DianSheng Galaxy 9x9 M-Ball Core

DianSheng Galaxy 9x9 M Ball-Core

DianSheng Galaxy 9x9 M Ball-Core is a magnetic 9x9 cube in the version with magnets in the core. The Galaxy 9x9 M series was the first factory-magnetized 9x9 sold on a wide scale. The Ball-Core variant also has a spherical core with magnets that attract the corners. It measures about 73 mm, so it is noticeably smaller than many other 9x9 cubes. With this many layers, that makes a big difference: the cube is easier to hold during long solves.

How it turns

The magnets in the pieces are light. They don't force the turns to stop, but they clearly help each layer settle into place. The Ball-Core adds a stronger magnetic "click" when the layers align, along with better stability. In practice, it's easier to hit your next moves, and outer layer turns produce fewer lockups and less popping. The wider outer layers give you a more secure grip. According to user reviews, turning is smooth and stable, and some people who switched from the standard version have noticed better times.

To be fair: straight out of the box, the cube can feel dry and quite tight, especially on the inner layers. Usually it's enough to lube it, adjust the tension and break it in a bit. Opinions on the magnet strength vary. Some find it clearly noticeable, others would prefer stronger magnets.

Ball-Core or standard version?

Both versions of the Galaxy 9x9 M have magnets in the pieces. The difference is in the core. In the standard version the core is not magnetic, while in the Ball-Core version the magnets in the core work together with the corners. The result is more controllable and stable behavior, which matters on a 9x9, because the cube has many looser, protruding pieces. If the Galaxy 9x9 is going to be your main big cube, the Ball-Core version is usually the one worth considering.

Who is it for?

For people who already solve 6x6 or 7x7 and want to move up to 9x9, and for big cube fans looking for a stable, compact cube for longer sessions. If you're just starting out with cubes, a smaller puzzle is a better choice. Solving a 9x9 takes quite a lot of time and requires knowing the reduction method.

Color versions

The cube is stickerless and available in two internal color variants: Black Internals (black inner pieces) and Primary Internals (colored internals). The difference is purely visual.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 9x9 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: DianSheng
• Size: 72.8 mm (approx. 73 mm)
• Weight: 263 g
• Magnets: light magnets in the pieces and a magnetic Ball-Core (core-corner magnets)
• Variants: Black Internals, Primary Internals