QiYi Gear Cube 3x3 — geared 3×3 cube for visually different turning

QiYi Gear Cube 3×3 is a geared modification of the classic 3×3 cube: as you turn it, the gear pieces move together and create a completely different visual effect. It is non-magnetic, usually about 57–60 mm, with coloured plastic tiles instead of narrow stickers.

Who this cube is for

• For beginners who want an unusual but not too difficult cube.
• For children and adults who enjoy the mechanical effect of gears.
• For collections of shape-mod and gear puzzles.
• For speedcubing practice, a regular 3×3 is a better choice.

Turning feel

• The turning is slower and more mechanical than on a speedcube.
• The gears create an interesting visual rhythm with every move.
• The cube is stable for relaxed solving, but not for aggressive corner cutting.

Magnets and mechanism

• No magnets.
• The gears connect pieces so several elements move at once.
• Because of the geared mechanism, turns should be completed fully and not forced.

Size, weight and materials

• Format: Gear Cube 3×3.
• Size: about 57–60 mm.
• Weight: retail specifications differ, often around 107–122 g without packaging.
• Surface: coloured plastic tiles / tiled design.

Main advantages

• The gear mechanism looks very impressive.
• Good as a gift and for demonstrating mechanics.
• Not too difficult to learn.
• No narrow stickers that could peel off easily.

Things to keep in mind

• Not a speedcube.
• Gears do not like rough turning.
• It may feel strange until you understand how pairs of pieces move together.

How to use

Turn layers slowly and finish every move fully, because the gears need to settle correctly. Solving becomes much easier once you first observe how paired pieces move together.

Packaging and contents

Comes as one QiYi Gear Cube 3×3 in factory packaging. Some specifications list a solution manual as included.