YJ Meta3 3x3 (Wing-Magnetic + 8-Magnet Ball-Core + UV)

YJ Meta3 3x3 (Wing-Magnetic + 8-Magnet Ball-Core + UV)

This is the top-of-the-range version of the three Meta3 variants. The manufacturer presents it as the successor to the MGC Beta. YJ Meta3 3x3 Wing-Magnetic + 8-Magnet Ball-Core + UV has every magnetic system YJ designed for this model: classic magnets in the pieces, magnets in the center "wings", an 8-magnet Ball-Core and extra magnets in the edge feet. That makes 124 magnets in total. The cube has a glossy UV coating and comes in a stickerless bright color scheme.

How it turns

The Meta3 has a smooth feel and, according to reviewers, very good corner cutting. However, it is not the fastest cube among recent releases, as it leans more towards controllable than very fast. The center magnets give the turns a distinctly tactile character, and the Ball-Core stabilizes the layers during fast turning. Some cubers switching from the MGC Beta point out that the Meta3 turns noticeably differently and its feel is closer to MoYu cubes.

Magnets and mechanism

• Wing-Magnetic: the centers have side "wings" with magnets that interact with the edges. This makes every turn snap into place more clearly.
• 8-Magnet Ball-Core: eight magnets work between the corners and the core. They make the cube more stable and easier to control.
• Magnets in the edge feet: an additional set of magnets that the cheaper versions don't have.
• Piece design: the centers have center skirts, the edges have cut-outs matching these skirts, and the pieces have a "scale" pattern surface. The sharpened corner tips are designed to reduce corner twists.
• Springs instead of MagLev and 9 compression levels.

Which Meta3 version?

All versions share the same base mechanism and differ in magnets and finish. The basic Magnetic version has matte plastic and center magnets, but no Ball-Core. The 8-Magnet Ball-Core + UV version has a magnetic core and UV coating, but no magnets in the center wings. This version has both of these features plus magnets in the edge feet. If you prefer a lighter, less "clicky" feel, you may be happier with the version without Wing-Magnetic.

Who is it for?

For cubers who want a stable, predictable cube with clearly noticeable magnets and very good corner cutting. It is less suited to those who care above all about maximum speed. For a child's first cube, the simpler Magnetic version is more than enough.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 3x3 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: YJ
• Size: approx. 56 mm
• Weight: approx. 76 g
• Magnets: 124 in total, including magnets in the pieces, magnets in the center wings, an 8-magnet Ball-Core and magnets in the edge feet
• Turning system: springs (no MagLev)
• Adjustment: 9 compression levels
• Finish: UV coating (glossy)
• Color scheme: stickerless bright