News

  • All articles
  • 2x2x2
  • 3x3x3
  • 4x4x4
  • 5x5x5
  • 6x6x6
  • clock
  • DaYan
  • Gan
  • megaminx
  • MoYu
  • neutrino
  • pyraminx
  • QiYi
  • review
  • skewb
  • YJ
  • yuxin
A New Look for Speedcubing.org – Website Update & Features

News

A New Look for Speedcubing.org – Website Update & Features

Daniel Evans.Mar 13, 2026
For quite some time now I have been working on a major update to the Speedcubing.org website, and I am pleased to finally make it public. Alongside this blog post, I have released a new video showcasing many of the changes and new features that have been added. Designing and refining the new site has taken longer than expected, but the goal has always been the same: to make the store easier to use, more informative for cubers, and better suited to the large range of puzzles now available. If you notice anything that could be improved or have suggestions for additional features, I would genuinely appreciate your feedback. A New Theme and Layout One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a completely new theme. This has allowed the website to become more structured and flexible, particularly on the home page. The home page now contains several sections that highlight different products and promotions, making it easier to discover new puzzles and interesting releases. Instead of relying on a single long list of products, featured items can now be displayed in dedicated sections across the page. Another feature I am very happy with is the collections bar at the top of the site. This makes it much easier to jump directly to specific puzzle types such as 2x2 cubes, 3x3 cubes, big cubes, Pyraminx, Skewb and many others without having to navigate through multiple menus. Overall the goal of these changes was to make browsing the store feel quicker and more intuitive, especially for visitors who are looking for a specific type of puzzle. Improved Stock Visibility Another useful improvement is the addition of clear stock indicators on product pages and product listings. Products can now show one of three labels: In stock Low in stock Out of stock This should make it much easier to see at a glance whether a cube is readily available or if only a few remain. The system also allows customers to request notification when an item is out of stock. When someone submits such a request I am now notified immediately, which helps me prioritise restocking the puzzles that people are actively waiting for. The New Upcoming Competitions Page One feature I am particularly pleased with is the new Upcoming Competitions page. This page now correctly displays all upcoming UK competitions along with the events being held at each competition. This makes it much easier for speedcubers to see what competitions are coming up and which events will be available. I should mention that this feature really isn’t thanks to me. Most of the credit goes to Ada Cooke, who created the UKCA API that makes the competition data available. I also used Shopify Sidekick to help with the coding needed to integrate the data into the website. The result is a page that automatically updates as competitions are added or modified, which should make it much more useful for the UK cubing community. Continuing Improvements Although the new website is now live, it is very much an ongoing project. There are always small improvements that can be made, whether that is improving navigation, adding more product information, or refining how things are displayed. If you notice anything that could be improved or have ideas for features that would make the site better, please do let me know. Watch the Video In the video linked above I go through many of these new features and show how the updated site works in practice. If you haven’t already, please take a look and let me know what you think of the new design and features. Your feedback is always welcome, and I hope the new website makes browsing and buying cubes even easier.
Best Teraminx in 2026 – ShengShou vs YuXin vs DianSheng

