Swift Block 3x3 Super Maglev X Umbreon

Swift Block 3x3 Super Maglev X Umbreon

Swift Block 3x3 Super Maglev X Umbreon is a collector's edition from the official Pokémon series. Under the Umbreon theme you get a regular, fully functional speedcube. Swift Block is GAN's budget brand. Its Super Maglev model replaces springs with a MagLev system and has 76 magnets and 8 levels of GES adjustment. The most eye-catching feature is the dedicated Umbreon cap on the centre of one face.

How it turns

The cube is light and fast. Reviewers of the standard Super Maglev point out its smooth, quiet turning, good corner cutting and a noticeable but not overdone magnetic "click". Many also say it has a very refined feel for its price range. A lot depends on the setup. At low GES levels the cube becomes loose and very fast, but harder to control. At the highest levels it turns tighter and corner cutting clearly weakens. It's usually best to start with the factory setting and then adjust it one level at a time in either direction.

MagLev, magnets and GES adjustment

• MagLev: instead of metal springs, the layers are held by repelling magnets. This means no spring noise and less resistance when turning.
• 76 magnets arranged in double magnetic rings help align the layers after every move.
• GES with 8 levels: a built-in tension adjustment system that lets you set the cube up more for speed or more for control.
• Hollow internal design reduces weight and lowers friction between pieces.

Umbreon or the standard version?

The Umbreon edition is mainly about the look: a licensed Pokémon theme and a character cap on the centre. If you only care about the mechanism and the theme doesn't matter to you, consider the regular Swift Block Super Maglev. It's the same platform without the collector's extras.

Who is it for?

For Pokémon fans who want a cube that looks great on the shelf and performs well in timed solves. It's also a sensible gift for a child who can already solve the cube and wants to move up to a real magnetic speedcube. An advanced speedcuber can use it every day too, although GAN's flagships are designed more with them in mind.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 magnetic cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: GAN (Swift Block brand)
• Series: Pokémon, Umbreon edition
• Size: 55 mm
• Weight: approx. 72 g
• Magnets: 76
• Turning system: MagLev (springless)
• Adjustment: GES, 8 levels
• Colour scheme: stickerless bright, Umbreon cap on the centre