X-Man XT3 V1 3x3 (Flagship + UV)

X-Man XT3 V1 3x3 Flagship UV

XT3 V1 is the more affordable 3x3 series from X-Man Design, a brand owned by QiYi. The manufacturer developed it based on feedback from its team cubers. The X-Man XT3 V1 3x3 (Flagship + UV) has magnets between the corners and the core, spring-based tension adjustment and a glossy UV coating. The cube is compact (55.5 mm) and light, weighing approx. 65 g. It is available in the stickerless bright colour scheme.

How it turns

Many users compare the XT3 to the Tornado V3. The feel is similar, but the XT3 is lighter, and every move still has a clear "snap" into place. The cube is fast, while the core magnets and the magnets in the pieces keep it under control. Reviews often mention good corner cutting. The magnets are medium rather than strong, so turning feels distinctly "clicky", but the cube doesn't offer much resistance. However, it isn't very forgiving. With imprecise turning it can pop, usually before a lockup happens. Straight out of the box the springs may be audible and the cube may feel dry. Lubing usually helps with this.

Adjustment and magnets

• Corner-core magnets: additional magnets between the corners and the centre of the cube that help layers snap into place and stabilise turning. This is a different solution from Ball-Core.
• Springs, no MagLev: the classic system gives a slightly calmer, more controllable feel than the Pioneer version.
• Tension and compression adjustment: a dial with 11 compression settings, plus classic screw adjustment. The centre caps can hold quite tightly, so be careful when removing them.
• Fixed magnet strength: the magnet strength cannot be adjusted.

Flagship, Flagship UV or Pioneer?

The XT3 V1 series comes in three versions. The Flagship has a matte (frosted) surface and springs. The Flagship UV has the same mechanism, but with a glossy UV coating that offers better grip. The Pioneer UV uses MagLev instead of springs and is noticeably faster and heavier (approx. 71 g). If you like control, you'll usually go for the Flagship. The Pioneer makes sense if you turn lightly and at a high TPS.

Who is it for?

For cubers who want a cube with core magnets and full adjustment, but don't want to pay for a top-tier flagship. It works well as your first serious main after a beginner cube. However, it requires somewhat more precise turning than the most forgiving models.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 3x3 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: X-Man Design (QiYi)
• Version: V1 Flagship, UV Coated
• Size: 55.5 mm
• Weight: approx. 65 g
• Magnets: in the pieces and corner-core (fixed strength)
• System: springs (no MagLev)
• Adjustment: tension and compression (11 compression settings)
• Finish: UV coating (glossy)