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TheDarkTrumpet
128
Jul 18, 2017
I just got mine today, and figured I'd post a bit about it. At least for my initial reactions.
The device measures roughly 2.6cm (1 inch) in diameter and 1.5cm (.6 inch) in width. It comes with 3 balls total (normal purchases are with 1 ball, to my knowledge).
This device is beautiful. I decided to buy the blue one instead of the silver one. It's much smaller than I expected, but it's a good size.
The magnets along the edge are very strong. Strong enough that you can hold the ball, and the base stays attached. The groves on the top/bottom don't have a lot of strength, and the ball will fall out with very little effort. Still, the strength is good enough that you can do a few things with it.
Personally, I really like this device in comparison to a normal fidget spinner. Those are super common, all over the place, very cheap and basically do one thing. This has a lot more functionality besides just spinning. The fact it's playing with magnets is why I got it. I commonly keep a few egg-magnets in my pocket and spin them around when walking, nervous, etc. The downfall of those is that they're brittle. So I buy them in bulk, and when they start cracking, replace them. This device 'feels' more durable, and something that should last a long time.
I do suspect that the finish will start to scratch early. I've seen other comments related to that. Still, if you're careful, especially with storage, you should be fine. It comes with a small bag that you can store it in. The nice thing about the bag is that it can hold all 3 balls and base with no problem, but it's tight enough that the balls will stay on the side of the device. When transporting, this is the best configuration because you're not touching the ball to the finish. So the bag is absolutely perfect for holding these in this manner. The bag has a drawstring, which I'm not the most fond about. I think a small velcro closing would be better for this, since this kinda fabric doesn't work well under a drawstring (doesn't stay closed easily). Although this is a minor concern.
The price is a big thing to talk about. You can find knockoffs of this device that are less than $20. When this device retails for $65, one has to ask 'What is that extra $45 getting me?' This is a valid concern. I think the build quality, and the machined parts of the device are a big one. Something I'm curious about though. Are these made in the U.S. or in China? If they're made in the U.S., I feel like the price increase is definitely justified. If made in China, then my justification for the price difference is a little more moot because you can get these, also machined, for much cheaper.
Edit: I emailed the company and asked them if they make these in the U.S. I got the following response:
The Orbiters are made in the USA, here at our manufacturing facility in Tucson, AZ. There are actually Orbiters being made here as I type this.
BrainFlush
6860
Jul 19, 2017
TheDarkTrumpetI'm on the fence now having it in hand. I'll post after a week or two. But damn. It's a small thing. One quick thought. Make the magnet larger (thickness) and concave or receded slightly as to create an actual track. Be back in a week or two.
Thanks for the write up.
PS the bag is garbage, I have lots from products everywhere and this is a very simple bag. Just my view on it. Still I get you.
TheDarkTrumpetIt's been two weeks, and I think an update may be useful. I'm intentionally not editing my original entry.
This device is still going strong. I use it a *a lot*, and it's almost constantly on me. Pretty much everything I mentioned above is still true, but there's one addition.
Using the device as a 'worry stone' does have a problem. That constant grinding does take off the finish on the blue one. If I look inside the bowl in the middle of the device, there's now a small ring that's a purple color. I doubt it's possible to get a decent picture of what I mean. It's definitely noticeable. Is it a problem? Honestly, I don't think so. I think it's natural that the finish would come off in time, and the worry stone way of doing it puts a lot of pressure and friction in that area. It detracts a bit from the aesthetics, and is worth noting for those who may be joining the now current drop.
If you plan on using it a lot like a worry stone, getting the chrome version may offer a better resistance toward this ring appearing. For all the other purposes, the blue is an amazing color. I'm very tempted, despite the fact I backed their indiegogo campaign (premium set), to buy the green one now.
BrainFlush
6860
Aug 1, 2017
TheDarkTrumpetDamn time flies. I'm on a straight 21 day work run. So my use of this thing has been very minimum. The coating is near perfect. The sound is still unique. The feel is pleasant when you spin it. I've been using it with the 2 extra included bearings more than just with one. I love the trick spinning required to sync them.
I'm in AZ. If the company hears me. I suggest making it flatter and wider. Add an actual track by making it concave where the magnet is and this thing might end up being super fun and amazing. As it is. I give it a 2.5 out of 5 due to price and size. But I might be wrong on my suggestions.
BrainFlushI'd recommend emailing them. They are incredibly proactive in replying to requests for info. I emailed them twice so far, and am very happy with their customer service.
I also find myself using the two extra balls more than the single one. One thing I find myself doing is using a ball on each side, then one on top and balance it. It gives a lot more 'grip', and makes balancing easier.
The price is a bit high, I totally agree with you there. But...thing is solid. I commonly will drop the ball on the magnet side from an inch or two. For some reason, that sound I really like that sound a lot. Kinda an abusive operation to perform, but since the unit is so solid, it holds up well.
I may do another reply after 6 months, to give impressions after a significant time. If it lasts 6 months, with the amount of use this thing gets, then I'd be very happy.
SMRTGadget
190
Aug 1, 2017
BrainFlushwait for ours :)
BrainFlush
6860
Aug 1, 2017
SMRTGadgetWill do. :D I love the fact you are posting here. I am always looking for companies that reinvent something. Bring it on!