X-Man Spark 7x7 V2 M Ball Core

X-Man Spark 7x7 V2 M Ball Core

Core magnets are standard in 3x3 cubes these days, but in big cubes they are still rare. X-Man Spark 7x7 V2 M Ball Core is the second generation of the Spark 7x7 from X-Man Design (a QiYi brand). The cube has magnets in its pieces plus a magnetic Ball-Core that pulls the corners towards the core. According to the manufacturer and distributors, it is the first mass-produced 7x7 cube with this design. It measures approx. 64 mm, weighs approx. 162 g, has a matte finish without UV coating and comes in a stickerless bright version.

What Ball-Core does in a 7x7 cube

A 7x7 cube has many layers, so it can easily lose its shape during fast turning. The magnets between the corners and the core help hold it together and reduce flexing. Their strength is fairly subtle. Users say you can barely feel them in your hands, and the cube feels solid and rather blocky. The outer layers are slightly wider than the inner ones, which makes it easier to grip them accurately during outer-layer turns and in the 3x3 stage.

How it turns

The Spark V2 M is more of a controllable cube than a very fast one. Out of the box it is usually tight and needs breaking in. It benefits most from your own setup: loosening the tension and lubing it. Once set up, reviewers praise the even feel across all layers, good corner cutting and how well the cube holds its shape at high speed. Opinions are mixed, though. Some people are bothered by catching and the slow break-in, and some feel the core magnets give less stability than they expected. It is mainly compared directly with the MoYu AoFu WRM 7x7, and choosing between them is largely a matter of preference.

Who is it for?

For people who solve 7x7 seriously and don't mind spending some time on setup. If you like a stable, predictable cube with clear control, this is a solid alternative to the AoFu. It also works as a first 7x7, but keep in mind that without breaking in and lubing it won't show its full potential.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 7x7 cube, stickerless bright
• Manufacturer: X-Man Design (QiYi)
• Size: approx. 64 mm
• Weight: approx. 162 g
• Magnets: magnets in the pieces and Ball-Core (corner-to-core magnets)
• MagLev: no
• Finish: matte, no UV coating
• In the box: cube, pouch, spare springs of a different strength