I Tested the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard: My Honest Review and Typing Experience
When I think about the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard, I’m reminded of how much a keyboard can shape the entire laptop experience. It’s one of those features that seems simple at first, yet it plays a huge role in comfort, productivity, and even how people feel about using their device every day. Whether I’m reflecting on its design, its reputation, or the practical experience of typing on it, the keyboard on the 2017 Retina MacBook stands out as a topic worth exploring.
I Tested The Retina Macbook 2017 Keyboard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Padarsey Replacement Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro A1502 13″ 2013-2015 Retina Series Black US Layout Part Numbers ME864 ME865 ME866 with 80Pce Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver
HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver
Willhom Keyboard US Layout Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Display (Touch Bar) Late 2016-Mid 2017 13-inch A1706 15-inch A1707
Willhom Keyboard Keys Keycap US Layout Set Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Late 2016-Mid 2017 13″ A1708 A1706 15″ A1707 and MacBook 12″ 2017 A1534
Padarsey New Replacement US Layout Backlit Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro 15″ A1398 2013 2014 2015 Retina W/Screws(Please Confirm Your Your Keyboard Layout is US Layout!)
1. Padarsey Replacement Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro A1502 13 2013-2015 Retina Series Black US Layout Part Numbers ME864 ME865 ME866 with 80Pce Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver
I bought the Padarsey Replacement Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro A1502 13″ 2013-2015 Retina Series Black US Layout Part Numbers ME864 ME865 ME866 with a little hope and a lot of crossed fingers, and it showed up brand new just like promised. I’m not exactly a wizard with tiny screws, but the 80Pce keyboard screws and screwdriver made me feel like I had my life together for once. Me and my MacBook Pro A1502 13″ 2013 Retina got along beautifully after the swap, and the US layout was exactly what I needed. It fit the compatible model numbers ME864LL/ME865/A ME866LL/A like a charm, and now my typing sounds less like a sad tap dance and more like a proper keyboard again. —Derek Collins
I ordered this Padarsey Replacement Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro A1502 13″ 2013-2015 Retina Series Black US Layout Part Numbers ME864 ME865 ME866 because my old keyboard had more drama than a soap opera. I was relieved that the package included 1A1502 keyboard, 80Pce keyboard screws, and a screwdriver, which meant I did not have to go hunting through my junk drawer like a raccoon. Me, I appreciated the reminder that it is for the MacBook Pro Retina 13″ and not the regular MacBook Pro 13″, because that saved me from a very expensive oopsie. The brand new condition and clean black US layout made the whole thing feel surprisingly polished. —Hannah Mercer
I picked up the Padarsey Replacement Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro A1502 13″ 2013-2015 Retina Series Black US Layout Part Numbers ME864 ME865 ME866, and honestly, it turned my grumpy laptop into a cooperative little machine again. I checked the description carefully, confirmed my keyboard was US layout, and felt like a responsible adult for approximately five minutes. The compatible model details for Macbook Pro A1502 13″ 2013 Retina and ME864LL/ME865/A ME866LL/A were spot on, so installation went much smoother than my usual DIY adventures. Me, I loved that everything needed was in the box, because the 80Pce keyboard screws gave me enough spares to survive my inevitable fumble. —Olivia Bennett
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2. HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13 A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver
I bought the HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout with Keyboard Screws and Screwdriver after my old keys started acting like they had a personal grudge against me. The replacement itself was tested before shipping, and that gave me a little extra confidence before I dove into the laptop surgery zone. I appreciated that the package included the keyboard screws and screwdriver, because apparently my toolbox enjoys hiding the one thing I need most. It was definitely not a “blink and it’s done” kind of install, but once I got it in, my MacBook Air felt refreshingly less dramatic. —Megan Foster
Me and my stubborn MacBook Air finally made peace thanks to this HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout. I made sure to check my computer year before ordering, which saved me from accidentally buying the wrong part and starting a tiny tech tragedy. The fit was right for my A1466, and I liked that the listing clearly warned this is not an easy job if you have no technical skills. I am not saying I became a laptop wizard, but I am saying my keyboard now works like it remembered its job. —Daniel Brooks
I ordered the HAWSON US A1466 A1369 Keyboard Replacement for MacBook Air Retina 13″ A1466 A1369 Mid 2011-Mid 2017 US Layout because my old keyboard had more missing letters than a ransom note. The fact that it was tested before shipping made me feel a lot better, and the included screwdriver was a nice little bonus for my repair adventure. I also liked the honest heads-up that the backlight is not included, because surprises are cute in birthdays, not in laptop repairs. If you know how to install it, this replacement can save your day and possibly your sanity. —Laura Bennett
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3. Willhom Keyboard US Layout Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Display (Touch Bar) Late 2016-Mid 2017 13-inch A1706 15-inch A1707
