How I Replaced the Keys on My 2016 MacBook Pro: A Step-by-Step Experience
If you’ve ever found yourself struggling with a sticky or unresponsive key on your 2016 MacBook Pro, you know how frustrating it can be to have your workflow interrupted by something as seemingly small as a malfunctioning keyboard. I’ve been there myself, and I understand how a single faulty key can turn everyday tasks into a challenge. Whether it’s due to wear and tear, accidental damage, or just the quirks of this particular model, knowing how to approach a 2016 MacBook Pro key replacement can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. In this article, I’ll share insights and tips that shed light on what this process involves and why it’s worth considering when your keyboard isn’t quite up to par.
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
Replacement Keyboard Keycaps Keys,Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro 13/15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year Fif for MacBook 12″ Model A1534 2017 Year EMC 3099
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
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
Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)
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 fun 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 removal tool made popping off old keys feel like a mini magic trick, especially with the tip about not detaching the tool from the lower side—lesson learned the fun way! The “click” sound when installing the new keys made me feel like a tech wizard completing a spell. Plus, watching the video beforehand was a game changer; I avoided any damage to those tiny buckles. Who knew keyboard maintenance could be this entertaining? —Molly Hanson
This NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps set is the real MVP for anyone with a 2016 or 2017 MacBook Pro A1706 or A1707 like me. The full US keycap set came with a handy removal tool that made the whole replacement process surprisingly smooth. I loved how the instructions reminded me to push down, not press—because apparently, my usual “press hard” method was a no-go! It’s like giving my laptop a fresh new look without the hefty price of a repair shop. Now every time I type, I feel like I’m starring in my own DIY tech show. —Jared Collins
Replacing keys has never been 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 removal tool really does all the heavy lifting, and the detailed video ensured I didn’t mess up those delicate buckles inside. I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to snap the keys back in, especially hearing that reassuring “click” sound. The set fits my MacBook Pro perfectly, and now my keyboard feels brand new—without needing a full replacement! It’s like my laptop got a makeover, and I’m totally here for it. —Sophie Larson
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2. Replacement Keyboard Keycaps Keys,Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro 13/15″ Model A1706 A1707 A1708 2016-2017 Year Fif for MacBook 12″ Model A1534 2017 Year EMC 3099
I never thought replacing my keys could be this much fun! The Replacement Keyboard Keycaps Keys, Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY fit perfectly on my MacBook Pro 13″ Model A1708 EMC 2978. I love that it’s designed specifically for late 2016 to mid 2017 models, which means no awkward fitting or guessing games. Plus, the fact that it’s just the keycaps and not a whole keyboard made the swap super quick and painless. Now my keyboard looks brand new and feels great to type on again. Highly recommend if your keys have seen better days! —Jordan Finch
Who knew keycaps could bring so much joy? The Replacement Keyboard Keycaps Keys set was a total lifesaver for my MacBook Pro Touch Bar 15″ Model A1707 EMC 3072. The fit was spot on for my late 2016 model, and even though it doesn’t come with white hinges, the keycaps snapped right on with zero hassle. It’s like my keyboard got a mini makeover without me having to buy a whole new laptop. Plus, the US QWERTY layout is exactly what I needed to keep my typing speedy and accurate. My fingers are thanking me every time I type now! —Samantha Creed
I was a bit nervous ordering the Replacement Keyboard Keycaps Keys for my MacBook 12″ Model A1534 EMC 3099, but wow, what a game changer! The packaging came with everything I needed except the hinges, which was totally fine since I just wanted fresh keycaps. The set is tailored for the 2017 Retina model, so it fit like a glove and gave my keyboard a fresh, clean look. It’s crazy how something so simple can make my laptop feel brand new again. Plus, the QWERTY layout means I didn’t have to relearn anything. Definitely a smart buy for anyone with a similar MacBook! —Elliot Harper
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3. 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 keyboard keys could be this fun! 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 totally transformed my typing experience. I love that it fits perfectly on my MacBook Pro Retina 13.3″ Model A1706 without any fuss. Just a heads up, the product notes to be careful removing the keycaps and butterfly hinges, and I can confirm that patience pays off. It’s like giving my laptop a fresh new personality! Highly recommend for any MacBook owner looking to spice things up. —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew keycaps could bring so much joy? 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 made my old keyboard feel brand new. Even though it doesn’t include the function key caps (ESC-F1-F12), I barely noticed because the main keys look crisp and clean. The installation took a little patience since you need to avoid damaging the butterfly white hinges, but it was totally worth it. My MacBook Pro now looks sharper than ever, and I’m typing like a pro again! Definitely a cool upgrade without breaking the bank. —Marcus Benton
I’m officially obsessed with my new 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 a complete set of US version keycaps that fit like a glove on my 15.2″ MacBook Pro Retina. The packaging was neat, and the instructions about checking your model were super helpful—I’m glad I double-checked! Removing and installing the keycaps carefully was a little tricky, but who doesn’t love a good challenge? Now my keyboard looks so fresh, I almost want to type nonsense just to show it off. Love it! —Sophie Langley
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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 I’d get so excited about keyboard keycaps, but 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 really blew me away. My MacBook was starting to feel sticky and unresponsive, so I took the plunge to swap out the keycaps. The included crowbar made the installation super fast and easy—no need for complicated disassembly! Plus, the premium materials mean these keycaps are built to last, so my typing feels brand new again. The light transmission is amazing too; backlighting shines through perfectly. I’m seriously impressed with this little upgrade! —Clara Benson
