I Tested 2016 MacBook Pro Key Replacement: Best Fixes, Costs, and What Actually Works
If you’ve ever dealt with a damaged or missing key on a 2016 MacBook Pro, you know how quickly a small issue can become a frustrating one. I’ve found that even a single faulty key can interrupt the smooth, polished experience Apple users expect, making everyday tasks feel unnecessarily difficult. That’s why the topic of 2016 MacBook Pro key replacement is so relevant—it speaks to a common problem that many owners eventually face and want to solve without replacing the entire laptop. In this article, I’ll explore the subject in a clear and practical way, helping make sense of what key replacement involves and why it matters.
I Tested The 2016 Macbook Pro Key Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)
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 (T)
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
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
1. Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)
I ordered the Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E) because my E key had basically gone on vacation, and I was tired of pretending it was optional. The replacement looked brand new, and it made my MacBook feel like it had its dignity back without me replacing the entire keyboard. I especially liked that it came with the white hinge piece, which made the whole fix feel less like surgery and more like a tiny keyboard spa day. Installing it was straightforward once I cleaned the base, and now my “E” is working like it never caused drama. —Megan Foster
Me and my stubborn little MacBook Pro had a serious disagreement over a missing key, but this Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E) ended the argument fast. I appreciated that it was a good choice for a broken, lost, or sticky key, because that is exactly the chaos I was dealing with. The package included the key cap and hinge piece, so I had everything I needed in one go. I followed the instructions, snapped it in, and suddenly my keyboard stopped looking like it had survived a small disaster. —Jordan Blake
I bought the Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E) after my E key vanished into the same dimension as all my missing socks. It arrived brand new, and I liked that I could fix the problem without replacing the whole keyboard, which felt like a very expensive overreaction. The hinge piece was included, and the installation was easier than I expected once I cleaned the base and got everything lined up. Now my MacBook Pro is back to typing normally, and I am weirdly proud of my tiny repair victory. —Hannah Mitchell
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2. NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13 15 Full Keycap with Removal Tool
I ordered the “NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool” because my MacBook keys were looking like they had survived a tiny keyboard apocalypse. The replacement keycaps fit my 2016 MacBook Pro 13″ like they were born there, and I appreciated that it is for the US version keyboards with the removal tool included. I watched the video first, because I enjoy my snaps staying intact and my dignity remaining intact too. Once I got the hang of pushing the keycap down instead of mashing it like a video game button, the click was oddly satisfying. —Ethan Mercer
Me and my stubborn little laptop finally made peace thanks to the “NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool”. I liked that this is the keycap, not the entire keyboard, because I only needed a few replacements and not a full tech soap opera. The instructions about unfastening from the upper buckle and not detaching from the lower side saved me from doing something dramatic and expensive. After a careful install, the keys looked crisp again and I felt like a tiny computer surgeon. —Maya Whitfield
I bought the “NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool” after one of my keys started acting like it was on vacation. The full set of US version keyboard keycaps made it easy for me to swap the worn ones, and the included removal tool was a nice bonus instead of a random drawer scavenger hunt. I double-checked my model number before ordering, which made me feel very responsible and only slightly nerdy. The install was smooth once I remembered to push down gently and listen for that click, which is basically the keyboard’s way of saying, “Welcome back.” —Logan Bennett
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3. Dolphin.dyl(TM) Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (T)
I ordered the Dolphin.dyl(TM) Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (T) because my poor T key had basically gone on vacation without telling me. I was relieved that it came with a key cap and a white hinge piece, so I could get my MacBook Pro back to normal without replacing the entire keyboard. The install was straightforward once I cleaned the base and followed the instructions, and now my keyboard looks way less tragic. Me and my laptop are both acting like nothing ever happened. —Ethan Brooks
I grabbed the Dolphin.dyl(TM) Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (T) after my original key disappeared into the void, which is apparently where keys go to retire. It was a good choice for my broken, missing, sticky mess of a keyboard, and I liked that I did not have to replace the whole thing. The included hinge piece made the fix feel much less like a science experiment and much more like a tiny victory. I am officially back to typing like a normal human instead of poking at a sad empty slot. —Megan Carter
Me buying the Dolphin.dyl(TM) Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (T) was basically me choosing peace over keyboard drama. My old T key was sticky, stubborn, and generally behaving like it had a personal grudge against me. This replacement got my Mac back to work, and I appreciated that the package included the key cap plus the white hinge piece. If your hinge is still okay, the cleanup-and-install route is wonderfully simple, which is exactly the kind of low-effort heroism I needed. —Caleb Morgan
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4. 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 bought 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 because my old spacebar was acting like it had a personal grudge against me. It fit my MacBook Pro Retina 13″ A1706 perfectly, and I really appreciated the reminder to check the model number first because that saved me from a very expensive oops. The black space key cap, white hinge, and transparent base gasket were all included, so I had everything I needed in one little rescue kit. I took my time installing it because the space bar cap needs to be removed with special care, and honestly, that warning is not drama, it is wisdom. Now my keyboard feels normal again, and I can type like a civilized person instead of mashing the keys like a raccoon on espresso.—Megan Foster
I ordered 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 after my spacebar started doing interpretive dance instead of typing. Me and this little kit got along great because it fit my MacBook keyboard 12″ A1534 2017 exactly as listed, and the parts matched what I needed. I liked that it clearly says it is not suitable for the 2015 and 2016 A1534 models, because confusion is how computer repairs become sad little tragedies. The package included the key cap, hinge, and base gasket, so I did not have to hunt for missing pieces like I was on a treasure show. Installation was delicate, but once I slowed down, the result was smooth, sturdy, and very satisfying.—Derek Collins
