Smart 3x3 

Smart 3x3 Cubes with Bluetooth

A smart 3x3 cube looks and solves just like a regular speed cube. The difference is the electronics inside, which connect the cube to an app on your phone via Bluetooth. The app records every move, times your solves, shows how each solve went and breaks it down into stages. This way you can see which stage costs you the most time. You can also replay a solve, ask for a solution hint or compete with other people online. In this category you will find GAN models (the i Carry series, GAN i4, GAN 12 ui), MoYu AI, QiYi Smart Cube, X-Man Tornado V4 AI and the more affordable Monster Go cubes.

What to look for when choosing a smart 3x3 cube

Power. Some models run on a replaceable battery, so you don't need to charge them. This is the case with, for example, the GAN 356 i Carry and i Carry 2. QiYi states about 800 hours of use on one battery for its smart cube. More expensive models have a rechargeable battery charged in a case or a station: the GAN 12 ui comes with a PowerPod or the Free Play Charge Stand, and the GAN i4 has a GanPod. The X-Man Tornado V4 AI is also available in a bundle with a power bank.

Gyroscope. With a gyroscope, the cube in the app turns together with the cube in your hand, so you can also see whole-cube rotations. The i Carry series has no gyroscope and records layer moves only. The GAN i4 and Tornado V4 AI have a gyroscope. The MoYu WeiLong WRM V10 AI is available in a separate version with a gyroscope.

Mechanism. In terms of mechanism, flagship smart cubes differ very little from regular speed cubes. The GAN 12 ui Maglev and GAN i4 Maglev use repelling magnets (MagLev) instead of springs, which gives lighter turning. The Tornado V4 AI lets you adjust tension and compression. Cheaper models are simpler. The Monster Go AI has no adjustment, and user reviews of budget smart cubes often mention weaker corner cutting.

Finish. UV versions have a glossy surface with more grip, while frosted versions are matte. The difference affects the feel in your hands, not how the electronics work.

Which smart cube should you choose?

If it's your first smart cube, e.g. for a child or to see whether training with an app suits you, the Monster Go AI, QiYi Smart Cube or GAN i Carry will do the job. They give you all the basic app features on a smaller budget. If you train regularly and want a smart cube that can replace your main cube, take a look at the GAN i4, GAN 12 ui, Tornado V4 AI or MoYu WeiLong WRM V10 AI. Editions such as 10th Anniversary or Year of Horse are collector's versions of models from these series.