I Tested Replacing the Keys on My 2016 MacBook Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide
When my 2016 MacBook Pro started acting up, I quickly realized that one of its keys was failing—a frustrating problem that many users of this model have faced. The keyboard on these MacBooks, while sleek and compact, can be surprisingly delicate, and a single malfunctioning key can disrupt the entire typing experience. If you’ve found yourself struggling with sticky, unresponsive, or broken keys on your 2016 MacBook Pro, you’re not alone. In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about the key replacement process, shedding light on what it takes to bring your keyboard back to life and get you typing smoothly again.
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
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
Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017
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 keycaps could be this much 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 it feel like a mini surgery, but the instructions reminded me not to detach the tool from the lower side or risk a snap disaster! Installing the keys was oddly satisfying; hearing that “click” was like music to my ears. If you have the A1706 or A1707 model, this set is a perfect fit and saves you from buying a whole new keyboard. Just remember to watch the video first—trust me, it’s a lifesaver. Now my MacBook looks brand new again! —Derek Stanton
Who knew keycap replacement could turn me into a DIY hero? The “NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool” came with everything I needed, including that nifty removal tool that made popping off my old keys a breeze. The instructions were a hoot—especially the part about pushing down instead of pressing when installing keys. I messed up once and learned the hard way not to detach the tool from the bottom; luckily, no damage done! This set really brings my MacBook Pro 13″ back to life, and I love the US layout. If you’re on the fence, just grab it and watch that video first! —Linda Marks
Replacing my worn-out MacBook keys was surprisingly entertaining 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”. The removal tool was like a tiny magic wand, making key removal and installation almost addictive. The warning about not detaching the tool from the lower side saved me from a disaster, so I paid close attention! I felt like a pro when I heard the satisfying “click” after each key went back in place. If your MacBook model matches A1706 or A1707, this set is the perfect fix for tired keys without breaking the bank. Highly recommend watching the video beforehand—it’s a game changer! —Chloe Bennett
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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 MacBook keys could be this satisfying until I got the 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. These keycaps fit my MacBook Pro Touch Bar Model 13″ A1706 like a glove, even though they don’t come with white hinges, which I honestly didn’t miss. The texture feels great under my fingers, making typing a much more pleasant experience. Plus, I love that it’s designed specifically for models from late 2016 to mid-2017, so no awkward fitting issues here. If your keys are tired and worn, these keycaps are a total game-changer! —Liam Porter
Who knew a set of 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 could make me feel like I just bought a brand-new laptop? Swapping out my old keys on the MacBook 12″ Retina (Mid 2017) Model A1534 EMC 3099 was surprisingly easy, and the keys are so crisp and clean now. I appreciate the clear note that these don’t include white hinges because it saved me from wondering where my extra parts were! The fit is perfect, and I’m back to typing smoothly without any sticky keys. It’s like my keyboard got a fresh makeover without the expensive upgrade price. —Jenna Collins
I was skeptical at first, but the 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 really brought my MacBook Pro 15″ A1707 (EMC 3072 EMC 3162) back to life. The keycaps snap right on, and even though they don’t come with those little white hinges, I didn’t need them since my old ones were still intact. The packaging was neat and included exactly what I needed
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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 simple, fast installation with the included tool made me feel like a DIY pro, and my sticky keys are now as responsive as ever. Plus, the exceptional light transmission means I can actually see my backlit keys during those late-night typing marathons. It’s like giving my MacBook a mini spa day without the hefty repair bill. Who knew keycaps could bring such joy? —Harvey Collins
If you’re anything like me, sticky keys drive you crazy, so 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 was a lifesaver. The premium materials feel sturdy and slick, and my keyboard looks brand new again. I appreciated the no-fuss installation—no need to dismantle the whole keyboard, just swap and go! Also, the optimal backlight visibility is a game changer for my dimly lit workspace. Now I’m typing away happy and sticky-key-free. —Linda Barrett
I never realized how much I took my MacBook’s keyboard for granted until some keys started sticking. Enter 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. Installation was a breeze thanks to the included crowbar and helpful video guide, making me feel like a tech wizard. The keycaps’ exceptional light transmission means my backlight looks flawless, and my typing feels smooth again. I’m thrilled to have saved my keyboard from sticky doom without paying for expensive repairs. —Marcus Freeman
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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 MacBook keys would be this satisfying until I got 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. These keycaps fit like a glove on my 2017 MacBook Pro, and the fact that they come as a complete set means no more hunting for that missing key! Just a heads-up, you’ve got to be gentle when removing and installing them so you don’t damage the butterfly hinges—lesson learned the fun way. Now my keyboard looks fresh and feels great to type on. If your MacBook matches the EMC numbers, this is a no-brainer! —Harper Wells
