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Embarking on the journey to become a speedcuber begins with selecting the right speed cube. However, with numerous options available, determining the best 3x3 speedcube can be overwhelming.
Questions about the ideal starting point, the top brands, and the appropriate budget are common. Fear not! We've crafted the ultimate guide to help you choose the perfect speed cube.
Price
The first step in choosing the best 3x3 speedcube is to establish your budget. While it's natural to seek cost-effective solutions, experience has taught us that ultra-budget cubes (under $10 USD) may not always be the best investment. This isn't to say budget cubes don't serve a purpose; however, the adage "You get what you pay for" holds particularly true in this context.
Budget cubes often come at a lower price because they are made with less expensive materials and produced in large quantities. This mass production can lead to a range of quality issues, such as misaligned stickers, inconsistent tensions, surface scratches and imperfections, bent screws, noisy springs, and a generally simpler design.
Furthermore, the durability of budget cubes can be highly variable, lasting anywhere from a few hours to several years—it's essentially a roll of the dice. While we fully support our products with an excellent return policy, we recommend, if your budget permits, considering a step up to a cube around the $20 mark. This not only minimizes potential frustrations but also ensures you enjoy a superior speedcubing experience.
Investing in Quality: Beyond the Price Tag
While establishing a budget is crucial, understanding the value of investing in a quality speed cube cannot be overstated. High-quality cubes, though more expensive, offer smoother turns, more durable materials, and advanced features such as adjustable tensions and magnetic positioning. These features not only enhance the solving experience but also contribute to skill improvement over time. Investing in a quality cube can mean the difference between a fleeting hobby and a lifelong passion.
Plastic color
Before diving into your speed cube selection, it's beneficial to acquaint yourself with the various plastic colors available. This article serves as a great starting point. Speed cubes typically come in Stickerless or Black plastic variants, and you have the flexibility to narrow down your options by plastic color through filters on our collection pages. It's important to remember that the choice of plastic color is entirely subjective—there's no right or wrong decision here!
The Impact of Cube Weight and Size
Another aspect to consider when choosing the best 3x3 speed cube is its weight and size. The cube's weight affects its handling and can influence solve times. Lighter cubes may be easier to turn quickly, but they can also feel less stable. Conversely, heavier cubes might offer more control.
Similarly, the size of the cube should fit comfortably in your hands. Most standard 3x3 cubes measure 56mm, but variations exist for those with larger or smaller hands. Personal preference plays a significant role here, and experimenting with a few options can help you find your ideal fit.
Magnets
I often suggest magnetic speed cubes for cubers of any skill level due to their superior performance compared to non-magnetic variants. A frequent dilemma faced by customers is choosing between a magnetic budget cube and a non-magnetic cube of mid or high quality.
The choice largely hinges on your timeline for upgrading to a new speed cube. In the short term, a magnetic budget cube offers great value. However, for those who prioritize durability and performance during aggressive turns, a mid or high-grade non-magnetic speed cube tends to maintain superior performance over its magnetic budget counterparts.
Lubrication: Enhancing Your Cube’s Performance
Lubrication is a critical aspect of speed cubing that often goes overlooked by beginners. Proper lubrication reduces friction between the moving parts of your cube, leading to smoother turns and faster solve times. There are various types of lubricants available, each offering different benefits. Some provide a silky feel, while others focus on speed or cube longevity. Experimenting with lubricants can personalize your cubing experience, making it more enjoyable and tailored to your preferences.
Version
Should your budget allow for a bit more flexibility, we highly recommend exploring our best 3x3 Premium versions. For a deeper understanding of their benefits, feel free to visit the product page or delve into this detailed article.
Brand
Nowadays, most brands and manufacturers create high quality products in all sorts of price ranges. Some of these brands are known for their budget-oriented lines, such as MoFang Jiaoshi, a sub-brand of MoYu that are known for producing high value for money products, whilst others are companies such as GAN create extreme high-end products that a number of world class speed cubers endorse - with a high-end pricetag to match.
If you are looking for the "best" brands, the most popular that we carry currently are GAN, MoYu, QiYi, and YJ.
Understanding Mechanisms and Design Innovations
The internal mechanism of a speed cube greatly influences its performance. Over the years, innovations in cube design have led to the development of features such as adjustable tension systems, magnet placement for alignment, and snap-together pieces that eliminate the need for screws and springs. These advancements allow for a highly customizable cubing experience, enabling cubers to adjust their cube's feel and performance according to their solving style and preference. Familiarizing yourself with these features can guide you in choosing a cube that not only fits your budget but also your cubing ambitions.
Conclusion
With these additional insights into choosing the best 3x3 speed cube, you're now better equipped to make an informed decision. Remember, the best cube is not always the most expensive or the most popular one; it's the cube that best suits your personal preferences, goals, and budget.
Whether you're a beginner or looking to upgrade your cubing experience, taking the time to understand the nuances of speed cubes will pay off in your speedcubing journey.
That's our best 3x3 speed cube buyer's guide. Still unsure? Feel free to contact our fast and friendly support and we can help point you in the right direction!
Ready to give it a go? Shop our selection of speed cubes by clicking here.
Happy cubing!
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