Keyboard Builders' Digest / Projects
Dactyl Orca
The Dactyl Orca, designed by MexPayne, is a Dactyl derivative featuring a levered thumb button.
Published August 6, 2025
I mentioned the Dactyl Orca about a year ago, and designer MexPayneDive20 (aka Edwards2718) has just released the case file, along with some documentation. Basically, this is a gaming pad with a fin-like thumb button, scavenged from a Kensington Expert Mouse.
This keypad is based on the Dactyl Manuform and is inspired by the Razer Orbweaver and the Kensington Expert Mouse – MexPayne.
(This project has nothing to do with the Keykrush ORCA.)
Specs
- 32(?) keys (one half) – 7x5-ish layout
- MX, hotswap via Amoeba King PCBs
- nice!nano controller
- fin thumb key with mouse switch
- 3D printed case
- ZMK
The 'R' key has been recessed to align with the 'E' key, and WASD movement is now ESDF on the Orca. This makes simultanious pressing of the 'E' & 'R' keys easier (useful in FPS games). The 'R' key can be reverted to its original Manuform height using an MX keycap stem extender.
Resources
Published on Wed 6th Aug 2025. Featured in KBD #196 (source).
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