QiYi Warrior 5x5

QiYi Warrior 5x5

QiYi Warrior 5x5 is a budget 5x5 cube from the Warrior series. This is the non-magnetic version. It has the same pieces as the magnetic Warrior 5x5 M, but without any magnets, so it costs less. It measures 59 mm, weighs about 100 g, is stickerless (coloured plastic instead of stickers) and has a matte frosted surface. It's a good cube for learning to solve the 5x5.

Design

QiYi used a small edge and small center design here, meaning smaller edges and centers combined with wider outer layers. These proportions improve corner cutting. The pieces also have anti-stick grooves that reduce the risk of lockups when the layers aren't perfectly aligned. The center caps are one-piece, so they shouldn't pop off during faster turning.

How it turns without magnets

On a 5x5 you notice the lack of magnets more than on a 3x3. The layers don't snap into place on their own, so you need to align them more precisely. When turning fast, it's easier for the slices to shift slightly and for the inner layers to catch. For relaxed solving, learning the reduction method and practicing edge pairing recognition, this isn't a problem. If you're aiming for fast times, however, you'll clearly miss the magnets that keep the layers aligned.

One advantage is the low weight. About 100 g at 59 mm is light for a 5x5, so the cube won't tire your hands during longer sessions. The 59 mm size is fairly compact, which also makes it a good fit for smaller hands.

Warrior 5x5 or Warrior 5x5 M?

Both versions have the same piece shape. The difference is the magnets. The M version has a triple magnetic positioning system (240 magnets) that makes the layers align by themselves, so the cube is noticeably more stable. The non-magnetic version is cheaper and slightly lighter, but requires more precise turning.

Who is it for?

For anyone who wants to start solving the 5x5 and isn't sure yet whether they'll stick with bigger cubes. It also works well as a first 5x5 for a child or as a spare cube for your backpack. If you already solve the 5x5 regularly and want to improve your times, you'll benefit sooner from the magnetic version.

Specifications

• Type: 5x5 cube, non-magnetic
• Manufacturer: QiYi
• Size: 59 mm
• Weight: approx. 100.3 g
• Design: small edge and small center, wider outer layers, anti-stick grooves
• Center caps: one-piece
• Finish: matte (frosted)
• Colour scheme: stickerless bright