Z Mini Screwdriver

Z Mini Screwdriver: a small screwdriver for adjusting cubes

Z Mini Screwdriver is a small screwdriver from Zcube for tension adjustment in 3x3 cubes and other puzzles. It comes in handy when your cube is too loose and pops, or too tight and starts getting lockups. All you need to do is tighten or loosen the screws under the center caps. According to the manufacturer, the screwdriver fits most cubes.

What it's for

• Tensioning cubes with screws. Turning the screw clockwise increases the tension of the layer, and turning it counterclockwise reduces it. Tension directly affects corner cutting, stability and resistance to popping.
• Disassembling a cube. When cleaning, lubing or replacing a spring or a piece, you usually need to take the cube apart first.
• DIY assembly. For cubes sold in parts, you need a screwdriver to assemble the mechanism.

How to adjust the tension

First remove the center cap, e.g. by prying it off with your fingernail, then turn the screw a quarter turn or less. After each change, solve the cube a few times before adjusting further. Finally, check that all layers have similar tension. If one side is noticeably looser than the rest, the cube will turn unevenly.

When you won't need it

Many newer speedcubes have a numbered tension adjustment system, e.g. dials in the core or dual adjustment. These systems are usually adjusted with a key included with the cube, and a screwdriver isn't needed. Z Mini Screwdriver is mainly useful for cubes with classic screw adjustment: budget magnetic models, older cubes, many beginner cubes, as well as some bigger cubes and puzzles.

Who is it for?

For anyone who wants to set up their cube themselves instead of sticking with the factory tension. It's also handy for parents when pieces start falling out of their child's cube. It's very small and light, so it fits in a cube case or bag together with your lube. It's worth having on hand at competitions and meetups.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Zcube
• Manufacturer code: LSD003
• Type: small screwdriver for adjusting and disassembling cubes
• Colour: mixed (the colour of the item may vary)
• Weight: approx. 4 g