News

Best Teraminx in 2026 – ShengShou vs YuXin vs DianSheng

Daniel Evans.Mar 05, 2026
The Best Teraminx in 2026 – Which 7-Layer Megaminx Should You Buy? If the megaminx and gigaminx are no longer enough of a challenge, the teraminx might be the puzzle you are looking for. With seven layers on each face, the teraminx is one of the largest and most complex mass-produced twisty puzzles available. But with several teraminx options now available, which one should you choose? In this guide we compare the main teraminxes currently available and explain which one is best for different types of cubers. What Is a Teraminx? A teraminx is a 7-layer version of the megaminx. Like a 7x7 cube, it adds additional layers to dramatically increase the number of pieces and solving difficulty. 7 layers per face 12 faces (dodecahedron shape) Hundreds of pieces Extremely long solves Most solving methods use reduction techniques similar to large cubes: solving the centres first, pairing the edges, and then completing the puzzle like a standard megaminx. This makes the teraminx one of the most impressive puzzles for collectors and experienced cubers alike. Teraminx Comparison Overview Model Magnetic Price Best For ShengShou Teraminx No £29.95 Best value / first teraminx YuXin HuangLong Teraminx No £47.95 Refined non-magnetic performance DianSheng Teraminx Yes £62.95 Best performance / magnetic stability 1️⃣ ShengShou Teraminx – Best Budget Option The ShengShou Teraminx is the most affordable teraminx currently available and is an excellent entry point into these enormous puzzles. Despite its size and complexity, it turns surprisingly well and offers good stability for such a large puzzle. It is widely considered the best choice for cubers attempting their first teraminx. Best for: Cubers who want the lowest price and a solid first teraminx experience. 2️⃣ YuXin HuangLong Teraminx – Mid-Tier Refinement The YuXin HuangLong Teraminx sits between the ShengShou and DianSheng models, offering smoother turning and a more refined feel, the YuXin HuangLong Teraminx also has slight ridges in the pieces which aid grip, this used to be significantly more common on minx puzzles. It remains non-magnetic but improves the overall solving experience with a cleaner internal mechanism and more consistent layer movement. Best for: Cubers who want better performance than entry-level puzzles without paying for magnets. 3️⃣ DianSheng Teraminx – Best Overall Performance The DianSheng Teraminx is widely regarded as the best performing teraminx currently available. It features factory-installed magnets that improve layer alignment and stability, making the puzzle significantly easier to control despite its massive size. Best for: Advanced cubers who want the highest performance and magnetic stability. Which Teraminx Should You Choose? 💸 Want the lowest price? → Choose the ShengShou Teraminx ⚖️ Want smoother non-magnetic performance? → Choose the YuXin HuangLong Teraminx 🧲 Want the best performance? → Choose the DianSheng Teraminx Final Thoughts The teraminx is one of the most impressive puzzles ever mass-produced. Whether you want an affordable challenge or the best magnetic performance available, there is now a teraminx to suit every level of solver. If you enjoy large puzzles and extremely long solves, the teraminx is one of the most rewarding puzzles you can attempt.
How Can QiYi afford to sell these for so little?

News

How Can QiYi afford to sell these for so little?

Daniel Evans.Mar 04, 2026
The QiYi Warrior series has quietly become one of the most interesting budget cube line-ups on the market. The original Warrior cubes go back quite a long way. The QiYi Warrior W was released in 2016 as a budget 3×3 and was a solid option for its time. QiYi later followed it with the Warrior S, which became known as one of the most durable entry-level cubes available. Over the years the Warrior name appeared on various releases, but it wasn’t until recently that QiYi really began to push the series forward again. In 2024–2025, QiYi released several updated Warrior models such as the QiYi Warrior 2x2 M, QiYi Warrior 3x3 M UV, and QiYi Warrior 4x4 M UV. These cubes were all perfectly decent speedcubes for the price, but they lacked core magnets and ultimately lagged slightly behind similarly priced competitors such as the QiYi M Pro series. Where things became much more interesting was with QiYi’s big cube development. In 2024, QiYi released their magnetic 9×9, which slightly outperformed the DianSheng Galaxy 9×9—the only other magnetic 9×9 widely available at the time—while also being cheaper. QiYi followed this with a whole range of impressive magnetic big cubes including an 8×8, 10×10 and 11×11, with the 8×8 in particular being an extremely impressive puzzle. Then in September 2025, QiYi released the QiYi Warrior 7×7 M UV. This cube features core magnets and a performance very similar to their larger big cubes, yet it launched at just £14.95, positioning it firmly as a budget option. This immediately raised an interesting question: why release such a high-performing cube at such a low price point when its performance is comparable to many flagship big cubes? QiYi followed this up with the QiYi Warrior 6×6, which costs only £12.95 and offers similarly strong performance for the price. Most recently, QiYi completed the line-up with the release of the QiYi Warrior 5×5 M UV. QiYi historically hasn’t produced as many 5×5 options as some other manufacturers, so it’s good to see a strong budget entry here. Out of the box the cube feels slightly tight, so I would recommend loosening the tensions a little to unlock its full performance. Overall, the modern Warrior series has become one of the best value cube line-ups currently available, particularly for big cubes. QiYi seem to have taken the design principles from their larger flagship puzzles and scaled them down into extremely affordable options, which is great news for anyone looking to try big cubes without spending a fortune.
Best Gigaminx in 2026 – ShengShou vs YuXin vs DianSheng