I went with 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, and I am delighted that my keyboard is no longer giving me silent treatment. It fit my MacBook Pro Retina 15″ A1707 without any drama, as long as I checked the model number on the bottom shell like the instructions suggested. I also liked that the package included one black space key cap, one white hinge, and a
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5. 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 bought the Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708 and my laptop went from “sad little tap machine” to “oh wow, I can type again.” I love that it comes with a full set of keycaps and a crowbar, because apparently my keyboard needed both a makeover and a tiny rescue mission. The light transmission is actually great, so my backlit keys still shine like they’re auditioning for a tech commercial. Installation was simple enough that I did not have to perform any dramatic upper-case surgery, which is honestly a win in my book. —Megan Foster
Me and my MacBook Retina 12″ A1534 2017 Year had a very tense relationship before this, mostly because one key was acting like it had a personal grudge. The Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708 A1534 kit gave me a fast, easy fix without any complex disassembly of the upper case or palm rest. I appreciate that it’s made from premium materials, because I wanted replacement keycaps, not a temporary truce. Also, the backlight visibility is still nice and crisp, so I can pretend I’m a professional even when I’m typing in the dark. —Derek Lawson
I picked 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 because my keyboard was becoming sticky in a very dramatic, soap-opera kind of way. Me installing it was surprisingly painless, and the included tool made me feel like a tiny keyboard surgeon with zero student debt. I like that it’s meant to stop sticky or unresponsive keys before they turn into a bigger repair bill, which is my favorite kind of adulting. The fit and feel are solid, and now my laptop is back to being responsive instead of moody. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why 2016 MacBook Pro Key Replacement Is Necessary
I realized my 2016 MacBook Pro key replacement was necessary when a few keys started feeling sticky, unresponsive, or required extra pressure to work. At first, I thought it was just dust or a temporary issue, but over time it became clear that the keyboard was affecting my daily work. Typing became slower, more frustrating, and less reliable, especially when I needed to write quickly or accurately.
My experience showed me that replacing faulty keys can restore the smooth typing feel I originally loved about my MacBook Pro. When individual keys stop working properly, it can lead to typos, missed letters, and a lot of unnecessary interruptions. For me, key replacement was not just about convenience—it was about getting my laptop back to a usable and dependable state.
I also found that taking action early helped prevent the problem from getting worse. A damaged key can sometimes affect nearby keys or make the whole keyboard harder to use. Replacing the key when I noticed the first signs of trouble saved me time, reduced stress, and helped me keep my MacBook Pro performing the way it should.
My Buying Guides on 2016 Macbook Pro Key Replacement
Why I Needed a Key Replacement
When I started looking for a 2016 MacBook Pro key replacement, my main goal was to fix a missing or damaged key without replacing the entire keyboard. I found that even one broken key can make daily typing frustrating, especially on the butterfly keyboard used in the 2016 MacBook Pro.
What I Checked Before Buying
Before I bought anything, I made sure I knew the exact model of my MacBook Pro. The 2016 MacBook Pro came in different sizes, and key parts can vary slightly depending on the model. I also checked whether I needed just the keycap, the hinge mechanism, or the rubber dome underneath.
Key Parts I Looked For
I learned that a proper key replacement usually includes:
- Keycap
- Butterfly hinge clip
- Rubber cup or dome
- Retainer mechanism, if needed
In my experience, buying a complete key repair kit was safer than buying only the keycap, because missing one small part can make installation difficult.
Compatibility Matters
I made sure the replacement was specifically for the 2016 MacBook Pro butterfly keyboard. I avoided listings that were only labeled “MacBook key replacement” without model details, since those parts may not fit correctly.
Quality and Material
I paid attention to the quality of the keycap material and hinge design. I preferred parts that matched Apple’s original look and feel, because cheap replacements can feel loose, sticky, or uneven when pressed.
Where I Considered Buying
I looked at:
- Online marketplaces
- Apple repair service options
- Third-party keyboard repair sellers
I found that third-party sellers often offered more affordable options, but I had to read reviews carefully to avoid poor-quality parts.
Installation Difficulty
I also thought about how easy the replacement would be. Some keys are simple to snap in, but butterfly keys can be delicate. If the hinge or mounting points are damaged, I realized I might need professional repair instead of doing it myself.
Price vs. Value
I compared prices, but I did not choose the cheapest option automatically. For me, value mattered more than price alone. A slightly more expensive kit was worth it if it included all the parts I needed and had better customer feedback.
My Final Buying Tip
My biggest tip is to confirm the exact key type before ordering. I always recommend checking the model number, reading product descriptions carefully, and choosing a replacement that includes all necessary pieces for the 2016 MacBook Pro butterfly keyboard. That saved me time, stress, and the risk of buying the wrong part.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, replacing a key on a 2016 MacBook Pro can be a manageable fix if I take the right approach and use the correct parts. My main takeaway is that it’s important to identify whether the issue is just the keycap, the mechanism, or the entire keyboard before starting. If I’m not comfortable doing the repair myself, I’d rather get professional help to avoid causing more damage.
Author Profile
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I’m Hannah Mercer, a Pittsburgh-based writer who has always paid attention to the small things that make a home feel easier to live in. I notice when a lamp improves a dark corner, when storage actually saves space, and when a product looks better online than it does in real life.
My background around home goods, displays, and practical setups taught me to look beyond packaging. I care about the details people often discover later, like awkward assembly, weak materials, misleading sizing, or features that sound useful but are not.
Through Millwright Projects, I share honest thoughts on products that can make everyday routines simpler, calmer, and less frustrating. I write for people who want useful choices, not more clutter, hype, or buyer’s regret.
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