C4U 3x3x5 Full Functional

C4U 3x3x5 Full Functional

C4U 3x3x5 Full Functional is a cuboid from Cube4You (C4U). On the outside it is the size of a regular 3x3 cube, but along one axis it is divided into five layers instead of three. "Full Functional" means that the side layers can be turned by 90°, not just 180° as on simpler cuboids. This makes solving it a lot more of a challenge than a regular 3x3. This version has a black body with stickers.

How it works in practice

The layers along the five-layer axis are thinner than the others. After you turn a side face by 90°, the dividing lines no longer match up and some moves are blocked until you bring the puzzle back into alignment. That's why just a few moves are enough to make the cube look unusual. Knowing how to solve a 3x3 and methods for bigger cubes will help, but you'll also have to work out a few solutions on your own.

Turning and feel

This is an older design, and you can feel it right away. Straight out of the box the cube turns smoothly, but with a slightly scratchy feel. Users report that without lube it can be dry and stiff. Good lubrication and proper tension adjustment make the biggest difference. With faster turning you get catching and lockups, even when the layers are carefully aligned. Setting it too loose increases the risk of popping, while tightening it too much makes turning stiff, so you need to find something in between. This is not a speedsolving cube - it's a puzzle for relaxed solving.

Who is it for?

For someone who can comfortably solve a 3x3, ideally also a 4x4 or 5x5, and wants to get started with cuboids without spending a lot of money. The C4U 3x3x5 is also a good fit for anyone who collects unusual puzzles. If you're still learning to solve a 3x3, it will probably be too difficult - it's better to start with a classic 3x3 cube.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3x5 cuboid, fully functional (side layers turn by 90°)
• Manufacturer: C4U (Cube4You)
• Size: approx. 57 mm
• Weight: approx. 130 g
• Body colour: black, with stickers