The QiYi Gear Sphere is a spherical variant of the classic Gear Cube, a mechanical puzzle whose pieces are linked by visible gears that turn together as you solve. It is intended for those already familiar with gear puzzles who want a different experience thanks to its rounded shape. The outer look recalls a faceted ball, and that change in geometry makes the handling unlike any conventional magic cube.

The Tiled version replaces the stickers with black plastic tiles applied to the pieces, a finish that resists continuous use better than conventional stickers. With tiles the edges do not lift, colours do not scratch and the puzzle keeps its original look for years. It weighs 134 grams, a weight that gives a feeling of solidity in the hand, and it has no magnets: turns depend solely on the internal gear mechanism.

When turning it, you can clearly see how the teeth mesh and cause a coordinated movement in every direction. Many users describe it as addictive, precisely because of watching how the sphere changes shape with each move before returning to its initial state. The solving mechanism is no different from a traditional Gear Cube, but the spherical geometry adds a distinctive visual component and slightly different handling. The turn is fluid, with the slowness characteristic of gear cubes, and produces a pleasant mechanical sound that is part of the experience.

QiYi MoFangGe is one of the longest-standing Chinese manufacturers in the speedcubing world and has devoted a good part of its catalogue to non-WCA puzzles. The Gear Sphere sits within that family of experimental and collector's pieces, alongside the Gear Cube, the Gear Barrel or the 2x2 Gear Cube. It is a suitable puzzle for those who have already gone beyond a basic 3x3 and want to expand their collection with something unusual, as well as for those who enjoy mechanical handling itself more than lowering times on a standard cube. It also works well as a gift for puzzle lovers thanks to its visual surprise factor.

• Format: sphere with visible gears
• Finish: black tiles (tiled)
• Weight: 134 g
• Magnetic: no
• Level: advanced

• Format: sphere with gear mechanism
• Finish: black tiles (tiled)
• Weight: 134 g
• Magnetic: no
• Level: advanced