MX Keycap Riser / Tilter

🧩 Introduction to the Model

The MX Tilting Kit is a modular set of 3D-printed adapters designed to improve the ergonomics of traditional mechanical keyboards—particularly those using Cherry MX-compatible switches. The goal is to angle your keycaps to create a natural key-well shape, improving typing comfort, reducing finger strain, and increasing typing speed through shorter finger travel.

This kit was originally developed to fill the ergonomic gap in the MX switch ecosystem, inspired by the success of similar kits for Kailh Choc switches. Each adapter (or “tilter”) clips between a mechanical switch and its keycap to raise and angle the keycap at either 15° or 25°, depending on the variant used. The modular system allows for mix-and-match customization, enabling the user to tailor their keyboard’s contour to their personal preference.

🏗 Build Instructions

1. File Preparation

Ensure you have the proper STL files for the tilters, ideally sourced directly from the designer or Kickstarter (if made publicly available).

Import them into your preferred slicer software (e.g., Lychee, Chitubox, PrusaSlicer).

2. Printer Type

This model is not recommended for FDM printing due to the precision required and small part size.

Use a resin 3D printer, ideally one with high resolution (≥ 4K), to ensure tolerances are accurate.

3. Material

Avoid standard or brittle resins, as they may snap during installation or use.

4. Print Orientation

Position the tilter so that the keycap stem side faces upward (Z-axis) to preserve accuracy and strength around critical features.

Avoid printing on the side to reduce warping or poor overhang quality.

5. Supports

Use light to medium supports under the base with minimal contact around the stem area to preserve accuracy.

Over-supporting near the connection points may lead to deformations, making the part unusable.

6. Print Settings

Layer height: 0.025–0.05 mm

Wall count: 3–4

Bottom layers: 6–8

Exposure time: As per your resin’s datasheet; avoid over-curing to maintain slight flexibility.

7. Post-Processing

Carefully wash in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove uncured resin.

Cure gently and evenly—over-curing can lead to brittle parts. Aim for full cure but retain slight flexibility.

🛠 Installation Tips

Test fit first: Start with a single tilter to ensure compatibility with your keycaps and switches.

Apply gentle, even pressure: Push the tilter straight down onto the switch stem. If there’s resistance, remove and realign.

Use with compatible switches: Works best with standard MX-style switches. Not recommended for most low-profile or BOX-style switches unless specifically tested.

Avoid ISO Enter or vertical stabilizers: The current design does not support vertical stabilizers due to alignment constraints.

Travel caution: Remove the tilters before transporting your keyboard to avoid impact-related breakage.