QiYi Magnetic FTO (Face Turning Octahedron)

QiYi Magnetic FTO (Face Turning Octahedron)

The FTO, or Face Turning Octahedron, is an eight-sided puzzle. Each of its eight triangular faces turns. QiYi Magnetic FTO is the magnetic version of this puzzle. It has a black body and colored tiles, which are plastic pieces used instead of stickers. It is one of the more affordable FTOs, yet it works well both for casual solving and for your first timed solves.

How the FTO differs from a cube

The FTO has 6 corners, 12 edges and 24 triangular centers. Some parts of the solve resemble the Skewb, and for the centers it helps to think the way you would on a 4x4. If you already know a few puzzles besides the 3x3, you will quickly get the idea of how it works. Solving it, however, requires learning a separate method.

Mechanism and magnets

• Magnets give a medium to strong magnetic feel. The layers clearly "click" into place, and the puzzle finishes turns more easily.
• Anti-pop design: dual-track guides and extended corner feet keep the FTO together even when you turn less gently.
• Anti-stick pattern on the inner side of the pieces reduces friction and helps keep the lube inside the mechanism.
• Tiles instead of stickers do not peel off or wear out like regular stickers, so the FTO keeps looking good even after long use.

How it turns

Users describe this puzzle as smooth and relatively quiet. The magnets give a pleasant, distinct click. After lubing, the turning becomes even smoother. Some people report lockups, so it is not a very forgiving puzzle: if you turn inaccurately, the layers can catch. It is worth applying a little lube right away and practicing more precise turns.

Who is it for?

For anyone who wants to get started with the FTO, learn the method and do their first averages without spending a lot. It is also a good choice for puzzle collectors who want a magnetic FTO. Solvers chasing top results usually move on to more expensive flagship FTOs later. For learning and regular solving, this puzzle is more than enough. For a child's first puzzle, a simpler option such as a Pyraminx or a 2x2 cube is a better choice.

Specifications

• Type: FTO (Face Turning Octahedron), magnetic
• Manufacturer: QiYi
• Size: approx. 60 mm
• Weight: approx. 109 g
• Body color: black, colored tiles
• Pieces: 6 corners, 12 edges, 24 centers
• Mechanism: dual-track, extended corner feet, anti-stick pattern inside the pieces