QiYi QiDi 2x2x2

QiYi QiDi 2x2x2

An affordable 2x2x2 cube from QiYi that has been one of the most popular choices for beginners for years.
The QiYi QiDi 2x2x2 is a classic among budget 2x2 cubes, and it's no surprise it has become a bestseller in this category. It costs very little, yet it turns properly. It doesn't have the problems typical of toy puzzles, such as catching or falling apart in your hands. The model was released in 2018. You can choose between two plastic colors: black and white.

How the QiYi QiDi 2x2 turns

The cube is stable, and its feel can be described as smooth and pleasant. The pieces have rounded inner corners, which helps with corner cutting. The corner design limits popping, so the cube won't fall apart when you turn it harder. The surface is matte (frosted) and scratch-resistant.

The QiDi has no magnets, so the layers don't snap into place on their own. During fast turning, you need to align the layers a bit more precisely than on magnetic 2x2 cubes. If you're just learning a method, this doesn't matter much. A speedcuber chasing better times, however, will notice the difference quickly.

Tension adjustment

Tension is set with adjustment screws. Loosen them and the cube turns lighter and faster; tighten them and you get more control. This lets you tune it to your own style and restore the right setting over time if it loosens up.

QiDi, QiDi S or QiDi S2?

The QiDi S version only uses a different plastic color (colored plastic instead of stickers), while the cube's design remains unchanged. The QiDi S2 is a separate, newer design, so its specifications should not be applied to this model.

Who is it for?

It's a great first 2x2 cube for a child or an adult who wants to try this puzzle without spending much. It also works well as a backup cube, a backpack cube or for learning algorithms. The cube is allowed in official competitions. If you regularly practice timed 2x2 solves, a magnetic model will serve you better.

Specifications

Type: 2x2x2 cube, non-magnetic
Manufacturer: QiYi
Size: 51 mm
Weight: 77 g
Adjustment: adjustment screws
Finish: matte (frosted)
Release year: 2018
Plastic colors: black, white

What's in the box

1. the puzzle
2. an instruction manual