Rubik's Cube - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
Since its debut in 1980, the Rubik's Cube has been a popular puzzle toy that has puzzled and fascinated people all over the world. Rubik's cubes come in a variety of sizes, colors and shapes.
If you're just starting out, a smaller puzzle like 2x2 is a less intimidating challenge. Those who want the classic puzzle should consider a 3x3 cube. If you are a speedcuber and plan to test your cube solving skills, you should look for a cube designed to spin easily. For a larger puzzle that requires a little more skill to master, the 4x4 or 5x5 cube may meet your needs. There is also a variety of Rubik's cubes in unconventional shapes and colors. Whether you're looking for a new speed record or you want to solve the classic puzzle for the first time, there are plenty of puzzles to choose from.
Rubik's cubes range from small to large, from easy to difficult. To learn more about the varieties of this classic puzzle, continue reading our buying guide. If you want to jump right into solving a Rubik's cube, check out our favourites.
Rubik's Cube History
In 1977, Hungarian professor Ernő Rubik released his "Magic Cube" toy, but it wasn't until 1980 that the toy received a worldwide release, this time under the name "Rubik's Cube."
The toy quickly took off, and to this day it remains one of the best-selling puzzles. The classic 3x3 Rubik's cube has six colors and can be twisted in any direction to solve (or scramble) the puzzle. The six central cubes always stay in the same place, while the edges and corners can be moved around the cube.
Although solving a Rubik's cube is difficult, there are several step-by-step methods to do it. Many Rubik's cubes include a solving guide, and there are many online tutorials available.
Key Considerations
Do you want to solve the iconic puzzle for the first time, or do you plan to compete and use advanced tricks to solve it with lightning speed? How big is the puzzle you want? There are several different Rubik's cubes to choose from, designed for puzzlers of all ages and skill levels.
Size
Rubik's cubes come in 2x2, 3x3, 4x4 and 5x5. The bigger the cube, the more difficult the challenge.
- 2x2 :
This puzzle has 8 cubes and 24 panels in the classic six colors. While some people argue that 2x2 is more difficult than 3x3 because it's easier to undo your work, it actually requires fewer steps and much less time to solve. If you're determined to learn the puzzle, or if you're buying a cube for a youngster to solve it, this is a great starting point. More experienced cubers can enjoy this little puzzle too.
- 3x3 :
This is the classic cube. It has 27 cubes with 54 panels and most of the boosters take a minute or less to solve.
- 4x4 :
This cube is similar to the 2x2 in that it lacks center pieces. With 64 cubes and 96 panels, there is almost twice as much to solve as the 3x3 cube. You can use a 4x4 cube as a 2x2 by not twisting the outermost layers.
- 5x5 :
This is the biggest challenge of them all, with 125 cubes and 150 panels. This puzzle takes much longer to solve than the smaller cubes, but solving it is also much more rewarding.
Colors
The classic colors of the Rubik's cube are white, blue, green, yellow, red and orange. White is opposite to yellow, green is opposite to blue, and red is opposite to orange.
Some Rubik's cubes have unusual colors such as silver or gray. Some cubes even have textured tiles. These alternate cubes can be a fun challenge for experienced cubists.
Characteristics of the Rubik's Cube
Once you know what size cube you want, consider additional factors like whether a speed cube is right for you or whether you prefer stickers to tiles. Some Rubik's cubes also include accessories.
Stickers vs. Tiles
Stickers : This is the classic and standard choice on most Rubik's cubes. However, the stickers may lose color over time and may fade, especially if you are a sprinter. If you opt for a cube with stickers, you may also want a protective bag or case to protect your cube and stickers.
Tiles : These cubes are much more robust and do not lose color over time. This is the popular choice among speed cubes, but beginners may enjoy the tiled look as well.
Speed Cubes
The idea of speedcubing may seem unfathomable to newcomers, but just a few months of practice could have you racing to beat your record time.
Speed cubes are designed for extremely fast turns. The edges are slightly more rounded than a normal cube, which helps prevent the cube from blocking. The turning mechanism springs are looser, allowing for quick and precise turns.
Many speed hubs include a tuning tool so you can adjust the springs to the desired tension. Tuning the cube can also help you make sure the tension on all sides is equal.
Unusual Shapes and Sizes
Some Rubik's cubes can twist into weird shapes, and some of them are cubes.
Color Block : A puzzle like Rubik's Color Block is not made of smaller cubes. Instead, it has irregularly shaped pieces. Although it still forms a cube when solved, the strange blocks allow for a variety of jagged shapes when the cube is scrambled.
Tower : Alternative sizes like 2x2x4, present a fun twist on the puzzle and can be turned into different shapes when scrambled.
Mini : The keyring cube and other mini cubes work just like traditional 3x3 cubes but on a smaller scale.
Animals : If you're looking for a puzzle for a young child, there are several animal-shaped Rubik's products to choose from that are easy to solve.
Accessories
Some Rubik's cubes come with additional accessories such as a display stand, a protective bag or a tuning tool. If you plan on making the bucket a hobby, consider a bucket that comes with a few extras.
Tips to solve the Rubik's Cube
While a common method for beginners is to solve the cube one layer at a time, there are countless ways to approach this classic puzzle.
Start by solving one face of the cube. Remember that this means not only finding all the panels of one color, but also arranging the edges of the cubes so they line up with other faces.
Start with the same color side each time. It will help you identify which piece goes where faster.
Memorize which colors are opposite each other. Then learn which colors have adjacent sides.
Don't be afraid to temporarily undo your past work. As you get closer to completion, it will be necessary to briefly scramble the cube to get the pieces to where they need to be. Any move can be undone if you can remember your last steps.
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