DaYan Dino F-Skewb Cube

DaYan Dino F-Skewb Cube

DaYan Dino F-Skewb is a cube-shaped puzzle that turns around its corners, just like a Skewb. It has four axes of rotation with two cuts on each of them. The puzzle was invented by Timur Evbatyrov in 2010, and DaYan put it into production in 2014. You may also come across it as the Dino Skewb or the Four Cube. The name F-Skewb comes from the pattern on its faces, which resembles the Cyrillic letter Ф.

How the F-Skewb works

Not all axes work the same way here. Half of the corners turn like on a Master Skewb, and the other half like on a Dino Cube. The cuts are not placed symmetrically around the centre. One cut in each pair runs right next to the corner tip, just like on a Dino Cube. Because of this, there are fewer pieces than on a Master Skewb, and the puzzle is noticeably easier. It still takes more thinking than a regular Skewb, though.

In practice, memorised algorithms won't be enough here. Knowing commutators, or being willing to work out your own method, comes in handy. There are a few tutorials for this model on YouTube that can help you get started.

Mechanism and stickerless version

The F-Skewb has no magnets and no tension adjustment. It is a puzzle for solving and collecting, not a speedcubing cube. Users rate the build quality well, although careless turning can sometimes cause popping. It's best to turn calmly and precisely.

The shop offers the Stickerless Bright version, made of coloured plastic with no stickers. Some people point out that in this version you can see coloured internal pieces through the gaps. More ambitious solvers treat matching them as an extra solving stage. This is optional.

Who is it for?

For someone who already knows the Skewb, Pyraminx or Dino Cube and wants something more challenging, but isn't ready for the Master Skewb yet. The F-Skewb is also a great addition to a collection of corner-turning puzzles. This is not a first puzzle for a child. The classic Skewb is a better choice to start with.

Note, to avoid mixing up the models: DaYan also offers the Master F Skewb. It is a different puzzle, with deeper cuts and more pieces.

Specifications

• Type: corner-turning puzzle, Skewb family
• Manufacturer: DaYan
• Number of axes: 4 (2 cuts on each axis)
• Size: approx. 60 mm
• Weight: approx. 128 g
• Magnets: none
• Colour version: Stickerless Bright