I wish this was my first 3x3. This is the 3x3 I recommend (or send) to friends/family that are interested in trying it out. It is smooth, turns well, doesn't jam. It's satisfying and feels great in the hands. It won't inhibit the explorative enjoyment of a first time cuber the way a low quality cube will, but it also won't break the bank, so if they end up not not loving it, you haven't overinvested. It leaves room to upgrade to even higher quality later, if the passion and budget permits, but it is a solid cube even if you don't upgrade, and won't hold you back. The price point is unbelievably impressive for the quality.