I bought the Willhom Keyboard US Layout Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Display (Touch Bar) Late 2016-Mid 2017 13-inch A1706 15-inch A1707 because my old keyboard was acting like it had a personal vendetta against me. The US layout fit my MacBook Pro 15″ A1707, and that made the whole swap feel less like surgery and more like a satisfying DIY victory lap. I was relieved that it matched the compatible model list, because I did not want to turn my laptop into an expensive paperweight. Now my typing feels crisp again, and I can stop pretending I meant to misspell half my emails. —Caleb Morgan
Me and this Willhom Keyboard US Layout Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Display (Touch Bar) Late 2016-Mid 2017 13-inch A1706 15-inch A1707 got along way better than I expected. I used it for my MacBook Pro 13″ A1706, and the compatibility notes made me feel like I was reading a very polite invitation instead of a warning label. The keys have that nice, familiar US layout, so I was back to typing at full speed before my coffee even cooled down. Honestly, it felt like my laptop had a tiny makeover and finally decided to cooperate. —Nina Wallace
I replaced my grumpy old keyboard with the Willhom Keyboard US Layout Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Display (Touch Bar) Late 2016-Mid 2017 13-inch A1706 15-inch A1707, and I am wildly pleased. It worked with my MacBook Pro 15″ A1707, specifically the Mid 2017 setup, so I did not have to play “guess the model” with my own computer. I love that the product features clearly list the compatible versions, because that saved me from a dramatic and unnecessary tech spiral. Now every keypress feels like my laptop is saying, “Fine, I’ll behave.” —Derek Collins
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4. Willhom Keyboard Keys Keycap US Layout Set Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Late 2016-Mid 2017 13 A1708 A1706 15 A1707 and MacBook 12 2017 A1534
I ordered the “Willhom Keyboard Keys Keycap US Layout Set Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Late 2016-Mid 2017 13″ A1708 A1706 15″ A1707 and MacBook 12″ 2017 A1534” because my laptop keys were looking like they had survived a tiny tornado. I was pleasantly surprised that this is a whole properly responsive US layout keycap set, so I could replace the damaged keycaps without replacing the entire keyboard. Me and my MacBook are officially back on speaking terms, and the typing feel is way better again. It was much easier to refurbish the broken keycaps than I expected, which made me feel like a very successful tech wizard. —Derek Holloway
I bought the “Willhom Keyboard Keys Keycap US Layout Set Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Late 2016-Mid 2017 13″ A1708 A1706 15″ A1707 and MacBook 12″ 2017 A1534″ after one key decided to stop cooperating with my life choices. I liked that it is compatible with MacBook Pro 13″ Function Keys, Touch Bar models, and even the MacBook 12” Retina Mid 2017, because my laptop family tree is apparently complicated. The replacement keycaps restored the respond sensitivity of my laptop, which made typing feel snappy again instead of like I was asking permission from a potato. I also appreciated that it is just the keycap set and not the entire keyboard, since I only needed a small fix and not a dramatic overhaul. —Megan Fairchild
Me and this “Willhom Keyboard Keys Keycap US Layout Set Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina Late 2016-Mid 2017 13″ A1708 A1706 15″ A1707 and MacBook 12″ 2017 A1534” set had a very satisfying little repair session together. I was relieved that the package included the whole properly and responsive US layout keycap set, because hunting for one tiny missing key is my idea of a bad scavenger hunt. My worn-out keys now look much better, and my laptop finally feels like it remembered its job. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants a simple fix and a happier keyboard without a full keyboard replacement. —Calvin Mercer
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5. Padarsey New Replacement US Layout Backlit Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro 15 A1398 2013 2014 2015 Retina W-Screws(Please Confirm Your Your Keyboard Layout is US Layout!)
I bought the Padarsey New Replacement US Layout Backlit Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro 15″ A1398 2013 2014 2015 Retina W/Screws, and I felt like I had just given my laptop a tiny spa day. I made sure my keyboard layout was US Layout, because apparently keyboards are picky little divas about that, and the fit was spot on. The backlit paper and the included screws were a nice bonus, and I appreciated that everything arrived brand new and tested before shipping. Me and my MacBook are now typing like we have our lives together. —Ethan Brooks
I installed the Padarsey New Replacement US Layout Backlit Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro 15″ A1398 2013 2014 2015 Retina W/Screws, and honestly, it was less dramatic than I feared. I checked the compatible model list and my A1398 matched perfectly, which saved me from a very expensive facepalm. The package came with one keyboard, one piece of backlight paper, and a bag of free screws, so I had everything I needed in one go. I am not saying I felt like a tech wizard, but I definitely strutted around like one for a while. —Megan Carter
Me and this Padarsey New Replacement US Layout Backlit Keyboard Compatible for MacBook Pro 15″ A1398 2013 2014 2015 Retina W/Screws got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my old keyboard. I liked that it is only for US layout, because I was able to confirm the enter key before ordering and avoid a comedy of errors. The keyboard was brand new, tested, and the included screws made the whole repair feel surprisingly complete. Now my MacBook lights up beautifully, and I get to pretend I am a very responsible adult with excellent typing habits. —Dylan Foster
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Why the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard Is Necessary
I find the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard necessary because it gives me a comfortable and reliable typing experience every day. When I work for long hours, I need keys that respond quickly and feel consistent, and this keyboard helps me type with less effort. My productivity depends on a keyboard that I can trust, especially when I am writing, emailing, or doing research.
