WCA Clock 

WCA Clock: 3x3 clocks in competition format

This category covers the Clock in its classic 3x3 version, the form used in the WCA event. The puzzle has two sides with nine clock faces on each. You operate it with four wheels and four buttons (pins). The goal is to set all the hands on both sides to 12 o'clock. Mini, enlarged and other unusual Clock variants are not included in this category. You will find only models with the standard layout here.

Magnetic or classic Clock?

The models in this category differ mainly in whether they have magnets. On a magnetic Clock, the dial stops at each hour with a noticeable click as you turn it. This makes it easier to land exactly on the hour you want without having to correct the setting. Magnets in the pins also help the buttons hold their position more securely. The classic LingAo Magic Clock has no magnets. It is a simple and inexpensive design, but some users point out that its wheels turn with noticeable resistance.

Models in this category

• QiYi Magnetic Clock has magnets in the gears and pins. Tension is adjusted with four screws, and the whole puzzle can be taken apart for lubing. Newer batches have a revised magnet layout, so turning is more consistent regardless of how many pins are pressed. The Limited Edition versions are short runs in different colours. Mechanism details may differ in them, so it is best to check the description of the specific variant.
• ShengShou (SengSo) Magnetic Clock is a magnetic Clock that is also available in a v2 version. Compared with the first version, v2 has been refined in terms of smoothness and stable positioning of the dials.
• ESTAR Clock comes in two versions. The Standard Version has magnetic positioning and lets you change the magnet configuration. The Bearing Version additionally features bearings that reduce wheel resistance and give a smoother turn.
• C4U 3x3 Clock comes from the manufacturer Cube4You, which offers many variants of this puzzle.

How to choose a Clock for learning and speedcubing?

For your first Clock, a magnetic model is the better choice. The clicks at each hour help not only when solving for time but also while learning, because it is easier to see how far a dial has moved. LingAo is a good option if you want to find out at low cost whether this event suits you. Among competitors, QiYi is currently the benchmark, and its tension adjustment lets you set it up to your liking. ESTAR Bearing is for those who want the lightest possible wheel turning. A new magnetic Clock may feel stiff at first; adjusting the tension and lubing the mechanism usually improves smoothness noticeably.