QiYi Bubble 3x3 Sandwich

QiYi Bubble 3x3 Sandwich

At first glance, it's hard to recognize it as a classic cube. Instead of flat faces, the QiYi Bubble 3x3 Sandwich has rounded, ball-shaped pieces, so it looks like a cube made of bubbles. Inside, though, it uses a regular 3x3 mechanism. The Sandwich version has only three colors instead of six, arranged in layers, which makes it easier than the standard Bubble 3x3.

Shape and solving

The ball-shaped pieces sit comfortably in your hand, and smaller hands can easily grip and turn them. In terms of moves, it's a regular 3x3 cube: the layers turn exactly as on a classic model. Fewer colors, however, mean that many pieces are identical and there's less to keep track of at each stage. The cube works well as a warm-up before learning the full method, or as a first puzzle for someone who finds six colors discouraging at the start.

This is a shape mod, not a speed cube. Don't expect tension adjustment, compression or the feel of a cube built for timed solving. What counts here is the interesting look, a comfortable grip and simple solving.

Sandwich or the regular Bubble 3x3?

Both models share the same bubble shape and are stickerless, meaning the color is in the plastic rather than on stickers that could wear off or peel. The standard Bubble 3x3 has six colors and solves exactly like a classic cube. The Sandwich version is simplified. For someone who is just learning, it's an easier start. Someone who can already solve a 3x3 will more likely treat it as a fun addition to a collection or a desk toy.

Who is it for?

A good choice for a child just starting out with cubes, as a gift, or for collectors of 3x3 mods. If you want to train for speed, choose a classic 3x3 cube, ideally a magnetic one. The Bubble Sandwich serves a different purpose.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 shape mod, stickerless, 3 colors (Sandwich)
• Manufacturer: QiYi
• Size: approx. 58 mm
• Weight: approx. 57 g
• Color versions: Blue, Transparent, Macaron