Two of the Fridrich F2L positions.
Overview[]
This page catalogs the various solving methods used in World Cube Association (WCA) competitions, highlighting both the most popular and lesser-known approaches. Each method is assessed for its effectiveness, difficulty, and community usage. Popular methods are listed at the top, followed by niche or experimental techniques.
Top Speedcubing Methods[]
CFOP (Fridrich Method)
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- Description: CFOP (Cross, F2L, OLL, PLL) is the most widely used speedcubing method for 3x3x3 cubes. It involves solving the cross, inserting first two layers (F2L), orienting the last layer (OLL), and permuting the last layer (PLL).
- Key Features:
- Ease of Learning: Beginners can start with simplified algorithms before advancing.
- Speed Optimization: The method is highly optimized for minimal move count and finger tricks.
- Notable Users: Most world-record holders use CFOP, including Feliks Zemdegs and Max Park.
Roux Method
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- Description: A block-building method that solves two 1x2x3 blocks, orients edges, and finishes with corner and edge permutation.
- Key Features:
- Efficiency: Requires fewer moves than CFOP in many cases.
- Flexibility: Ideal for solvers who prefer non-layer-based solving.
- Notable Users: Kian Mansour has popularized Roux with competitive results.
ZZ Method
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- Description: Begins by orienting edges, followed by block-building similar to Roux, and finishes with a PLL-like last layer solve.
- Key Features:
- Edge Orientation: Reduces cube rotations, making it efficient.
- Specialization: Popular among one-handed (OH) solvers due to its ergonomics.
- Notable Users: Often used by OH champions and experimental solvers.
Lesser-Known or Niche Methods[]
Petrus Method[]
- Description: Focuses on creating a 2x2x2 block, expanding it to 2x2x3, orienting edges, and solving the rest of the cube.
- Key Features:
- Low Move Count: Emphasizes efficiency, but can be harder to execute quickly.
- Visualization Skills: Requires strong spatial reasoning.
- Usage: Rarely seen in WCA competitions but respected for its elegant design.
Heise Method[]
- Description: A minimalist approach that builds blocks intuitively before solving corners and edges together.
- Key Features:
- Intuitive Solving: Avoids reliance on algorithms.
- High Skill Ceiling: Requires significant practice to achieve competitive times.
- Usage: Often explored for its educational value rather than competitive use.
Generated or Experimental Methods[]
Waterman Method[]
- Description: Focuses on solving the first two layers in an unconventional order, followed by orienting and permuting the last layer.
- Key Features:
- Unique Approach: Offers an alternative perspective to layer-based solving.
- Difficulty: Lacks widespread tutorials, making it harder to learn.
- Usage: Occasionally attempted by experienced solvers for variety.
Belt Method[]
- Description: Involves solving a “belt” around the cube (middle layer edges) first, then solving the remaining pieces.
- Key Features:
- Novelty: Primarily used as a creative alternative to standard methods.
- Efficiency Issues: Generally slower due to unconventional step order.
- Usage: Rarely seen in competitive settings.
Keyhole Method[]
- Description: Uses a simplified F2L approach by leaving a slot open to solve corners and edges more flexibly.
- Key Features:
- Simplicity: Easy for beginners to learn while building foundational skills.
- Efficiency: Less optimal than CFOP but provides a stepping stone to advanced techniques.
- Usage: Often taught to beginners transitioning to CFOP.
Corners First Method[]
- Description: Solves all corners of the cube before addressing edges and centers.
- Key Features:
- Novel Structure: A departure from layer-based solving.
- Difficulty: Edges can be tricky to solve efficiently after corners are completed.
- Usage: Rarely seen in competition due to its slower nature.
TVS Method[]
- Description: Solves f2l like CFOP, but the rest of the solve is different dou to the 2POC step.
- Key Features:
- Cross: In TVS, there are a total 144 crosses/star patterns that can be made in the first step([OD]YC).
- Lookahead: The short first step makes it really easy to lookahead for the second step.
- Usage: Rarely seen due to it's developing state.
Ortega Method (2x2)[]
- Description: Designed specifically for 2x2 cubes, the Ortega Method solves the first layer, orients the last layer, and finishes with permutation.
- Key Features:
- Speed Focus: Ideal for achieving fast times on 2x2 cubes.
- Learning Curve: Easier than CFOP for beginners focusing on 2x2 puzzles.
- Usage: Widely used in WCA 2x2 events.
Yau Method (4x4)[]
- Description: A specialized method for 4x4 cubes that solves centers, pairs edges, and transitions to a 3x3-like solve.
- Key Features:
- Speed and Efficiency: Optimized for reducing parity and achieving fast times.
- Advanced Technique: Popular among top 4x4 solvers.
- Usage: Frequently used in WCA competitions for 4x4 events.
Comparison and Trends[]
| Method | Popularity | Move Count | Learning Curve | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFOP | High | Moderate | Easy | Speed and consistency |
| Roux | Moderate | Low | Moderate | Block efficiency |
| ZZ | Moderate | Low | High | Rotationless solving |
| Petrus | Low | Low | High | Low move count, intuitive |
| Heise | Low | Low | Very High | Intuitive, educational |
| Waterman | Very Low | Moderate | High | Unique solving path |
| Belt | Very Low | High | Moderate | Creative solving style |
| Keyhole | Low | Moderate | Easy | Beginner-friendly |
| Corners First | Very Low | High | High | Unique solving structure |
| TVS | Very Low | Moderate | Very high | Fixed rotations, Unique solving |
| Ortega (2x2) | High | Low | Easy | Fast and efficient for 2x2 |
| Yau (4x4) | High | Moderate | High | Optimized for 4x4 solving |
NOTE[]
A larger and more detailed list for methods for 2x2x2-4x4x4 (link)
This page is mostly only for speed solves but the expanded list goes over every method that is widely used.
Learn to make your own method here!