Picube MGC SQ1 Edge Magnet+Equator Magnet+Maglev UV

Picube MGC SQ1 Edge Magnet + Equator Magnet + MagLev UV

This is the most fully equipped version of the Picube MGC Square-1, a Square-1 developed by Picube together with YJ and based on the popular MGC SQ-1. Compared with the regular MGC, it has extra magnets in the edges and in the middle layer, MagLev in the core instead of springs, and a UV coating. Picube makes several configurations of this model, and this one has all the available upgrades at once.

What each upgrade does

• Edge Magnet: magnets in the edges help align the U and D layers, so top and bottom layer turns feel more secure and more tactile.
• Equator Magnet: extra magnets in the middle layer (equator) improve stability during slices and when the puzzle returns to cube shape.
• MagLev: the springs in the core are replaced with repelling magnets. This means less friction and lighter U/D layer turns. On the Square-1, MagLev is one of the most common modifications cubers do themselves.
• UV: a glossy coating that gives a better grip than matte plastic.

How it solves

Users describe this version as fast and precise. They praise the turning of the U, D and middle layers, and say the equator magnets make quick transitions easier. They also have some reservations. Straight out of the box, the puzzle can be noisy and "rattly", so most people lube it right away. Some reviewers feel the slice itself is less smooth than on the classic MGC with MagLev. The magnets are not particularly strong, so lockups can occur with some turning styles. After lubing and breaking it in, the puzzle performs noticeably better.

Who is it for?

For those who train Square-1 seriously and want a puzzle with edge and equator magnets plus MagLev straight away, without modding it themselves. For a first Square-1 or casual solving, a simpler MGC version is usually enough. If you don't like UV surfaces, you can choose the same configuration in a matte version.

Note: unlike the standard MGC Square-1, this version does not include interchangeable panels for changing the colour of the U/D faces. So it's worth choosing your colour variant carefully before buying.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic Square-1, stickerless
• Manufacturer: Picube (in cooperation with YJ)
• Based on: YJ MGC Square-1
• Dimensions: approx. 54.3 x 54.3 x 56.2 mm
• Weight: approx. 94 g
• Magnets: edge magnets (Edge Magnet) and middle layer magnets (Equator Magnet)
• Turning system: MagLev
• Finish: UV
• Variants: Black, Yellow