DianSheng Galaxy 8x8 M

DianSheng Galaxy 8x8 M

DianSheng Galaxy 8x8 M is a magnetic 8x8 cube released in 2022. It was the first mass-produced magnetic 8x8 cube. Before it, if you wanted magnets in a cube this size, you had to modify it yourself or buy a custom-magnetized one. The letter M in the name stands for the magnetic version. The cube has a glossy stickerless finish and comes in two internal colour versions.

How it turns

The most common problem with big cubes is that the layers don't line up evenly. One slightly misaligned layer is enough to cause a lockup, and an 8x8 has a lot of layers. The magnets in the Galaxy 8x8 M snap the layers into alignment, so the cube is more often ready for the next move and copes better with less precise turning. Users describe the feel as smooth and praise the cube for turning well right out of the box. Still, it is an 8x8, so it won't be as light and fast to turn as a 3x3 cube. Approach long solves calmly and with good control.

For an 8x8, the cube is fairly compact (approx. 68 mm) and light (approx. 220 g). This matters during long solves, as your hands get tired more slowly.

Standard version or Ball-Core?

A newer Galaxy 8x8 M Ball-Core version is also available. It has extra magnets in the core that attract the bases of the corner pieces, so layer alignment is more clearly noticeable. This product is the standard version, without the magnetic Ball-Core, with magnets in the pieces. It gives a lighter, less "controlled" feel when turning. The Ball-Core version is for those who prefer stronger layer guidance.

Black Internals or Primary Internals?

The mechanism is the same in both versions; only the colour of the internal plastic differs. Black Internals has a black interior, while Primary Internals has an interior in the colours of the faces. The coloured interior makes the gaps less noticeable while turning.

Who is it for?

For big cube solvers who want to move from a non-magnetic 8x8 to a model with more stable layer alignment. It is also a great choice for collectors of NxN cubes in successive sizes. For your first cube, it's better to choose a 3x3 and then gradually move on to larger sizes.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 8x8 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: DianSheng
• Release year: 2022
• Size: approx. 68 mm
• Weight: approx. 220 g (cube only)
• Magnets: yes, standard version (without magnetic Ball-Core)
• Finish: glossy
• Variants: Black Internals, Primary Internals