Shengshou 9x9x9 v2

ShengShou 9x9x9 V2

ShengShou 9x9x9 V2 is the second version of ShengShou's 9x9 cube. It is also sold as the ShengShou Pillowed 9x9. It is noticeably smaller than its predecessor: about 84 mm, with a pillowed shape, meaning slightly convex faces and rounded edges. With nine layers this matters, because the cube fits in your hands and is easier to turn during long solves. The stickerless bright version is made of coloured plastic with a matte (frosted) finish, so there are no stickers to wear off.

How it turns

The cube comes pre-lubed from the factory. Out of the box it turns smoothly and is stable for a puzzle with this many layers. Users report that it breaks in after a few solves. On a 9x9 cube, lockups happen from time to time, especially when the layers are not perfectly aligned. Calmer turning and making sure the layers are lined up before each turn help. Turning is clearly heavier than on the MoFangJiaoShi MeiLong, but the ShengShou partly makes up for it with its smaller size and more comfortable grip.

The cube has no magnets, so the layers do not snap into place on their own. If you want more help aligning the layers, consider a magnetic 9x9 model.

Tension adjustment

Tension is set with adjustment screws. You can tighten the cube to make it more stable, or loosen it so it turns more lightly. On big cubes it is best to change the settings in small steps, because a mechanism that is too loose is more likely to pop.

Who is it for?

It is a good cube for people who have already solved a 6x6 or 7x7 and want to try a bigger format. It will also appeal to collectors of big cubes looking for a solid, affordable 9x9 without magnets. The 9x9 cube is not a WCA event, so it is not a cube for competitions. It is a cube for solving for fun and practising long solves.

Specifications

• Type: 9x9x9 cube, pillowed, stickerless
• Manufacturer: ShengShou
• Size: approx. 84 mm
• Weight: approx. 337 g
• Magnets: none
• Tension adjustment: adjustment screws
• Finish: matte (frosted)
• Release year: 2020
• Allowed in official competitions: no (9x9 is not a WCA event)

In the box you will find:

1. the puzzle