DianSheng Solar 2x2 M UV

DianSheng Solar 2x2 M UV

DianSheng Solar 2x2 M UV is a budget magnetic 2x2 cube from the Solar series. It has a UV coating, a glossy layer on the outer surface of the pieces. The mechanism is the same as in the regular Solar 2M. Only the finish is different. The cube comes in a stickerless bright colour scheme, so there are no stickers to wear off or peel.

How it turns

The magnets are fairly strong, and the layers clearly "click" into place. The cube is fast and has decent corner cutting. User opinions are mixed, though. Some have adopted it as their main, while others say it is too fast for them and that it can catch at the factory setup. Slightly loosening the screws and adding some lube usually helps. So expect that the cube may need a quick setup straight out of the box.

The inside of the pieces has a pattern resembling a turtle shell. According to the manufacturer, it is meant to smooth out turning and help spread the lube.

UV coating or regular version?

The UV version is glossy, gives a better grip and is more scratch-resistant than plain plastic. Grip is a matter of taste, though: some cubers prefer a matte (frosted) surface. If you don't need the coating, choose the regular DianSheng Solar 2M, since the mechanism is the same. Also, don't confuse it with the Solar S2M. That is a separate cube with a different piece design.

Who is it for?

The Solar 2x2 M UV works well as a first magnetic 2x2 cube for a beginner or a child. It is also a good affordable backup cube for intermediate cubers. The magnets help the layers line up, and a 2x2 cube is easy to learn to solve. A speedcuber looking for tension adjustment and a more refined mechanism should rather choose a more expensive flagship 2x2.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 2x2 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: DianSheng
• Series: Solar
• Size: approx. 50 mm
• Weight: approx. 67 g
• Finish: UV coating (glossy)
• Colour scheme: Stickerless Bright