Picube MGC SQ1 Edge Magnet+Equator Magnet

Picube MGC SQ1 Edge Magnet + Equator Magnet

The YJ MGC Square-1 has been one of the most popular puzzles for this event for several years. Picube developed it further in cooperation with YJ and added extra magnets. The Picube MGC SQ1 Edge Magnet + Equator Magnet is the version with magnets in the edges and more magnets in the middle layer. The mechanism and the shape of the pieces are the same as in the original MGC.

What the extra magnets do

In the standard MGC Square-1, the edges have no magnets. Users pointed out that because of this, the U and D layers feel less consistent once you leave cubeshape. Edge magnets help the layers align more precisely in every position, not just in cube shape.

The stock MGC already has a few magnets in the equator, but this version has more of them. This makes the slice more tactile, and it "snaps" more firmly into place. In practice, it is easier to hit the slice accurately when you execute algorithms quickly. If you prefer a very light, free-moving slice, you may need a moment to get used to it.

How it turns

The MGC Square-1 is known for fast U/D layers and good corner cutting. Straight out of the box it can feel dry and fairly loud, and you can also hear the springs. This usually improves after breaking it in and lubing it. Popping on a setup that is too loose can usually be fixed in MGC models by slightly tightening the screw under the center caps.

Which MGC SQ1 should you choose?

• Standard MGC SQ1 (magnetic) is the cheapest option, with magnets in the corners and basic magnets in the equator.
• Edge Magnet adds magnets in the edges, which improve how the puzzle behaves outside cubeshape.
• Edge Magnet + Equator Magnet (this version) also has more magnets in the middle layer, so the slice is more stable and easier to feel.
• Higher up the range, there are also MagLev and UV-coated versions.

Choosing a color

The Yellow variant has the classic yellow face, while the Black variant has a black face instead of yellow. Unlike the regular MGC, this set reportedly does not include extra caps for changing the color, so it is best to choose the right variant from the start.

Who is it for?

This version makes the most sense if you practice Square-1 regularly and want a more stable slice and more consistent layers without magnetizing the puzzle yourself. For learning, the standard magnetic MGC is perfectly sufficient. The difference made by the extra magnets usually becomes noticeable only at faster solving speeds.

Specifications

• Type: Square-1, magnetic, stickerless
• Manufacturer: Picube (in cooperation with YJ), based on the YJ MGC Square-1
• Magnets: in the corners, in the edges, and extra magnets in the equator
• Dimensions: 54 x 54 x 56 mm
• Weight: approx. 94 g
• Color variants: Yellow, Black