YuXin Huanglong 13x13x13

YuXin Huanglong 13x13x13

Thirteen layers in a cube with a 98 mm edge. The YuXin Huanglong 13x13x13 came out in 2020 and stood out for its size from the very beginning. At the time of release, it was noticeably smaller than other 13x13 cubes. It also has the shape of a true cube rather than a pillowed one, unlike many big cubes. The corners and edges are slightly rounded, so the cube sits comfortably in your hands and feels smaller than its dimensions would suggest.

How this 13x13 cube solves

For so many layers, the Huanglong turns smoothly and has a smooth feel. Some minor catching is almost unavoidable in big cubes. It does happen here too, but it doesn't get in the way of normal solving. Opinions on its out-of-the-box performance are mixed. Some users say the cube turns well right away, while others found it stiff at first. After breaking it in and lubing it, the turning improves noticeably.

The outer layers are wider than the inner ones, which makes it easier to grip the cube and turn whole faces. As a result, the inner layers are narrow, so you need to be precise when turning individual slices. The surface is matte and stickerless, in a bright colour scheme. There are no stickers that could wear off or peel after many solves.

Weight and construction

The cube weighs approx. 630 g, which is light for a 13x13. Big cubes tire your hands quickly, so this difference matters during long solves. The cube has no magnets, which is normal at this size. Tension is adjusted with screws.

Who is it for?

For cubers who have already mastered smaller big cubes (e.g. 7x7 or 9x9) and want to take on a bigger challenge, and for collectors of big cubes. Solving a 13x13 is a long session that requires patience and a good command of big cube methods. That's why it isn't a good first cube, including for a child. The 13x13 is not an event in official WCA competitions.

Specifications

• Type: 13x13x13 cube, stickerless
• Manufacturer: YuXin
• Release year: 2020
• Size: 98 mm
• Weight: approx. 630 g
• Shape: cube (not pillowed), slightly rounded corners and edges
• Magnets: none
• Adjustment: tension adjustment screws
• Finish: matte, stickerless bright
• Allowed in official competitions: no
• In the box: puzzle