YJ MGC Square-1

YJ MGC Square-1

YJ MGC Square-1 is a magnetic Square-1 from YJ (YongJun), part of the MGC line, released in 2021. Since its launch it has been one of the most popular SQ-1 puzzles for speedcubing. At the time it was mentioned in the same breath as the YuXin Little Magic and the Volt V2, and in many comparisons it is still the benchmark for other magnetic Square-1 puzzles. The version we offer is stickerless bright.

How it turns

Layer turns are smooth, and the plastic glides over plastic very nicely. Corner cutting is good, so the puzzle forgives small inaccuracies during shape changes. The magnets in the pieces help the layers snap into place and line up the slice. Compared with the Volt V2 they feel fairly strong, although some people may find them medium. Most of the weight sits in the middle, so the puzzle is light yet feels stable in your hands while turning.

Out of the box

The puzzle comes fairly dry. It is usually worth lubing it and tightening the screws, because some users experience popping on the factory setup. You adjust the tension with the screwdriver included in the set.

Internal design
At launch, the MGC was the first Square-1 with double-layer piece feet. Each piece is held at three contact points. This is meant to reduce popping, but it does not eliminate it completely. If the puzzle is set too loose and turned aggressively, pieces can still pop out.

MGC Square-1 or V2?

This product is the first version of the MGC Square-1. It has matte plastic and no UV coating. The newer V2 has additional magnets in the edges and corners, a wider middle layer and a UV coating. If you want a proven design without UV, go for the first version. If you want more grip and the newer magnet setup, the V2 will suit you better.

Who is it for?

The MGC Square-1 is a great choice if you are just starting out with Square-1 and want a good magnetic model right away. It also suits cubers preparing for competitions, as it is legal for official WCA competitions. It performs best after a quick setup: lubing and adjusting the tension.

Specifications

Dimensions: 54.5 x 54.5 x 56.5 mm
Weight: approx. 94 g
Magnets: yes, in the pieces
Adjustment: adjustment screws
Release year: 2021

In the box

1. the puzzle
2. solving instructions
3. adjustment screwdriver
4. a set of black tiles you can use to replace one of the coloured sides (e.g. yellow) to make a version with a black face