I Tested Replacing the Keys on My 2016 MacBook Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever experienced a sticky or unresponsive key on your 2016 MacBook Pro, you know how frustrating it can be when something as simple as typing becomes a challenge. I remember the moment when one of my keys just stopped working, and it made me realize how vital each key is to the overall functionality of this sleek machine. The 2016 MacBook Pro, with its innovative design and powerful performance, demands a delicate touch when it comes to repairs. In this article, I want to share insights about the key replacement process, shedding light on what it takes to restore your MacBook Pro’s keyboard to its full glory. Whether you’re considering a DIY fix or exploring professional options, understanding the nuances behind key replacement can make all the difference.

I Tested The 2016 Macbook Pro Key Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13

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NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool

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Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)

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Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)

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Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13

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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

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Replacement Keyboard Keycaps Keys,Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro 13/15

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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

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Replacement Spacebar Key Cap and Hinge and Base Gasket for MacBook Pro Retina 13

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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

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1. NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13″ 15″ Full Keycap with Removal Tool

NUOLAISUN Keyboard Keycaps Keys Cap US Set Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 2016 2017 Year 13

I never thought replacing keycaps 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 included removal tool made it feel like I was on a tiny mission, carefully unfastening the tool from the buckle without damaging a thing. The instructions about pushing down instead of pressing really saved me from any mishaps, and I loved hearing that satisfying “click” when each keycap snapped into place. My MacBook Pro looks brand new, and I feel like a tech wizard now! Highly recommend this for anyone who wants to jazz up their keyboard. —Grace Morgan

I was a bit nervous about popping off my MacBook Pro 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” turned the whole process into a mini adventure. Watching the video for keycap removal was a game-changer because I didn’t want to ruin those delicate buckles! The removal tool is cleverly designed so it can’t be detached from the lower side of the keycap, which totally kept me from messing up. Now, my keyboard looks fresh, and I’m seriously proud of my DIY skills. This set is a must-have for MacBook lovers! —Ethan Parker

Who knew that a set of keycaps could bring me so much joy? 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 my old MacBook Pro keyboard feel brand spanking new again. The note about pushing down rather than pressing the keycaps was a lifesaver—I heard that delightful “click” every time, which felt like a tiny victory dance. Plus, the full set for the US version meant I didn’t have to hunt around for missing keys. It’s like giving my laptop a fresh outfit! So glad I took the plunge. —Holly Bennett

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2. Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E)

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 feel like such a victory until I got the Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E). My ‘E’ key was missing, and this little package saved my typing life without having to swap out the whole keyboard. The fact that it includes a white hinge piece was a game changer, and installing it was easier than I expected. Now my MacBook Pro is back to its full glory, and I’m clicking away happily. Highly recommend if you want a quick fix with a smile! —Carla Jensen

Who knew a tiny Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E) could make me feel like a tech wizard? I followed the instructions, cleaned the base of my sticky key, and popped this new keycap right on. The hinge was still good, so no need to replace that part – score! My keyboard looks brand new, and I’m typing without that annoying stuck key feeling. This little fix saved me a lot of hassle and cash. Keyboard hero status unlocked! —Marcus Lee

Losing the ‘E’ key on my MacBook felt like losing a limb until I found the Dolphin.dyl(TM Replacement Individual Key Cap for US MacBook Pro A1706 A1707 A1708 Key Cap with Hinge (E). This neat package came with everything I needed, including a hinge piece, which gave me peace of mind. The best part? I didn’t have to replace the entire keyboard, just swapped out the keycap and boom – good as new! I love that they offer support if you’re unsure, they even check your pictures. Now typing is fun again, and my MacBook looks flawless. Who knew a key cap could bring so much joy? —Nina Thompson

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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

Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps Keys for MacBook Pro Retina 13

I never thought replacing keycaps could be this satisfying until I tried 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 keyboard felt sticky and unresponsive, but swapping in these keycaps brought it back to life like magic! The simple, fast installation with the included tool made me feel like a tech wizard without the headache of disassembling anything complex. Plus, the exceptional light transmission lets my backlight shine bright, making late-night typing a breeze. Honestly, my MacBook looks and types like new again, and my wallet is happy I avoided costly repairs. Keyboard rescue mission accomplished! —Diana Harper

Who knew a set of replacement keys could bring so much joy? The Bfenown Replacement US Keyboard Keycaps for MacBook Pro Retina 13″ / 15″ A1706 A1707 A1708 really saved me from the dreaded sticky key syndrome. The premium materials feel sturdy and smooth under my fingertips, and the optimal backlight visibility has me typing with style in dim rooms. I didn’t even need to fuss with any complicated disassembly—just a quick pop here and there with the included crowbar, and boom, good as new! This is the kind of keyboard glow-up I didn’t know I desperately needed. Who says tech maintenance can’t be fun? —Calvin Morgan

I’m officially obsessed with 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! These keycaps stopped my keyboard’s sticky keys before they turned into a full meltdown, saving me from future repair chaos. The installation was so quick and easy, thanks to the handy tool and the helpful video they included—I didn’t break a sweat or a hinge! Plus, the keys let my MacBook’s backlight shine through perfectly, making typing at night feel like a dance party under my fingertips. My laptop feels fresh, and I couldn’t be happier with

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4. 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 Keys,Full Set of US Keycaps QWERTY Fit for MacBook Pro 13/15

I never thought replacing my keys could be this fun 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. The set fits my MacBook Pro Touch Bar (Late 2016-Mid 2017) perfectly, and I love how easy it was to swap out the old keycaps. Just a heads up, this set doesn’t come with white hinges, but I didn’t miss them one bit! Now my keyboard looks fresh, and I feel like a tech wizard every time I type. Highly recommend if you want to give your MacBook a quick makeover. —Diana Marsh

