QiYi 8x8 Cube

QiYi 8x8 Cube

QiYi 8x8 is QiYi's first 8x8 cube, released in 2021. It is a non-magnetic cube in the stickerless bright version and belongs to the basic, affordable segment of big cubes. It's a good model for getting to know the 8x8 and practicing center reduction and edge pairing before you decide on a more expensive magnetic design.

How it turns

Compared with other 8x8 cubes, it turns decently. It isn't exceptionally fast, but it doesn't cause problems either. Right out of the box it feels smooth and fairly stable, and the large outer layers help you hold it securely during long solves. With a cube this size, though, you need to turn more precisely. Aggressive corner cutting can lead to popping. There are also no magnets to help the layers align, so it's better suited to relaxed solving and learning than to chasing fast times.

Size and adjustment

The cube measures approx. 70 mm and weighs approx. 211 g, so it's fairly light and compact for an 8x8. Tension is adjusted with adjustment screws, so once the mechanism has broken in, you can tighten or loosen it to suit you.

Basic or magnetic version?

QiYi later also released the QiYi 8x8 Magnetic + Ball-Core. It's a completely different design: it has magnets, a Ball-Core and noticeably smaller dimensions. The model described here is the basic version without magnets. It's enough if you simply want an 8x8 in your collection, want to learn to solve one, or are buying a gift for someone who has already finished with the 6x6 and 7x7. If you solve big cubes for time, the magnetic version will serve you better.

The 8x8 is not a WCA event, so you can't use this model at official competitions.

Specifications

• Type: 8x8x8 cube, non-magnetic
• Manufacturer: QiYi (code QY3087)
• Release year: 2021
• Size: approx. 70 mm
• Weight: approx. 211 g
• Adjustment: adjustment screws
• Color scheme: stickerless bright
• In the box: cube, solving instructions