DaYan ZhanChi V5 M 3x3 Premium

DaYan ZhanChi V5 M 3x3 Premium

DaYan has brought back the ZhanChi name, and the fifth version packs in everything you expect from a flagship cube today: a magnetic Ball-Core, MagLev and adjustable tension, compression and magnet strength. DaYan ZhanChi V5 M 3x3 Premium is the best-equipped of the three variants (Standard, Fancy, Premium). Only this variant has magnets in the center caps, known as the cap-axis system. You can recognize it by its lavender internals.

How it turns

The Premium feels noticeably more solid and controllable than the Fancy, which users describe as very fast and loose. The feel is smooth and quiet, with a slightly "blocky" character. There are plenty of magnets, and you can clearly feel them with every turn. According to the manufacturer, the cube handles corner cutting up to 55° and reverse corner cutting up to 35°.

Some cubers find that the center magnets give the cube noticeable resistance even on the weakest setting. If you like very light, loose turning, the Fancy may suit you better. Reviewers also point out that it isn't immediately obvious which level the adjustment is set to, and the manual doesn't help much here. So expect to spend some time setting the cube up to your liking.

Ball-Core, MagLev and cap-axis

• Ball-Core, meaning magnets between the corners and the core. They help the layers snap into place and keep the cube stable during fast turning.
• MagLev. Instead of springs, repelling magnets do the work, so there is less friction and no spring noise.
• Cap-axis. Magnets in the center caps help the layer settle into place after a turn. Replacement magnets for this system are included, so you can change the strength of the pull.
• Adjustment: 5 tension levels, 5 compression levels, 5 corner-core magnet settings and 6 edge-corner magnet settings.

Premium, Fancy or Standard?

The Standard has classic conical springs and white internals. The Fancy has MagLev plus repelling magnets between the edges and the core. The Premium also has MagLev, but instead of repelling edge magnets it uses magnets in the centers, which makes it more stable and less "floaty" in your hands. All three versions have adjustable magnets and the same size.

Who is it for?

For cubers who want a strongly magnetic, stable 3x3 cube and enjoy setting up their cube themselves. If you prefer a light and fast feel, you may be happier with the Fancy version. For a first cube, a simpler model is enough, as the extensive adjustment options are really useful only for more experienced cubers.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 3x3 cube, stickerless (Bright)
• Manufacturer: DaYan
• Size: 55.5 mm
• Weight: approx. 81 g
• Magnets: 142 factory-installed magnets (edge-corner, corner-core, cap-axis)
• Turning system: MagLev
• Internal color: lavender
• Finish: glossy
• In the box: storage box, adjustment tool, pouch, manual, replacement center magnets