News

Best Gigaminx in 2026 – ShengShou vs YuXin vs DianSheng

Daniel Evans.Mar 03, 2026
The Best Gigaminx in 2026 – Which 5x5 Megaminx Should You Buy? If you've mastered the megaminx and are ready for something bigger, the gigaminx is the natural next step. But with multiple models now available, which gigaminx should you choose? In this guide, we compare the three main gigaminx options available in the UK and explain who each one is best suited for. What Is a Gigaminx? A gigaminx is a 5-layer version of a megaminx. Like a 5x5 cube, it uses reduction-style solving but in a 12-sided dodecahedron shape. 5 layers per face 12 faces Hundreds of pieces Long, satisfying solves If you enjoy higher-order cubes like the 5x5 or 6x6, the gigaminx offers a similar challenge in a completely different shape. Gigaminx Comparison Overview Model Edge Length Magnetic Best For ShengShou Gigaminx ~40mm No Best value / first gigaminx YuXin HuangLong Gigaminx ~39mm No Refined non-magnetic performance DianSheng Gigaminx M ~35mm Yes Best performance / magnetic control 1️⃣ ShengShou Gigaminx – Best Budget Option The ShengShou Gigaminx is the most affordable gigaminx available and offers excellent value for money. With a 40mm edge length, it is slightly larger than other options and provides a stable, entry-level solving experience. While non-magnetic, it remains smooth and controllable. Best for: Solvers buying their first gigaminx or wanting maximum value. 2️⃣ YuXin HuangLong Gigaminx – Mid-Tier Refinement The YuXin HuangLong Gigaminx offers a more refined feel than entry-level models. At 39mm edge length, it is slightly more compact and features improved stability and smoother turning. While still non-magnetic, it feels noticeably more polished. Best for: Intermediate solvers who want smoother performance without stepping up to magnets. 3️⃣ DianSheng Gigaminx M – Best Overall Performance The DianSheng Gigaminx M is the world’s first magnetic gigaminx. With a compact 35mm edge length and factory-installed magnets, it provides superior layer alignment, stability and control. It is widely regarded as the best-performing gigaminx currently available. Best for: Advanced solvers who want maximum performance and magnetic stability. Which Gigaminx Should You Choose? 💸 Want the lowest price? → Choose the ShengShou Gigaminx ⚖️ Want smoother non-magnetic performance? → Choose the YuXin HuangLong Gigaminx 🧲 Want the best possible performance? → Choose the DianSheng Gigaminx M Final Thoughts The gigaminx market has improved dramatically in recent years. Whether you're looking for an affordable first attempt or the highest-performing magnetic option, there is now a gigaminx to suit every level of solver. If you are ready to take on one of the most satisfying large dodecahedron puzzles available, any of these three options will deliver a serious challenge.
Which Mosaic Cube Kit Should You Buy? (Full Comparison Guide)

News

Which Mosaic Cube Kit Should You Buy? (Full Comparison Guide)

