How to Take Apart QiYi Cubes

How to Take Apart QiYi Cubes: Complete Guide to All Cube Types (2x2 through 9x9)

Taking apart a QiYi cube is an essential skill for speedcubers who want to maintain, clean, lubricate, or repair their puzzles. This exhaustive guide covers every cube type from the pocket-sized 2x2 to the massive 9x9, providing step-by-step instructions and best practices for successful disassembly and reassembly. Whether you're a beginner encountering your first disassembly or an advanced cuber maintaining a premium collection, this guide will walk you through the entire process.

Understanding Your QiYi Cube Structure

Before you begin disassembling your QiYi cube, it's crucial to understand the internal mechanism. All Rubik-style cubes from 2x2 to 9x9 share similar fundamental principles but with increasing complexity as cube size increases.

Typical speedcube disassembly showing all internal pieces and core components

Every cube consists of three main piece types: corner pieces (8 total, with three colors each), edge pieces (12 for 3x3, increasing dramatically for larger cubes), and center pieces (6 for 3x3, increasing significantly for larger cubes). The core mechanism holds everything together with screws and springs that allow smooth rotation while maintaining stability.

The core is the central hub to which all six center pieces are attached via screws. These center pieces don't move relative to each other, which means their color configuration never changes. For odd-layered cubes like 3x3, 5x5, and 7x7, there's a single fixed center on each face. For even-layered cubes like 2x2, 4x4, 6x6, and 8x8, the center piece structure is more complex with multiple center cubelets.

QiYi Cube Specifications and Disassembly Difficulty Levels

Essential Tools and Materials

To successfully take apart your how to take apart QiYi cube, you'll need specific tools. Gathering these items before starting ensures a smooth process:

1.
Flat-head screwdriver (for initial disassembly, typically 1.5-2.5mm)
2.
Phillips head screwdriver (for tension adjustments on some models)
3.
Silicone-based lubricant (cube-specific lubricants recommended; avoid WD-40 as it's corrosive)
4.
Syringe with fine tips (for precise lubricant application)
5.
Soft cloth or paper towels (for cleaning)
6.
Plastic organizer or container (to keep small pieces organized)
7.
Optional: Spring swap kit (for advanced customization)

Essential tools needed for cube disassembly and maintenance including screwdrivers and lubricants

Never use oil-based lubricants, as they can degrade the plastic and cause pieces to become overly slippery. Specialized cube lubricants like Martian or Galaxy are highly recommended for optimal performance.

Why Disassemble Your QiYi Cube?

There are several important reasons to disassemble your QiYi cube:

1.
Cleaning – Dust, grime, and debris accumulate inside over time, affecting turning quality
2.
Lubrication – Adding lubricant improves smoothness and reduces friction between pieces
3.
Tension adjustment – Fine-tuning the tension for your personal preference and turning style
4.
Repair – Replacing damaged pieces or fixing broken mechanisms
5.
Customization – Spring swaps, magnetic adjustments, or sticker replacements
6.
Maintenance – Regular upkeep extends cube lifespan and maintains optimal performance

General Safety Guidelines

When working with your how to take apart QiYi cube, follow these critical safety practices:

1.
Never force pieces – Excessive force breaks plastic and damages mechanisms irreparably
2.
Go slow and steady – Rush jobs lead to broken pieces and frustration
3.
Organize pieces carefully – Use containers or paper to separate and track all components
4.
Keep screws safe – Store all screws together; losing even one makes reassembly impossible
5.
Loosen before pulling – Always loosen screws before attempting to remove pieces
6.
Start with edge pieces – Never begin by removing corner pieces, as this risks breaking them
7.
Work on a clean surface – Prevents losing small pieces and reduces contamination
8.
Take photos during disassembly – Document the process for reassembly reference

Complete Step-by-Step Guide to All QiYi Cube Types

QiYi 2x2 Cube Disassembly

The 2x2 is structurally similar to a 3x3 but without visible edge pieces. The 2x2 has a single core with either one corner attached or all corners detached, depending on the model. Most modern QiYi 2x2 models use a simpler mechanism than 3x3 cubes.

