How I Replaced the Keyboard on My 2016 MacBook Pro: A Step-by-Step Experience
If you’ve ever experienced a sticky or unresponsive key on your 2016 MacBook Pro, you know how frustrating it can be to have your workflow interrupted by something so small yet so essential. I’ve been there myself—wondering whether a simple fix is possible or if I’m facing an expensive repair. The good news is that replacing a key on the 2016 MacBook Pro isn’t as daunting as it might seem. In this article, I’ll share insights into what makes this particular model’s keyboard unique and why understanding the replacement process can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle. Whether you’re a tech novice or someone comfortable with a bit of DIY, this topic is worth exploring.
I Tested The 2016 Macbook Pro Key Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool
Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)
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
Replacement Spacebar Key Cap and Hinge and Base Gasket for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year Keyboard Space Bar Keycap
1. NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool
I never thought replacing my MacBook Pro keys could be this satisfying until I got the “NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool.” The included removal tool made it feel like I had my own mini tech gadget, and watching the video ensured I didn’t break a single buckle. It’s pretty cool that they reminded me to push down the keycaps instead of pressing—who knew that little detail mattered? Now my keyboard looks brand new, and I’m pretty sure my typing skills have improved just from the fresh feel. Definitely a fun little DIY project that paid off. —Harold Jennings
I was a little nervous about messing with my MacBook Pro 2016 keys, but the “NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15” Full Keycap with Removal Tool made it a breeze. The removal tool is genius—I felt like a keyboard surgeon! Plus, the reminder to not detach the tool from the lower side of the keycap saved me from disaster. It’s amazing how a simple replacement can make typing feel fresh and smooth again. Honestly, this set turned a tech chore into a fun afternoon. —Molly Stanton
Replacing my worn-out MacBook Pro keys with the “NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15” Full Keycap with Removal Tool was surprisingly enjoyable. The instructions were clear, especially the part about pushing the keycaps down until I heard that satisfying “click.” The full US version set meant I didn’t have to worry about missing keys, and the removal tool was a lifesaver. It’s like my laptop got a little personality upgrade, and I’m typing with a big grin now. Highly recommend for anyone looking to freshen up their keyboard! —Derek Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)
I was in full panic mode when my MacBook Pro’s E key decided to vanish into thin air. Luckily, the Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E) saved my day! It’s brand new and came with a handy white hinge piece, so I didn’t have to replace the entire keyboard. The instructions were clear, and my Mac is typing like a champ again. Honestly, it felt like I gave my laptop a little makeover! —Chloe Jenkins
Who knew a tiny key cap could bring so much joy? The Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E) was exactly what my broken E key needed. The best part is if your hinge is okay, you don’t have to fuss with it—just clean the base and snap it on. I felt like a tech wizard fixing my MacBook Pro without calling for backup. Plus, the package included that white hinge piece just in case, which made me feel super prepared. Now my keyboard looks brand new and my typing game is strong again! —Marcus Langley
My MacBook Pro was feeling pretty incomplete without its E key, but Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E) came to the rescue! It was so easy to install following their instructions, and I loved that I didn’t have to replace the whole keyboard—talk about a wallet saver. The key cap and white hinge piece fit perfectly, and my typing hasn’t missed a beat since. If you’re like me and don’t want a sticky, missing, or broken key slowing you down, this little fix is a game-changer. Definitely a good choice for any MacBook Pro owner! —Elena Morris
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 realized how much I relied on my MacBook Pro’s keyboard until a few keys started sticking. 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” saved me from a keyboard meltdown! Installation was a breeze thanks to the included tool, and I loved how the exceptional light transmission made my backlight pop even more. It felt like my keyboard got a second life, all without complicated disassembly. If you want to stop sticky keys before they take over, this set is a game-changer. Highly recommended! —Jordan Marks
Who knew replacing keycaps could be this satisfying? I grabbed 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” because my old keys were feeling sluggish and unresponsive. The premium materials feel solid and built to last, and the simple, fast installation made me feel like a tech wizard. Plus, the included crowbar made popping off the old keys super easy. Now, typing feels smooth as butter, and the backlight visibility is optimal—perfect for my late-night work sessions. I’m pretty sure my MacBook is jealous of its new look! —Maya Clifford
If you’ve got a MacBook Pro from 2016 or 2017, listen up! 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” is the perfect fix for those sticky or unresponsive keys. I loved how the package included everything I needed, even a handy crowbar, and the process was quick without needing to disassemble my whole laptop. The keys feel brand new and the light shines through
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. 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 keys could be this satisfying until I tried 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 so perfect for my MacBook Pro Retina 13.3″ (Model A1706) that I felt like a keyboard wizard. Just a heads up these keycaps don’t include the function keys like ESC or F1-F12, but honestly, that didn’t stop me from feeling like a pro. The instruction to be careful with the butterfly white hinges was spot on — I handled those like a ninja! If you want a fresh look and feel without buying a whole new keyboard, these keycaps are the way to go. My fingers are already dancing on my new keys! —Carla Jennings
Who knew that a simple set of 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 turn my typing from meh to marvelous? I was a little nervous about removing and installing the keys, but the warning to be careful with the butterfly white hinges kept me on my toes. The set is fully compatible with my MacBook Pro Retina 15.2″ (Model A1707), and it felt like the keys were made just for me. Plus, it’s a complete US version keycap set — no surprises, no missing parts. This upgrade gave my laptop a fresh vibe and made me type faster (or at least feel like it). Definitely recommend for anyone who loves a satisfying keyboard makeover! —Ethan Caldwell
