GAN562 M 5×5

Five-by-five is where alignment errors compound, because every inner-layer turn you make imprecisely has to be corrected before the next one. The GAN562 M answers that with a magnetic core, which until this cube GAN had used only on smaller puzzles.

Ninety-six factory-fitted magnets in the pieces and 16 in the core. Corner-to-core positioning gives roughly 45 degree auto-alignment, so a turn most of the way round is finished by the magnets. Strong outer-layer magnets pair with lighter inner ones for control. The outer layer is widened for stability. A double-layer structure and deep centre caps resist popping, locking magnet capsules stop the magnets working loose, and the honeycomb piece design spreads lubricant evenly.

The GAN562 M corner cuts to roughly 40 degrees on the outer layers and 20 on the inner ones, about as much as a 5×5 mechanism can usefully give.

The locking capsules solve a problem that spoils a lot of cheaper big cubes. The GAN562 M carries a great many magnets, and if they shift in their housings over time the feel goes uneven. Enclosing them stops that.

Frosted or UV is a surface choice. Frosted is matte and reflects less light across the long sessions a 5×5 demands. UV is glossy, grips harder and resists scratching. In the box: a storage bag, a storage box, an adjustment tool and a tutorial guide.

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.