How to Replace BookArc Inserts for a New MacBook Size
By Twelve South - Luxury tech accessories designed for your ... | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: How-to Guides
Swapping your MacBook shouldn't mean replacing your stand. Learn how to identify your BookArc generation and choose the correct replacement insert for a perfect fit.
Quick answer
To replace a BookArc insert, first confirm your stand is the current 2015-or-later model, then match your new MacBook's model year and size to the correct insert letter. Remove the old insert by pressing it out from the underside, align the new insert's tabs, and snap it into place. If you have a pre-2015 BookArc, replacement inserts are not compatible.
Why the Insert Matters More Than the Stand
The BookArc is designed as a system, not just a piece of metal. The insert is the curved cradle that holds your MacBook at the correct angle and width. Using the wrong insert can cause your laptop to wobble, sit unevenly, or put stress on the hinge area. Because Apple has changed MacBook dimensions over the years, Twelve South releases lettered inserts to keep the stand compatible with newer machines. That means a single BookArc can serve you across multiple laptops as long as you update the insert.
Identify Your BookArc Generation First
Before you order any insert, check which BookArc you own. The current model, sold from 2015 onward, uses lettered inserts and is the only version that accepts the inserts discussed here. Older versions—BookArc mod, BookArc for MacBook Air (pre-2015), and the previous BookArc for MacBook (pre-2015)—came with numbered inserts (1–8) and are not compatible with the newer lettered inserts. If you see a number molded into your existing insert, you have an older stand and will need to upgrade the entire BookArc rather than just the insert.
Match Your MacBook to the Correct Insert Letter
Twelve South provides specific compatibility lists for each insert. For example, Insert B covers older MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models from 2010–2017, while Insert G is built for the 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 and M2). Insert E handles the MacBook Air with Retina Display (2018–2019) and the 13-inch MacBook Pro (2020). If your MacBook is not listed for a particular insert, it will not fit securely. Always cross-check your exact model year and screen size against the product description before buying.
How to Swap the Insert
Removing the old insert is straightforward. Turn the BookArc upside down and locate the insert's retention tabs. Gently press the insert outward from the underside until it pops free. Avoid using metal tools that could scratch the stand or bend the tabs. Once removed, clean any dust from the channel, then align the new insert's tabs with the slots and press firmly until it clicks into place. You should feel it seat evenly with no gaps.
Step-by-step: replacing your BookArc insert
- Confirm your BookArc model: Check if your stand is the current 2015-or-later version. Look for a lettered insert or a smooth, unnumbered cradle. If you see a number 1–8, your stand is pre-2015 and not compatible with these inserts. Checkpoint: If you have a numbered insert, stop—you need a new BookArc, not a new insert.
- Identify your MacBook model and year: Click the Apple menu > About This Mac to see the exact model identifier and year. Match that against the insert compatibility list. For example, a 2023 16-inch MacBook Pro requires Insert G; a 2020 13-inch MacBook Pro requires Insert E. Common mistake: Guessing by screen size alone—two 13-inch MacBooks from different years may need different inserts.
- Order the correct insert: Purchase the specific letter insert for your MacBook. Inserts are available in multiple colors to match your BookArc finish. Checkpoint: Verify the insert's compatibility list includes your exact model before adding to cart.
- Remove the old insert: Turn the BookArc upside down. Locate the two tabs on the insert and press them inward or outward (depending on model) while gently pushing the insert out from the top surface. Do not use sharp metal tools. Common mistake: Forcing the insert without releasing the tabs can crack the plastic or scratch the aluminum.
- Install the new insert: Align the new insert's tabs with the slots in the BookArc. Press evenly on both sides until it snaps into place. It should sit flush with no movement. Checkpoint: Give the insert a gentle tug—if it shifts, it is not fully seated.
- Test with your MacBook: Place your MacBook into the stand. It should rest securely with the bottom edge supported and the screen at a comfortable angle. If it wobbles or feels loose, double-check that you have the correct insert for your model. Next step: If it still does not fit, contact Twelve South support with your MacBook model and BookArc version.
Replacement inserts for current BookArc
- BookArc - Insert E: Insert E adds compatibility for MacBook Air with Retina Display (2018-2019 models) and 13-inch MacBook Pro (2020) to the current BookArc (2015 and later). If you recently upgraded to a Retina MacBook Air or a 2020 13-inch Pro, Insert E is the specific part that lets your existing stand hold the new machine securely.
- BookArc - Insert G: Insert G adds compatibility for 16-inch MacBook Pro (M2, 2023) and 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1, 2021) to the current BookArc (2015 and later). The 16-inch Pro is thicker and wider than earlier models, so Insert G provides the correct cradle width and angle to prevent wobbling.
- BookArc - Insert B: Insert B adds compatibility for 11-inch MacBook Air (2010-2017), 13-inch MacBook Air (2010-2017), 13-inch MacBook Pro (Retina, 2012-2015), and 15-inch MacBook Pro (Retina, 2012-2015) to the current BookArc (2015 and later). If you are still using an older MacBook Air or Retina Pro, Insert B keeps your current BookArc useful without buying a whole new stand.
