GAN251M Leap 2×2 (UV Coated)

The 251 range runs Air, Pro and Leap, and this is the top of it. All three measure 51mm, a millimetre over the usual 2×2 standard, which suits larger hands and a looser grip.

Sixty-three magnets in an omnidirectional layout, against 48 on a conventional 2×2. Corner and core magnets work together, with corner-to-corner magnets adding a second point of feedback through the turn. The core magnet is considerably larger than the one in the Pro. Adjustable magnet strength across three settings, two nut distances and four levels of elasticity. It weighs 58g.

The large core magnet is the whole point of the GAN251M Leap. It is strong enough to pull a layer square on its own, so a turn taken most of the way round finishes itself. On a 2×2, where the solve is nothing but fast corner turns, that does more for your times than it would on a bigger puzzle.

Against the GAN251M Pro, the mechanism and the tuning system are the same. The Pro is the steadier of the two and the Leap is the quicker, and which suits you depends on how hard you turn. Solvers who like a strong magnetic feel tend to end up here.

The UV coating is a clear layer over the plastic rather than a treatment of it. It grips harder than a matte finish, which you notice most in warm hands, and it resists the scuffing that dulls a cube over months of daily solving.

In the box you get a GAN pouch, a GAN box, a GES spring set, a tuning rod, a screwdriver and the manual.

Cubes dry out with use and start to feel scratchy. A few drops of GAN No.1 Lube Maintenance 10ml keeps the turning smooth and slows the wear.