Speed Cubing
Solve the Rubik's Cube as fast as possible. What seems like an impossible puzzle can be solved in under a minute once you learn the beginner's method—and with practice, under 30 seconds!
What you'll do
Start with the beginner's layer-by-layer method. Learn to solve the white cross, then white corners, second layer, then the last layer. Memorize 5-7 basic algorithms. A speedcube (not the original Rubik's brand) turns much more smoothly and makes learning easier.
What you need
Required
- Speed cube (like MoYu or QiYi) · $8-20 · purchased
- Algorithm cheat sheet · Free printable · household
Nice to have
- Timer (app or physical) · Free app · household
How to do it
Learn cube notation
Understand R, L, U, D, F, B moves and their reverses (R', L', etc.).
Solve the white cross
Get the white edge pieces aligned correctly on the white center.
Complete the first layer
Insert the white corner pieces correctly.
Solve the second layer
Use the edge-insertion to complete the middle layer.
Solve the last layer
Orient then permute the last layer pieces—this is where algorithms help most.
Tips
Common mistake: trying to memorize all algorithms at once. Learn one step completely before moving to the next.
Practice algorithms slowly until they become muscle memory
Look ahead—while executing one step, plan the next
speed up your moves significantly
Glossary
- notation
- A system of letters representing cube moves: R (right face clockwise), L (left), U (up), D (down), F (front), B (back). An apostrophe (R') means counter-clockwise.
- algorithm
- A sequence of moves that accomplishes a specific goal, like moving a piece without disturbing others. Written in notation like 'R U R' U'.
- speed cube
- A cube designed for fast solving with smooth turning, corner-cutting, and adjustable tension. Much better than standard Rubik's brand cubes.
- cross
- The first step in most solving methods: four edge pieces arranged around a center, forming a plus sign.
- OLL/PLL
- Orient Last Layer and Permute Last Layer—the two main steps for solving the final layer. Beginners use simplified versions of these.
- finger tricks
- Techniques for executing moves using just your fingers (not whole hand rotations), allowing much faster solving speeds.
Communities
Resources
Frequently asked questions
Is speed cubing hard to learn?
Learning to solve the cube takes a few hours with a tutorial. Getting fast takes practice, but sub-1-minute solves are achievable within weeks for most people.
What cube should I buy?
Start with a budget speed cube ($5-15) like the QiYi Warrior or MoYu RS3M. Avoid the original Rubik's brand - it's stiff and slow.
Do I need to memorize algorithms?
Yes, but start with just 7-8 for the beginner method. You can solve any scramble with these. Advanced methods use 50+ algorithms but aren't needed to have fun.
Why does my cube lock up or catch?
Budget cubes or the original Rubik's brand are stiff. A modern speed cube ($8-15) turns smoothly and corner-cuts, making solving much easier and more enjoyable.