X-man Spark 7x7x7

X-man Spark 7x7x7

X-Man Spark 7x7 is a non-magnetic 7x7 cube designed by X-Man Design and manufactured by MoFangGe, a brand owned by QiYi. It was released in early 2019. The Spark is an updated version of the manufacturer's earlier 7x7, the WuJi. For many cubers, it was the first truly refined big cube from this family.

Design

The edges are made of two parts. The inner parts of the centers and corners are made of unpigmented plastic with colored or black caps on the outside. This plastic wears more slowly and turns more smoothly than pigmented plastic. The edge pieces have many grooves that reduce the contact area between the pieces, so the cube offers less resistance when you turn it. You set the tension with adjustment screws.

How does the Spark 7x7x7 turn?

The feel is soft and slightly crunchy, and turning is smooth and light. The cube is stable for a 7x7: layers rarely misalign, and corner cutting works without major issues. Lockups can happen, especially if the layers are not aligned precisely, but that is true of practically every big cube. Lubing the cube and setting the tension to your liking noticeably improve smoothness.

Non-magnetic or magnetic?

This version has no magnets, so it is a little lighter and offers a more "free" turning feel. The cube does not snap layers into place by itself, so you need to make sure they are aligned evenly. If you want the layers to align themselves, take a look at the Spark M or the newer Spark V2 M with Ball-Core. The latter is smaller and has magnets in the core.

Who is it for?

The Spark 7x7 is for you if you already know the 4x4 and 5x5 and want to move on to the 7x7, or if you are looking for a solid non-magnetic cube for practice. This model is permitted in official WCA competitions. Available colors: Black (black plastic with stickers) and Stickerless Bright.

Specifications

Size: approx. 67 mm
Weight: approx. 184 g
Magnets: none
Adjustment: adjustment screws
Release year: 2019

In the box:

1. the puzzle
2. solving instructions