The Roller Encoder is dead, Long live the roller encoder

The EVQWGD001, also known as the Roller Encoder, combines an encoder function with a push button—similar to the EC11 rotary encoder, but in a smaller, more user-friendly package. Unfortunately, it’s been discontinued, and all remaining units are just old stock. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

At Ergomech Store, we’ve always loved this part. We’ve built a lot of designs around it—but most never made it to production because of the EVQ's rising cost and poor availability. Right now, only our Sofle Hybrid uses it, and even then, it's a struggle to find enough units to build with. The final nail in the coffin? The price has skyrocketed—from $7 when we started to a jaw-dropping $30. Yep, the stock is basically gone.

But there’s good news!

Thanks to Taro-Hayashi on GitHub, we now have a DIY-friendly replacement: the THQWGD001. It uses a mouse encoder and a tactile switch—basically the same design as a middle mouse wheel button. Simple, smart, and easy to source.

Why this rocks:

- No more overpriced EVQ – which means we can drop the price of the Sofle Hybrid by $30

- Better availability – so we can finally use this awesome encoder in more builds

Big shoutout to the community for making this happen. We’re excited to bring the roller encoder experience to even more boards!




The Year of the Snake is coming
The workshop will be closed from Jan-24 until Feb-02