The MsCube MS3X is MsCube's 2022 flagship 3x3. Despite being from a relatively new brand, the cube is packed with features and is a viable contender against flagship speedcubes from more well-known brands.
Specifications
The MsCube MS3X weighs 76 grams and measures 56 millimeters across, which are both pretty standard. It's factory magnetized with fairly strong magnets, although the strength feels more moderate when the cube is lubed well.
The cube is available exclusively in stickerless with a semi-glossy finish, and it has the option of either primary internals or black internals.
The plastic internals have DianSheng/MsCube's signature spiderweb design to help distribute lubricant more evenly.
Accessories
The MS3X comes with many accessories, including a spare core, extra tension rings, extra magnet rings, a lot of extra magnets, a screwdriver, and a unique diagonal-type cube stand.
Interestingly, the instruction guide mentions that the cube stand can also be used as a tool to practice fingertricks by focusing on 2-gen (2 side) turning. However, it doesn't seem very realistic to use.
Customization
The MsCube MS3X has many methods of adjustment.
The cube has a standard screw, which can be used to adjust the center travel distance. Tightening the screw will make corner cutting harder but reduce the frequency of pops, and loosening the screw will do the opposite.
There's a blue ring in the core which can be used to adjust the elasticity of the cube, also known as spring compression. A tighter elasticity will make the cube more stable but also make it slower, and vice versa for a looser elasticity. A higher number corresponds with a tighter spring compression.
Below the blue ring is a magenta magnet ring, which attracts to the magnets in the stalks of the corner pieces.
What's a magnet ring? The magnet ring system is very complicated, but it seems like the magnets in the accessories box are supposed to be put into the magenta rings in certain patterns to affect the magnetic strength and feel of the cube.
"It might be the best thing ever that I'm missing out on, but it just kind of looks like a little bit of a headache to me."
Cameron Brown
The corner-to-edge magnets of the cube are not adjustable, which is surprising since the cube has so many other adjustment features.
The MsCube MS3X introduces brand new adjustable torpedo technology. A torpedo is the very end of an edge stalk that interlocks with the adjacent corner, which is extremely effective in preventing pops. With the MS3X, the torpedo can be either in a "down" position, which is where it functions to prevent pops, or in an "up" position, where the cube has a different, less stable turning feel.
Note: When customizing the cube, be mindful of the direction you're rotating the adjustment systems. Counterclockwise and clockwise rotations of the same system can affect different things.
Core
Unlike with most cubes, the core of the MsCube MS3X is made with separate pieces to house the threads of the screw. These pieces can be replaced with the extra parts in the accessories box in the event that the core strips or breaks.
Turning Feel
The MsCube MS3X has a unique, smooth turning feel.
"It's a really nice turning feel. It's pretty quiet, and it sort of has like a hollow, deep tone. It's really satisfying just to turn this puzzle and just listen."
Cameron Brown
Out of the box, the cube is really fast and it's recommended to slow it down either by customizing the cube's settings or by applying heavier lubricant such as Nebula.
Of course, the turning feel is dependent on the settings on the cube.
"I personally chose 4 for the elasticity, 2 for the magnets, and I have my torpedo open."
Cameron Brown
With these settings, the cube takes on a snappy, quick feel that feels a little bit loose and flexible.
"[The flexibility] doesn't really bother me too much and I think it's kind of a nice, different feel honestly."
Cameron Brown
Overall, the cube has an enjoyable, unique turning feel that feels very smooth and buttery.
"I think the cube is overall really nice. It's probably gonna be my main for a little while, at least."
Cameron Brown
Conclusion
The MsCube MS3X has an incredible amount of customization options alongside brand new magnet ring and adjustable torpedo technologies. It has a great turning feel that many cubers will enjoy, and its performance is comparable to flagship speedcubes of more well-known brands.
"Overall, my thoughts for the MS3X are very positive. I think it's an awesome cube for just about any skill level."
Cameron Brown
MsCUBE MS3X 3x3 (Magnetic)
$28.53
$45.59
MsCUBE MS3X 3x3 Magnetic offers a more refined customization system compared to previous releases. Key features Dual-adjustment core for independent spring compression & tension New corner/edge magnet positioning system Attraction & MagLev "modes" Spiderweb piece design Overview Smooth, dry turning feel… >> SHOP PRODUCT <<