ShengShou 12x12x12

ShengShou 12x12x12

ShengShou 12x12x12 is the first 12x12 cube ever put into mass production. The version described here went on sale in 2019. It has a 100 mm edge, a rounded (pillowed) shape and colored plastic in the stickerless bright version. For a cube with twelve layers on every axis, it is light, weighing about 595 g.

Mechanism

Inside, it uses the mechanism typical of large ShengShou cubes. The construction has two layers: the deeper layer of pieces holds the corners and edges, while the second one, positioned much higher, holds the corners. The layers in the middle part of the cube are wider than the others, because the core has to fit inside. There are no magnets and no extra features to improve stability or corner cutting. The whole construction is relatively simple. Tension is set with adjustment screws.

How it turns

The cube turns very lightly. It also has a bit of play, which keeps solving smooth and free of frequent lockups. Users repeatedly say that turning is smooth and that the cube is stable and comfortable in the hands for its size. Buyers also point out that all it needs to perform well is some lube and a tension adjustment. Keep in mind, however, that this is still a big puzzle, and compared with smaller cubes, turning the middle layers takes more force. A single solve takes quite a while, so the low weight really matters here: your hands get tired more slowly during a long session.

Who is it for?

This puzzle is for those who have already mastered smaller NxN cubes and want to take on something bigger, as well as for collectors of big cubes. If you can solve a 4x4 or 5x5, you already know the methods you need (reduction); on the 12x12 you will simply apply them for much longer. This model is not suitable as a first cube, including for a child. 12x12 is not a WCA event, so the cube is not used at official competitions.

Watch out for the names: ShengShou also offers the MoSheng 12x12. It is a separate model with different dimensions, not a version of this cube.

Specifications

• Type: 12x12x12 cube, stickerless bright
• Manufacturer: ShengShou
• Size: 100 mm
• Weight: approx. 595 g
• Shape: pillowed
• Magnets: none
• Adjustment: adjustment screws
• Release year: 2019
• Allowed at official competitions: no

In the box you will find:

1. the puzzle