ES Cube Air 8-Magnets-Core

ES Cube Air 8-Magnets-Core 3x3

Air is ES Cube's more affordable series of magnetic 3x3 cubes with magnets in the core (Ball-Core). Most flagship cubes are built on this design, and here it comes at a lower price point. ES Cube Air 8-Magnets-Core is the version with 8 magnets in the core, which gives a more classic, gentler setup. The cube is 56 mm, weighs approx. 76 g and comes in a stickerless bright colour scheme.

What do core magnets do?

On top of the regular magnets between the pieces, the cube has magnets that pull the pieces towards the centre. This makes the layers wobble less, and during fast turning the cube settles back into alignment more easily. The 8-magnet core version gives less noticeable auto-alignment than the 20-magnet variant. As a result, the cube feels more "natural" and aligns the layers on its own less. You'll like it if you want some of the stability of a Ball-Core but don't like it when the cube takes too much control over your turns.

Tension adjustment

The Air has a numerical adjustment system. The settings are marked, so it's easy to go back to a setup you know works or to tune the cube for speed or control. You can adjust both tension and spring elasticity. The manufacturer states corner cutting of 55° (forward) and 35° (reverse).

8-Magnets-Core or 20-Magnets-Core?

The Air series also has a version with 20 magnets in the core, which is also available with a transparent core. The 20-magnet variant stabilises the layers more strongly and helps with alignment more noticeably. The trade-off is a more "compact" feel. The 8-magnet version feels lighter and more free-turning. Neither variant is objectively better; the choice depends on how much help from the magnets you like.

Who is it for?

For anyone who wants to try how a Ball-Core cube turns without reaching for an expensive flagship. It's also a good choice for cubers who already have a regular magnetic cube and are looking for something more stable for everyday practice. Despite the adjustment options, it's still a sensible pick as one of your first speedcubing cubes. For a child, simply leave the factory settings.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 3x3 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: ES Cube
• Size: 56 mm
• Weight: approx. 76 g (cube only)
• Magnets: magnets in the pieces and 8 magnets in the core (Ball-Core)
• Adjustment: numerical tension and spring elasticity adjustment
• Corner cutting: 55° / reverse 35° (according to the manufacturer)
• Colour scheme: stickerless bright