Picube MGC SQ1

Picube MGC SQ1

Picube MGC SQ1 is a magnetic Square-1 made by Picube together with YJ, the manufacturer of the original MGC Square-1. The mechanism comes from the well-known MGC, and Picube has built several versions on it that differ in magnet setup and finish. This one is the basic Picube version, with the classic MGC magnet setup. It comes in two colour schemes: with a yellow or a black face opposite the white one.

How it turns

The magnets help the top and bottom layers settle into each position, so it is easier to land in a spot where you can do a slice. Without magnets, a Square-1 easily ends up with an under-turned layer and a lockup. The original MGC is known as a fast Square-1 with moderately strong magnets and its weight concentrated in the centre, so it sits well in the hand despite being light. Users describe the feel as rather dry and fast right out of the box. At first the springs can be noisy and you may notice minor catches. These usually disappear once you adjust the tension and lube the puzzle.

How the Picube MGC SQ1 versions differ

The standard version works like the classic MGC. In the more expensive variants, Picube adds:

• Edge-Magnetic: extra magnets on the edges that improve edge alignment and give clearer feedback,
• Equator-Magnetic: magnets in the middle layer that make the slice more tactile,
• MagLev: magnetic suspension instead of some of the springs, giving a more flexible feel and fewer lockups,
• UV: a glossy coating that gives your fingers a better grip.

The standard Picube MGC SQ1 is a good choice to start with or for casual solving. The upgraded versions make sense mainly if you practise Square-1 for time and know what kind of slice and edge behaviour you are looking for.

Who is it for?

For anyone who wants to start solving Square-1 on a proven mechanism, and for cubers who are happy with the classic MGC without extra modifications. A Square-1 changes shape as you solve it, so for a child it works better as the next puzzle after mastering the 3x3 cube.

Specifications

• Type: Square-1, magnetic
• Manufacturer: Picube (in cooperation with YJ)
• Based on: YJ MGC Square-1
• Dimensions: approx. 54 x 54 x 56 mm
• Weight: approx. 94 g
• Magnets: standard MGC setup
• Colour variants: Yellow (white and yellow faces), Black (white and black faces)