ShengShou Tank 8x8x8

ShengShou Tank 8x8x8

ShengShou Tank 8x8x8 is a non-magnetic 8x8 cube released by ShengShou in 2019. It was the manufacturer's first new 8x8 in many years. The Tank is noticeably smaller and lighter than the older ShengShou 8x8 (v1): it measures approx. 78.5 mm instead of approx. 83.5 mm and weighs approx. 331 g instead of over 400 g. On a cube with eight layers, this makes a big difference, because it is easier to hold during long solves. It is available in the stickerless bright version.

How it turns

The mechanism is simple and typical of ShengShou, and it is not designed for speedsolving. Turning is light, but corner cutting is rather weak, so you need to turn the layers fairly precisely. Imprecise moves make lockups more likely. In your hands the cube feels loose, yet it holds together well and the pieces stay in place. Calm, deliberate solving works on it without any problems. If you want high TPS on big cubes, the Tank may feel too slow.

Tension adjustment

Tension is set with adjustment screws. The cube has no magnets and no systems such as MagLev or core magnets, so the feel depends mainly on how the screws are set and how precisely you turn.

Who is it for?

The Tank 8x8 is a good choice if you want to try big cubes without spending a lot on an 8x8 right away. It also fits well in a collection or as a cube for casual solving. If you have already tackled the 6x6 or 7x7 and want to get to know the 8x8, it is a sensible starting point. Keep in mind that 8x8 is not a WCA event, so this cube is not used at official competitions.

Specifications

• Type: 8x8x8 cube, non-magnetic
• Manufacturer: ShengShou
• Release year: 2019
• Size: approx. 78.5 mm
• Weight: approx. 331 g
• Tension adjustment: adjustment screws
• Colour: stickerless bright
• In the box: cube