DianSheng Galaxy FTO NEO Ball Core LE

DianSheng Galaxy FTO NEO Ball Core LE

DianSheng Galaxy FTO NEO Ball Core LE is a limited, transparent edition of the magnetic FTO NEO, the second generation of DianSheng's octahedron. An FTO (Face Turning Octahedron) has eight faces and every one of them can be turned, so it is solved with different methods than a 3x3 cube. The mechanism is the same as in the regular NEO. The LE version only differs in looks: the shell is clear, so you can see the inside.

What has changed since the first version

DianSheng's first magnetic FTO was well regarded for its smoothness and handy size, but users complained about popping at looser settings. For the NEO, the manufacturer added Ball-Core, meaning magnets in the core that pull the pieces towards the centre. It also has magnets between the corners and edges, an internal guiding track, anti-pop feet, concave surfaces that reduce friction and more rounded openings where the pieces meet.

How it turns

According to user reviews, corner cutting is noticeably better than in the V1, and a well-set-up NEO rarely pops. The magnets give a noticeable "click" and help the layers settle into place, so it's easier to stay in control during longer sequences. The puzzle is fairly loud (clacky), and the magnets can make turning feel slightly uneven. Tension adjustment is available. The NEO kept its predecessor's size, so it is smaller than the DaYan FTO. People with smaller hands usually like this, but keep it in mind if you have large hands.

Who is it for?

For anyone who wants to get started with FTO or replace an older octahedron with a more modern mechanism featuring magnets and Ball-Core. If you mainly care about performance, you'll get exactly the same in the standard NEO. The LE version makes sense if you want a transparent shell or collect unusual puzzles. FTO is not an official WCA event, so it's better suited to someone who already knows the basics of the 3x3 cube than as a first puzzle.

Specifications

• Type: FTO (Face Turning Octahedron), magnetic
• Manufacturer: DianSheng (Galaxy series)
• Version: NEO Ball Core, Limited Edition
• Colour: transparent
• Size: approx. 65 mm
• Weight: approx. 88 g
• Magnets: Ball-Core plus magnets in the corners and edges
• Mechanism: internal track, anti-pop feet, tension adjustment