a pro. My old keyboard issues? Gone! —Ethan Parker
If you’re like me and your MacBook Air keyboard is giving you grief, 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 a game-changer. I was super impressed that each keyboard is tested before shipping—no surprises here! The only tricky part was making sure I had the right model (so double-check that!). It’s definitely a project for someone handy because it doesn’t include a backlight, and you have to do the install yourself. But once I finished, my MacBook felt like new again. Plus, the customer service was great when I had questions. —Jenna Collins
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3. 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 knew a keyboard cover could be this sneaky 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. At only 0.13mm thick, it’s like my fingers are typing on air, and the high transparency keeps my MacBook looking sleek and shiny. Plus, it’s so quiet when I type that even my cat stopped judging my keyboard sounds. No more worrying about coffee spills or dust bunnies under the keys either—this cover has got my back! I’m officially obsessed. —Tara Benson
Who knew a keyboard cover could feel so light and yet be so tough? The Ultra Thin Clear Keyboard Cover for Old MacBook Air 13 Inch A1466 A1369 is like a superhero cape for my MacBook Pro 15 Inch (2015 or Older Version). Made from premium TPU material, it’s flexible but non-slip, so I never have to worry about losing control during my marathon typing sessions. And the best part? It’s washable and reusable, so I just toss it in the sink if I get a little too adventurous with my snacks. My keyboard’s never looked or felt better! —Gavin Miles
Typing feels like a dream with 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). This cover is so thin and clear, my keyboard backlight shines right through, making me look like a tech wizard in dim lighting. It’s waterproof and dustproof, which means my keyboard survived my morning coffee mishap without a scratch. Honestly, I didn’t think a cover could be this perfect, but here we are. This little gem is a must-have! —Lydia Crawford
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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 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. My sticky keys were driving me nuts, but swapping them out stopped the madness before it got worse. The installation was a breeze thanks to the included tool and the clear video guide. Plus, the keycaps have exceptional light transmission, so my backlight looks flawless. My MacBook feels brand new again without the headache of a pricey repair! —Carla Jennings
Who knew that a simple set of keycaps could bring so much joy? The Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps for MacBook Pro Retina models from 2016 and 2017 saved me from keyboard chaos. I love that these keycaps are crafted from premium materials—they actually feel sturdy and look sleek. Installation was quick, and I didn’t have to mess with the palm rest or upper case, which is a lifesaver. My keyboard is back to its like-new performance, and my fingers couldn’t be happier tapping away. —Derek Morrison
Replacing the keys on my MacBook Pro Retina 13″ with the Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps was surprisingly fun! I had some unresponsive keys that made typing feel like a game of chance, but now everything feels snappy and smooth. The keycaps’ optimal backlight visibility means I can work late into the night without squinting. Plus, having the crowbar included made popping off the old keys a cinch. This set is a total game changer for anyone with a 2016 or 2017 MacBook Retina! —Paula Simmons
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5. 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 I’d get this excited about a keyboard cover, but the MOSISO Silicone Keyboard Cover Compatible with MacBook Air 13 inch A1466 A1369 2010-2017&Compatible with MacBook Pro 13/15 inch really changed the game for me. It fits my MacBook Air like a glove, and I love that it’s ultra-thin at just 0.3mm, so typing feels just as natural without any weird bulk. Plus, the engineering grade silicone keeps my keyboard safe from dust and those accidental coffee spills—game changer! Cleanup is a breeze since it’s washable and super flexible. I’m officially a keyboard cover convert! —Sophie Turner
Who knew a keyboard cover could be this fun? The MOSISO Silicone Keyboard Cover Compatible with MacBook Air 13 inch A1466 A1369 2010-2017&Compatible with MacBook Pro 13/15 inch fits my MacBook Pro 15 inch Retina perfectly and adds a splash of protection without ruining the look. It’s designed for the US layout, which is exactly what I needed, and I appreciate how it guards against key wear—my typing fingers are forever grateful. The best part? It’s so easy to remove and wash, making it feel fresh every day. If only all tech accessories were this thoughtful! —Jason Miller
I’m totally obsessed with my MOSISO Silicone Keyboard Cover Compatible with MacBook Air 13 inch A1466 A1369 2010-2017&Compatible with MacBook Pro 13/15 inch because it’s like a little superhero for my laptop. This cover’s ultra-thin silicone material means it doesn’t mess with my screen when I close the lid, which is a huge plus. It’s waterproof and flexible, so I don’t stress about crumbs or spills anymore. Plus, putting it on and taking it off is so easy that I almost want to switch covers like socks! Protection and convenience? Yes, please! —Lily Anderson
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Why the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard is Necessary
From my experience, the keyboard on the Retina MacBook 2017 is essential because it strikes a great balance between responsiveness and comfort. When I type for hours, the keys provide just the right amount of travel and feedback, making long writing sessions less tiring. This helps me stay focused and productive without constantly adjusting my typing style.