Daniel Evans.Feb 27, 2026
Which Mosaic Cube Kit Should You Buy? (Full Comparison Guide) Cube mosaic kits turn speedcubes into pixel art. Arrange multiple cubes into a grid, rotate the faces to show different colours, and you’ve got a reusable “canvas” for portraits, logos, flags, gradients and competition displays. This guide compares the main mosaic systems we stock (GAN, MoYu, QiYi and YJ), explains stickerless vs stickered/tiled, and helps you pick the right grid size for your project. Browse all options here: Mosaic Kits Collection Quick Summary: What Matters Most Grid size = detail. More cubes means more visible “pixels”. Cube size = overall footprint + “pixel” look. Larger cubes look bolder from a distance. Surface type matters. Stickerless is low-maintenance; stickered/tiled can look sharper in high-contrast designs. Frames & modularity. Some systems are easier to expand into bigger mosaics. Full Comparison Table Pixel count below assumes you design on one face only: 9 visible “pixels” per cube (one colour per sticker/tile on that face). Brand Cube Size Surface Type Grid Options Cubes Pixels Price Best For MoYu 30mm (mosaic kits)Also available: 55mm cube size (3×3 variant) Stickerless 3×35×510×10 9 / 25 / 100 81 / 225 / 900 £19.95 / £29.95 / £101.95 Durable stickerless builds, strong value for larger projects GAN 28mm Tiled / stickered 6×610×10 36 / 100 324 / 900 £42.95 / £101.95 Premium presentation, crisp “pixel edge” look, modular display setups QiYi 28mm Stickered 10×10 100 900 £99.95 Budget-friendly 10×10 option with a classic stickered look YJ 35mm Stickerless 8×8 64 576 £59.95 Bold “big pixel” look, easy-to-see displays, a strong mid-size option Note: If any product URL on your store uses a different handle, just update the links above (the comparison structure stays the same). How Many Cubes Do You Need? (Grid Size Guide) Bigger mosaics aren’t just physically larger — they give you more “pixels”, meaning smoother gradients, clearer faces, and more readable text/logos. Grid Cubes Pixels (single-face) Typical Finished Size (approx.) Best For 3×3 9 81 ~16-17cm (55mm cubes) Small icons, quick desk builds 5×5 25 225 ~15–18cm (30mm cubes) Logos, flags, beginner portraits 6×6 36 324 ~17–18cm (28mm cubes) Compact designs with extra detail 8×8 64 576 ~28–32cm (35mm cubes) Bold medium displays, easier viewing from distance 10×10 100 900 ~28–32cm (28–30mm cubes) Detailed portraits, large backdrops Stickerless vs Stickered/Tiled: Which Is Better? Stickerless (MoYu, YJ) Durable: no peeling or worn stickers over time Low-maintenance: great for repeated builds, clubs, classrooms and events Consistent look: colour is part of the plastic Stickered/Tiled (GAN, QiYi) Crisp “pixel edges”: strong separation between colours can look very clean in high-contrast designs Classic mosaic aesthetic: especially if you like a more “pixel-art” feel Note: stickered systems can need more care over long-term use Brand-by-Brand: What Each Kit Is Best At GAN Mosaic Kits (28mm, 6×6 / 10×10) GAN mosaics use smaller 28mm cubes with a tiled/stickered finish, and are popular for premium-looking displays and modular setups. If you want a compact build, start with the GAN 6×6 (36 cubes). For higher detail and bigger projects, the GAN 10×10 (100 cubes) is the full-size option. MoYu Mosaic Kits (30mm stickerless, 3×3 / 5×5 / 10×10) MoYu mosaics are stickerless and available in more sizes, making them excellent for stepping up gradually: start small, then expand. The MoYu 3×3 is a great entry point, the MoYu 5×5 adds more detail while staying compact, and the MoYu 10×10 is ideal for large portraits and backdrops. QiYi Mosaic Kit (28mm stickered, 10×10) QiYi offers a straightforward 10×10 set at a slightly lower price point, with a classic stickered look. If you want a 10×10 mosaic without going for premium branding, the QiYi 10×10 (100 cubes) is a strong option. YJ Mosaic Kit (35mm stickerless, 8×8) YJ uses larger 35mm stickerless cubes in an 8×8 grid, creating a bold “big pixel” look that can be easier to see from a distance. If you want a mid-size build that’s visually striking without being a full 10×10 system, the YJ 8×8 (64 cubes) is a great choice. Which Mosaic Kit Should You Choose? If you’re a beginner MoYu 3×3 (9 cubes) – quick, affordable, easy to display MoYu 5×5 (25 cubes) – great first “real” mosaic size If you want the best balance of size and impact YJ 8×8 (64 cubes) – bold look, mid-size build GAN 6×6 (36 cubes) – compact but detailed If you want detailed portraits or backdrops MoYu 10×10 (100 cubes) – stickerless durability for frequent use GAN 10×10 (100 cubes) – crisp “pixel edge” look and premium presentation QiYi 10×10 (100 cubes) – value-focused 10×10 option FAQ How does “pixel count” work on a cube mosaic? Most mosaic designs use one face of each cube. A 3×3 face has 9 stickers/tiles, so each cube contributes 9 visible “pixels”. That’s why a 10×10 mosaic (100 cubes) gives you 900 visible pixels. Can I expand my mosaic later? Many kits are modular and can be expanded by combining sets into a larger canvas. If you’re planning a large portrait, starting with a 10×10 set is the simplest base. Are mosaic cubes usable as normal cubes? Yes — each cube is still a fully functional 3×3. Many people keep a few aside as spares for casual solves but obviously they are much smaller than normal cubes so are a bit more fiddly to solve. Shop the Full Range Ready to build your own cube art? Browse everything here: Mosaic Kits Collection Tip: If you post your mosaic build on social media, tag us — we love seeing what you create.
Which 8x8 should you buy in 2026? Full comparison

