I'm an avid Rubik's cube player of the 3x3 model and have owned my cube for nearly two decades. Since I can solve it in under 2 minutes, I decided to invest in the 5x5 for a bigger challenge.
Unlike its robust sister (my 3x3 cube is well lubed with vaseline, and only has one re-glued sticker), the 5x5 proved fragile within the first two days. I used a careful touch, since I'm very familiar with how untried cubes explode. Nevertheless, many stickers started to peel on the first day, and two of the center squares have completely falling off and look to be non-reparable.
I lubed my 5x5 before using it, though it's more difficult because the squares are smaller and turns tighter. I was also careful to turn rows precisely to avoid misalignment and subsequent explosion. Even so, it broke on me. It's a shame, because I was really getting into the challenge of it. Now, it just sits like a broken toy on my desk.
For a $30 or so product, I find this inexcusable. Rubik's is supposed to have a strong brand name and I have been very happy with my 3x3 cube. I'll never invest in another Rubik's product.