⚖️ Method Comparison
Which speedcubing method is right for you?
| Feature | CFOP | Roux | ZZ | Beginner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algorithms | 78+ | ~20 | ~50 | 7 |
| Avg. Moves | 55–60 | 48 (lowest) | 50 | 100+ |
| Learning Curve | High | Medium | High | Low |
| Ergonomics | Good | OK | Excellent | N/A |
| % of Top 100 | ~85% | ~10% | ~5% | 0% |
| Best For | Anyone serious | Lower move counters | Low regrip preference | First solve |
| Look-Ahead | Medium | High | High | N/A |
CFOP
Created by Jessica Fridrich. Used by virtually every world-class competitor.
PRO Most tutorials, most community support
PRO High algorithm count = consistent solves
PRO Extremely well-documented
CON 78+ algorithms to fully master
CON More moves than Roux
Roux
Created by Gilles Roux. Lowest move count, heavy on intuition.
PRO Fewest moves (avg ~48)
PRO Fewer algorithms (~20)
PRO No re-grips in final step
CON Requires more intuition
CON M-slice moves require practice
ZZ Method
Invented by Zbigniew Zborowski. Emphasizes edge orientation first.
PRO No M-slice or cube rotations needed
PRO Excellent ergonomics
CON EOLine is hard to learn
CON Less community content
Beginner's Method
Layer-by-layer. The standard starting point for all new cubers.
PRO Only 7 algorithms
PRO Easy to learn and remember
CON 100+ moves per solve
CON Hard ceiling around sub-45s
🤔 Our Recommendation
Start with Beginner's Method to get your first consistent solves. Then switch to CFOP — it has the most resources, largest community, and is used by nearly all serious competitors. Only consider Roux or ZZ once you're already sub-20 with CFOP and want to experiment.