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Questions and answers about spring tension
Everyone who owns or uses a speed cube should learn how to correctly adjust its tension.
All combination puzzles carried in our shop offer a tension adjustment option.
Table of Contents
Which methods exist for adjusting the tension?
Depending on the manufacturer and cube version, you can adjust the tension of a speed cube in two different ways:- Screws & springs
- Manufacturer-specific tensioning systems (such as GES by GAN)
On the left in the picture: Core with screws and springs
On the right in the picture: Core with manufacturer-specific tensioning system
On the right in the picture: Core with manufacturer-specific tensioning system
Where do I adjust the tension?
It very much depends on the type of twisty puzzle. That is why you can find a summary below with the most common puzzles and information on how to tension them.
Cubes with an uneven number of rows (3x3, 5x5, 7x7 etc.)
These magic cubes have screws / tensioning systems underneath the centre caps. You can usually remove those by hand (or with a knife or something similar). Hidden underneath is either a screw that you can adjust with a standard Phillips head screwdriver or a special tensioning system.
Cubes with an even number of rows (2x2, 4x4, 6x6 etc.)
In the case of cubes with an even grid number, the screws / tensioning systems are generally located between the four centre pieces. You can access the screw either by stretching the cube face or by removing the four centre caps.
Pyraminx
Pyraminx puzzles hide their tension adjustment systems below the tips. You can remove those to access the screws or the tensioning systems.
Skewb
The screws / tensioning systems in Skewbs are located under the corner pieces. To adjust the tension, simply remove the corner-piece caps.
Megaminx
In general, the Minx puzzles (regardless of grid size) also have a centre cap with a screw located underneath.
Miscellaneous shapes
Since the shapes of combination puzzles can be very complex, the placement of the screws varies widely. You can either see the screws when you stretch the individual sides, or you can find them somewhere underneath the caps. Otherwise, the search engine of your choice will certainly be able to help you.
How do I adjust the tension?
That depends on whether there are screws (or springs) on the inside of the puzzle or whether the manufacturer offers a specific built-in tensioning system. Below, we will explain what you need to know about the different methods.Screws & springs
You can adjust the screws to your specific requirements with a screwdriver (often included in the delivery). There is no right or wrong here since each cuber has their own preference when it comes to the stability of his or her puzzle. Your best bet is to try for yourself which tension works for you and your turning style.There are also times when you need to completely recalibrate the tension of your puzzle.
This can happen, for example, when you add new springs or entirely reassemble your puzzle.
Here you can find a video (in English) on how to tension a 3x3 cube from scratch:
Manufacturer-specific tensioning systems
Some manufacturers such as GAN, YJ or QiYi, for example, have developed their own systems for all or some of their combination puzzles. They allow you to adjust the tension and elasticity of the puzzle. In most cases, these tensioning systems consist of standardised combinations of springs and plastic nuts with predetermined adjustment options. These are intended to give you a customised and precise setup.The manufacturer usually provides brief instructions on how the tensioning system works and any tools that may be required.
The product descriptions of these puzzles in our shop will always tell you what is included in the delivery.
GAN GES
One example of this is the GES (GAN Elasticity System) or GES Pro developed by GAN. Put simply, it consists of plastic nuts in different colours and integrated springs of varying strengths. Depending on the colour used and the positioning of the nut, you can set a different level of tension or elasticity. Learn more about it on our FAQ page GES by GAN.
