QiYi Warrior 5x5 Magnetic

QiYi Warrior 5x5 Magnetic

QiYi Warrior 5x5 Magnetic is the magnetic version of one of the most popular budget 5x5 cubes. It's a good first step into bigger cubes, and if you already solve 5x5, it works well as an affordable practice cube or a backup. It measures 59 mm and has a matte (frosted) surface and a stickerless bright colour scheme.

240 magnets in three layers

QiYi uses triple magnetic positioning here: 96 magnets in the outer layers, 96 in the inner layers and 48 in the middle layer, for a total of 240 magnets. On a 5x5 this matters a lot, because each layer settles into place on its own and the whole cube is easier to keep aligned. There is also less accidental overshooting on slice moves. The design features small edges and centres, widened outer layers and anti-sticking grooves, which are meant to reduce lockups.

How it turns

According to reviews, the Warrior M turns smoothly, is stable and gives you plenty of control. It's more of a calm, predictable cube than a very fast big cube. The plastic does feel clearly budget, though, and doesn't come close to the feel of flagship cubes. Some users also find that, despite the high magnet count, the magnets don't feel as strong as the specs suggest. If you already have a flagship 5x5 and expect strong magnets and extensive adjustment options, you probably won't find what you're looking for here.

Magnetic, UV or non-magnetic?

The Warrior 5x5 comes in several versions. The non-magnetic version is the cheapest, but the layers don't align by themselves, so the cube is harder to keep under control. The Magnetic version described here has matte plastic with medium grip. The Magnetic UV version has the same magnet setup but a glossy UV coating that grips your fingers more. So choosing between Magnetic and UV mainly comes down to which surface you prefer.

Who is it for?

For anyone starting out with 5x5 who wants a magnetic cube right away without spending a lot. It also makes a great gift for a child who already solves 3x3 and wants to try a bigger cube. At 59 mm it's relatively compact for a 5x5, so it's easier to hold even in smaller hands.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 5x5 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: QiYi
• Size: 59 mm
• Magnets: 240 (96 in the outer layers, 96 in the inner layers, 48 in the middle layer)
• Finish: matte (frosted), no UV coating
• Colour scheme: Stickerless Bright