Step-by-step process for 2x2 disassembly:

1.
Locate the screw – Examine all six face centers; at least one will have a screw underneath (typically removed by hand or knife)
2.
Remove the center cap – Pry off the center cap carefully using a flat tool
3.
Unscrew completely – Use your screwdriver to fully remove the screw (not just loosen it)
4.
Pop out pieces – Once the screw is removed, all pieces should pop out easily
5.
Separate piece types – Organize into corner pieces, brackets, springs, and the core
6.
Document spring placement – Note which spring and screw configuration you had

Key differences in 2x2 structure:

•
Eight corners (no visible edges)
•
One or two screws depending on design
•
Springs may be attached to corners or loose
•
Typically 10 edge pieces hidden underneath corners
•
Assembly requires matching corner color placement carefully

Video reference:

QiYi 3x3 Cube Disassembly

The 3x3 is the standard cube and the foundation for understanding all larger cubes. Most cubers start here, and mastering 3x3 disassembly makes larger cubes significantly easier.

Step-by-step process for 3x3 disassembly:

1.
Turn top layer 45 degrees – Rotate the U (upper) face so it sits at a 45-degree angle
2.
Locate edge piece – Identify the middle edge piece on the rotated face
3.
Insert screwdriver – Place the flat-head screwdriver under the edge piece
4.
Pry carefully – Apply steady, gentle upward pressure; never jab or force
5.
Wiggle and lift – Combine screwdriver pressure with gentle wiggling motion
6.
Remove first piece – The first piece is always the hardest; take your time
7.
Remove adjacent pieces – Once one edge piece is out, corners and other edges follow easily
8.
Separate the layers – Turn the cube to access different faces and remove all visible pieces
9.
Access the core – Once all outer pieces are removed, the core and six center pieces are exposed
10.
Remove center caps – Pry off center caps from the core one by one
11.
Unscrew center pieces – Use Phillips head screwdriver to remove each center piece

Critical 3x3 assembly note: When the cube is fully disassembled, you'll have eight corner pieces, twelve edge pieces, and six center pieces attached to the core. The core itself should remain intact unless you need to access springs.

Video reference:

QiYi 4x4 Cube Disassembly

The 4x4 introduces multiple internal layers and significantly more pieces than the 3x3. The 4x4 is typically the first "big cube" many cubers encounter.

Structural overview of 4x4:

•
Eight corner pieces
•
Twenty-four edge-like pieces (outer edges and inner edge centers)
•
Fifty-four center pieces (six centers, nine pieces each)
•
Multiple internal cores/mechanisms

Step-by-step process for 4x4 disassembly:

1.
Rotate top layer 45 degrees – Similar to 3x3, rotate the U face halfway
2.
Pull out an outer edge – Insert fingers or screwdriver and pry out the first edge piece
3.
Remove adjacent centers – Pull out the inner center pieces near the removed edge
4.
Continue systematically – Work through one section completely before moving to another
5.
Extract inner layer pieces – Once outer pieces are removed, access inner layer centers
6.
Remove corner pieces – These come out after outer edges and centers are cleared
7.
Access the core – The internal mechanism becomes visible once outer layer is cleared
8.
Loosen screws if needed – Some 4x4 models require loosening core screws for complete disassembly

The 4x4 requires patience because there are many more pieces than the 3x3, but the principle remains the same: work systematically through one section until that area is completely disassembled before moving to adjacent sections.

Video reference:

QiYi 5x5 Cube Disassembly

The 5x5 returns to a single central core (like odd-layered cubes do), but with significantly more pieces than the 3x3. The 5x5 has three distinct layer types: outer edges, inner edges, and center pieces.

Structural overview of 5x5:

•
Eight corner pieces (outermost)
•
Twenty-four edge pieces (split into outer and inner wings)
•
Hundred fifty center pieces (split into edge-centers and inner centers)
•
Single central core mechanism

Step-by-step process for 5x5 disassembly:

1.
Turn top layer 45 degrees – Rotate the U face to expose edges
2.
Grip corner piece and twist – Rather than prying edge pieces, use a twisting motion on the corner
3.
Push toward corner – Apply inward pressure while twisting to pop the piece out
4.
Remove adjacent edges – Once corner sections open, edges come out easily
5.
Extract middle layer edges – These require careful maneuvering as they're positioned differently
6.
Work through all sections – Complete one-eighth of the cube before moving to adjacent sections
7.
Remove corner pieces – They typically come out after edge removal
8.
Disassemble the core if needed – For deep cleaning or spring swaps, further disassembly may be required

The 5x5 differs significantly from 4x4 in that it has a central core (making it similar to 3x3 fundamentally), but the number of pieces means more complex organization during reassembly.

