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Can MacBook Pro keyboard covers damage a nano-texture screen?

With my MacBook Pro M1 Max, I used a MOSISO keyboard plastic/rubber cover to protect the screen from keyboard marks which I got on previous MacBook Pros. It has worked fine since in all the years I have had it the screen is still as I bought it in 2021.

Can I do the same with the nano-texture matte screen with my newly purchased MacBook Pro M4 Max?





[Re-Titled by Moderator]

MacBook Pro (M4)

Posted on Nov 14, 2024 6:36 AM

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Posted on Nov 14, 2024 7:05 AM

Apple has recommended against keyboard covers for years. The space between the keyboard and the screen is almost non-existent. That means putting anything between the two can cause damage, up to and including a cracked screen. Second, they can interfere with heat dissipation.


The best way to avoid keyboard marks on the screen is to keep the keys clean so as to prevent the problem. Wash your hands before using the computer. Don't use lotion on your hands before using the keyboard. Don't eat while using it. And wipe the keyboard off with a soft cloth when you're done. Also, don't touch the screen.

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Nov 14, 2024 7:05 AM in response to Daniel Cilia1

Apple has recommended against keyboard covers for years. The space between the keyboard and the screen is almost non-existent. That means putting anything between the two can cause damage, up to and including a cracked screen. Second, they can interfere with heat dissipation.


The best way to avoid keyboard marks on the screen is to keep the keys clean so as to prevent the problem. Wash your hands before using the computer. Don't use lotion on your hands before using the keyboard. Don't eat while using it. And wipe the keyboard off with a soft cloth when you're done. Also, don't touch the screen.

Nov 14, 2024 8:47 AM in response to IdrisSeabright

In three years of regular use, the keyboard cover has never caused me any issues, and the screen remains as good as new. My concern now lies in using it with the new nano-texture screen. I have an M4 iPad Pro 13 with a nano-texture screen, which came with a polishing cloth as did the MacBook Pro M4 Max (which arrived today).


Given that the nano-texture iPad screen has proven to be more prone to scratches, I’m worried that over time, the keyboard may mark the screen, as it did with my previous 2018 MacBook Pro, as shown in the attached photo. These are scratches that don’t disappear with cleaning. Apologies for the photo quality—it’s not easy to capture scratches on such a reflective screen.


I want to keep my €9000 investment in pristine shape.



Nov 14, 2024 9:08 AM in response to Daniel Cilia1

Daniel Cilia1 wrote:

In three years of regular use, the keyboard cover has never caused me any issues, and the screen remains as good as new.

So, you been lucky. Glad to hear it.

Given that the nano-texture iPad screen has proven to be more prone to scratches, I’m worried that over time, the keyboard may mark the screen,

The keyboard leaves marks because it touches the screen. Add a keyboard cover and it's pressed even harder against the screen.


I've never had a keyboard scratch the screen. But I make sure that, before closing, nothing has landed on the keyboard. Especially after the unfortunate over-ripe raspberry incident. Keep the keyboard clean. Don't get overzealous with "polishing" the screen.

I want to keep my €9000 investment in pristine shape.

It's not really an investment. It will almost certainly not increase in value at any point before you need to replace it.


I've let you know some of the risks. Only you can decide what to do. I think keyboard covers are a bad idea.

Nov 14, 2024 11:41 AM in response to IdrisSeabright

To me, it's an investment mostly in time not money because I use it 100% for my photography and book design work and any time I save is most welcome. Money is replaceable, time is not.


OK I will take your advice and will not consider a keyboard cover with the MacBook Pro M4 Max nanotexture screen. I hated the keyboard cover when I was working anyhow. The touch of Apple's keyboard is so much nicer.


Thanks to all for the suggestions.

Can MacBook Pro keyboard covers damage a nano-texture screen?

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