Gan 12 Maglev Frost 3x3

GAN 12 MagLev Frost 3x3

Released in 2021, this was the first mass-produced cube with the MagLev system. In the GAN 12 MagLev Frost 3x3, pairs of repelling magnets replace the classic springs. The Frost version has matte plastic with no UV coating and comes in a stickerless bright colour scheme.

How it turns

With no springs, the pieces have less contact area, so the layers turn with almost no resistance and without the typical spring noise. The GAN 12 is very fast. The feel is crisp rather than heavy and smooth. It also has magnets between the corners and the core (Enhanced Core Positioning 2.0), which GAN says provide auto-alignment from about 30 degrees. The cube clearly "snaps" into place and is forgiving of underturned moves. Corner cutting is at flagship level.

To be fair, MagLev feels looser than springs. Some people find the GAN 12 too fast at first. Straight out of the box, the cube can be dry and slightly scratchy, so it is worth lubing it. Some user reviews also mention occasional catching. If you prefer tight, controllable cubes, keep this in mind, although MagLev is worth trying at least once.

Magnetic GES and tension adjustment

• Magnetic GES: GES nuts with magnets instead of springs, 6 elasticity levels (magnet repulsion strength) and 6 center distance levels (center travel).
• Magnet strength adjustment: the manufacturer lists 7 levels. Altogether, this gives 252 setting combinations.
• Two sets of magnetic feet: triangular (factory installed) and hexagonal.

Frost, UV or Leap?

The Frost and UV versions have the same MagLev mechanism and the same weight of 66 g. They differ only in surface finish. The matte, slightly rough Frost plastic offers medium grip and is less prone to scratches. It becomes a little smoother over time. The UV version is glossy and grips your fingers more strongly. The GAN 12 M Leap, on the other hand, is the spring version (GES Pro+) and is lighter, weighing 61 g.

Who is it for?

For speedcubers who like fast, light-turning cubes with strong auto-alignment and want to tune the setup to their own style. For a child's first cube, a cheaper magnetic model will be more than enough.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 magnetic cube, stickerless
• Size: 56 mm
• Weight: 66 g
• System: MagLev, Magnetic GES
• Magnets: in the pieces and between the corners and the core
• Finish: matte (frosted)
• Release year: 2021
• Legal for official WCA competitions

In the box

1. cube
2. cube box
3. pouch with GAN logo
4. authenticity card with serial number
5. multi-function adjustment tool
6. two sets of magnetic feet (triangular and hexagonal)
7. maintenance guide
8. solving guide
9. free access to the beginner tutorial in the Cube Station app