Do MBP keycaps surface change the color and texture over time?

[hajime]

Hi, I suppose Apple uses the same materials to make the MBP 16" 2019 keycaps as the ones used to make the butterfly keyboard. Over time, do the keycaps discolor or have the texture changed? On my MBP 2010 17", they keys still look and feel the same.

 

[Akrapovic]

Hi, I suppose Apple uses the same materials to make the MBP 16" 2019 keycaps as the ones used to make the butterfly keyboard. Over time, do the keycaps discolor or have the texture changed? On my MBP 2010 17", they keys still look and feel the same.

Can I ask this too, but add an additional question - the keys are backlit. Does the plastic black scratch off overtime? I've had a Logitech keyboard that was backlit and the black paint scratched off the keys slowly. I seem to clip the keys with my nails more than I'd like, so worried I'll destroy my keyboard slowly! 2019 13inch here.

 

[Sanpete]

The paint on my 2016 15" A, E, and S keys has worn off, allowing the backlight, which I keep at the lowest level, to come through.

 

[PROFESS0R]

Yes. The keys will change color and texture over time, assuming of course you type using them.

 

[hajime]

Yes. The keys will change color and texture over time, assuming of course you type using them.

Thanks. Is it better to get a keyboard cover?

As I recall, it was not recommended to use keyboard cover for butterfly models due to low tolerance. Withthe slight change, I wonder if it is advisable to use one on the magic keyboard.

 

[Akrapovic]

Thanks. Is it better to get a keyboard cover?

As I recall, it was not recommended to use keyboard cover for butterfly models due to low tolerance. Withthe slight change, I wonder if it is advisable to use one on the magic keyboard.

I had a keyboard cover for a while, and it typed fine. However the cover would touch the screen when the laptop was closed and it left a very obvious pattern on it.

 

[leman]

Yes, I’ve noticed discoloration on the units I use. Also trackpad. I guess there are multiple factors: your skin oil, hand cream you use, ambient moisture etc...

 

[Hankster]

Yes, the letters used most often will fade slightly. It also depends on how you type. I press the A in an odd position and it always fades fastest. I've had Apple laptops for ten years.

 

[PROFESS0R]

Honestly, if it were me, I would live with the minor changes and embrace them as part of your computer growing old and getting character. Assuming you touch type and do not need to know the actual letters on the top of the keys (not that they are likely to wear off in any normal computer lifespan... my 12 year old MacBook Pro keyboard was slightly worn after virtually daily use), you will be fine.

If you are really worried about it, just get an external keyboard... they are, in my opinion, more comfortable to type on anyway.

Joe

Thanks. Is it better to get a keyboard cover?

As I recall, it was not recommended to use keyboard cover for butterfly models due to low tolerance. Withthe slight change, I wonder if it is advisable to use one on the magic keyboard.