SengSo MoSheng 8x8 M

SengSo MoSheng 8x8 M

SengSo MoSheng 8x8 M is a magnetic 8x8 cube from ShengShou's new MoSheng series, which covers models from 8x8 up to a dozen or more layers. The letter "M" in the name stands for the magnetic version. There is also a cheaper non-magnetic version. The cube measures about 68 mm, comes in a stickerless bright colour scheme and has a matte finish without UV coating.

Why magnets in an 8x8 cube?

With eight layers, each one is only about 8.5 mm wide. If a single layer is slightly misaligned, the next move ends in a lockup or turns the neighbouring layer. Magnets snap the layers into their correct position. This makes it easier to line up the cube before the next turn, and during long solves (solving an 8x8 usually takes dozens of minutes) you lose less time realigning layers. With the non-magnetic version you have to pay more attention to whether the layers are aligned precisely.

M or the non-magnetic version?

If you want solving to be as smooth and predictable as possible and you plan to come back to the 8x8 regularly, the M version is the better choice. The non-magnetic version is cheaper and is enough if the cube is meant mainly as a one-time challenge or a collection piece.

Who is it for?

For those who can already solve a 4x4 or 5x5 using the reduction method (centers first, then edge pairing, and finally solving it like a 3x3 while handling parity) and want to move on to a bigger cube. 8x8 is not a WCA event, so this is more of a cube for big cube fans and collectors than gear for competition training. It is definitely too difficult as a child's first cube - it's better to start with a 3x3.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 8x8 cube
• Manufacturer: ShengShou (SengSo MoSheng series)
• Size: approx. 68 mm
• Colour scheme: stickerless bright
• Finish: matte, no UV coating