YJ MGC 4x4x4 Speed-micro Actuator

YJ MGC 4x4x4 Speed-micro Actuator

YJ MGC 4x4x4 Speed-micro Actuator is a magnetic stickerless 4x4 cube. It differs from the regular MGC 4x4 in just one part, which you only see after removing a center cap. Under the head of each screw sits a washer with small ball bearings that rests against the core. That is the Speed-micro Actuator. The rest of the cube is the familiar MGC: 60 mm in size, a weight of approx. 115 g, magnets in the pieces and matte plastic with medium grip.

What the micro bearings do

The bearings reduce friction where a layer turns around the core. According to user feedback, you feel the difference mainly on the outer layers. The 3x3 stage at the end of the solve then feels more like a fast 3x3, and catching happens a bit less often than on the standard MGC. The speed boost is smaller on the inner layers, although on a 4x4 every layer is next to one of the mechanisms. The character of the cube stays the same: it is still fast but controllable, and the magnets are fairly moderate in strength. The bearings make the cube a little louder.

Setup out of the box

The cube usually arrives fairly dry and has a sandy feeling. Some people like it right away, others prefer to lube it first. Corner cutting improves after a few dozen solves. It is better not to lube it like a 3x3 with thick premium lubes. Several people report that the inner layers then become gummy and slow. Tension is adjusted with the screws, and a screwdriver is included.

Speed-micro Actuator or another MGC 4x4 version?

The standard version has the same internals, just without the bearings. If you like the MGC but find it turns a bit sluggishly, the Speed-micro Actuator version is where you will notice the biggest improvement. The UV version is the same size but has a glossy coating that grips your fingers more. The micro-bearing version has a matte surface.

Who is it for?

For someone moving from 3x3 to 4x4, or replacing their first non-magnetic 4x4 with a cube for timed practice. The smaller 60 mm size sits comfortably in smaller hands. For a speedcuber, this version is a sensible, cheaper alternative to flagship 4x4s with advanced tension adjustment.

Specifications

• Type: magnetic 4x4x4 cube, stickerless (Bright)
• Manufacturer: YJ (YongJun)
• Size: 60 x 60 x 60 mm
• Weight: approx. 115 g
• Mechanism: washers with micro ball bearings under the screws (Speed-micro Actuator)
• Adjustment: tension set with screws
• Finish: matte
• Included: screwdriver