Do NOT Buy These Common MacBook Accessories! (Hard Shell Case, Webcam Cover, Keyboard Cover)
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This is my MacBook Pro and for today I have added three super common accessories that claim to protect your Mac but instead actually can cause serious damage over the long run. I am talking about a hard shell case, webcam cover and keyboard cover. In this video I will go over each accessory, share what you should think twice before using it and finally see if there are any better alternatives. Trust me if you have a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, newer or older model, this video is worth a watch!
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Thank you for watching, let me know if you have any questions, take care.
Dion Schuddeboom
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What accessories for your MacBook do you use?
windows 10
I just use the sleeve for protect my MacBook
tech21 case for my macbook air and I have zero issues.
Is a screen protector ok to use?
lol, why do you shill for that big webcam? it weighs significantly more than the case.
that little webcam, will also put extra stress on the hinges.....oh wait, but you're sponsored by it, so its ok i guess lol
Lmfaooo
I definitely agree but to be devils advocate, you won't have the camera on the hinge all the time like you would a hard case. Probably will still stress the hinge over time but probably would take longer.
lol not to mention Apple literally worked with Belkin to make a MagSafe phone clip so you can hang your phone off the top of your MacBook screen to use Continuity Camera to use the iPhone cameras in FaceTime, etc. No excess stress on the hinge with a huge iPhone 15 Pro Max hanging off the back of the display for extended periods of times! Apple also sell the 'incase' hard shell cases in Apple Stores, they're perfectly safe to use. The keyboard and webcam cover are indeed dumb though but always have been.
@@N-VAMusicexactly and you can keep the lid open at a certain angle that won’t cause the strain on the hinge as long as it stays in that position.
hahahaha long life capitalism
That camera clipped to the MacBook looks much heavier than the hard shell cover top. Won't it damage the hinge even more?
he's sponsored by it, so it's ok apparently lol
This is exactly what I thought, he contradicted his own argument with the webcam.
@@VamosPaPRHe’s been awfully quiet on this issue 😂.
La diferencia es que la cámara no la usas todo el tiempo y si la usas, pones la pantalla en una posición ya definida, lo que afectaría a la bisagra
@@christianjosue47 The problem is the weight/pressure is concentrated on a small area. If you accidentally bump the camera with your hand it can crack the delicate screen. The display is not designed for this type of use.
We don't worry about keyboards breaking; it's all about the greasy look the new keyboard gets after a while. You can remove the keyboard cover when you close your MacBook, and that's it. New MB Pros do not take air in from their keyboards. Using a keyboard cover only when typing will keep the look of your MacBook keyboard fresh.
Otro problema es que el uso de esos protectores puede dañar el recorrido de las teclas
@@christianjosue47Damage key travel or limit key travel? My understanding is that it changes the typing feel. But I have never heard of it causing damage or injury to the keys / keyboards themselves. Can you clarify?
@@elitetteh They would not have the same sensitivity, you may type and it will not be written
It’s literally ugly with a keyboard cover. Can you just use your macbook normally and put it in a sleeve when you don’t use it/carry it in a bag/backpack?
@@iwishyouwould yea,
Screen hard shell weight won’t make any difference. It’s the number of closings that (theoretically) would wear out the hinges over time. The weight of the shell causing it to close is no different than pushing it closed at the end of each session (unless you’re letting it drop closed all of the time accidentally, which is not likely).
Exactly. My lid is either straight up or closed. I never leave it at a lowered angle.
The hard case does not add stress to the hinge. I’ve had 5-6 MacBooks all hard cases used not one single issue. Thats nonsense!
@@jallen9043 ThX!
Those hard shell cases are nowhere near ‘heavy’ enough to add any significant weight that would cause the hinge to fail quicker than normal. Apple actually sells a number of them on their store. They would not sell any 3rd party product on their own site that would potentially damage any product they make. Plenty of people use these for years on their MacBooks (myself included) and they simply do not cause any damage at all.
I partially agree with you, Dion, I got myself a MBP 13 M2 and bought a hard case from Supcase, a keyboard cover from Ghostcover (Uppercase) and also, in order to prevent keyboard marks on screen a cleaning cloth which I put in between. Condition of device is pristine. I wash the keyboard cover once every week, and the harcase twice a month. screen has no scratches or dents, as I always put the cleaning cloth whenever I close the lid, and hardcase allows lid to close completely. I do agree with camera cover though. But on the rest, I can say those accessories work for what they are intended. Anyways I found this video most informative and will look forward to get that camera for my meetings. Keep it up!
best advice is to buy a keyboard cover especially for macbook air (since no fans) and remove before closing the lid.
that is indeed an option
I was going to say the same thing. I use a keyboard cover, however I remove it when I close my MacBook Air. It will imprint on the screen if you don't. Yes that's a lot of taking it off, putting it back on, etc but it works well for me. I have a couple I rotate, i clean them often.
