GAN Mirror UV

GAN Mirror UV, magnetic 3x3 mirror cube

GAN Mirror UV is a magnetic mirror cube, also sold in other shops as the GAN Mirror M UV. Mechanically it is a regular 3x3, but the pieces have different thicknesses. All sides are the same colour, so you solve it by shape instead of colour. When scrambled, the cube loses its cube shape, and once solved it becomes a cube again. If you know any 3x3 method, you can solve it with the same algorithms. The hardest part is recognising the pieces, not learning new moves.

How it turns

Typical mirror cubes have very uneven pieces and turn sluggishly. Catching is common and corner cutting is out of the question. GAN built its Mirror like a speedcube. The pieces hold 48 magnets that help the layers snap into place. Corner cutting is very good for this category of puzzles. Users describe the turning as smooth and controlled and the cube as lightweight. Most rate the magnet strength as medium, and some would prefer it stronger. Don't expect the feel of a flagship 3x3, though. It is still a shape mod that gives you plenty of control, but it is not a cube for setting TPS records.

Adjustment and finish

Tension is adjusted the classic way, with screws in the core. A screwdriver is included. There is no numbered tension system known from newer GAN models, so setting the cube up to your liking takes some trial and error. The surface has a UV coating, which makes the plastic glossy and gives it noticeably more grip than a matte finish.

Who is it for?

For anyone who solves the 3x3 fluently and is looking for a new challenge without learning a new method. The GAN Mirror UV also works well as a first mirror cube for someone put off by the clunky mechanism of cheap mirror cubes. For a child who is just learning to solve, it is better to start with a regular magnetic 3x3, because the mirror cube requires knowing a method. The mirror cube is not an official WCA event, so it is a puzzle for fun and practice, not for competitions.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 mirror cube, magnetic
• Manufacturer: GAN
• Size: 56 mm (when solved)
• Weight: approx. 75 g
• Magnets: 48 magnets in the pieces
• Adjustment: screw tension adjustment
• Finish: UV Coated
• In the box: cube in GAN box, adjustment screwdriver