MoYu Meilong 9x9 V3 M Core-Ball

MoYu Meilong 9x9 V3 M Core-Ball

This is the third generation of the Meilong 9x9 from MoYu's budget line (MFJS, also known as Cubing Classroom), here in the magnetic version with a Ball-Core. The MoYu Meilong 9x9 V3 M Core-Ball measures 65.5 mm and weighs about 191 g. That makes it noticeably smaller and lighter than the previous Meilong 9x9, which was about 75 mm and 284 g. It is the same size as the Meilong 8x8 V3, so for a 9x9 it sits comfortably in your hands, even smaller ones.

How it turns

Users say the cube is fast right out of the box and turns smoothly for a puzzle with so many layers. According to some reviews, it can come quite dry from the factory, and the layers may stick together at first. A little lube and slightly loosening the screw usually helps. If the cube turns out to be too fast for you, a thicker lube will give it more control. Reviewers also point out that you can set the tension fairly loose before popping occurs. For a big cube this matters, because a looser setup is less tiring for your hands during long solves.

Magnets, Ball-Core and design

• 208 magnets help the layers snap into place, so you spend less time correcting alignment before your next move.
• Ball-Core with 8 magnets in the core that pull the pieces towards the centre. The cube "floats" less, which is a common problem in regular 9x9s.
• Central column with a locking system reduces wobbling of the centres, and the interlocking layers protect against misalignment.
• Wider outer layers make the cube easier to grip.
• Single-screw tension adjustment, stepless, so you can set the tension exactly to your liking.

M Core-Ball or the standard version?

The Meilong 9x9 V3 is also available without magnets. That version weighs about 176 g and is noticeably cheaper, but it has no magnetic "click" or Ball-Core, so it turns less precisely. The M Core-Ball version makes more sense for timed solving, when fast layer alignment and stable behaviour at higher speeds matter.

Who is it for?

The M Core-Ball version is a good fit for cubers who already solve the 6x6 or 7x7 and want to move up to the 9x9. Thanks to its small size and low weight, your hands get less tired. If your 9x9 is going to sit on a shelf or only be used for occasional solving, the non-magnetic version will do just fine.

Specifications

• Type: 9x9x9 cube, magnetic, stickerless
• Manufacturer: MoYu (MFJS)
• Size: 65.5 mm
• Weight: approx. 191 g
• Magnets: 208 magnets, Ball-Core with 8 magnets in the core
• Design: central column with a locking system, layers protecting against misalignment
• Tension adjustment: stepless, single screw
• Finish: semi-matte, matte texture
• Colour scheme: Stickerless Bright