XMD Tornado V4 AI 3x3 UV

XMD Tornado V4 AI 3x3 UV

This is the smart version of the Tornado V4 cube from X-Man Design (a QiYi brand). The XMD Tornado V4 AI 3x3 UV has electronics inside that send every move to an app via Bluetooth. From the outside it looks like a regular speedcube: it measures 55.5 mm and weighs 76.5 g. This version has a glossy UV coating and a stickerless bright colour scheme, and it charges on a stand.

Electronics and app

Moves are read by contactless Hall sensors. Older smart cubes used spring contacts for this, and those wear out over time. There are no such contacts here, so there is also less risk of step loss, which happens when the app fails to register a move. A gyroscope also tracks rotations of the whole cube, so solve replays show cube rotations too. The smart core is only 20.5 mm in diameter.

The cube works with the Smart Player Pro app. The app records your times, breaks each solve into stages (splits) and replays it move by move. It also has tutorials for the LBL, CFOP and Roux methods, 1v1 battles and rooms for 2-32 players. Some users say the app shows a lot of data but gives little guidance on what to do with it. So you'll get the most out of it if you already know what you want to work on.

How it turns

The version with the stand is based on the Tornado V4 Flagship, which means classic springs (no MagLev). Besides the standard magnets between corners and edges, it has magnets in the piece feet. They help the layers snap into place and make the cube more stable during fast turning. According to reviews, it can feel stiff and slightly sandy straight out of the box, and occasional lockups can happen. Lubing and breaking it in noticeably improve smoothness. Despite the electronics inside, the cube doesn't feel noticeably heavier than regular cubes. If you're used to the very light, fast turning of MagLev cubes, you'll probably find it controllable rather than very fast.

Which Tornado V4 version?

• V4 AI with charging stand (this version): just put the cube on the stand to charge it. Convenient if you mostly practise at your desk.
• V4 AI with charging case: the case works as a 1000 mAh power bank, so it makes sense if you often solve away from home.
• V4 AI Zephyr LE: a limited edition with transparent plastic, mainly for collectors.
• Tornado V4 Flagship and Pioneer UV: versions without electronics. If you don't need the app, a regular cube will be cheaper and doesn't need charging.

Who is it for?

For cubers who want to track their progress with data, analyse splits and solve replays, or solve online with others. Beginners will benefit from the tutorials in the app. Parents buying the cube for a child should keep in mind that a phone or tablet with Bluetooth is needed to use all its features.

Specifications

• Type: 3x3 smart cube, magnetic
• Manufacturer: X-Man Design (QiYi)
• Size: 55.5 mm
• Weight: 76.5 g
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Smart Player Pro app
• Sensors: contactless Hall sensors, gyroscope
• Mechanism: springs, corner-edge magnets and magnets in the piece feet
• Finish: UV coating, stickerless bright
• Charging: charging stand