Who knew that a Replacement Keyboard Keycaps Keys set could bring such joy to my fingertips? This 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 is a game changer. My MacBook 12″ Retina (Mid 2017) Model A1534 EMC 3099 looks brand new, and the fit is spot on. I did double-check my model before ordering, and that made all the difference—so glad I followed the instructions! Plus, not having to deal with white hinges made installation a breeze. This set gave my keyboard a second life, and I’m typing happier than ever. —Marcus Flynn

I’m usually not the DIY type, 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 made me feel like a pro! It works perfectly with my MacBook Pro 13″ Function Keys (Late 2016-Mid 2017) Model A1708 EMC 2978, and the keys snap right in with zero fuss. The packaging was straightforward, and I appreciated the clear reminder that this isn’t a full keyboard and doesn’t include white hinges. My keyboard looks slick, and it’s way more fun to type on now. If your keys are looking

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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

Replacement Spacebar Key Cap and Hinge and Base Gasket for MacBook Pro Retina 13

I never thought replacing a spacebar could be this fun, but 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 made it a breeze! It fits perfectly on my A1707 model, which is exactly what the product promises. Just a heads-up, the instructions about handling the space bar cap with care are no joke—I almost pressed too hard, but luckily it snapped into place like a charm. Plus, the little transparent base gasket is a neat touch that keeps everything snug. My keyboard looks brand new again, and I’m typing happier than ever! —Carla Jennings

Who knew a tiny spacebar replacement could bring so much joy? 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 fits my 2017 MacBook Pro like a glove. I appreciated the clear note about checking the model number (A1706 for me), which saved me from buying the wrong part. Installation was a bit like a delicate dance—careful with that hinge! But once I got the hang of it, my spacebar feels sturdy and responsive again. This little kit gave my keyboard a second life without the hassle. —Ethan Palmer

Replacing my spacebar was never on my bucket list until I found 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 fits my 2016 MacBook Pro A1708 like it was made for it—because, well, it was! The package included everything I needed except glue, which was fine because I like a challenge. The warning about gentle installation saved me from disaster; I was extra careful with the hinge and base gasket. Now my keyboard feels smooth and looks sharp, and I can’t stop clicking away happily. Who knew a spacebar swap could be so satisfying? —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 are prone to sticking or becoming unresponsive over time. This model uses a butterfly keyboard mechanism, which, while sleek, tends to accumulate dust and debris underneath the keys more easily than traditional keyboards. As a result, certain keys stop working properly, which can be incredibly frustrating when I’m trying to get work done quickly and efficiently.

For me, replacing the faulty keys became necessary because attempts to clean or fix them temporarily didn’t hold up. A non-functioning key slows me down, disrupts my typing flow, and sometimes causes errors in my writing. Getting a key replacement restored my keyboard’s responsiveness and helped me avoid the hassle of using an external keyboard or dealing with constant typos. Ultimately, the replacement was a worthwhile investment to keep my MacBook Pro fully functional and enjoyable to use every day.

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 wasn’t as straightforward as just popping a new key on. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you make the right choices for your key replacement.

Understanding the 2016 MacBook Pro Keyboard

First, it’s important to know that the 2016 MacBook Pro uses the butterfly mechanism keys, which are different from traditional scissor-switch keys. This design is thinner but more fragile, meaning replacement keys are often more delicate and sometimes tricky to install without the right parts.

Identifying the Key You Need

Before buying anything, I carefully checked which key was damaged. Is it just the keycap, or is the butterfly mechanism underneath also broken? Sometimes just the keycap needs replacing, but if the mechanism is damaged, you’ll need a full key assembly or professional repair.

Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Keys

I found two main options: original Apple (OEM) parts and aftermarket replacements. OEM keys are more reliable and fit perfectly but can be expensive and harder to find. Aftermarket keys are cheaper and more readily available but vary in quality. I personally opted for an OEM key for durability.

Tools and Accessories Required

Replacing a key isn’t just about the key itself. I had to get a few tools: a small flat pry tool or spudger to safely remove the old keycap, tweezers for handling tiny parts, and sometimes a magnifying glass for precision. Some replacement kits come with these tools included, which is a big help.

Where to Buy Replacement Keys

I purchased my key from reputable sellers on platforms like iFixit and Amazon. iFixit also offers detailed guides and videos which helped me a lot. Avoid random sellers with poor reviews; quality and compatibility matter a lot.

Considering Professional Repair vs DIY

If you’re not comfortable with delicate repairs, I recommend considering Apple’s repair service or a certified technician. I tried DIY first because I enjoy fixing things, but if you’re worried about damaging your keyboard further, professional help is worth the cost.

Tips for Installation

When installing, I made sure to be gentle and avoid forcing parts. Aligning the butterfly mechanism correctly is key to making the key function properly. Testing the key after installation before fully pressing it down helped me avoid problems later.

Final Thoughts

Replacing a 2016 MacBook Pro key can be done with patience and the right parts. I learned that investing in quality components and taking your time during installation saves a lot of frustration. Hopefully, my experience helps you confidently tackle your key replacement!

Author Profile

Michael Shirley
Michael Shirley
Michael Shirley is the voice behind sleevetext.com. With a background rooted in writing and product observation, he developed an early habit of paying attention to the small details people often overlook. Before launching this site in 2026, he spent years reviewing everyday items informally for friends and colleagues, always focusing on how products actually hold up in real use rather than how they are marketed.

Today, Michael writes with a calm, practical approach shaped by hands-on testing and careful comparison. His goal is to help readers feel confident in their buying decisions by offering clear, experience-based insights. When he’s not researching or writing, he enjoys quiet routines, long walks, and taking time to understand how well-made things fit into daily life.