Replacing a MacBook keyboard: from a foreign layout to Dutch QWERTY
At iMac and More we regularly receive MacBooks that originally came from abroad — think of MacBooks with a German, Swedish or French keyboard. Buying internationally lets us source great used MacBooks, but before one of these reaches a Dutch customer, we naturally want the keyboard to be right as well.
That's why we fit these MacBooks with the Dutch QWERTY layout we're used to here. And since the keys come off anyway, we take the opportunity to do the job properly: we also clean the section underneath the keys.
Why do we remove the MacBook keys one by one?
When converting a foreign-language keyboard, we remove the keys one by one. Under each key sits a small hinge mechanism. By removing the keys individually, we can access this mechanism without having to take the entire MacBook apart.
That has another advantage too. Once the keys are removed, we finally get a clear view of just how much dust, hair and other debris can build up under a keyboard over time.
With a thin tool we gently lift each key free, keeping the hinge underneath intact. On this MacBook Pro you can clearly see how worn the printing can become after years of use.
Not just for MacBooks from abroad
We don't only do this for MacBooks we source from abroad ourselves. After years of use, MacBook keys can wear noticeably: letters become less visible, the surface of the keys starts to shine, and sometimes a key gets damaged.
If the keyboard itself still works properly and only the keys are worn, it's often unnecessary to replace the entire keyboard. We can simply replace the worn keys on their own. If something more serious is going on — for example keys that no longer respond — we first look at a full MacBook keyboard repair.
For customers who visit our workshop in Doorn, replacing just the keys can often be done while you wait, in around 15 minutes. That 15 minutes applies to replacing the keys themselves, when the underlying keyboard is technically sound — not to every keyboard repair.
Everything under the keys gets a thorough clean
Once the keys are removed, we have direct access to a part that's normally almost impossible to reach. Dust, hair, crumbs and other debris can accumulate under the keys for years. That's why we carefully clean this area before fitting the new keys.
It's a relatively small detail in refurbishing a MacBook, but one we consider important. If we want to hand over a tidy MacBook, it shouldn't just look clean on the outside.
From a foreign layout to Dutch QWERTY
After the keyboard has been cleaned, we fit the correct keys. This turns a German, Swedish or French version, for example, back into a MacBook with the Dutch QWERTY layout our customers are used to.
We do this on virtually all common MacBook models, from older Intel machines to the newest generations of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.
The end result is a MacBook that's not only been technically checked, but also has a keyboard that's clean, tidy and suited to everyday use in the Netherlands.
Why we pay so much attention to this
You use a keyboard every single day. That's exactly why we feel this part of a refurbished MacBook shouldn't be skipped.
At iMac and More we work with used and refurbished Apple equipment every day. By carefully checking, cleaning and, where needed, replacing parts or keys, we try to hand over every MacBook to its next owner in as good a state as possible.
A foreign-language keyboard doesn't need to be a problem. Before a MacBook joins our Dutch range, we make sure the keyboard layout is suitable for the Dutch user.
Worn MacBook keys yourself, or looking for a MacBook?
Have your MacBook keys replaced
Are the keys on your MacBook worn, damaged or in need of replacement? In many cases we can replace just the keys without taking the whole MacBook apart. To have worn keys replaced, you can visit our workshop in Doorn by appointment. This is often finished within around 15 minutes while you wait.
Request a repairBuy a refurbished MacBook
Looking for a carefully checked MacBook with a keyboard suited to the Dutch user? Take a look at our current range of refurbished MacBooks. Our range is available to customers throughout the Netherlands.
View the current rangeWorkshop in Doorn · Delivery throughout the Netherlands