Tartarus V2: D-pad switches failing (4 devices failed in < 1 year) | Razer Insider

Tartarus V2: D-pad switches failing (4 devices failed in < 1 year)

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**Update 11/15/2018 - 4th device just failed with same issue (d-pad microswitch fails). See below for more details.
**Update 7/12/18 - 3rd device just failed with same issue (d-pad button). See my new post below for the details.**

Hi - I'm not certain if this is the right place to post this, but I'm hoping to bring attention to a quality control issue on the new Tartarus V2 Chroma d-pad switches in the hopes that it will get fixed in a new revision of the product.

TLDR: the d-pad micro-switches are failing way too fast (~1-2 months of use).

After a bit of research, I'm 99% certain I found the switches that are being used (http://www.kailh.com/en/Products/MS/MN/389.html), which claim to be rated for 3 million clicks. There are 4 of these switches (one for each direction on the d-pad) on a little daughter board inside the device.


  • First Failure (JAN '18 - mid FEB '18, ~1.5 months) - the "right / east" d-pad button fails. Switch starts to stick in-game and loses it "clicky" sound. Received a replacement device in early MAR '18
  • Second Failure (MAR '18 - mid APR '18, ~1.5 months) - this time, the "down / south" d-pad button failed, but in the exact same way. The microswitch just physically dies and stops 'clicking'. You can see a video I uploaded to the support team below to see / hear what I mean. Received replacement device near end of APR '18, early MAY '18.
  • Third Failure (MAY '18 - mid JUL '18, ~2.5 months) - same failure, this time back to the "right / east" d-pad button. Going through RMA process, yet again...and hoping to find a way to bring this to an actual product designer / engineer's attention to see if they can improve switches or product design.
  • Fourth Failure (JUL '18 - NOV '18, ~4 months) - same failure, this time the "right/east" d-pad button (which I use for "move forward" so gets used the most). I haven't started the RMA process yet, but will do so later today.


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Latest Failure Video (Failure #4, 11/15/2018) -- notice how it's a different D-pad switch this time (right/east button).
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I use the d-pad as my main movement keys in games, replacing my WASD...so they do get a lot of continuous use. That said, I've always played this way and my previous Tartarus / Nostromo devices have never had this issue. I've been using these gamepads for over a decade, since the original Belkin days and have owned ~9-10. I was super excited when Razer announced the new Tartarus V2, especially since it went back to the old d-pad style instead of the single "cylinder" approach, which isn't as accurate for movement. I actually love this new device, but I'm afraid the switches they chose for the d-pad...or perhaps the design itself...needs to be looked at a.s.a.p. for failure modes. I've had two fail, in the same way, in under 4 months...and have never had a single previous device fail in over a decade's worth of use.

*edit: cleaned up YouTube link*
*edit #2: added details of 3rd failure (7/14/18)
*edit #?: added details for 4th failure and new video (11/15/18)
This topic has been closed for comments

46 Replies

A
From this description, I believe, that the component or it's construction in the Tartarus V2 is not very good.
Would be fine to get an official statement from Razer, if it`s a geneal problem, or only a specific charge, or ....
Did/Will Razer change something in production ?
(I know, it's difficult for the company, but would increase reputation).
A
As if the synapse 2/3 thing wasn't enough of a reason to return my tart v2..... thanks for posting about the shoddy quality of the switches. I use my dpad for movement so this is a huge problem.
T
I've had the exact same thing happen to my first unit. Amazon replaced after 2 months of use. I'm on my second one now and have had issues with the dpad "sticking". I press up and the movement key seems to be stuck in that mode until I press the same key again.

I'm hoping razer comes up with a quick solution, I've had the same keypad since the old Belkin days as well.
S
Well, the saga continues. As of tonight (7/12/2018) the 3rd device just died with the same failure (d-pad right button is now sticking). Seems to be pretty consistent at about 2-3 months of use before failing:


  • 1st Tartarus V2 received (JAN '18) ---> the "right / east" d-pad button fail in mid-FEB (~1.5 months)
  • 2nd device (replacement #1) received early March '18 ---> d-pad failed 4/14 (~1.5 months)
  • 3rd device (replacement #2) received end of April '18 ---> d-pad just failed 7/12 (~3 months)
  • Sigh...

I'm sure I'll have to go through the whole return process again and upload a new video, etc. When I do, I'll update this post with the new vid & any details of the experience.

I wish I could just buy a few of these switches myself and fix it (it's a simple daughter board and solderable). If anyone knows how to find the switches I linked above, LMK 🙂.
A
I had this same issue with the Orbweaver and the Tartaurus, but I owed each for over a year. I just got my Tartaurus v2 less than a week ago and the dpad has stuck on me several times. I have been using game pads for around 15 years starting with the Nostromo. I can't play games with a normal keyboard anymore. I will need to start looking into other non-Razer gamepads. I like the designs and functionality, but this poor quality of Razer products for how expensive they are is just too much.
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aeroDarkMediumGray258
I had this same issue with the Orbweaver and the Tartaurus, but I owed each for over a year. I just got my Tartaurus v2 less than a week ago and the dpad has stuck on me several times. I have been using game pads for around 15 years starting with the Nostromo. I can't play games with a normal keyboard anymore. I will need to start looking into other non-Razer gamepads. I like the designs and functionality, but this poor quality of Razer products for how expensive they are is just too much.