Hello there, thanks these advices. Funny I was using all of these things in my MBA and after watching your video I remove them. Just one question, what do you think about using anti dust plugs?
I still use hard shell on my MacBook Pro 2015 and it looks simply in a prestine condition. I think he’s willing to sell a heavier camera than a protective shell. Now go and buy a good shell otherwise you could end up in a similar situation shown in one of the images.
Good point ! Do the cases have a soft material to line the outeri inner rim of the cases so they don't scratch or scuff the sides of the laptop
That’s why I used both a protective case and a security camera, and it all worked perfectly fine for 5 years with MacBook Pro 17.
What would you recommend when taking a new MacBook “M3 Pro” 14 inch through TSA to not get scratched or dented? Being taking with you in a carry on bag.
I still use a hardshell case on my M2 MacBook Air after nearly 2 years, but I made sure it completed these criteria: 1. very lightweight, 2. clips are out of the way and screen can completely close, and 3. not rigid (has to be flexible). So far, my mac looks the same as day 1, with the hinge performing the same. I find that many hardshell cases out there are too rigid and heavy. This causes the hinge issues you mentioned as well as it warping the screen. The one on my mac is quite flexible and lightweight, and I only notice a very slight difference in how it holds up the screen at all angles. The clips on my specific case are also quite minimal (maybe that's also why it's easy to remove), and upon testing, the mac can close fully the same as with the case off. Personally, I prefer this over a skin because it has more protection from scratches and I find it has much stickier rubber feet than the default mac feet. However, I do think that most people should do more research and think twice before buying a hardshell case, and if they will, make sure to buy one that won't hurt the mac in the long run. Never used and will never use webcam covers or keyboard covers though, those are really proven to break the screen.
Can you share the hardhsell type that you use?
Thanks for sharing your experience.
@miggyyusay can you please share the link to the case
drop the case pleaseee
Interested to know which case/brand you are referring to.
I onl y use the keyboard cover when I am using my mac or when the lead is open. Then before I close it, I'll remove the keyboard cover.
I’ve been using a hard shell case for all of my MacBooks since my very first 2012 MacBook Pro 15 and never had any hinge issues. Not sure where his argument about installing case for MacBooks can harm or even destroy the hinge. Even Apple retail stores sell hard shell case themselves. Can’t imagine Apple will sell accessories that can harm their own products’ endurance.
Hi, thanks for your feedback. Hinge issues are not a given, but a too high probability to take the risk, In my opinion.
It's his bias not fact. He says the case will put too much stress on the hinge (is it really such poor hinge quality?) but then bolts a heavier webcam I to the screen. But that's what you get from sponsored videos, they're never impartial.
Same I've been using a cover for my 2015 MacBook pro because I actually damaged it by dropping it and picking it up when it had no cover. It had multiple scratches on it as I picked it up. So I put a case on it to prevent that from happening again. Have not had any issues with the hinges after years of using it. I wonder if it's just the newer MacBooks that have issues since they're thinner. I just got the October 2023 Edition M3 MacBook Pro.
Hinge strain a case cover adds is negligible, especially at normal viewing angles?
Thanks for this review I just bought M2 MBA and a hard shell I totally agree with what you say this shell could cause serious damages especially the gap when the machine is closed a soft sleeve is the best.
It’s nonsense! I’ve had macbook pros & airs all have had incase or speck hard cases. No scratches or hinge issues. If you buy a quality hard case it will serve the purpose without damaging the Mac.
I never used a case for my MBA other than a regular laptop bag together with other belongings. I'm always using an exclusive bin just for my laptop during the airport TSA security screening process to avoid scratches. Thats it. My MBA M1 still looks as good as new.
I would also say something like Dbrand would be a good way to protect your Macbook's aluminum shell without causing harm.
Good point! 👍
Thank you for the great video, just saved me a ton of money 💵, what are your thoughts 💭 on skins such as decal girl or dbrand and of course using the sleeve
I just got a M3 pro MacBook Pro 2 weeks ago. I immediately got a hard case. I didn't realize it was putting so much weight on the screen. When I would put it down, the screen would swing back. As soon as I took it off, it stopped doing it. It went back to precision closing. My MacBook spends the majority of the time closed and docked to a screen. So no need for that. I just got a hardshell case. Thanks for the information!
my pleasure
if i used a thin clear case would it still damage it ?