Video reference:

QiYi 6x6 Cube Disassembly

The 6x6 is an even-layered big cube with multiple core systems. The complexity increases substantially, requiring careful systematic disassembly.

Structural overview of 6x6:

•
Eight corner pieces
•
Forty-eight edge pieces (four types: outer, outer-mid, inner-mid, inner)
•
Two hundred ninety-four center pieces
•
Multiple internal cores

Step-by-step process for 6x6 disassembly:

1.
Rotate top layer 45 degrees – Standard starting position
2.
Remove outer edge pieces – These come out similarly to 5x5 edges
3.
Access inner layer pieces – Once outer edges are removed, inner edges become accessible
4.
Extract center pieces systematically – Work through all center pieces one by one
5.
Remove middle layer structures – The 6x6 has hidden middle layers requiring careful extraction
6.
Separate corner sections – Remove corners after their surrounding pieces are cleared
7.
Multiple core disassembly – The 6x6 may have separate internal mechanisms for outer and inner layers

The 6x6 is significantly more complex than the 5x5. Using low-tack tape when reassembling helps manage the numerous pieces and prevents accidental mixing of similar-looking center pieces.

Video reference:

QiYi 7x7 Cube Disassembly

The 7x7 returns to single-core architecture (like the 5x5 and 3x3), but with dramatically increased piece count. The 7x7 is one of the most challenging disassemblies.

Structural overview of 7x7:

•
Eight corner pieces
•
Eighty-four edge pieces (multiple types across layers)
•
Four hundred eighty-six center pieces
•
Single central core
•
Three distinct internal layer systems

Step-by-step process for 7x7 disassembly:

1.
Create opening gap – Turn it 45 degrees and open up a section by pulling pieces apart
2.
Extract outer edge sections – Pull out the outermost edge pieces from the created gap
3.
Remove middle edge sections – Access and remove the next layer of edges
4.
Extract inner edge pieces – The innermost edge pieces come last
5.
Remove all center pieces – Systematically extract hundreds of center cubelets
6.
Remove corner pieces – These usually come out after surrounding pieces are cleared
7.
Document core section – Before full disassembly, note the core's configuration
8.
Misalign layers strategically – Twisting different layers as you work helps access deeper pieces

The 7x7 requires extreme patience and organization. Many cubers recommend using color-coded containers or taking photos of each layer as they disassemble.

Video reference:

QiYi 8x8 Cube Disassembly

The 8x8 features even-layered architecture with multiple internal mechanisms. This is an extremely complex puzzle requiring careful methodology.

Structural overview of 8x8:

•
Eight corner pieces
•
One hundred twenty edge pieces (multiple types)
•
Seven hundred sixty-two center pieces
•
Multiple core systems (outer and inner)
•
Intricate internal layering

Step-by-step process for 8x8 disassembly:

1.
Rotate and create gaps – Turn 45 degrees and carefully open the structure
2.
Remove outer layer edges – Start with the outermost edge pieces
3.
Extract outer layer centers – Remove center pieces of the outer layer
4.
Access inner layer edges – Carefully extract the next nested layer of edges
5.
Remove inner center pieces – These are hidden behind outer pieces and require systematic removal
6.
Continue layer by layer – Work through all internal layers progressively
7.
Remove corners last – Corners typically come out after most other pieces are cleared
8.
Document everything – Use multiple containers and label each piece type

The 8x8 is substantially more complex than the 7x7. The multiple core systems mean that some sections might need separate reassembly before full cube assembly is possible.

Video reference:

QiYi 9x9 Cube Disassembly

The 9x9 is the most complex cube covered in this guide, with an astronomical number of pieces and multiple independent mechanisms. This is an expert-level disassembly.

