Cube Solving Methods Compared
There is more than one way to solve a cube. Each method breaks the job into different steps. Here is how the main ones work and who they suit.
| Method | Steps | Moves (about) | Algorithms | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Layer by layer | Cross, corners, middle, last layer in 4 parts | 100–120 | 7 | First-time solvers |
| CFOP | Cross, F2L, OLL, PLL | 55–60 | 78 (16 to start) | Most speedcubers |
| Roux | Two side blocks, corners, then the middle slice | 45–50 | About 42 (fewer to start) | Fewer moves, lots of M turns, one-handed |
| ZZ | Orient all edges first, then blocks, then last layer | 50–60 | Varies | Turning without rotating the cube |
| Petrus | 2x2x2 block, 2x2x3 block, fix edges, finish | 45–55 | Few to start | Fewest-moves practice |
| Corners first | All corners, then edges | Varies | Varies | History: the method of many early champions |
Move counts are typical figures for a reasonable solver and vary a lot with skill.
The Roux method
Roux (said “roo”) was developed by Gilles Roux in the early 2000s. You build a 1x2x3 block on the left, then a matching block on the right, leaving the middle slice and top layer free. Then you solve the four top corners in one algorithm (CMLL), and finish the six remaining edges using only M and U turns. Because M and U moves are quick and need no regrips, Roux solves are short and flowing. It is a great choice if you enjoy working things out rather than learning many algorithms.
ZZ
ZZ starts by making every edge “good” (correctly oriented) while placing two bottom edges, a step called EOLine. After that the whole cube can be solved with only R, U and L turns, so you never need to rotate the cube. The last layer is then done much like CFOP.
Petrus
Petrus, created by Lars Petrus around 1981, builds a 2x2x2 block, grows it to 2x2x3, fixes the edges, and finishes the first two layers before the last layer. Its block-building ideas are very useful for the fewest-moves event in competitions.
Which should I learn?
- Never solved one? Start with layer by layer. Every other method makes more sense once you can solve it.
- Want the most guides and videos? CFOP.
- Like puzzles more than memorising? Try Roux.
Whichever you choose, finger tricks and regular practice with the timer matter more than the method.
Questions people ask
What is the Roux method?
A block-building method: two 1x2x3 blocks on the left and right, the top corners in one algorithm, then the last six edges using only M and U turns.
Is Roux faster than CFOP?
Both reach world-class times. Roux uses fewer moves; CFOP has more learning material. Top solvers use both.
What is the easiest method?
The layer-by-layer beginner’s method, which needs only seven short algorithms.