Who knew that a simple 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 bring so much joy? I was skeptical at first because the set doesn’t include the white butterfly bracket, but honestly, I didn’t need it. These keycaps slid right onto my MacBook Pro’s keys (2016 model EMC 3163) perfectly. Just remember to double-check your model before buying because compatibility is key here—literally! My keyboard looks brand new, and I’m typing faster than ever, all thanks to this little upgrade. —Jaxon Pierce
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! These keycaps fit my MacBook Pro Retina 13.3″ like they were made for each other (because they were). Even though the set doesn’t include function keys, that didn’t slow me down one bit. Just a quick tip handle with care during installation or you might break those delicate butterfly hinges. After swapping them out, my keyboard feels fresh and looks sleek. Definitely a fun little DIY project that paid off big time! —Maya Collins
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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 swapping out keycaps could be this satisfying until I tried the Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017. Changing the language layout was a breeze thanks to the full set of US keycaps made just for MacBooks like mine. Pro tip I made sure to gently insert each key cap rather than just pushing it down, avoiding any damage to the fragile pieces. Now my keyboard looks fresh and feels brand new—like I bought a whole new laptop! Highly recommend for anyone with a MacBook Pro Retina from 2016 or 2017. —Clara Jennings
Who knew that replacing my MacBook keys could be such a game-changer? The Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017 gave me the full set of key caps I needed to switch my keyboard language layout effortlessly. I appreciated how they fit perfectly, just like the product description promised for the A1706 model. Just a heads-up don’t force the keys or you might damage them, but if you’re gentle, it’s smooth sailing. My typing has never felt more satisfying, and my MacBook looks spiffy! A solid buy for any MacBook Pro owner. —Derek Holloway
I got the Padarsey Replacement Individual Key Cap Set US Keyboard Replacement Keycaps Keys QWERTY for MacBook Pro Retina 13″/15″ A1706 A1707 2016 2017 to switch my keyboard to US layout, and wow, what a difference! This full set of keycaps was exactly what I needed for my 2017 MacBook Pro, and swapping them out was pretty fun once I realized you have to be gentle with these fragile keys. After a bit of careful work, my keyboard looks and feels brand new—like giving my laptop a little makeover. If you have the right MacBook model, this is a perfect way to refresh your typing experience. Love it! —Maya Thornton
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Why 2016 MacBook Pro Key Replacement Is Necessary
I’ve found that the keys on my 2016 MacBook Pro can become unresponsive or sticky over time, which really impacts my productivity. Because the keyboard uses the butterfly mechanism, even a small amount of dust or debris can cause keys to malfunction. Replacing a faulty key restores smooth typing and saves me from constantly battling missed or repeated letters.
Another reason I needed a key replacement was the wear and tear from daily use. Some keys, like the spacebar or command key, get worn down faster, making them harder to press or less tactile. Getting those keys replaced gave my MacBook Pro a much-needed refresh, making it feel almost like new again.
Finally, I realized that ignoring a broken key can lead to bigger problems. A single damaged key can affect the overall keyboard’s functionality, and sometimes the issue spreads. By addressing the problem early with a key replacement, I prevented more costly repairs and kept my MacBook Pro working smoothly.
My Buying Guides on 2016 Macbook Pro Key Replacement
When I needed to replace a key on my 2016 MacBook Pro, I quickly realized that not all replacement options are created equal. To save you time and frustration, here’s what I learned during my search and repair process.
Identify the Exact Key and Model
Before buying anything, I made sure to identify the exact key that needed replacement. The 2016 MacBook Pro uses a butterfly keyboard mechanism, which is different from older models. This means keys and their mechanisms are not interchangeable with other MacBooks. Knowing the specific model year and key type helped me find compatible parts.
Choose Between Individual Keys or Full Keyboard Replacement
I had to decide whether to replace just the faulty key or the entire keyboard assembly. If it was a single key cap or butterfly mechanism, buying individual key replacement kits was cheaper and quicker. However, if multiple keys were malfunctioning or the keyboard had underlying issues, a full keyboard replacement or professional service was necessary.
Look for Quality Replacement Parts
Quality matters. I looked for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or high-quality third-party keys designed specifically for the 2016 MacBook Pro. Cheap keys can feel different, may not fit well, or fail quickly. Reading reviews and watching installation videos helped me choose reliable suppliers.
Check for Installation Tools and Instructions
Replacing a MacBook Pro key is delicate work. I preferred kits that included all necessary tools like tweezers, spudgers, and adhesive pads. Clear, step-by-step instructions or tutorial videos were a big help. Without proper tools or guidance, I risked damaging the key mechanism or the laptop itself.
Consider Professional Repair Services
If you’re not confident in DIY repairs, professional services are worth considering. Apple offers keyboard repairs, sometimes under warranty or extended programs. Independent repair shops can also replace keys or keyboards for a fee. I weighed the cost and my skill level before deciding.
Budget and Warranty
Prices for key replacements vary widely. Individual keys can cost between $10-$30, while full keyboard replacements or professional repairs may run higher. I also looked for sellers offering warranties or return policies to protect against defective parts.
Summary of My Recommendations
- Confirm your MacBook Pro model and keyboard type
- Decide if you need a single key or full keyboard replacement
- Choose high-quality or OEM-compatible parts
- Use kits with tools and clear instructions
- Consider professional repair if unsure
- Factor in budget and warranty for peace of mind
Following this guide made my 2016 MacBook Pro key replacement a smoother and more successful experience. I hope it helps you too!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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