2016 keyboard - different keys, different clicks/noise

[triumph71]

I picked up a 2016 13" stock non-TB matchbook pro, and while I don't really mind the keyboard I'm definitely noticing that different keys have a distinct different feel and sound. For example if I repeatedly hit the "q" and "w" key like so: "wqwqwqwqwqwqwqwqwq", it's quite loud and quick clicking (stiffer). while the other side the of the keyboard "o" and "p" producing: "opopopopopopopop" is much quieter less clicky feeling (less stiff).

I'm not sure if I have different switches, or if this is something that settles in with time. All the keys seem to have a varying degree of loudness and clickiness, just wandering if this is normal for this keyboard or just my machine.

 

[mortenandersen]

IMO, you report a state of affairs about the keyboard that is worrying me. It maybe lack of QC by Apple? I hope users will share their experiences on this matter in this thread. So far, none has done so, and I think that is rather strange...

 

[vpro]

first world early adopter problems... best to buy around June or later... they're not going to update design for another 4 years. worth the wait for the mid 2017 models when they iron out all the strange stuff

 

[dark_mark]

I picked up a 2016 13" stock non-TB matchbook pro, and while I don't really mind the keyboard I'm definitely noticing that different keys have a distinct different feel and sound. For example if I repeatedly hit the "q" and "w" key like so: "wqwqwqwqwqwqwqwqwq", it's quite loud and quick clicking (stiffer). while the other side the of the keyboard "o" and "p" producing: "opopopopopopopop" is much quieter less clicky feeling (less stiff).

I'm not sure if I have different switches, or if this is something that settles in with time. All the keys seem to have a varying degree of loudness and clickiness, just wandering if this is normal for this keyboard or just my machine.

Same on my 15. Right shift key is noticeably louder and stiffer than the rest

 

[Rkuda]

I picked up a 2016 13" stock non-TB matchbook pro, and while I don't really mind the keyboard I'm definitely noticing that different keys have a distinct different feel and sound. For example if I repeatedly hit the "q" and "w" key like so: "wqwqwqwqwqwqwqwqwq", it's quite loud and quick clicking (stiffer). while the other side the of the keyboard "o" and "p" producing: "opopopopopopopop" is much quieter less clicky feeling (less stiff).

I'm not sure if I have different switches, or if this is something that settles in with time. All the keys seem to have a varying degree of loudness and clickiness, just wandering if this is normal for this keyboard or just my machine.

I think they keyboard will make different sounds based on whats in the chassis at that spot. Different size key caps will also produce different acoustics. If you press the keys slowly they don't really feel that different from each other.

 

[James.K.Polk]

I remember this being an issue when the 12" MB came out; keyboard issues where keys did not click entirely, or registered double-presses.

 

[maflynn]

I remember this being an issue when the 12" MB came out; keyboard issues where keys did not click entirely, or registered double-presses.

Agreed, there were a number of threads in the macbook forums about butterfly keyboards failing or not working right - at least early on in the product's release. That seemed to have quieted down, but sadly it looks like those early woes are plaguing the MBPs

 

[zhenya]

I had some issues with my rMB in the first months after I got it but I never had the keyboard replaced or repaired, and those issues seem to have eventually settled down on their own. Keys are much more consistent now, after 18 months of use.

 

[koenigsegg1]

I have a 15" with an issue where the "Z" key becomes extra loud and clicky to the point where it almost feels like it's sticking even though key presses still register. I can reproduce the issue by running apps that cause the dGPU to kick in. My theory is that the GPU itself or some related component heats up right below that key and creates a hot spot that affects the switch somehow.

I'm curious if anyone else notices differences in the keyboard feel based on how warm the machine is.

I have an appointment at the Apple Store today so I'll see what they say.

 

[arbitrage]

So far on my 2016 I don't notice much difference but I have to warn others that on my 12"rMB when the keys start sounding different it is usually dust under them and soon they loose their travel and it gets really annoying. Apple even has a support page about it and advises yoga for the laptop while blowing air at the keyboard. I'm worried about the new keys as well. I don't mind the noise and travel and the 2016 is better than the rMB but I'm most worried about the keys getting stuck as they continue to do on the rMB.

 

[triumph71]

Thanks for you replies! I don' think the Laptop Yoga solution regarding dust could be the issue in this case, as this laptop is literally a day old. The general lack of quality trend is disappointing though.

@koenigsegg1 please let us know how your appointment goes...

 

[Beau10]

[Delete]

 

[koenigsegg1]

@koenigsegg1 please let us know how your appointment goes...

Sure - Just got done with my appointment. Was able to reproduce the issue by launching a game and my DAW. The rep was very understanding and told me the best option would be to just return it and get a new one... unfortunately they only had silver and not the space grey model that I have ($2799 stock config / 455 graphics).

He put in a repair ticket noting the issue and I went ahead and ordered a BTO with the upgraded 460 that should arrive well before the holiday return period expires. Disappointed that I didn't leave with a fix but glad that I won't have to go computerless.

Outside of this issue, I actually enjoy everything about this machine, including the keyboard. I'm hoping the new one is rock solid!