Physically switching keyboard layout on new macs

Cydoimos wrote:

Can’t it be switched like a broken keyboard by a repair shop or in an Apple store?

In theory sure, but to find out whether such a service is available where you live for the keyboard you want and what the cost might be you need to contact Apple stores or service centers directly yourself. Nobody in these forums has such info.

As for changing languages, you can change the mapping via system settings to any of the ones listed at

macOS - Feature Availability - Apple

But as for buying different keys to fit your particular machine, you will have to search the internet for that, Apple does not sell them. Most people would probably try to use a skin/keyboard cover for the new language rather than try to remove/replace keys.

On whole better to find some way to buy a machine with the keyboard you want rather than rely on possibly changing it later.

Thanks for the clarification. I guess then it’s a question of whether a local shop will switch the keyboard for a price low enough to save you some money over buying a new or used French keyboard machine. Have you checked Apple’s refurbished site? I’ve always had good experiences with the us one.

Mac reconditionné - MacBook Air - Apple (FR)

No, it is not possible to physically change the keyboard on any Apple MacBook. The keyboards Apple offers is for desktop machines, not laptops. You can, of course, purchase one of those keyboards and use it instead of the built-in keyboard.

PS Where are you located and which language keyboard do you want to have?