MacBook keyboards are one of the most reliable keyboards on the market, and they rarely cause any issues. But there can be situations when one or two specific keys are creating problems. Instead of replacing the whole keyboard, you can easily replace these particular keys. However, you will need to think about the MacBook key replacement cost.
If you have AppleCare+ or your Mac keyboard has been broken owing to Apple, you may get it changed for free at an Apple Store. If you do not fit into this category, replacing the whole keyboard can cost anything from $300 to $800. But, replacing only one or two keys should cost much less.
Thus, if you are looking for a replacement cost for MacBook keys, you are in the right place. We will discuss everything you need to know about this below.
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- MacBook keyboards are one of the most reliable keyboards. Nonetheless, sometimes one or two keys can get damaged.
- You can fix your MacBook keys for free if you are part of the AppleCare+ program.
- Replacement MacBook keyboard keys are available in third-party shops and online stores for roughly around $5.
- If you visit any third-party repair shop fixing Macbook keys can cost anywhere between $100-$150.
Can You Replace Key On A Macbook?
You may either replace the entire keyboard or an individual key on your MacBook’s keyboard. You may also change a key by ejecting the old one and putting in a new one using a thermoplastic. MacBook keys are reasonably simple to disassemble, but you must use extreme caution to avoid destroying your Mac’s keyboard.
The keyboard of a MacBook is attached below to the top right case unit. It implies that almost all elements have to be removed in replacing the keyboard. A pair of precise Phillips and Torx screwdrivers are required.
Where To Buy Replacement Keys For Mac?
Replacement keys for Mac are relatively easy to find. But, Apple doesn’t sell any single replacement keys for Mac; they only sell the whole keyboard. However, you may have it mended at an Apple shop near you. But, you can find them easily from Third-party shops.
Moreover, they are also available online stores like amazon, Ubuy, AliExpress, etc. But before you buy replacement keys or a keyboard for MacBook, there are many things that you need to look at.
Even though Apple developed numerous models of the MacBook, due to business strategy and logistical reasons, Apple outsourced the keyboards to multiple keyboard manufacturers over the years, and since each manufacturing process does have its own versions of the keyboard, there really are different variations of the plastic hinge clip underneath the keycap.
The Latest Generation Of Macbook 2020-2021
The current generation of the latest models of MacBook from 2020-2021 uses a magic keyboard which was a replacement for the previous butterfly keyboard.
MacBook 2016-2018
MacBook from 2016-to 2018 used a butterfly keyboard, and it uses a mechanism like the one shown below.
MacBook 2011-2015
The following hinge clip is used on Apple MacBook with black keyboards from 2011 to 2015, which was before on MacBook Pros with butterfly clips.
Macbook 2008-2011 (early)
You will find the following hinges from the 2008-2011 models.
- AC01 Hinge Clip
- AC05 Hinge Clip
- AC08 Hinge Clip
Have A Look: How Much Does It Cost To Fix a MacBook Screen?
How Much Does It Cost To Replace The Keys On A Macbook?
You can either replace the keys on MacBook by yourself. You will need to buy the keys and fix them yourself. This process will cost you really less, and you can find replacement keys for around $5 in the third-party shops. This is for the cost only with no other additional cost.
If you want to replace the keys on a MacBook, follow the steps below.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or a silicone probe; we like Philips or Torx screws.
- Slip the flathead screwdriver under the defective key to remove the key mechanism. The mechanics of the key emerges.
- Disconnect the mechanism using the same tool to separate this from the button.
- Reassemble the mechanism by carefully positioning the pins
- Finally, carefully push the new key into place in the mechanism. It will be joined to the mechanism after you feel it snap.
However, if you can’t replace the keys by yourself, you need to visit a professional repair shop, and here the cost calculation becomes different.
| Repair Type | Replacement Cost |
| AppleCare+ | $299 service fee to repair damages |
| Authorized Apple Repair Shop | $300-$800 |
| Third-party Repair Shop | $100-$150+ |
| Repair by Yourself | Each key around $5 |
Conclusion
MacBook keyboards can get damaged due to reasons like water spillage, dust, and many others. So, when it comes to Mac keyboards, you can easily replace the faulty key instead of the whole keyboard. But, one thing to keep in mind is the MacBook key replacement cost.
You have various options to repair the keys; you can either do it yourself or take it to a professional technician. The cost varies according to the type of repair which we discussed above.
But if you decide to do it yourself, make sure to get your hands on the proper tools and read all the steps, as a slight wrong step can permanently damage the whole keyboard beyond repair.