Maru
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Maru is a Taiwanese puzzle manufacturer.
Contents
Products
2x2x2 Cube
Available c. 2009, the Maru 2x2x2 Cube contained a screw-spring structure similar to the Lanlan 2x2 which improved corner cutting. However, they were said not to turn as well as a broken-in Eastsheen 2x2x2. The Maru turned well though and was unlikely to pop, and was regarded as a high quality cube. Available in Black or White.
ShengLan 3x3x3 Cube
Another 2009 cube, sometimes called the 'Maru DIY'. It came in a range of colours, and was reported to have smooth turning. Out of the box, this cube seemed to be nothing special, but once lubed with the special Maru lubricant, it quickly improved.
Another newer 3x3 of theirs, the Maru nano cube released in early 2015, is currently the smallest mass produced 3x3 on the market, measuring 15mm (1.5 cm) across on all sides. This cube is meant to be a collectors item and not a speedcube.
Maru CX3
A Cube that came in many colors including glow in the dark. For its time, it was an amazing cube. There was also a smaller version that came in at 56mm.
Maru XD Cube
Another 3x3 release from Maru that is oddly underrated.
Maru CM-3
A more recent release from Maru, this cube is magnetic and comes with its signature lube and a heavier silicone lube. This cube isn't considered to be good.
Maru VX-3
This cube comes in 3 versions: A normal version with edge-corner magnets, a version with corner-core magnets, and a version with core magnets and maglev. This cube has cuts in the corner that provides an airy feeling. Though it did have all this technology, this cube was extremely low-quality with poor color shades, extremely weak magnets, a loud, rattly sound, magnets that often fell out due to bad glue, and was very slow. This cube has been described in reviews as "the holy grail of garbage". This marked the death of Maru making real speedcubes.
4x4x4 Cube
Known for its good corner-cutting this Maru 4x4 was rarely found in common online stores. It had a screw/spring structure like all Maru cubes and had superior corner cutting. In 2011 it was said to out-perform other 4x4s such as the Rubik's brand, Eastsheen and possibly the Meffert's brand. It had minimal pops and lockups but disassembly was not recommended because the assembly of this item can be very tedious. Available in Black, White, or Transparent.
Mini 3x3x3
A very small cube measuring 30mm each side. It was reported by many to be too small for speedcubing, but may suit cubers with very small hands. Small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket, making it ideal as a travel cube. The cube its self was fairly good quality considering its size, with smooth turning and good resistance to pops.
Maru lubricant
Maru Lube is a silicone-water based lubricant from Maru that is specially designed for lubricating cubes. Its effects are temporary and it is typically used in conjunction with other thicker silicone lubricants.
Maru Cushion Lube
This is a lower viscosity lube that reduces turning resistance. Considered to be a bad lube that makes the cube too slow and gummy.
Mari Loobii V
This lube is advertised as an "Activator" lube that enhances the effects of other lubes.
Maru Axis Oil
This lube is used on the core (although it can be used on pieces) and is intended to improve the overall feel of the cube.
See also
External links
- http://maru.tw
- Speedsolving.com: Maru DIY
- Speedsolving.com: international orders are now available on maru.tw!
- Speedsolving.com: maru 2x2 full mechanism picture
- Speedsolving.com: Maru Screw/Spring DIY 2x2 review