WitEden 3x3x4 Mixup Edge-rebuilt Cube

WitEden 3x3x4 Mixup Edge-rebuilt Cube

WitEden 3x3x4 Mixup Edge-rebuilt belongs to the Mixup series, designed by Oskar van Deventer and produced by WitEden. On a classic Mixup, you can turn the middle layer by 45 degrees. Edges and centers then swap places, and the cube loses its usual arrangement. The 3x3x4 version has a different number of layers along one axis than along the others, although from the outside it still looks like a cube with a side of approx. 66 mm. Edge-rebuilt is a redesigned version with split edges. When the edges are positioned correctly on the middle layer, they can be separated, so another type of move comes into play while you solve it.

What makes it challenging

This puzzle is nothing like a regular 3x3x4 cuboid. The 45-degree moves and split edges mix up pieces that cannot be swapped on a regular cube. On top of that, the axes are asymmetric. Solving it therefore has two stages: first you need to restore the shape and get the pieces into their correct positions, and only then can you solve the colors. In the Mixup series, when the middle layer is turned by 45 degrees, some turns are blocked until the layer returns to the right position. You need to keep this in mind when planning your moves.

How it turns

WitEden Mixups are collector's puzzles, not speedcubes. They have no magnets and no tension adjustment, and corner cutting is limited. Users of the series mention a noticeably clicky mechanism and lockups during fast turning. With the Edge-rebuilt versions, some also report fairly stiff layers when the puzzle is new. It's best to turn it calmly and align the layers carefully - that way it works without problems.

Who is it for?

For people who can already solve a 3x3, ideally a 4x4 as well, and are looking for a puzzle that makes you think rather than just execute algorithms. It's a great choice for collectors of shape-shifting puzzles and fans of Oskar's designs. For a child's first cube, a classic 3x3 is a better pick. If Mixups are completely new to you, it's wiser to start with the standard 3x3x3 Mixup. The 3x3x4 Edge-rebuilt version is noticeably harder.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: WitEden (Mixup series design: Oskar van Deventer)
• Type: shape-shifting puzzle, 3x3x4 Mixup with split edges (Edge-rebuilt)
• Size: approx. 66 mm
• Weight: approx. 158 g
• Color: stickerless bright
• Mechanism: no magnets, no tension adjustment