The best investment I've made for my MacBook Pro only costs $13 - here's why

Published: (February 10, 2026 at 12:13 PM EST)
3 min read
Source: ZDNet

Source: ZDNet

Introduction

Kayla Solino / ZDNET
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GhostCover on a MacBook Pro

I work from home as ZDNET’s deals and shopping editor, which means I’m constantly snacking and typing. The fast‑paced nature of my day creates a breeding ground for crumbs, dirt, and spills on my keyboard.

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My MacBook Pro has seen it all—water and coffee spills, cracker crumbs, oily fingerprints, and even a healthy dash of hair from my “coworker” (my cat, Otis). About a year ago I decided I needed something to keep my keys spotless and make cleaning easier.

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In college I used a pink silicone keyboard cover. It kept fingerprints off my home row but left a stubborn residue after a few years. I turned to the internet and discovered the Uppercase GhostCover while searching on Amazon.

Best laptop deals of the week

DealPrice (saved)
Deal 1$430 (save $270)
Deal 2$818 (save $421)
Deal 3$249 (save $180)
Deal 4$1,000 (save $550)
Deal 5$600 (save $600)

Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team and may be unrelated to this article.

Why I love the GhostCover

The GhostCover is a paper‑thin, clear keyboard cover that sits directly on my MacBook Pro M3 keys. It feels silky to the touch, is virtually invisible, and includes a dedicated cutout for Touch ID. The laptop still closes flush, so there’s no added bulk.

  • Price: $13
  • Durability: Lifts off easily for cleaning both the cover and the keys.
  • Maintenance: I can shake off crumbs or wipe away larger messes without any trouble.

“It’s perfect. I wish I’d bought it before my mocha latte permanently stuck my Escape key after a nasty spill.”

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Quick visual

Otis the cat, the “esteemed coworker” in question

I’ve used my GhostCover for many months and it’s held up great. I even featured it in our Editors’ tech products we loved in 2025 guide. It’s definitely worth every dollar.

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Compatibility

  • Colors: Clear or translucent tinted
  • Layouts: Most US ANSI keyboard layouts for MacBooks
  • Models: M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5 MacBook Pros; multiple MacBook Air models

Happy typing (and snacking)!

Why I Recommend This Product

Investing in protection for your tech is universally recommended—and it’s a smart move. Laptops often get left in the dust, but they deserve a little extra care too. For just $13, a keyboard cover is one of the best investments you can make for protecting your device.

Benefits of a Keyboard Cover

  • Keeps out fingerprints, crumbs, and spills – makes cleaning a breeze.
  • Allows you to snack while you work without worrying about accidental messes.
  • Maintains a comfortable typing experience without sacrificing key feel.

If you’re looking for a reliable option, consider the GhostCover Keyboard Cover. It’s affordable, easy to install, and lets you continue working (and snacking) in peace.

Bottom line: Just buy the keyboard cover.

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