QiYi Gear 3x3 Keychain

QiYi Gear 3x3 Keychain

QiYi Gear 3x3 Keychain is a 35 mm miniature version of the QiYi Gear cube, turned into a keychain. Despite its small size, it is a fully working puzzle that turns just like the larger Gear 3x3. You can clip it to your keys, backpack or pencil case. The body is black, and the colours come from plastic tiles (tiled version) instead of stickers.

How the Gear cube works

The Gear only looks like a regular 3x3 cube. Inside, it has gears that connect the layers. When you turn one face, the opposite face turns with it, and the middle layer moves half as far. The edges are gears that rotate with every move. Because of this, knowing the methods for a classic 3x3 is not enough here. You need to understand how the mechanism behaves. For many people, it is a good first step beyond standard cubes: the Gear looks intimidating, but you can master it without spending a long time learning algorithms.

The keychain version in practice

The keychain solves exactly like the full-size version, but its size has its consequences. At 35 mm, you will mostly turn it with the fingers of one hand at a relaxed pace, not with fast turning. Users say the cube turns smoothly straight out of the box. However, some reviews mention that it occasionally resists, and that the gears can pop out of place if a turn is not precise. It is best to turn the faces all the way and not force a move when the layers are not aligned.

Who is it for?

The keychain works well as a small gift for a cuber, an addition to a puzzle collection or a pocket puzzle to play with in your spare time. If you want to solve the Gear for longer and more comfortably, the larger 3x3 version will suit you better. The Gear Cube is not a WCA event, so this cube is not allowed in official competitions.

In the box

1. QiYi Gear 3x3 puzzle with a keyring,
2. decorative charm featuring GeGe, the QiYi mascot.

Specifications

• Type: Gear 3x3 cube, keychain
• Manufacturer: QiYi
• Size: 35 mm
• Weight: approx. 38 g
• Body colour: black, coloured tiles (tiled)
• Release year: 2020
• Official competitions: no