The Valk 5x5x5 Magnetic

The Valk 5x5x5 Magnetic

The Valk 5x5x5 Magnetic (Valk 5 M) is a magnetic 5x5 cube by QiYi MoFangGe from The Valk line, named after Mats Valk. It was released in 2019. In June of that year, Max Park set 5x5 world records on it: 36.06 s single and 39.65 s average.

The successor to the WuShuang

The Valk 5 builds on the WuShuang, which was one of the most popular 5x5 cubes among speedcubers before the Valk came out. The internal design is practically identical, with only a few details improved. The inner parts of the centers are made of undyed plastic (primary internals), which has better mechanical properties than dyed plastic. The manufacturer also used thinner plastic, making the cube lighter. At the time of its release, the Valk 5 M was one of the lightest factory-magnetized 5x5 cubes. At 62 mm, it doesn't feel too big in your hands.

How the Valk 5 M turns

Turning is light and smooth, and the magnets give a short, noticeable click as the layers line up. Speedcubing shops usually describe their strength as medium to strong. Corner cutting is good. However, there are no extra stabilizing elements inside, like those used in the MoYu AoChuang GTS M, for example. Stability here comes mainly from the mechanism itself and the magnets. Some people find the cube slower out of the box than they expected. This usually changes after breaking it in, setting the right tension and lubing it.

Adjustment

Tension is set with adjustment screws. The set also includes extra springs that are stiffer than the stock ones. If you prefer a firmer, more controllable feel, you can swap them in.

Who is it for?

The Valk 5 M is a competition-level 5x5 cube. It benefits most those who regularly practice this event and want a light, fast 5x5 with the option to fine-tune their setup. The cube is legal for official competitions. For your first 5x5, a simpler, cheaper magnetic model is perfectly enough.

Specifications

Size: 62 mm
Weight: approx. 137 g
Magnets: yes
Adjustment: adjustment screws, replaceable springs
Colors: Black, White, Stickerless Bright

In the box you will find:

1. The Valk 5 M cube,
2. a cube box,
3. a set of extra springs, stiffer than the stock ones,
4. a cloth with the “Valk” logo,
5. collectible cards,
6. solving instructions.