Structural overview of 9x9:

•
Eight corner pieces
•
One hundred sixty-two edge pieces
•
One thousand one hundred thirty-four center pieces
•
Three distinct internal shell systems (3x3 center, 5x5 middle, 9x9 outer)
•
Complex nested mechanisms

Step-by-step process for 9x9 disassembly:

1.
Create initial gap – Rotate 45 degrees and begin separating the outermost pieces
2.
Remove outermost edges – Extract the very outside edge pieces first
3.
Remove outer centers – Clear all outer layer center pieces
4.
Progressively work inward – Remove each nested layer completely before moving to the next inner layer
5.
Access middle shell pieces – These form an internal 5x5-like structure
6.
Remove innermost shell – The center contains an internal 3x3 structure
7.
Document each stage – Take photos before removing each major layer
8.
Use multiple containers – Keep pieces organized by layer type and color

The 9x9 is so complex that many speedcubers recommend only disassembling if absolutely necessary. The reassembly process can take 40 minutes or longer. Some cubers use tape to group similar pieces together before beginning disassembly, creating "assembly blocks" that stay together.

Video reference:

Complete Disassembly Reference Table

QiYi Cube Specifications and Disassembly Difficulty Levels

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Forcing Pieces

•
Problem: Applying excessive force breaks plastic and cracks pieces
•
Solution: Work slowly; if a piece won't come out, loosen the tension screw instead

Mistake 2: Removing Corner Pieces First

•
Problem: This creates an unstable structure and risks breaking the piece
•
Solution: Always start with edge pieces on properly rotated faces

Mistake 3: Losing Track of Screws

•
Problem: Different cubes have different screw sizes; mixing them up causes problems
•
Solution: Keep screws in labeled containers or note which screw came from which position

Mistake 4: Breaking Corner Feet

•
Problem: The thin corner stock breaks easily if forced
•
Solution: Never push corners in with edge pieces in place; create space first

Mistake 5: Over-lubricating

•
Problem: Too much lubricant makes the cube too loose and causes pieces to fall out during solving
•
Solution: Use minimal amounts; start with a quarter-second spray and add more if needed

Mistake 6: Reassembling While Pieces Are Wet

•
Problem: Water and moisture cause rusting and mechanism damage
•
Solution: Dry all pieces completely before reassembly; let cleaning solution evaporate fully

Mistake 7: Not Documenting the Process

•
Problem: Without reference, reassembly becomes nearly impossible, especially for large cubes
•
Solution: Take photos before each major disassembly step; make notes about spring positions

Mistake 8: Misaligning Inner Cores

•
Problem: The internal mechanisms can shift during disassembly, causing reassembly issues
•
Solutions: For larger cubes, consider leaving inner cores in place if possible; only disassemble when necessary

Tension Adjustment After Disassembly

Once you've taken apart your QiYi cube, tension adjustment becomes much easier. Spring tension directly affects how the cube feels and performs.

For odd-layered cubes (3x3, 5x5, 7x7):

•
Tension screws are located underneath the center caps
•
These screws go through springs that push against the center pieces
•
Tightening the screw (clockwise) increases tension, making the cube feel tighter and more stable
•
Loosening the screw (counterclockwise) decreases tension, allowing easier, faster turning

For even-layered cubes (2x2, 4x4, 6x6, 8x8):

•
Multiple screws control tension on different internal mechanisms
•
Work around the cube, tightening or loosening each screw equally
•
Uneven tension causes the cube to feel lopsided and turn inconsistently

Proper tension methodology:

1.
Loosen all screws significantly to establish a baseline
2.
Tighten each screw equally (full turns or half-turns as needed)
3.
Test corner-cutting ability after each adjustment round
4.
Aim for a tension where the cube won't pop easily but still corner-cuts about 45 degrees
5.
Make final micro-adjustments as needed

Lubrication Best Practices

Application method for proper lubrication:

1.
Clean before lubricating – Remove all dust, old lubricant, and debris first
2.
Use a syringe – This allows precise application to specific internal contact points
3.
Apply to internal pieces – Target where pieces contact the core and each other
4.
Use minimal amounts – A quarter-second spray per piece is typically sufficient
5.
Avoid center caps initially – Apply lube to pieces before reassembling center caps
6.
Test-turn between applications – Determine if additional lube is needed before the cube is fully assembled

