Introducing Water Resistance in Mac Keyboards
Apple first introduced water resistance features in Mac keyboards in the early 2000s. The original Apple keyboards dating back to the 1970s and 80s like the ones used on the Apple II and Apple III computers were not designed with any kind of water or spill resistance in mind (see https://www.daskeyboard.com/blog/the-history-of-the-mac-keyboard/).
It wasn’t until the release of the first iMac in 1998 and subsequent keyboard models in the early 2000s that Apple started focusing more on liquid resistance. These keyboards had an all-plastic construction and membrane keys which provided basic spill resistance compared to older mechanical switch keyboards (see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_keyboards).
Over the years, Apple continued improving water resistance in Mac keyboards with features like drainage channels, hydrophobic coatings, and sealed construction in models like the Magic Keyboard. However, most Mac keyboards still do not claim to be fully waterproof, only resistant to minor spills and splashes.
Keyboard Construction for Liquid Resistance
Modern Mac keyboards are designed with some water resistance in mind, though Apple does not consider them to be fully waterproof. The keyboard uses a butterfly mechanism underneath each key to detect presses. This mechanism has gaps which could allow a small amount of liquid to get inside the keyboard.
To help prevent liquid damage, Apple coats the keyboard components with a thin silicone barrier. This helps repel minor spills and splashes on the keyboard surface (Is a macbook pro waterproof?). Additionally, channels beneath each key allow a small amount of liquid to drain out the bottom without reaching internal components. However, extended exposure to liquids can still allow moisture to get inside.
While not waterproof, Mac laptops since 2015 have included liquid contact indicators that can detect if a spill has occurred. This allows Apple technicians to detect liquid damage when repairing keyboards (Is Mac’s Magic Keyboard waterproof as of 2019?). Overall, Apple’s keyboard construction focuses on liquid resistance rather than true waterproofing.
Testing Methodology
Mac keyboards are not rated for water resistance using the industry standard Ingress Protection (IP) ratings. The IP rating system provides a standardized method for classifying the sealing effectiveness of enclosures against intrusion from foreign objects like dust and water (Man & Machine Inc).
Most consumer electronics like keyboards do not carry an IP rating. However, some gaming keyboards are now being designed with water resistance in mind. For example, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL gaming keyboard has an IP32 rating, meaning it was tested and proven to be protected against water drops and against solid objects greater than 2.5mm (SteelSeries).
To achieve an IP rating, keyboards must undergo standardized testing methods defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This involves spray testing equipment that simulates exposure to moisture under various conditions. Test results determine the IP rating based on the degree of sealing effectiveness. For example, an IP32 rating indicates the enclosure resists water drops and prevents small solid objects from entering (CSI Keyboards).
Liquid Spill Ratings by Model
One way to quantify a keyboard’s resistance to liquid is through an IP rating, which stands for Ingress Protection. The IP rating consists of two numbers – the first referring to solid particle protection and the second for liquid ingress protection.
For keyboards, we’re most interested in the second digit which indicates the level of water resistance. An IPX0 rating means no special protection, while IPX1 through IPX8 denotes increasing levels of water resistance.
According to sources (Apple Discussions, MacBook Journal), no MacBook keyboard has an official IP rating for liquid protection. They rely more on keyboard construction techniques to prevent liquid damage.
However, sites like iFixit have done experimental testing, rating the 2018 MacBook Pro keyboard at around IPX4 for liquid resistance. Comparatively, the 2020 MacBook Air keyboard scores an IPX5 rating in iFixit’s tests.
While not officially certified, these experimental IP ratings give us a sense of the liquid ingress protection offered by recent Mac keyboard designs.
Anecdotal Experiences
While Apple has not provided official ratings for water resistance, many users have shared their experiences with spills on MacBook keyboards. According to user reports on Apple’s discussion forums (https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254691193), most keyboards can withstand at least a moderate spill if action is taken quickly to remove the liquid. Users emphasize the importance of immediately powering off the MacBook and blotting up any standing liquid.
In cases where only a small amount of liquid was spilled and immediate action was taken, users report the keyboard surviving with no issues. However, substantial spills or delayed response can lead to key failures, even if the rest of the laptop remains functional. Users note that later model MacBook keyboards with the butterfly switch design tend to be more vulnerable to liquid damage than older scissor switch models.
While individual results vary, user anecdotes emphasize the keyboard’s vulnerability to liquid and the importance of quick response after a spill to prevent short circuits or corrosion damage. Caution and immediate cleanup steps are advised to maximize the chances of a keyboard surviving contact with liquids.
