When building a custom keyboard, choosing the right switch comes down to two things: the technology your PCB supports and the typing feel you want under your fingers.
At Keyboard Treehouse, the Naevies EC 55g and Raeds HE 55g RGB are two of our flagship 55g options. Both use AEBoards' interchangeable silicone dome system, giving them a similar tactile foundation, but they are designed for different PCB technologies.
Here, we'll look at how these switches differ, where they overlap, and what to consider when choosing the right option for your build and typing setup.
The Key Difference
Although both the Naevies EC 55g and Raeds HE 55g RGB are designed around a 55g tactile experience inspired by Topre, they use completely different sensing technologies. The key difference is how each switch registers a keypress.
Naevies EC 55g Switch
Naevies EC 55g is designed for electro-capacitive PCBs, including the AEBoards Constellation EC and Aepex EC.
Instead of using a conventional metal contact to register a keypress, an electro-capacitive PCB detects changes in capacitance as the switch is pressed. This produces a smooth, tactile and distinctive typing experience, while avoiding the traditional contact mechanism found in standard MX-style switches.
Raeds HE 55g RGB Switch
Raeds HE 55g RGB is designed for magnetic Hall Effect PCBs, including compatible Wooting boards and Geon Venom PCBs.
A magnet integrated into the switch stem allows the Hall Effect PCB to detect the position of the switch throughout its travel. This enables features such as adjustable actuation points, Rapid Trigger and other dynamic input settings, making HE switches particularly appealing for gaming-focused builds.
Specification Comparison
| Feature | Naevies EC 55g | Raeds HE 55g RGB |
| Switch Platform | AEBoards EC | Hall Effect (KS-20 Style) |
| Switch Feel | Tactile Rubber Dome | Linear / Tactile Dome Feel |
| Housing Material | Nylon | Clear Polycarbonate (PC) |
| Actuation Force | 55g | 55g |
| Bottom Out Force | 45g | 45g |
| Total Travel | 3.5mm | 3.5mm |
| Keycap Profile | Cherry MX Compatible | Cherry MX Compatible |
| Factory Lube | Light rail lube | Light rail lube |
| Silencing Ring | Included | Included |
| Lighting Support | Standard | Clear housing for full RGB passthrough |
Sound, Feel & Design Differences
While both switches offer a pronounced tactile drop, their different housing materials give them distinct sound profiles and visual characteristics.
Sound Profile: The Naevies EC uses a full nylon housing, producing a deeper, softer and more muted sound. The Raeds HE features a polycarbonate housing, giving it a slightly higher-pitched and crisper top-out sound.
RGB Integration: The Raeds HE 55g RGB combines a fully clear polycarbonate housing with a translucent white silicone dome. This allows the per-key RGB backlighting to shine through clearly, helping preserve the intended colour and brightness of your lighting setup.
Modular Dome System: Both switches use the same internal housing footprint, making the dome system interchangeable between the two models. If you want to change the weighting or fine-tune the key feel later, you can purchase standalone AEBoards dome packs and install them in either switch housing without replacing the complete switch.
Which Switch Should You Buy?
Not sure which switch is right for your keyboard? The best choice depends on the type of board you’re building and the typing or gaming experience you’re looking for.
Choose the Naevies EC 55g Switches: If you’re building an AEBoards Constellation EC or Aepex EC board and want a heavier 55g switch with an ultra-smooth electro-capacitive feel and a classic sound profile.
Choose the Raeds HE 55g RGB Switches: If you’re using a compatible Wooting or Geon Venom HE board and want the benefits of Hall Effect technology, including dynamic actuation for gaming and strong RGB illumination through your keycaps.
Need Help Checking Compatibility?
Both switches are available in packs of 35 and are shipped directly from our Sydney warehouse.
Not sure whether your PCB or plate is compatible with EC or HE switches? Contact the Keyboard Treehouse team before placing your order. We can help you check your board’s compatibility and make sure you’re choosing the right switches for your build.