ES Cube Air 20-Magnets-Core

ES Cube Air 20-Magnets-Core 3x3

ES Cube Air 20-Magnets-Core is a budget 3x3 cube from ES Cube, the brand known for the ES3. It has a magnetic Ball-Core, which means magnets in the core that pull the pieces towards the centre. Until now, this feature was found mainly in more expensive cubes. This is the version with 20 magnets in the core. The cube is 56 mm and weighs approx. 78 g, and it is available in the Stickerless Bright version.

How the Ball-Core works in this version

The corners are pulled towards the core when the layers are aligned, and at around 45 degrees of rotation the magnets repel each other. In practice, the cube is more willing to finish a turn on its own, and the layers are less likely to drift out of alignment during fast turning. The edges have no magnets in their feet, which in many other cubes with a 20-magnet core also interact with the core. The manufacturer left them out to make the cube lighter and cheaper. As a result, the core magnet effect feels different than in more expensive designs with a full magnet setup.

Feel and performance

Speedcubing shops describe the Air 20-Magnets-Core as a cube focused more on control and stability than on maximum speed. Turning is said to be smooth, with noticeable tactile feedback from the magnets. There are few user reviews so far and they are mixed: some people find the cube cheaply made compared to competitors in a similar price range. That is why we see it as an inexpensive way to try out a Ball-Core, not as a replacement for a flagship cube.

Adjustment

Tension is adjusted with a system that has a numbered scale. This makes it easy to remember your setting and return to it later, or to set all layers the same.

20 or 8 magnets in the core?

The Air is also available with 8 magnets in the core. The 8-magnet version is more flexible and gives a lighter, less "guided" feel. The 20-magnet version aligns the layers more firmly and is more predictable. If you like it when the cube helps you finish your turns, choose the 20-magnet version. If you prefer freer turning, you will probably feel more at home with the 8-magnet version.

Who is it for?

For people who solve casually or are starting to practise for time and want to try a cube with a Ball-Core without spending much. It also makes a sensible backup cube or one to carry with you. Advanced speedcubers looking for a main competition cube can choose from better-finished designs with a full magnet setup.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 3x3 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: ES Cube
• Size: 56 mm
• Weight: approx. 78 g
• Core: magnetic Ball-Core with 20 magnets
• Edges: no magnets in the feet
• Adjustment: tension with numbered scale
• Colour: Stickerless Bright