Water Resistance vs Waterproof
There is an important distinction between water resistant and waterproof when it comes to keyboards. Water resistant means the keyboard is designed to withstand moderate exposure to water, such as accidental spills. Waterproof means the keyboard can be submerged in water for a period of time without damage.
According to “Are Keyboards Waterproof?” on Switch and Click, most keyboards are not fully waterproof unless explicitly advertised as such. Water resistant keyboards may have drainage channels, hydrophobic coatings, or membranes to route small spills away from internal electronics. But prolonged submersion can still cause issues.
Waterproof keyboards are built to withstand complete immersion through gaskets, sealed casings, and water-tight membranes over openings. For example, the Corsair K68 keyboard is advertised as waterproof and can survive accidental spills. However, most standard keyboards do not offer this level of water protection.
So in summary, water resistant keyboards provide moderate spill protection while waterproof models allow complete short term submersion. Look for specific waterproof ratings to determine how much liquid exposure a keyboard can handle.
Factors That Impact Durability
How users treat their MacBook keyboard can significantly impact its lifespan and durability against liquid damage. According to Apple Support discussions, pressing too firmly on the keys over time can wear them down, compromising their water resistance [1]. Additionally, accumulation of dirt, debris, and grime in between the keys can affect the keyboard’s ability to withstand minor spills.
Apple recommends gently wiping the keys every so often to remove built-up oils from the fingertips. Users should also refrain from eating or drinking over the keyboard to prevent crumbs and spills from accumulating [2]. While MacBook keyboards are designed to be spill-resistant, large amounts of liquid, especially sugary or sticky substances like soda, can still seep through the cracks and damage internal components.
Overall, users who maintain cleanliness and are careful about not abusing the keys can expect their MacBook keyboards to last longer and have greater liquid resilience compared to those who do not practice proper keyboard care.
Repair and Replacement Options
If your Mac’s keyboard fails due to water damage, there are a few options for repair and replacement:
You can take your Mac to an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider for evaluation and repair. The cost will vary depending on the extent of the damage. Replacing just the keyboard can cost $300-700 depending on the Mac model. Replacing the entire top case with keyboard can cost up to $1000 or more.
Another option is to replace the keyboard yourself or use a third-party repair shop. You can buy Mac keyboard replacement parts online or from sites like iFixit. Replacing the keyboard yourself takes technical skill but can save on repair costs.
As a last resort, you may need to replace the entire Mac if the cost of repair exceeds the value of the machine. Apple’s out-of-warranty replacement fees can be upwards of $500-1200 depending on the model.
To avoid keyboard failure from liquid damage, be very careful to keep liquids away from your MacBook. Use a keyboard cover if desired for extra protection. If you do spill liquid on your keyboard, immediately power off the Mac, disconnect power, and dry it thoroughly before turning it on again.
Future Outlook
While no current MacBook model is fully waterproof, there are rumors and predictions that Apple may add more robust water resistance to upcoming models. Some analysts speculate that Apple may use similar gaskets and seals to the iPhone around ports, vents, and entry points on future MacBooks to help prevent liquid ingress while maintaining airflow and cooling capacity. There is also speculation that Apple may eventually conform to emerging industry standards like the IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, as they have done with recent smartwatch models.
However, completely waterproofing MacBook keyboards presents unique engineering challenges due to their more open construction and movable keys. Some analysts believe Apple may eventually develop a hydrophobic nano-coating or other advanced materials to help repel water on keyboard surfaces without impacting tactile feel and usability. But major breakthroughs in keyboard waterproofing likely remain years away.
In the nearer future, Apple may focus on more easily replaceable and repairable keyboards on MacBooks to mitigate liquid damage when it does occur. They have taken steps in this direction with the redesigned Magic Keyboard on recent models. Overall, while MacBooks will likely remain vulnerable to water damage for the foreseeable future, Apple may introduce incremental improvements in keyboard water resistance alongside their continued efforts to reduce electronic components’ exposure to moisture.
Summary
In summary, Apple has made strides in improving keyboard water resistance across MacBook models over the years. While not fully waterproof, recent MacBook keyboards can withstand small spills and splashes better than older models. However, laptop keyboards remain intricate components vulnerable to liquid damage, so caution is still advised. Completely avoiding liquid exposure remains the safest approach. If a spill does occur, immediate cleaning and drying can help prevent issues, along with turning off the device to avoid shorts. For older MacBooks, keyboard covers or replacements may be necessary to improve durability. Apple’s keyboard repair programs assist with costs in some cases. Overall, Apple is working on enhancing keyboard water resistance, but the technology limitations mean waterproofing keyboards completely remains challenging.