Unfortunately, there are actually no alternative keypad's in market. I'm in the same situation as you, totally disappointed by quality of Razer hard- and especially software. I fear, we have to switch to playing with keyboard and (MMO)mouse, as all the others do.
A
Just had my second forward dpad switch fail. This is simply bad quality. For something that costs as much as this with non-mech keys it should be built like a brick wall. So now for a second time I will have to jump through the absurd razer rma hoops and wait a month for a replacement.
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krais2020
Just had my second forward dpad switch fail. This is simply bad quality. For something that costs as much as this with non-mech keys it should be built like a brick wall. So now for a second time I will have to jump through the absurd razer rma hoops and wait a month for a replacement.

I have more bad news for you. I'm guessing since these things are failing left-and-right, they are not able to keep them in stock for RMA's. I'm still waiting to even be notified of a replacement option since my third one failed (since 7/12, it's now 8/5). When I responded to my support case asking for more info / details, I was quoted this:

  • We apologize for the delayed response in the matter of your replacement request for the Tartarus v2. We also apologize to inform you that we're still waiting for the restocking of the Razer Tartarus v2. Normally, the restocking period of the out of stock Razer devices will take 3-4 weeks but this may vary. We're hoping that we will be to receive another update next week and you can have our assurance that we will prioritize you case.

I would really just like a response from a Razer Product Manger, Engineer, or someone other than a helpdesk tech that they are aware of this issue and are working on a updated version of this product.
A
I kinda almost wanna wait to rma until its fixed or they use a different batch of switches. Maybe instead of the tiny, tiny, tiny amount they saved on going with these crap switches they actually get a decent switch and not have to deal with large amounts of RMA's. I dont know what happened in 2016 or around that time but the razer queality control took a total nose dive.

I hate that all my posts here are negative because of shortcomings of the tartarus V2 and the synapse 3 crapware. Its really sad because it could be a really good product. I really wish we could get some kind of word on if its going to be resolved.
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I think Razer overburdened itself with too many products, having not the staff with knowledge and experience to manage the load. Now they are at an point, where everything colapses. Problems over problems, hardware and software, all with serious problems destroying company's reputation.
In this situation, we cannot have hope for an official reaction, nore an improvement. Over is over.
A
I gave up on the Tartarus v2 and went back to my old Razer Nostromo. I own three Nostromos, along with two original Belkin Nostromo SpeedPad n52. Never had a problem with any of them. First problem with the Tartarus v2 was the stuck keys. Not physically stuck, but stuck repeating from a bug in Synapse 3. Second problem is the premature d-pad failures. Not to mention the fake "mechanical" switches. I took mine apart to look inside and it's a membrane keypad with a metal clip that imitates the sound mechanical switches make. It's a poorly designed product in every possible way. A real disappointment.
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MaXKiLLz
I gave up on the Tartarus v2 and went back to my old Razer Nostromo. I own three Nostromos, along with two original Belkin Nostromo SpeedPad n52. Never had a problem with any of them. First problem with the Tartarus v2 was the stuck keys. Not physically stuck, but stuck repeating from a bug in Synapse 3. Second problem is the premature d-pad failures. Not to mention the fake "mechanical" switches. I took mine apart to look inside and it's a membrane keypad with a metal clip that imitates the sound mechanical switches make. It's a poorly designed product in every possible way. A real disappointment.

I was over the moon when the Tartarus V2 was announced, a clear upgrade from my trusty Nostromo. Wow, what a disappointment mine has turned out to be. Got straight onto eBay and picked up two extra pre-owned Nostromos, enough now for a lifetime. They never break.
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Tensen67
I've had the exact same thing happen to my first unit. Amazon replaced after 2 months of use. I'm on my second one now and have had issues with the dpad "sticking". I press up and the movement key seems to be stuck in that mode until I press the same key again.

I'm hoping razer comes up with a quick solution, I've had the same keypad since the old Belkin days as well.

I've had the exact same problem, I contacted Razer support because I assumed it was a bug with the Synapse 3 software fighting for processing power and freezing up for a few seconds, but I was just playing Prey earlier today and the D-pad stopped working literally in the middle of playing a game, I would have bought the Orbweaver bit it's almost twice the price
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Tensen67

I'm hoping razer comes up with a quick solution, I've had the same keypad since the old Belkin days as well.


Same, only problem I ever had on the N52 from Belkin was I wore the faces off the keys... That thing was a tank.

I use the "Left" on the D-Pad for jumping and my ~ 2 month old Tartarus V2 D-Pad left just went to mush as OP described. This thread is super disheartening...

