SengSo SQ-1 M

SengSo SQ-1 M

A budget magnetic Square-1 from ShengShou, released in 2022 as part of the Mr. M series. We see the SengSo SQ-1 M as a puzzle for the very beginning of your Square-1 journey. It's enough to learn the moves, get to know the shapes and master the basic algorithms. If you start practicing regularly for time, though, its limitations quickly become apparent.

How it turns

The puzzle is light (88 g). Out of the box it is very dry, so it turns slowly and feels a bit scratchy. A few drops of lube noticeably improve the smoothness, so it's a good idea to set it up right after you buy it.

The Mr. M series is known mainly for its magnets, which help the layers snap into place and make solving easier. In this Square-1 the magnets are relatively weak and don't guide the layers as clearly as in other puzzles from the series. They are also not glued in permanently, so you can hear them rattle while solving. Compared to the rest of the Mr. M series, this model is simply weaker.

Durability

Its biggest weakness is the internal construction. The feet of the edge and corner pieces are very thin and can break with aggressive solving. Users also report that after a drop, a piece can sometimes fall out together with its magnet. It's best to handle it gently and not force the slice.

Who is the SengSo SQ-1 M magnetic Square-1 for

For anyone who wants to find out, at a low cost, whether they enjoy Square-1. It also works well as a child's first shape-shifting puzzle. The model is legal for official competitions, so you can use it in the Square-1 event. For serious practice, however, a higher-end Square-1 with stronger magnets and sturdier pieces will be a better choice.

Specifications

Manufacturer: ShengShou (SengSo brand), Mr. M series
Type: Square-1, magnetic
Dimensions: approx. 55 x 55 x 57 mm
Weight: approx. 88 g
Adjustment: adjustment screws
Colour: stickerless bright
Release year: 2022

What's in the box

1. the puzzle
2. solving instructions