News

Which 8x8 should you buy in 2026? Full comparison

Daniel Evans.Feb 04, 2026
I’ve been very impressed with the quality of 8×8 cubes now available on the market. Even though 8×8 is not an official WCA event, that hasn’t stopped manufacturers from steadily improving their designs every few years — and the current generation is easily the best we’ve ever had. MoYu recently released the MeiLong 8×8 V3 and the magnetic MeiLong 8×8 V3M, both of which are significant upgrades over the older versions. In my opinion, the MeiLong 8×8 V3 is the best non-magnetic 8×8 for most people. It strikes a great balance between size, stability, and smooth turning. The QiYi 8×8 (Non-Magnetic) may still appeal to some speedcubers, particularly those who prefer a slightly larger cube in the hands. Meanwhile, the YuXin Little Magic 8×8 retains a small niche — it turns smoothly, but at 88 mm it is much larger than every other 8×8 mentioned here, which will be a deal-breaker for many. Importantly, all of these non-magnetic options are priced at £24.95, so the choice really comes down to size preference and turning feel rather than cost. When it comes to magnetic 8×8s, there are now several genuinely good options. The first magnetic 8×8 was the DianSheng 8×8 M, which is still a solid cube, but it’s both more expensive and slightly weaker in performance compared to newer designs. At £52.95, and with a larger overall size, it’s harder to recommend today unless you already know you like the DianSheng feel. For me, the best 8×8 overall is the QiYi 8×8 M. This is not just a magnetic version of the non-magnetic QiYi — it uses a different internal design and is dramatically smaller at just 64.5 mm, making it even smaller than some 7×7 cubes. When I first tried it, I was genuinely surprised by how much it felt like solving a 7×7 rather than an 8×8, which makes longer solves far more comfortable. The MeiLong 8×8 V3M is the newest magnetic option on the market. While I don’t think its raw performance quite matches the QiYi 8×8 M, it does feature a slightly improved anti-pop mechanism, which may make it more suitable for cubers trying an 8×8 for the first time — or for those with limited experience fixing popped pieces (although, if you can’t fix pops… why are you looking at an 8×8?). At just £39.95, it’s also an exceptionally good value magnetic 8×8. 8×8 Comparison Table Cube Magnetic? Size Price Best for My take MoYu MeiLong 8×8 V3 No 65mm £24.95 Most people (non-magnetic) Best non-magnetic choice overall QiYi 8×8 (Non-Magnetic) No  70mm £24.95 Those who prefer a larger cube feel Good alternative depending on preference YuXin Little Magic 8×8 No 88 mm £24.95 Fans of a very large 8×8 Smooth, but very large DianSheng 8×8 M Yes 68mm £52.95 Those who already like DianSheng feel Decent, but overpriced vs newer options QiYi 8×8 M Yes 64.5 mm — Speed + comfort (feels like a 7×7) Best 8×8 overall MoYu MeiLong 8×8 V3M Yes  65mm £39.95 First-time 8×8 solvers / value Great value; strong anti-pop design  
Cubing releases - who asked edition

