ESCube ES3 3x3 (Magnetic + 20-Magnet Ball-Core + UV Coated)

ESCube ES3 3x3 (Magnetic + 20-Magnet Ball-Core + UV Coated)

The ES3 is the first cube from the ESCube brand. ES stands for Easy Simple, which sums up the idea well: a simple design and easy adjustment. The ESCube ES3 3x3 Magnetic + 20-Magnet Ball-Core + UV Coated is the best-equipped version of this magnetic cube. It has magnets in the pieces, a 20-magnet Ball-Core and a glossy UV coating.

How it turns

Out of the box, the ES3 is fast, fairly loud and noticeably clacky. Some users find it almost too fast at first and a bit "blocky". The cube improves noticeably once you tighten it, lube it and give it a longer break-in. The manufacturer specifies 55° corner cutting and 35° reverse corner cutting. In practice, corner cutting is decent, but lockups can occur if your turning is inaccurate. The magnets in the pieces are fairly subtle, and their strength cannot be adjusted.

In this version, the Ball-Core helps. The magnets in the corners and in the core attract each other when the layers are aligned and repel when they are not. As a result, the cube settles into place more readily and feels more stable during fast turning.

Adjustment and design

• Dual Adjustment System: spring tension and compression are set independently, with 6 settings. You can adjust them by hand or with a tool.
• Track-shaped magnets: elongated magnets which, according to the manufacturer, make turning smoother.
• Mesh: the pieces have a mesh structure which, according to the manufacturer, reduces friction.
• Anti corner twist: protection against corner twists.

ES3 versions: how they differ

The mechanism and adjustment system are the same in all versions. What differs is the magnets and the finish. The standard version has 48 magnets and a matte (frosted) surface. The 8-magnet Ball-Core version has 64 magnets and is also frosted. This version has 76 magnets, meaning a full 20-magnet Ball-Core, a UV coating with strong grip and light blue internal plastic.

Who is it for?

For cubers who like to set up their cube themselves and don't mind spending some time on the setup. If you're looking for a quiet cube that performs well straight out of the box, you may be disappointed. For a child's first cube, a simpler and cheaper magnetic model is usually enough.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 3x3 cube, stickerless (Stickerless Bright)
• Manufacturer: ESCube
• Size: 56 mm
• Weight: approx. 78 g
• Magnets: 76 (magnets in the pieces and a 20-magnet Ball-Core)
• Adjustment: independent tension and compression, 6 settings
• Corner cutting: 55°, reverse corner cutting: 35°
• Finish: UV Coated (glossy)
• Internal colour: light blue