Edit to add video of symptom - same as OP other than my left failed:
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And again, no reaction from official stuff, certainly no statement from CEO @mltan
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In the hopes to continue to bring attention to this issue, and to educate anyone else experiencing this issue...here are the actual d-pad switches that are failing (the 4 little black rectangles with small white buttons). As I mentioned in my main post above, I believe these to be these switches based on their markings: http://www.kailh.com/en/Products/MS/MN/389.html


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A
I have the exact same problem with my tartarus v2 bought about 2 months ago. I use the d-pad for movement too. Unfortunately i've found this thread after i bought this buggy piece of electronics... Is there any recommendation how prevent the switches from failure? Thanks in advance!
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Riesenmoep
I have the exact same problem with my tartarus v2 bought about 2 months ago. I use the d-pad for movement too. Unfortunately i've found this thread after i bought this buggy piece of electronics... Is there any recommendation how prevent the switches from failure? Thanks in advance!


First it would be necessary to know, what exactly is failing: the micro switches or the conducting pathes.
But whatever it is, best is to refund, if possible, or not use it.
I don't think there will be a solution, as Razer wraps in silence.
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Riesenmoep
I have the exact same problem with my tartarus v2 bought about 2 months ago. I use the d-pad for movement too. Unfortunately i've found this thread after i bought this buggy piece of electronics... Is there any recommendation how prevent the switches from failure? Thanks in advance!


I've just had mine replaced since it's covered by warranty for 2 years, so I'm planning on just getting a replacement every time it breaks until the warranty runs out, then I might look into getting an Orbweaver or something, assuming it doesn't have the same problems
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Q6016848031
I've just had mine replaced since it's covered by warranty for 2 years, so I'm planning on just getting a replacement every time it breaks until the warranty runs out, then I might look into getting an Orbweaver or something, assuming it doesn't have the same problems


I've now ordered a replacement, which will be available on monday (I've bought via amazon). In the meantime a second switch has stopped working (forward, right), i'm not able to play with this product anymore. If the replacement breaks too, i will ask if its possible to get some kind of voucher because I'm tired of replacing the tartarus all the time.
Thanks for your answers!
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Q6016848031
I've just had mine replaced since it's covered by warranty for 2 years, so I'm planning on just getting a replacement every time it breaks until the warranty runs out, then I might look into getting an Orbweaver or something, assuming it doesn't have the same problems

Some of us don't want to wait a couple weeks to play games 😞
Blackwidow TE V2 Tartarus Chroma Lancehead TE ManO'War 7.1 Base Station Chroma Goliathus Chroma Ergonomic Wrist Wrest
B
My Tartarus failed on me last week after updating their synapse software and the sad thing is I barely used it over the past year, failed just some months after warranty period. unfortunately the warranty just got over and support says cant do a replacement - I was kind of shocked after looking at reviews about the amount of replacement on their products. Well was thinking of getting the Tartarus V2 to replace the Tartarus since i use it for work and while researching online there is an online store slamming the price of the V2 model to 100usd (shipping inclusive) from normal price of ranging from 150usd to 180usd. That immediately gave me hint that the Tartarus V2 may be having manufacturing or design flaws or high number of replacement... so no more expensive Razer products for me, and Razer brand is no more a reliable brand for me 😛
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ChiefNieth
Some of us don't want to wait a couple weeks to play games :slightly_sad:


After contacting Amazon support, I had a replacement delivered within a few days
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Q6016848031
After contacting Amazon support, I had a replacement delivered within a few days

Yes, but if the replacement breaks again? I'll have a look on my replacement, if this one breaks again, reading the comments here I guess it will, I will try to get a voucher or somenthing like this. What do you do if the warranty is over? If this is a lack in design it will break again and again. I really hope that this two broken switches in my tartarus v2 are a coincidence, but if not I don't want to replace it once in two months.
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Riesenmoep
Yes, but if the replacement breaks again? I'll have a look on my replacement, if this one breaks again, reading the comments here I guess it will, I will try to get a voucher or somenthing like this. What do you do if the warranty is over? If this is a lack in design it will break again and again. I really hope that this two broken switches in my tartarus v2 are a coincidence, but if not I don't want to replace it once in two months.


When its out of warranty Razer Support will send you this:

Hi,

Thank you for contacting Razer Peripherals Support.

We understand the need for a replacement but as much as we would like to assist you further, the device is already outside of warranty.
For more information, you can visit our warranty page at https://www.razer.com/warranty

All the best,

Leonil
Razer Peripherals Support

I had a Razer Tartarus and I barely used it over the past year since i use it for design softwares and not hard core gaming and it mysteriously died on me. Surprisingly, just after the warranty got over and just after their Synapse software updated and what I can recall the software was always asking me to sign in very frequently. I wont buy any Razer produtcs that needs to communicate online to sync and no option of keeping profiles offline or working without accounts and due to quality control or design or manufacturing faults.

Was thinking of the Tartarus V2 but when saw that some online store was giving heavy discounts on it gave me hint that that batch or model might have high replacement and also many users reporting this issue so no V2 for me.
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