News

Cubing releases - who asked edition

Daniel Evans.Feb 04, 2026
Remember when DianSheng released their Galaxy 8x8? The world’s first factory magnetic 8x8 on the market?  People were initially skeptical of a product like this. Wondering who wants magnets in their 8x8, wondering who speed solves 8x8.  Yet it was INCREDIBLY popular! Obviously DianSheng continued! We got the Galaxy 9x9, Galaxy 10x10, Galaxy 11x11, Galaxy 12x12, Galaxy 13x13, Galaxy 15x15 and Galaxy 14x14. (I have no idea why the 15x15 came before the 14x14). It wasn’t JUST big cubes. We got the Galaxy Gigaminx! Galaxy Teraminx! Galaxy Petaminx! It wasn’t just larger scale puzzles either, Galaxy Kilominx! Galaxy Cluster Face Turning Octahedron! Galaxy mirror 5x5 (pink’s the best colour).  All of these were the first time any of these puzzles were released factory magnetic! Some even having Core-Magnets. Things we’ve struggled to get mass produced in WCA puzzles for a long time! A lot of people asked why DianSheng felt the need to release these puzzles! But they were so happy with the releases!  It’s no surprise that other companies jumped on the train and started making factory magnetic Non-WCA puzzles! I feel things like magnetic big cubes have very clearly proven themselves to be worth it! We’ve had some incredible performance big cubes like the QiYi Magnetic 8x8, MoYu Meilong 10x10 V3.  We’ve even had some not so great magnetic big cube releases like ShengShou MoSheng 11x11 M. ShengShou’s MoSheng series has unfortunately been quite underwhelming however they’ve had releases from as small as 5x5 all the way up to 15x15 (only the 10x10 and 11x11 have been stocked) It shows how popular magnetic big cubes have been. YuXin’s even jumped on this trend, previously having some of the greatest Non-Magnetic big cubes they’ve recently went back and released magnetic versions of all their big cubes. Not only that, even taking some records of the first mass produced Magnetic Even-Layered Dodecahedrons.  Like the YuXin Elite kilominx (magnetic). Something DianSheng had recently teased.  Yet they even have a magnetic 8x8 Kilominx (should really get better naming systems)  This is all great! I love seeing new releases and great cubing innovation. Unfortunately most of YuXin’s new magnetic releases have seemed to fall under the radar. Daniel hasn't stocked these and almost no videos showcase these.  However some releases have become VERY questionable and truly makes me wonder “who asked?”. More than ever!  And I don’t feel these releases have proven themselves in the market. MoYu and DianSheng have felt like the biggest examples of this! Which is a real shame as DianSheng started this trend off really well! MoYu just does whatever and has way too many releases. While I could be wrong, I believed this started with the MoYu RediCube. An expensive speedcube variant of the RediCube. That’s cool I suppose, it didn’t come across as very popular. I don’t think many were demanding a RediCube to be released. I also have no clue what a ball-core does in this puzzle? MoYu kept going however. We got the MoYu ivy cube. One of the strangest releases in my opinion! We got a Non-magnetic variant, a magnetic variant, a core magnetic variant and even a UV coated core magnetic version! Not even that, we got a £100+ UI Ivy cube! (not stocked but feel free to message daniel if you're that desperate) That’s 5 versions! That’s more versions than the stock MoYu AoFu V5.  MoYu became a bit crazy with releases like a MoYu Pyraminx Duo (non-magnetic variant + magnetic ball core variant)! Why?!  I do believe there’s been some good ‘unique’ Non-WCA puzzle releases that have clearly proven themselves! QiYi Magnetic Void cube for example! Previously the best void cube we had was a Rubik’s Brand! This release was so popular! Though admittedly they did have 5 variants (non magnetic, magnetic, magnetic UV, transparent magnetic - not stocked, transparent magnetic UV)  And then there’s whatever DianSheng have been up to as of late- Just a LOT of 2x2 shape mods for the most part! Don’t worry though! They’re magnetic with ball cores! DianSheng X2 Cube, DianSheng Galaxy Barrel 2x2, DianSheng House 2x2, DianSheng Penrose 2x2. I think even Daniel knows how questionable some of these releases can be. If we look at the Instagram post DianSheng made for their 2x2 Barrel. There’s four colour variants! Normal colour scheme, transparent colours, pastel colours and some ‘morandi’ scheme m? Daniel’s only ever stocked one of these! The normal colour scheme. And four colour variants aren’t exclusive to their barrels or even the X2 cube. The DianSheng Corner turning 3x3 had the same four variant treatment!  Thankfully it seems with the DianSheng Carnation tetrahedron they’ve calmed down and given us two variants. Transparent and normal colours.  The same seems to also be said for the DianSheng Dual Octahedron.  I just can’t understand most of these releases. We were asking ‘why?’ back when this started, and while those previous releases have proven themselves. We’re still asking ‘why?’ With less hope of these releases proving themselves.  Written by css41
Official Estar Clock unboxing both versions

News

Official Estar Clock unboxing both versions

Daniel Evans.Jan 30, 2026
The Estar Clock marks the third genuinely competitive magnetic clock to hit the market. The magnetic clock era began in 2020 with the release of the QiYi Clock, which quickly became the standard for top solvers. Around the same time, ShengShou also launched their Magnetic Clock V1, but it failed to gain much traction due to its relatively poor performance. In 2025, ShengShou returned with the Magnetic Clock V2, a significant improvement over the original and a far more viable option, though still not enough to convince most elite clock solvers to switch away from QiYi. Now we have a third contender — actually offered in two variants — in the form of the Estar Clock. Like its competitors, it uses a 224-magnet layout, but early impressions suggest it may offer even better performance. The standard version uses a familiar magnetic structure similar to the QiYi and ShengShou V2, combined with a refined internal piece design. The Bearing version goes a step further by incorporating a precision bearing system, designed to improve stability, enhance smoothness, and increase long-term durability.
How Qualifications work at the European Cubing Championships 2026

