How Long Does It Take to Solve a Rubik’s Cube: Best Tips

For a beginner, it may take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes to solve a Rubik’s cube, while an intermediate solver might take around 2 to 5 minutes. Advanced solvers can solve the cube in approximately 30 seconds to 2 minutes, and top speedcubers achieve mind-boggling times of sub-20 seconds to even under 5 seconds.

In this article, we will discuss how long does it take to solve a Rubik’s Cube and delve into the techniques and strategies that can help you become a proficient solver. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cuber, this article will provide valuable insights into this intriguing puzzle.

Understanding the Rubik’s Cube

Before delving into solving times, let’s understand the basic structure of Rubik’s Cube. The cube consists of six faces, each with a different color: white, red, blue, orange, green, and yellow. Each face contains nine smaller squares, making a total of 54 stickers on the cube’s surface. The goal is to rearrange the stickers so that each face displays a single color.

History of Speedcubing

Speedcubing, the art of solving the Rubik’s Cube as quickly as possible, emerged in the 1980s. The first world championship was held in 1982, and since then, speedcubing has evolved significantly. With the advent of the internet and online tutorials, the community has grown, and solving techniques have become more refined.

The Influence of Practice

One of the primary determinants of solving speed is practice. Like any skill, solving the Rubik’s Cube improves with consistent and focused practice. Speedcubers spend countless hours honing their techniques, memorizing algorithms, and optimizing their moves to achieve faster times. Practice not only enhances muscle memory but also sharpens problem-solving skills and pattern recognition.

How Long Does It Take to Solve a Rubik’s Cube?

Solving a Rubik’s Cube involves arranging all 54 stickers of the six faces so that each face displays a single color. The time it takes to solve the Rubik’s Cube varies significantly based on the solver’s skill level, techniques used, and familiarity with the cube’s patterns. On average, a beginner might take several minutes to solve it, while a speedcuber can achieve mind-boggling times in seconds. Let’s explore the various stages of solving and the time taken at each level.

Data Table: Average Solving Times Across Skill Levels

To gain a deeper understanding of the time it takes to solve a Rubik’s Cube, let’s look at the average solving times across different skill levels.

Skill Level	Average Solving Time
Beginner	5-10 minutes
Intermediate	2-5 minutes
Advanced	30 seconds – 2 minutes
Speedcubing Sub	-20 seconds – <5 seconds

Please note that these times are approximate and can vary based on the individual cuber’s proficiency and practice.

Solving Stages and Time

#1. Beginner’s Stage

At this stage, beginners often use basic methods and algorithms to solve the Rubik’s Cube. They may spend considerable time analyzing the cube and applying intuitive moves to reach a solved state. This stage can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes for new learners.

#2. Intermediate Stage

As cubers gain experience, they start learning more efficient algorithms and techniques to solve the cube. The intermediate stage can take around 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the cuber’s familiarity with algorithms and practice.

#3. Advanced Stage

At the advanced level, cubers are well-versed in various algorithms and use advanced methods like Fridrich (CFOP) or Roux. The advanced stage can take approximately 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

#4. Speedcubing

Speedcubers are in a league of their own. They employ optimized algorithms and finger tricks to solve the Rubik’s Cube in record-breaking times. Speedcubing times can range from sub-20 seconds to even under 5 seconds for top competitors.

Techniques and Strategies for Faster Solving

To reduce solving times and achieve faster solutions, cubers employ various techniques and strategies. Let’s explore some of the essential approaches used by cubers to improve their solving speed.

Tips #1: Cross Technique

The Cross Technique involves solving a cross on one face of the cube first. Many speedcubers solve the white cross as their first step, as it provides a good foundation for further layers. This technique helps in planning subsequent moves efficiently.

Tips #2: Fridrich (CFOP) Method

The Fridrich Method, also known as CFOP (Cross, F2L, OLL, PLL), is a popular method among speedcubers. It involves solving the cube in four stages: Cross, First Two Layers (F2L), Orientation of the Last Layer (OLL), and Permutation of the Last Layer (PLL). The CFOP method significantly reduces the number of moves required to solve the cube and enhances solving speed.

Tips #3: Two-Phase Algorithms

Two-phase algorithms are algorithms that are designed to be executed in two steps. These algorithms help cubers skip unnecessary moves and reduce solving time. Speedcubers memorize these algorithms for specific patterns encountered during the solving process.

Tips #4: Look-Ahead Technique

The Look-Ahead Technique involves planning the next set of moves while executing the current moves. This approach requires foresight and anticipation to reduce pauses between moves, ultimately leading to faster solutions.

Tips #5: Finger Tricks

Finger tricks are specific hand movements used by speedcubers to execute algorithms quickly and efficiently. These tricks involve rotating different layers of the cube with minimal hand movement, maximizing speed, and reducing fatigue.

Bottom Line

Solving a Rubik’s Cube is a captivating endeavor that requires patience, practice, and determination. The time it takes to solve the cube can vary significantly based on the solver’s skill level and the techniques employed. Beginners may take several minutes to solve the puzzle, while speedcubers achieve mind-boggling times in seconds. By learning efficient algorithms, employing advanced techniques, and practicing regularly, anyone can improve their solving speed and embark on an exciting journey into the world of Rubik’s Cube. So grab your cube, start solving, and let the fascination unfold.

FAQs With Answers About How Long Does It Take to Solve a Rubik’s Cube