Lubrication frequency by cube type:

•
2x2 and 3x3: Every 1-2 weeks with regular use
•
4x4 and 5x5: Every 2-3 weeks
•
6x6 and 7x7: Every 3-4 weeks
•
8x8 and 9x9: Every 4-6 weeks

Reassembly Strategy for Large Cubes

Reassembling large cubes is the reverse of disassembly but requires strategic organization:

General reassembly sequence:

1.
Start with the core – Ensure the central mechanism is properly positioned
2.
Build in sections – Rather than assembling piece-by-piece, create two-piece, four-piece, and eight-piece blocks
3.
Use the core strategically – Place corner-edge pairs onto the core first to establish structure
4.
Work layer by layer – For larger cubes, complete inner layers before outer layers
5.
Save the hardest pieces for last – The final pieces are always the most difficult to insert
6.
Apply gentle rotational pressure – Sometimes twisting the cube helps slide the final pieces into place
7.
Use tools if necessary – A flat-head screwdriver can help guide the final pieces into position
8.
Expect tight fit – The last piece often requires significant finesse and may take several minutes

For 8x8 and 9x9 reassembly specifically:

•
Use tape to group similar pieces together in assembly batches
•
Reassemble to a solved state where possible before final reassembly
•
Consider working with a partner for pieces where extra hands help
•
Maintain equal tension across all six faces during reassembly

Video Reference Guide

This comprehensive guide includes video references throughout. Here are the primary video tutorials recommended for how to take apart QiYi cubes:

•
2x2 Assembly/Disassembly:
•
3x3 Disassembly Tutorial:
•
4x4 Big Cube Assembly:
•
5x5 Disassembly Tutorial:
•
6x6 Assembly/Disassembly:
•
7x7 Big Cube Disassembly:
•
8x8 V-Cube Disassembly:
•
General QiYi Disassembly Guide:

Advanced Tips for Speedcubers

Spring swapping: Many competitive speedcubers customize their cubes by swapping springs from larger cubes into smaller ones. For example, swapping 5x5 springs into a 4x4 can change the feel and performance characteristics. This requires careful documentation of which springs came from which position. Magnetic adjustments: Modern QiYi cubes often feature magnetization. During disassembly, note where magnetic pieces are positioned. If magnets shift during disassembly, carefully realign them before reassembly to maintain consistent magnetic properties. Custom lubrication mixtures: Some advanced cubers create custom lube mixtures by combining different lubricants. This requires experimentation and documentation. Always start conservative with any new mixture. Piece modification: Some cubers sand down piece edges or modify internal surfaces to reduce friction. This is an expert technique and should only be attempted if you fully understand the consequences.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily use (every session):

•
Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth
•
Check for visible damage or wear

Weekly (for regular speedcubers):

•
Light lubrication
•
Visual inspection of all pieces
•
Tension check (ensure all sides feel similar)

Monthly:

•
Complete disassembly and cleaning
•
Full lubrication cycle
•
Tension equalization across all six faces

Quarterly:

•
Deep internal cleaning
•
Spring and mechanism inspection
•
Complete relubricaton of core components

Conclusion

Mastering the skill of taking apart your QiYi cube from 2x2 to 9x9 opens doors to proper maintenance, customization, and peak performance. The fundamental principles remain consistent across all cube types: work systematically, never force pieces, maintain careful organization, and take plenty of time. Whether you're performing routine maintenance or troubleshooting a mechanical issue, this comprehensive guide provides the knowledge needed to successfully disassemble, clean, lubricate, and reassemble any QiYi cube in your collection.

Remember that how to take apart QiYi cubes becomes easier with practice. Your first disassembly may feel uncertain and time-consuming, but each subsequent disassembly builds confidence and efficiency. Many experienced speedcubers can disassemble and completely reassemble even large cubes in minutes once they've developed the skill.

Start with smaller cubes (2x2 or 3x3) to build foundational understanding before attempting larger cubes. Keep detailed notes and photos throughout your first disassembly of each cube size. With patience, proper tools, and this detailed guide, you'll successfully maintain your QiYi cube collection for years of competitive and casual cubing enjoyment.