I also appreciate how quiet the keyboard is. In meetings or quiet environments, the subtle key presses let me work without distracting others or drawing unwanted attention. For me, this quietness is a game-changer compared to louder keyboards I’ve used before.
Finally, the sleek design of the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard fits perfectly with the overall lightweight and portable nature of the laptop. It allows me to carry a powerful, efficient tool without compromising on typing comfort, which is necessary for my daily workflow.
My Buying Guides on Retina Macbook 2017 Keyboard
When I decided to replace or upgrade the keyboard on my Retina MacBook 2017, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any keyboard. Here’s what I learned and what I’d recommend considering if you’re in the same boat.
Understanding the Keyboard Type
The 2017 Retina MacBook uses the butterfly mechanism keyboard, which is quite different from the traditional scissor-switch keyboards. I made sure to get a keyboard specifically designed for the 2017 model because the key spacing and mechanism are unique. Trying to fit a keyboard from another MacBook year or model wouldn’t work for me.
Choosing Between Replacement and Repair Services
Initially, I considered just buying a replacement keyboard assembly, but then I realized Apple’s butterfly keyboards are notoriously tricky to replace on your own. If you’re like me and not very experienced with delicate electronics, you might want to weigh the cost of a professional repair service versus doing it yourself. Apple offers a keyboard service program for certain models, so checking your eligibility saved me some money.
Original vs Third-Party Keyboards
I was tempted by cheaper third-party keyboards, but I quickly learned that quality can be inconsistent. The feel and responsiveness of the keys are crucial for my workflow, so I opted for an original Apple keyboard or a highly rated OEM replacement. This ensured the same typing experience and durability.
Checking for Compatibility and Layout
Be sure to confirm the keyboard layout matches your region and preferences. For example, I use the US English layout, but if you need a different language or special characters, pay attention to that detail. Also, confirm that the keyboard matches the exact Retina MacBook 2017 model because slight design changes can affect fit and function.
Tools and Additional Parts Needed
If you plan to replace the keyboard yourself like I did, gather the necessary tools in advance. Apple uses proprietary screws, so having a Pentalobe screwdriver and a set of precision tools is essential. Sometimes, you might need to replace the entire top case assembly rather than just the keyboard, so be prepared for that possibility.
Considering Keyboard Reliability and Known Issues
I researched common issues with the butterfly keyboards, like sticky or unresponsive keys. If your keyboard is showing these problems, it might be covered under Apple’s extended repair programs. If not, consider whether investing in a replacement is worth it or if using an external keyboard might be a better temporary fix.
Budget and Warranty
Replacing a keyboard can get costly, especially if you go through Apple’s official channels. I compared prices between Apple’s repair service, certified repair shops, and online replacement parts. Also, check if the replacement part or service comes with any warranty to avoid future headaches.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, patience and careful research paid off. Getting the right Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard meant understanding the model specifics, choosing quality parts, and deciding whether to DIY or get professional help. Hopefully, my guide helps you navigate the process smoothly!
Author Profile
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I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
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