Is it worth getting a magnetic cube? A speedcuber‘s guide to magnetic Rubik‘s cubes

If you‘ve been cubing for a while, you‘ve probably heard about the hype around magnetic speed cubes. But are magnets really a must-have upgrade for your Rubik‘s cube collection? Let‘s dig into the pros and cons so you can decide if it‘s time to make the magnetic leap!

As your cubing buddy, I want to provide an honest look at magnetic cubes. While they offer some neat benefits, they also come with downsides to consider before splurging. My aim is to help guide your decision based on where you‘re at with cubing.

So whether you‘re a casual puzzler or competitive speedcuber, read on for the lowdown on magnetic magic!

Why magnets are so hot right now

In the speedcubing world, magnetic cubes are all the rage. In just the past 5 years, the percentage of top competitors using magnetic cubes has risen from 5% to 65%!

The reason is that magnets provide tangible performance benefits that allow speedcubers to achieve faster times. Read on for the breakdown:

Stability – Magnets guide the cube layers into perfect alignment as you turn. This prevents misalignments that slow you down.

Control – Magnets give a crisp, snap feeling that avoids overturning layers past their intended cutoff point.

Corner cutting – Magnetic cubes can cut corners at wider angles, avoiding those pesky lockups mid-solve.

Smoother turns – The magnetic bump feels buttery smooth compared to the jerkiness of non-mag cubes.

So in a nutshell, magnets make the cube turn more accurately and efficiently. For world-class speedcubers hunting record times, these milliseconds matter when competitions are decided by tenths of a second!

Magnetic cubes have downsides too

But it‘s not all unicorns and rainbows – there are some disadvantages to magnetic cubes as well:

• Cost – There‘s no way around it, magnetic cubes are expensive. Budget models start at $15, while premium cubes run $50 to $100+!

• Feeling – The first time turning a magnetic cube can be jarring. It takes practice to adjust to controlling the magnetic clicks.

• Weight – The added magnets make cubes noticeably heavier, which can affect control and stamina.

• Fragile – Dropping your magnetic cube risks chipping or dislodging magnets, damaging performance.

So if you‘re on a tight budget or prefer a lightweight cube, magnets may not be for you. It comes down to personal preference!

Are magnetic cubes competition legal?

A common question among cubers is whether magnetic cubes comply with World Cube Association regulations. The answer is yes, as long as the cubes don‘t have any illegal functions like Bluetooth connectivity.

In fact, roughly 65% of competitors at the recent 2019 World Championship used magnetic cubes, up from just 5% in 2015. It‘s clear the elites believe magnets provide a competitive edge!

Some of the most popular competition magnetic cubes are the GAN 356 XS, the MoYu WRM 2021 Maglev, and the budget YJ MGC Elite M. But ultimately skill is more important than equipment. Magnets alone won‘t make you a champion!

Magnetic cube recommendations

Not sure which magnetic cube is right for you? Here are my top recommendations based on your skill level and budget:

Beginner

As a new cuber, focus on honing your fundamental skills before splurging on magnets. The Drift and Warrior cubes are excellent budget starters.

Intermediate

Ready to try magnetic stability? The YJ MGC Elite M ($15) and RS3M 2020 ($9) provide excellent magnetic feel for the price.

Advanced

If speed is your priority, the GAN 356 XS ($60) and MoYu WRM 2021 ($45) represent the cutting-edge in magnetic cubes.

Competitive

Chasing records and podiums? The GAN 13 Maglev ($95) employs repelling magnets for unrivaled speed and corner cutting. The cost of marginal gains!

Budget Pick

The YJ MGC Elite M gives you pro-level magnets for just $15. Unbeatable value!

The verdict: Are magnetic cubes worth it?

So should you make the magnetic upgrade? Here‘s my take for different types of cubers:

• Casual & Beginner – Stick with standard cubes for now and focus on improving your technique. Magnets won‘t provide major benefits at this stage.

• Intermediate & Advanced – Yes, you‘re ready! Magnetic stability will noticeably improve your times. Go for one of the budget magnetic models around $15.

• Competitive – Absolutely, the cutting edge performance will help shave seconds off your solves. Invest in a premium magnetic cube.

While magnetic cubes have some downsides like cost and feel adjustment, the stability benefits are real if you‘re an intermediate cuber or faster. Just make sure to handle them gently – no cube abuse allowed!

I hope this breakdown helps guide your magnetic cube decision. Let me know if you have any other questions! Whether you go magnetic or stay old school, the most important thing is having fun. Happy twisting my cubing friend!