I got the keyboard cover because I saw my dog's hairs getting on the keyboard likely to cause a problem, but maybe I'll take it off when I close my computer for the night.
Great idea! As someone who grew up with dogs I know what you mean :)
My personal experience with the 2012 MBP (MD101), the 2020 M1 Air, and the 2022 M2 Air-all of which have been protected with a clear case from the very first day-I have not noticed any deterioration in hinge performance or encountered issues related to panel gaps or screen bending. My approach was to carefully assess the hinge's clearance during its opening and closing motions before committing to long-term use of the case. I found that the case sits comfortably in the small groove along the screen's edge, ensuring that it does not hinder the laptop's closure in any way. I actually more concerned of top mount for iPhone continuity camera feature (since iPhone weighs way more than the case). But then, people experience may vary.
thanks for sharing your experience. As you say, experiences vary, but there is a risk, that is why I produced this video
What about skins & wraps instead of hard cases and, what if you put a microfiber cloth between the screen and the keyboard cover when closing the lid?
Thanks for the video, Dion.
Thanks for the detailed video Dion! It is nice to see that while all the content creators through their videos tell people "what to buy", you on the other hand are telling "what not to buy". You do really care for your viewers. Nice to see that.
That is very kind of you to say, thank you! I’m glad my video could help :)
I use a keyboard protector for my mbp and it is fine.
I've been using various keyboard covers on my MacBook and have had no issues with it affecting the screen. Maybe it was an issue with previous versions, but my M1 16 inch MacBook has had a keyboard cover on it 100% of the time for over two years.
Good to hear. This video describes a risk, not a certainty
Was only using the bottom of my hard case due to the hinge issues, I just ripped off the rest and threw it away. Thanks for the heads up! My new M3Max and I thank you!
My pleasure and enjoy you M3Max
@dionmedia what about screen guard?? Should I use or not??
Thank you!!! I just purchased a MacBook Air and was excited to purchase accessories and then I found your channel just as I was about to order my accessories on Amazon. After watching your video, I immediately deleted certain items from the cart. Thank you for this video!
Hey @Dionmedia, I hope you're doing well. I haven't seen any of your videos in a while. I'm in the market for a new MacBook Air and I'm considering the 2020 or 2022 model. What is your suggestion?
Hi, true, I have been on a relatively big job for some time, but soon new videos will come. As far as your question concerned it depends on many factor, starting with the purpose of the Mac Boo air
@@DionMediaGreat to hear from you! I am planning to use the Macbook Air for general usage. Although I am in a dilemma as I am also considering the MacBook Air model of 2024. Which option do you suggest?
Wonderful video, totally makes sense to not to use such products. Well I don’t own the MacBook, but still helpful to me. I will share to those who own MacBooks
I have a thule backpack with a padded shelf built into the laptop sleeve. That way if I put my backpack on the ground, my laptop is suspended and doesn't touch the ground.
I like the soft sleeve pouch 🎉🎉
Thanks Dion.
Bellroy magnetic sleeve is awesome..
Can we use screen protector if not what is its alternative?❤
The newer hardshell cases are lighter than the old ones i assume like the one shown on the video., they also improved the design of the bottom piece not to hit the screen when closed. The hinge issue (for me) is more of a wear and tear thing because there are also macbooks that never had a hardshell case but still get loose when half open., and also there are benefits too having a case that does not ruin the aesthetics design of the laptop imo.
thanks for the feedback
@@DionMediahow about the screen protector for the mac book will it damage it
Can you let me know what brand you recommend for the newer one
The problem with not using a hardcase for a macbook is the fact that apple laptops are very slippery and fall very easily, as some people said in the comments, I don't think that hardcases can cause damage to the macbook, but the act of opening and close the lid on the action of time, just choose a good case, i do prefer the smooth ones, made with fabric, leather, etc
Nice Video and well explained. Cleared lots of doubts. Just wondering is it suggested to use a screen guard? Are there any adverse effect
yes, but much less than the three I mentioned
the irony of having a sponsor that attaches to the macbook which could wear out the hinge more than a simple case is so funny
Thanks, what about screen protector for macbook?