News

How Qualifications work at the European Cubing Championships 2026

Daniel Evans.Jan 05, 2026
The European Cubing Championships will be held from 16–19 July 2026, with registration opening on Thursday 8 January, just three days after this video is uploaded. The competition will take place in Arnhem, Netherlands, at a large sports centre venue. If you are travelling from elsewhere in Europe, it may be worth considering flying to Eindhoven Airport rather than Amsterdam, or even flying into a nearby German airport. The Netherlands has excellent public transport, so travelling by train is also a very viable option, as is driving. Registration will be split into two phases, with Phase 1 having very strict qualification requirements. These are designed to ensure that Europe’s top speedcubers can register immediately, and that anyone with a realistic chance of making finals is guaranteed a spot if they wish to compete. If you meet any of the following requirements, you will be able to register for the relevant event(s) when registration opens on 8 January: 3×3×3 Cube – 7.20 Ao5 2×2×2 Cube – 1.70 Ao5 4×4×4 Cube – 30.00 Ao5 5×5×5 Cube – 53.00 Ao5 6×6×6 Cube – 1:41.00 Mo3 7×7×7 Cube – 2:35.00 Mo3 3×3×3 Blindfolded – 24.00 Single 3×3×3 Fewest Moves – 22 moves 3×3×3 One-Handed – 12.70 Ao5 Clock – 4.10 Ao5 Megaminx – 41.00 Ao5 Pyraminx – 2.30 Ao5 Skewb – 2.85 Ao5 Square-1 – 9.00 Ao5 4×4×4 Blindfolded – 1:40.00 Single 5×5×5 Blindfolded – 4:00.00 Single 3×3×3 Multi-Blind – 39 points If you qualify for at least one event in Phase 1, you will later be able to add additional events during Phase 2, which has much more relaxed qualification requirements: 3×3×3 Cube – Any single 2×2×2 Cube – Any single 4×4×4 Cube – 55.00 Ao5 5×5×5 Cube – 1:25.00 Ao5 6×6×6 Cube – 2:10.00 Mo3 7×7×7 Cube – 3:30.00 Mo3 3×3×3 Blindfolded – 1:30.00 Single 3×3×3 Fewest Moves – Top 50 Mo3 3×3×3 One-Handed – 25.00 Ao5 Clock – 10.00 Ao5 Megaminx – 1:15.00 Ao5 Pyraminx – 15.00 Ao5 Skewb – 15.00 Ao5 Square-1 – 20.00 Ao5 4×4×4 Blindfolded – Top 25 single 5×5×5 Blindfolded – Top 25 single 3×3×3 Multi-Blind – Top 25 single If you do not qualify for any Phase 1 events, you will need to register as soon as Phase 2 opens on 15 January, as spots are expected to fill extremely quickly. The competitor limit is 1200, and while additional capacity may be added, Arnhem’s central location and excellent accessibility make this event likely to sell out even faster than the 2024 European Championships in Pamplona, Spain.
Stanley Chapel solves 5x5 blindfolded in under 2 minutes!

News

Stanley Chapel solves 5x5 blindfolded in under 2 minutes!

Daniel Evans.Jan 04, 2026
Stanley Chapel broke his own 5x5 blindfolded world record today and finally broke the 2 minute barrier which he has been trying to push for a long time. This is almost certainly the last minute barrier for 5x5 blindfolded and this means that Stanley Chapel is the only person to have ever solved a 4x4 blindfolded in under 1 minute and a 5x5 blindfolded in under 2 minutes. This was done at a streamed competition for an upcoming documentary called 'Blindfolded Ambition'. Stanley's memorization time was about 46 seconds which is obviously not safe at all, Stanley is known for not reviewing memorization at all, he is possibly the only person in the world to be capable of one-passing big-blind memorization. In the interview afterwards, Stanley confirmed the scramble was correct and talked about how he was memorizing very aggressively in the hope of doing something good, he also stated that he felt he had accomplished something that was long overdue (after zero celebratory reaction at the competition). Stanley then proceeded to show how crazy some of his optimizations are, to the extent of discussing the possibility of deliberately not doing the last move of multi-blind algorithms in order to save time by +2ing all the cubes, however, he concluded that was probably not feasible.