MoYu Meilong 11x11 V2 M Core-Ball

MoYu Meilong 11x11 V2 M Core-Ball

For the second generation of the MeiLong 11x11, MoYu made the cube much smaller. The first version measured about 90 mm. The MoYu Meilong 11x11 V2 M Core-Ball is 69.5 mm, which is very small for an 11x11 cube. The M stands for the magnetic version: magnets in the pieces (160 in total) and an 8-magnet Ball-Core. The cube comes in a stickerless bright colour scheme with a matte (frosted) surface.

How it turns

With 11 layers, a cube that fits in your hand is much more comfortable for long solves than 85-90 mm models. This comes at a price, though: individual layers are just over 6 mm wide, so you have to grab slices more precisely than on larger cubes. That's why MoYu widened the outer layers, so you can grip them more securely and the cube is less likely to slip out of your fingers.

On big cubes, magnets mainly help with aligning layers. Layers that are slightly misaligned get pulled into place by the magnets. This reduces lockups, which on big cubes usually come from layers left at an angle. As a result, moves have a clear "click". The Ball-Core holds the centre of the cube and stabilizes the mechanism when you turn many layers at once. The rounded corners are designed to improve corner cutting, and the piece feet are shaped to prevent popping.

M Core-Ball or standard version?

The mechanism and size are the same in both versions. The standard version has no magnets and weighs about 217 g. The M Core-Ball version weighs 247 g and has magnets that help align layers and give a more "controlled" feel. On a cube where you align dozens of slices, the difference in keeping layers in line is noticeable. If your 11x11 will mostly sit on a shelf or be solved only now and then, the cheaper non-magnetic version will do the job too.

Who is it for?

For people who already solve 6x6 or 7x7 and want to move on to really big cubes, as well as for big cube collectors. It's not suitable as a first 11x11: solving takes a long time and requires patience. If you're buying it as a gift for a child, first check whether they can already solve smaller NxN cubes.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 11x11 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: MoYu (MeiLong series, MFJS)
• Size: 69.5 mm
• Weight: approx. 247 g
• Magnets: 160 in total, including an 8-magnet Ball-Core
• Design: reinforced three-layer core, anti-pop piece feet, widened outer layers, rounded corners
• Finish: matte (frosted)
• Colour scheme: stickerless bright