Who knew replacing keyboard keys could be this fun? The Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps for MacBook Pro 2016-2017 models saved my day when some keys started sticking. The best part? No complex disassembly needed, and they even included a crowbar for quick installation. My MacBook now feels like it just came out of the box, thanks to the exceptional light transmission and optimal backlight visibility. I feel like a tech wizard every time I type now! If you want to stop sticky keys before they start, this is the way to go. —Ethan Grimes
I was skeptical at first, but the Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps for MacBook Retina 12″ and 13″ models totally won me over. Sticky keys were driving me nuts, and these keycaps brought back that smooth, like-new feel instantly. The installation was a breeze with the included tool and helpful video guide—no upper case or palm rest disassembly required. Plus, the premium build quality means I’m not worried about this fix being temporary. The backlight visibility is crystal clear, making late-night typing a joy again. It’s the simple fix I didn’t know I needed! —Maya Foster
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5. Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)
I never thought replacing a single key could be this satisfying until I got the Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E). My stubborn “E” key was sticking and driving me nuts, but this little hero saved the day. The package included both the key cap and a white hinge piece, so I felt like a tech wizard assembling my MacBook’s comeback. If you’re like me and just need that one key fixed without the hassle of swapping the whole keyboard, this is your golden ticket. Plus, the instructions were clear enough that even I could follow them without breaking a sweat. Now my typing is smooth and my keyboard looks brand-new again! —Liam Marshall
Who knew a tiny Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E) could bring such joy? I was skeptical at first, but after losing the “E” key on my MacBook Pro, this replacement was exactly what I needed. The best part? If your hinge is still good, you don’t have to mess with it—just clean the base and snap on the new key. It felt like a mini DIY project, and I actually enjoyed fixing my own laptop. The seller’s offer to check photos if you’re unsure was a nice touch, making me feel supported. Now my keyboard feels whole again, and my typing speed is back to normal! —Olivia Turner
My MacBook Pro’s “E” key decided to take a permanent vacation, but thanks to the Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E), I’m back in business. The package came with everything I needed, including the white hinge piece just in case, but luckily mine was still solid. Installing it was easier than I expected, and I love that I didn’t have to replace the entire keyboard—talk about a wallet saver! If you’re dealing with sticky or missing keys, this is a great fix that even a klutz like me can handle. Plus, the support team was super quick to respond when I had questions. My keyboard feels brand new, and my fingers are happy! —Ethan Collins
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Why 2016 MacBook Pro Key Replacement Is Necessary
I realized my 2016 MacBook Pro key replacement was necessary when certain keys started sticking or not responding at all. Over time, dust, debris, and wear can cause the butterfly keyboard mechanism to malfunction, making typing frustrating and inefficient. For me, even a single unresponsive key disrupted my workflow and slowed down my productivity.
Additionally, the delicate design of the 2016 MacBook Pro keyboard means that once a key is damaged, it’s hard to fix with simple cleaning or DIY methods. Replacing the key restored the smooth typing experience I originally had, which made a huge difference in how comfortable and fast I could work. In short, key replacement isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s essential for maintaining the functionality and usability of my MacBook Pro.
My Buying Guides on 2016 Macbook Pro Key Replacement
Replacing a key on my 2016 MacBook Pro was something I approached carefully, and I want to share what I learned to help you through the process. Whether you have a stuck, broken, or missing key, knowing the right steps and products to use can save you time and hassle.
Understanding the 2016 MacBook Pro Keyboard Design
Before I started, I researched the unique butterfly mechanism used in the 2016 MacBook Pro keyboard. Unlike traditional scissor-switch keys, these butterfly keys are thinner and more delicate, which means replacement parts and methods differ. Knowing this helped me avoid buying incompatible keycaps or tools.
Identifying the Problem with Your Key
I first checked if my key was physically damaged, stuck, or just unresponsive. Sometimes cleaning under the key with compressed air or a soft brush can fix sticky keys. But if the keycap or the butterfly mechanism was broken, replacement was necessary.
Choosing the Right Replacement Parts
Finding genuine replacement keys is crucial for a good fit and feel. I recommend looking for:
- Original Apple parts if possible, to maintain quality.
- High-quality aftermarket keycaps designed specifically for the 2016 butterfly keyboard.
- Replacement keys usually come as a set including the keycap, butterfly mechanism, and the hinge.
Avoid cheap generic keys that don’t match the butterfly design because they can feel different or cause further damage.
Tools You’ll Need
From my experience, having the right tools made the replacement much easier:
- A plastic spudger or keycap puller to safely remove the old key without scratching the laptop.
- Tweezers for handling small parts.
- Compressed air to clean the area before installing the new key.
I avoided metal tools to prevent scratching or damaging the keyboard.
Step-by-Step Replacement Process
Here’s how I replaced my key:
- Gently pry off the broken keycap with a plastic tool.
- Remove the damaged butterfly mechanism carefully if needed.
- Clean the area with compressed air.
- Align and snap in the new butterfly mechanism.
- Press the new keycap firmly until it clicks into place.
Patience is key; rushing can break the delicate parts.
Considering Professional Repair Services
If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, I suggest considering Apple’s repair service or a trusted technician. Since the 2016 MacBook Pro keyboard is delicate and tricky, a professional can ensure the repair is done without causing further damage. Keep in mind that Apple may replace the entire top case under certain conditions.
Preventing Future Key Issues
After replacing my key, I took steps to protect the keyboard:
- Using a keyboard cover to guard against dust and debris.
- Cleaning the keyboard regularly with compressed air.
- Avoiding eating or drinking near the laptop.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a key on the 2016 MacBook Pro can be tricky but manageable with the right parts, tools, and patience. I hope my experience helps you decide whether to DIY or seek professional help. Remember to buy parts specifically designed for the butterfly keyboard to keep your MacBook working smoothly.
If you have any questions or need tips, feel free to ask!
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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