GAN 356M 3x3x3 UV

GAN 356M 3x3x3 UV

GAN 356M 3x3x3 UV is a mid-range magnetic speed cube from GAN, in a version with a UV coating. There's no electronics, MagLev or the elaborate systems of the flagships here. What remains are the things that really help when solving: magnets, tension adjustment with GES nuts and the manufacturer's proven 3x3 mechanism. The cube is stickerless in a bright colour scheme.

How it turns

The 356M is a cube for anyone who wants a good GAN mechanism without paying extra for features they wouldn't use anyway. The magnets help the layers settle into place and reduce lockups during faster turning. The mechanism is fast and light, but it doesn't take long to get used to. At around 77 g, the cube won't tire your hands during longer sessions. This is, of course, a general assessment. How it ultimately feels depends on the lube and the tension setting.

GES adjustment

Tension is set with interchangeable GES (GAN Elastic System) nuts. There's no need to turn screws and count rotations - you simply fit different nuts. Tighter tension gives a more stable, controllable cube, while looser tension gives better corner cutting and more speed at the cost of stability. When changing the setting, make sure all sides have the same setting, otherwise the cube will turn unevenly.

What does the UV coating do?

The mechanism of the UV version is the same as in the standard version. Only the surface is different. The UV coating is glossy, gives a more noticeable grip and wears more slowly than ordinary matte plastic. If you want a secure grip during fast turning, UV is usually the choice. If you prefer a dry, matte surface, you'll be happier with the frosted version.

356M vs the newer 356 Me

The successor to this cube is the GAN 356 Me. It has newer magnetic capsules, the GES Pro+ adjustment system with a numbered setting scale and a redesigned core. If you want a simpler magnetic cube with a proven design, the 356M is still a good choice.

Who is it for?

For someone moving up from their first cube to a decent magnetic 3x3, and for casual cubers who want a GAN mechanism without paying for a flagship. It also works well as a backup cube or as a first "serious" cube for a child who has already mastered the layer-by-layer method. Those who train regularly at high TPS may want to consider newer models with more advanced adjustment.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 3x3x3 cube, stickerless (bright)
• Manufacturer: GAN
• Size: 56 mm
• Weight: approx. 77 g
• Adjustment: interchangeable GES nuts
• Finish: UV coating (glossy)
• EAN: 6970697966894