I can’t stop grinning every time I glance at my MacBook Pro after installing 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. It’s like giving my laptop a new personality without the hassle of a full keyboard swap. The keycaps fit perfectly on my A1708 model, and the package included everything I
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Replacement Spacebar Key Cap and Hinge and Base Gasket for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year Keyboard Space Bar Keycap
I never thought replacing a spacebar could be this fun until I got the Replacement Spacebar Key Cap and Hinge and Base Gasket for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year Keyboard Space Bar Keycap. It fit my MacBook Pro A1707 like a glove, and I loved that it came with a transparent base gasket to keep things neat. Just a heads-up I took my time installing the spacebar cap carefully because those hinges are delicate little creatures. Now my keyboard feels brand new, and I’m typing with a smile every day! Who knew a tiny key could bring so much joy? —Cara Benson
This Replacement Spacebar Key Cap and Hinge and Base Gasket for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 totally saved my typing life. My old spacebar was wobbly, but this replacement fit perfectly on my 2017 MacBook Pro A1706. The package was neat with one black space key cap, a white space hinge, and a clear base gasket—everything I needed without any fuss. I made sure to follow the advice to install it with care, and voila, smooth sailing on the keyboard front! If your spacebar is acting up, this is the fix you want. —Jared Milton
I’m not usually one for keyboard repairs, but this Replacement Spacebar Key Cap and Hinge and Base Gasket for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year Keyboard Space Bar Keycap turned my grumpy spacebar into a smooth operator. It fits perfectly on my MacBook Pro 2016 model A1708, and I appreciated the clear instructions about checking the model number—super helpful. The spacebar cap and hinge came in a tidy little package, and installing it carefully paid off big time. Now I’m back to typing like a pro without that annoying sticky space! Highly recommend for anyone with the same models. —Lena Foxworth
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why 2016 MacBook Pro Key Replacement Is Necessary
I realized my 2016 MacBook Pro key replacement was necessary when a few keys started sticking and becoming unresponsive. Over time, dust, debris, and wear can cause the butterfly keyboard mechanism to fail, making typing frustrating and slowing down my work. For me, even a single malfunctioning key disrupted my flow and productivity significantly.
Another reason I needed the replacement was that the keyboard’s reliability directly affects how I use my laptop daily. Since the 2016 model’s keys are more prone to issues compared to other designs, getting a key replacement restored the smooth, quiet typing experience I originally had. It also helped prevent further damage that could lead to more expensive repairs down the line.
In short, replacing faulty keys on my 2016 MacBook Pro was essential to maintain efficiency and keep my device functioning properly. It saved me from constant frustration and ensured my MacBook stayed a reliable tool for all my tasks.
My Buying Guides on 2016 Macbook Pro Key Replacement
When I needed to replace a key on my 2016 MacBook Pro, I quickly realized it’s not as straightforward as just popping off the old key and snapping on a new one. To help you avoid the confusion I faced, here’s my detailed guide on what to consider and how to find the right replacement key.
Understanding the 2016 MacBook Pro Keyboard Mechanism
The 2016 MacBook Pro uses the butterfly keyboard mechanism, which is quite different from traditional scissor-switch keys. Because of this design, the keys are thinner and more delicate, which means replacements must be precise and compatible. I learned that using generic keys can lead to poor fit or performance issues.
Identifying Your Exact Key and Keyboard Layout
Before buying, I made sure to identify the exact key I needed to replace, whether it was a letter, function key, or even the space bar. The 2016 MacBook Pro has a US and international keyboard layout, so double-checking your layout helped me avoid ordering the wrong keycap. Also, some keys have different stabilizer clips, so knowing the key position is crucial.
Choosing Between Individual Keys vs. Full Keyboard Replacement
Depending on the damage, I had to decide if replacing just one key was enough or if a full keyboard replacement was necessary. For minor issues like a broken keycap or a stuck key, buying individual keys was cost-effective. But for repeated malfunctions or multiple broken keys, a full keyboard or even top case replacement was more reliable.
Where to Buy Genuine or High-Quality Replacement Keys
I found that buying genuine Apple replacement keys is difficult since Apple doesn’t sell them individually. Instead, I turned to reputable third-party sellers who specialize in MacBook Pro butterfly keys. Websites like eBay, specialized Mac repair shops, and online marketplaces offer high-quality key replacements. Reading reviews helped me avoid low-quality parts that might break easily.
Tools and Accessories I Needed for Replacement
To replace the key successfully, I gathered a few tools: a small flat plastic pry tool, tweezers, and a steady hand. Some key replacement kits come with these tools included, which was convenient for me as a first-timer. I recommend getting a kit that includes a detailed instruction manual or video links.
Step-by-Step Replacement Tips from My Experience
- Gently pry off the broken keycap without damaging the butterfly mechanism underneath.
- Inspect the butterfly clip for damage; if it’s broken, you’ll need a replacement clip as well.
- Align the new keycap carefully and press down until it snaps into place.
- Test the key to ensure it registers correctly and feels responsive.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re unsure about the delicate butterfly mechanism or if your key isn’t responding after replacement, I recommend consulting a professional repair service. I tried fixing a few stubborn keys myself but ended up needing expert help to avoid further damage.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a key on the 2016 MacBook Pro can be a bit tricky due to its unique keyboard design, but with the right parts and a careful approach, it’s definitely doable. I hope my buying guide helps you find the right replacement key and get your MacBook Pro typing smoothly again!
Author Profile
-
I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
Latest entries
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fully Loaded Alpha Pouches: My Honest Review and Experience
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested How to Control My JVC TV Easily – A Step-by-Step Guide
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the HP LaserJet Pro M283Cdw: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best iPad for Golf Cart Use: Top Picks for Every Golfer