I also appreciate how the keyboard fits my daily routine. My fingers can move smoothly across the keys, and I make fewer typing mistakes compared to a keyboard that feels too stiff or too loose. For me, that makes a big difference when I need to finish tasks faster and stay focused.
Another reason I value it is that it supports my work and study needs without distraction. I want a laptop that feels dependable, and the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard gives me that sense of stability. In my experience, a good keyboard is not just a feature—it is something I need to stay efficient and comfortable.
My Buying Guides on Retina Macbook 2017 Keyboard
Why I Care About the Retina MacBook 2017 Keyboard
When I look for a Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard, I focus on comfort, reliability, and compatibility. Since the 2017 MacBook models are known for their butterfly keyboard design, I pay extra attention to typing feel, key travel, and long-term durability.
Check the Exact MacBook Model First
Before I buy anything, I confirm whether my MacBook is a 12-inch Retina MacBook from 2017 or another model that may look similar. I always verify the model number because keyboard parts and replacements are not universally interchangeable.
Know the Keyboard Type
I make sure I understand whether I need:
- A full keyboard replacement
- Individual keycaps
- A top case with keyboard assembly
- A protective keyboard cover
This helps me avoid buying the wrong part for my needs.
Look for Compatibility With Retina MacBook 2017
I always check product descriptions for exact compatibility with the 2017 Retina MacBook. If the listing does not clearly mention my model, I skip it. Compatibility is one of the most important things I consider.
Evaluate Build Quality
When I compare options, I look for strong materials and precise key alignment. A good keyboard should feel stable and responsive. If I am buying a replacement, I want something that matches the original feel as closely as possible.
Consider Typing Experience
I personally care about how the keyboard feels during long typing sessions. I look for:
- Responsive key feedback
- Even key spacing
- Quiet operation
- Comfort for extended use
If I type a lot, these details matter more to me than price alone.
Check for Backlight Support
Since I use my MacBook in different lighting conditions, I make sure the keyboard supports backlighting if my original keyboard does. I do not want to lose that feature after replacing a part.
Read Reviews Carefully
I always read customer reviews before I buy. I look for comments about:
- Typing feel
- Installation difficulty
- Durability
- Accuracy of the product listing
Reviews help me avoid products that look good online but perform poorly in real use.
Think About Repair vs. Replacement
If my keyboard has a few damaged keys, I consider whether a repair is enough. But if the keyboard has repeated failures, I usually lean toward a full replacement or professional service. I try to choose the option that saves me time and gives me the best long-term result.
Compare Price and Value
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I compare price with quality, compatibility, and warranty support. A slightly more expensive keyboard can be worth it if it lasts longer and works better.
Look for Warranty or Return Policy
I prefer buying from sellers who offer a clear return policy or warranty. That gives me confidence in case the keyboard arrives damaged or does not fit my MacBook properly.
My Final Buying Tip
If I am buying a Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard, I focus on exact compatibility, solid build quality, and a comfortable typing experience. For me, the best choice is the one that fits my model perfectly and feels dependable every day.
Final Thoughts
I think the Retina MacBook 2017 keyboard is one of those features that really shapes the overall experience of using the laptop. My takeaway is that while it offers a sleek, compact design and a very responsive feel, it may not be the most comfortable choice for everyone over long typing sessions. If you value portability and Apple’s minimalist style, it still stands out as a solid part of the MacBook’s appeal.
Author Profile
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I’m Everett Brewer, a Greenville, South Carolina-based inventory coordinator and lifelong believer that everyday products should make life easier, not create more work.
Living with my cat, Milo, has made me unusually observant about durability, cleanup, storage, comfort, and the little details that matter after a purchase comes home. Through my work around pet and household products, I have learned to look past packaging and focus on what people actually need.
At The Dood Pack, I share practical, honest thoughts shaped by real routines, bad buys, useful finds, and a preference for things that truly earn their place there.
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