Fanxin Apple Cube

Fanxin Apple Cube 3x3

Fanxin Apple Cube is an apple-shaped 3x3 cube from Fanxin's fruit puzzle series. Inside it has a regular 3x3 mechanism, but on the outside there are no coloured faces. The whole cube is red, and the pieces differ only in shape. You solve it with the same algorithms as a classic 3x3 cube, except that instead of following colours, you have to follow the shape of the apple.

How do you solve it?

Colour doesn't tell you where each piece belongs, so you have to look at the shape. Edges and corners look similar, so even if you know the 3x3 by heart, you'll have to slow down at first and take a close look at the pieces. The principle is similar to the Mirror Cube, but here all pieces are the same colour and the differences in shape are more subtle. Buyers also point out that at the very end you need to check whether the centres are oriented correctly. On a regular 3x3 cube you can't see this.

When it comes to turning, it's a typical shape mod, not a speedcubing cube. It's bigger and heavier than a standard 3x3 and has a different shape, so don't expect high TPS or extensive corner cutting. For relaxed solving, it's more than enough. Tension is adjusted with adjustment screws, so you can loosen or tighten it a little if needed.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can already solve a 3x3 and wants to see if they can do it without colours. It also works well as preparation for the Mirror Cube and other shape mods. It's not a good choice as a first cube to learn on, because without knowing a solving method it's easy to get lost. Thanks to its apple shape, it can also sit on a desk or shelf as a decoration. It's also a great gift idea for someone who already has a few regular cubes. It is not permitted in official WCA competitions.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 shape mod cube (apple shape)
• Manufacturer: Fanxin (fruit series)
• Colour: red (single colour)
• Dimensions: approx. 77.5 x 77.5 x 83.5 mm
• Weight: approx. 124 g
• Adjustment: adjustment screws
• Release year: 2019
• Official competitions: no