This was going to be my next question. DionMedia what do you think?
screen protector is basically the same, but it weighs much less than a shell case for example, so I left it out
Thank you.@@DionMedia
I guess I was asking more along the lines if the screen protector is gonna break the screen or something?@@DionMedia
@@juanromano5765I have my screen protector for more than 2 years. No problems whatsoever. I know I can take it off anytime to change it to the new one but the fact that its installation is VERY hard I don’t take it off lol it still looks good though so there’s even no reason to change
Awesome thanks!
great video....am hoping to get a macbook
i've been using that hardshell case for over a year now. love it, but the only downside is that the zipper pull tab on one of them ripped off
I'm assuming the keyboard cover is ok as long as you remember to take it off before closing
what about screen protectors?
great watch! it looks awesome
Submariner, thank you, you have good taste my friend :)
How about kora screen protector?
Makes sense. This doesn't apply to me cause I don't use a Mac but I understand tho
How about the screen protectors?
I can understand a screen protector on a phone but why would you need one on a laptop? When it's in motion, the screen will be closed and protected by the body, no?
There’s privacy screen protectors
Is using a screen protector ok?
I bought a hardshell as I am an absolute clutz and also have two kiddos. I panicked and removed it due to this video, but after looking at apples site it shows they also sponsor hardshell cases for sale with them directly. If Apple is endorsing cases is it safe to say that it shouldn't cause to much in terms of damage?
once I bought a hard shell case, as a result I returned it back and settled on vinyl stickers, if these cases were made of TPU, they would be a great thing
Keyboard cover is great? I just take it off before closing. Saves a lot of grease and dust getting in.
Thankyou for sharing good information. And another thing what about screeen guard?
Great Video! Sleeves are always my go-to for the best minimal protection. However, telling consumers not to use a hard case is misleading since those problems are based on “user experience”. I’ve been using hard cases for years and recently took one off my MacBook w/ TouchBar before switching to Apple’s Pro Chip. Before being sold, even after 7 years of use, my hinge was still tight, with no wear or tear. I think it would’ve been best to say, be careful of the type of cases you are choosing ( thin/thick/heavy/bulky ), the frequency of opening/closing the lid, pushing the screen to its furthest, constantly adjusting, or simply constantly slamming it shut. These are the only criteria that can cause your MacBook hinge to become so loose; an Apple Genius will tell you this.
Thanks for the useful feedback
So, use screen shell with web came cover evenly distributes the weight evenly when closed. Good idea. 😊
2:44 depends on the case, just take into account that weight matters
Thanks for this! +1 macbook safe
6:23 wait, you cant use a hard shell case because of the weight but a giant webcam (which the macbook already comes equipped with) is ok to use? 🤔
nice info, Terima Kasih..🙏
Was just close to buying a hardshell case myself after I just bought my first MacBook a few days ago. I guess my mentality was that working a computer repair shop for over a year now I see all of these nasty dents on otherwise nice-looking computers and I didn't want to have those. But now see that it would only cause worse issues, and having AppleCare+ it's nice I didn't go for it, this only kept me further from them, so thank you.
Thanks for the feedback!
just get one .. ive had one for years .. its fine
@@Gobraves777 Not taking the chance, better for me to learn to take care of my devices.
@@bingusbongus1656you can tighten the hinge, if you work for hardware repair then it should be easy as cake for you, it’s just a screw.
@@Cozmox874 and void the warranty? nah man
Hey what about wraps?? Like skins d brand offers
If it wasn’t designed for it, then why does Apple sell it in their website?
So the space in between the laptop caused by the cover is filled with the keyboard cover. So they cancel each other out….
Very useful information, before I spend the money on it.
Interesting, cause Apple sells hard shells on their website 😅😅 they want those extra bucks lol
Had my m1 air in a case since day 1 and have had zero hinge issues
That’s great. Hinge issues are not a certainty, but there is a higher risk under certain circumstances
the only thing i would say, against is to, YES use the keyboard cover while you are USING the machine, after that before closing the lid remove it and put in the hardshell sleeve, thats it
my macbook pro has the hard shell since day1 in 2020 and no issue
good to hear, unfortunately there are many other stories around as well :(
what about spigen screen guard/protector
Good question, I have not used a screen protector before on my MacBook but would advise caution. While a screen protector will likely be thinner than a webcam cover, it is still adding a layer between the display and keyboard. According to Apple anything thicker than a single sheet of paper is too thick, I would see how the screen protector compares. Perhaps a plastic screen protector will be thin enough but a glass screen protector likely will not. Hope that can help :)
i know and i am using a screen protectore on my macbook pro 14 from 1.5years it is working fine but now i am in tension because i am worried that while removing it it can damage my screen what should i do@@DionMedia
I only use hard shell case if I'm travelling with it in my handbag which is not designed to carry a laptop, if I'm not using sleeve (which I really hate to use). And now, I'm only putting the bottom part of the case only.
