If your MacBook types "thhe" instead of "the", or a key simply stops responding, you're not alone. Between 2015 and 2019, Apple used a very thin "butterfly" keyboard design on many MacBook models, and it became known for reliability issues. This guide explains which models are affected, why the problems happen, what you can try at home, and what your repair options look like for MacBook butterfly keyboard problems.
Which MacBooks have a butterfly keyboard?
The butterfly mechanism was used on:
- The 12-inch MacBook (2015 to 2017)
- MacBook Pro 13-inch and 15-inch models from 2016 to 2019
- MacBook Air models from 2018 and 2019
The 16-inch MacBook Pro released in late 2019 switched to the newer Magic Keyboard with a scissor mechanism, as did later models. Not sure which Mac you have? See how to find your MacBook model and year.
Common symptoms
- Keys that type twice (repeated letters or double spaces)
- Keys that don't register at all, or only when pressed hard
- Keys that feel sticky, crunchy or uneven
- Keys that feel stuck down and don't spring back
Why it happens
The butterfly design has very little travel and tight tolerances. A tiny crumb or speck of dust under a key can stop it from moving properly or cause a double press. Because the switches are so shallow, there's very little room for debris to fall away.
What you can try at home
Apple's own advice for these keyboards is to use compressed air. Here's a safe way to do it:
- Shut down the MacBook.
- Hold it at about a 75-degree angle, so it's tilted back but not fully vertical.
- Using a can of compressed air with the straw attached, spray the affected keys in a left-to-right motion. Keep the straw about half an inch from the keyboard.
- Rotate the Mac to its right side and repeat, then to its left side and repeat.
- Turn the Mac back on and test the keys in a text document.
Don't try to pry off butterfly keycaps. They're fragile and the clips break easily. For more general keyboard care, see our guide on cleaning a MacBook keyboard and fixing sticky keys.
Software workarounds
If a key repeats occasionally, these can make life easier while you decide what to do:
- Open System Settings > Keyboard on macOS Ventura and later, or System Preferences > Keyboard on older versions.
- Adjust Key repeat rate and Delay until repeat; a longer delay can reduce accidental repeats.
- Consider using an external keyboard at your desk to reduce wear on the built-in one.
Repair options
Apple ran a Keyboard Service Program for butterfly keyboards that covered eligible models for four years after first retail sale. Given the ages of these Macs, most are now outside that window, so you'll want to check your coverage with your serial number on Apple's Check Coverage page.
On these models the keyboard is built into the top case, so a proper fix usually means a keyboard replacement rather than swapping a single key. When a keyboard is badly worn, replacing it gives you a consistent, reliable feel across all the keys again. If the problem started after a spill, mention it, because liquid damage changes the approach.
Need keyboard replacement in Ottawa?
If compressed air doesn't solve it, Fix Revolution can help. We provide MacBook keyboard replacement in Ottawa and Gatineau with pick-up and drop-off at your home or office, and most repairs are completed in 1–2 business days, depending on parts availability. Repairs carry a 90-day parts and labour warranty. Get a free quote or call 613-265-4349.
Quick answers
Which MacBooks have the butterfly keyboard?
The 12-inch MacBook (2015–2017), 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro models from 2016 to 2019, and MacBook Air models from 2018 and 2019.
Can compressed air fix a butterfly keyboard?
Sometimes. Apple recommends spraying the keys at a 75-degree angle in a set pattern to dislodge debris, which fixes many sticky or repeating keys.
Is Apple's keyboard program still active for my Mac?
It covered eligible models for four years after first retail sale, so most are now outside it. Check your serial number on Apple's Check Coverage page.