You can put the top part as well, there is no issue with it at all
i use the keyboard cover because I don't like how the oil from the fingers can make the keys look so ugly and faded over time. Does anyone know how I could avoid the keys looking like that?
Nice one on the case
Thanks Carlos
What about privacy screen? Will it damage screen if i leave it on the screen?
only if you use blinker fluid
@@Ellarian_Liara 🤣
you are advice for 1 and 3rd item are not consistent. if I use a case, that creates a tiny gap given the clips, that gap is the perfect space for the keyboard cover. is it optimal? of course, not, but is apple decision to gives us yucky keycaps that after a few months of use makes it look worse than a chrome book? definitely not. I will keep using my case and keyboard cover (so far about 18 months) and my keycaps are perfect, ready to increase my resale value when I sell it next month.
Hello Dion! Im a viewwe from Greece(europe).Just came across your video and after i watch it i remove the keyobard cover and the had cover from my macbook m3 16 inch model of 2022 that i bought 2 weeks ago so its brand new! I don't use a web camra cover.Only i left on the camera protection just as the same i use in my iphone.Im back to Apple ecosysystem after 10 years and im thrilled! Thank you for your help:-)Yannis
Thanks for your reaction!
I don't like those plastic cases, very dangerous especially for macbook airs, since those doesn't have a fan, passive cooling is passed through the aluminum body underneath, and having a plastic case on it will just insulate the hot temps on your laptop.
Thanks for your feedback
Oddly enough, Apple is not using convection to dissipate heat using the case because it gets too hot to touch so the heat mostly just stays inside and maybe rising towards the keyboard because hot air rises up.
I wanted a case to add stickers so would that be bad for the MacBook ?
you run a risk, yes
@@DionMedia wym
then how to save the keyboard from dogs hair or any kind of stuff that gets in the tiny spaces in keys?
then use a computer sleeve
I’ve been using the shell for almost 5yrs, it’s still ok now but i think you’re right i don’t really need it, i already have the sleeves anw, n i guess that’s why it’s so tight when i zips it close, if i don’t use the shell it fits perfectly. But ngl i owed the shell big time because my cat once peed on my mac (lid closed), if it’s not for the shell the pee would be directly onto the mac 😅
good point about the cat, had not thought of that :)
What about Screen Protectors on Mac? is it good to apply?
Many have told me personally not to put one as it gives an another layer on the screen which may cause issues later
Is using a screen protector for MacBook safe?
I wouldn't want to add an additional layer to these beautiful screens. It's not a phone either.
But it gets scratched up easily because of dust particles.
@@Vishnu_K i dont think the screen is that much sensitive 😄
And any idea how I can cover my webcam?
the hinge argument is such a weak argument, because the M1/M2/M3 macbook air/pro hinges can be tightened with a screwdriver.
"...if your MacBook is in this, even without a case...", he says while talking about a case that he suggests putting your MacBook in.
Hi Neil, I was referring to the hard shell case, not the sleeve I was putting the MacBook in :)
what about keyboard stickers?
I got a clear case for mine, and it didn’t add any weight, it’s a plastic spigen case
I have used a hardshell for every macbook I have owned. About 5-6. I’ve only used incase or speck hard cases. Not one issue. No scratches… no hinge issues. I totally disagree!!! The keyboard cover and camera cover I agree. If you drop a mac with no case it will cause much more damage than a hardshell ever could!!!
Thank you for the honest review. I appreciate your advice.
Glad it was helpful!
Your style of presentation reminds me of someone
Hi Oscar, do not let me in suspense :)
Just discovered your channel, great vid thanks
I use a keyboard cover to prevent keys to become so shiny and horrible, like every KZheadr show, it looks like dirty and greasy despite being just worn out But yes, I always remove it when closing it... But I do have a hard shell case and yes, my hinge is very loose now :(
Damn, I had a hardshell case on my Macbook Pro and this video scared me so I took it off. I mainly used my hardshell case because i wanted to put stickers on it but didn't want to put it directly on my mac. I did notice however, my hardshell case doesn't have those lips on the edge.
Hi, I did not want to scare you, just warn you
@@DionMedia It's all good. Better safe than sorry :)
unless you’re abusing and mistreating the laptop, keeping a case on should be fine. i’ve had 3 and all of them with shells and they’ve been perfectly fine. but i do take extra good care of my laptops always.
no problem with a case here! 3yrs in Lol!
I think a separate webcam for something like MacBook is the stupidest thing you can make.
The cases are 🤤🤤