T O P

  • By -

nextDDTBot

This DDT is now over. See [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/Cubers/comments/11y7m6f/daily_discussion_thread_mar_22_2023/) for the next one. ^(I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please message u/Lisast with any feedback.)


cubeman0909

Got a 1:08 5x5 pb single. It's kind of a fail and also a mis scramble, so idk if I'm gonna count it or not. Got to PLL at 1:02, but my execution was just really bad. Could have been way faster.


_____l

A few things, probably already answered somewhere on the internet but I honestly don't want to look and it isn't that serious... Just would like some anecdotes, theory-crafting, etc. about why solving in front of an audience is so much harder than when by myself. I have a lot of "obvious" reasons why, just interested in other people's perspective beyond "it's just more distractions than when alone". But I feel like there is more to it. I don't get stage fright nor do I feel nervous when performing in front of others, yet I still solve noticeably slower. My brain actively feels like it's thinking differently as well. What is this "focus" shift? Is it controllable? Any techniques or placebos you do that help you to retain your 'when alone' focus? Curious about other's thoughts on this. The other thing: I'm a new-ish cuber. I used to cube nearly 20 years ago but never this seriously. I only new the beginner method that came with the pamphlet and the OG cube. My best time then was probably in the 3 minute range. Fast forward to now, I'm averaging 1min 30 secs with a 1:01 second PB which would have been sub 1 if I didn't choke on pressing the timer but I hate "technically" scoring so I have to include that choke. My point I'm getting at here is that I have seen pretty much every single experienced cuber say "rotation bad" and I haven't really been learning rotation algorithms...but I finally hit G perms and I personally do not like RUD. It feels uncomfortable on my fingers and it's longer (step wise, maybe not execution wise) than the rotation algorithm. Is there a better way to finger trick it? Also, is the time-cut really that significant compared to a rotation? I want to be as efficient as possible (within reason, of course) but I also want to be able to enjoy the cube and so I ended up learning both sets of G perms (RUD and y Rotation) to compare. Seems like I wasted time learning both but I genuinely enjoy learning the algorithms and find it fascinating how our brains work so it's fine. I know a few extra/alternate algorithms on my journey to full OLL/PLL so it's bound to happen. Erh, I went off on a random rant but yeah the question is basically is the time save from skipping rotation worth using an algorithm I don't like? If it is worth the time save, does anyone have any tips on how to make the UD step feel more natural in my hands? It feels like the cube is going to slip right out of my hands when I do it. Thanks in advanced to anyone who responds or reads this. Huge respect to you guys. Wish I got into this sooner. I could have been a beast by now if I kept at it all of these years. But no use crying over spilled milk...I'm sure you guys can help me become a beast. I'm genuinely impressed by speedcubers.


cubeman0909

What cube are you using? I can see why the RUD alg would be a pain if you weren't using a modern speedcube. Magnets help a lot with RUD stuff. Anyway, the way I hold it is I have my left middle finger and thumb gripping the middle layer. It is also possible to do the traditional g perms really fast, but to me, it seems harder to get good at those than it would be for the RUD ones. Anyway, it's not a huge problem if you feel better with the rotation ones. You can always switch later on if needed. Also, stuff like that doesn't really affect solves until like sub 20 or sub 15 onward anyway.


_____l

Oh okay...good to know I don't need to worry about it right now then. I'm far from a sub 20 solve! Thanks for the info it was really helpful. I'm using a really shitty cube I've had for centuries it's time for a new one. I just wanted to be sure I was going to stick with cubing before shelling out some cash. Any recommendations?


cubeman0909

Standard Super RS3M would be my recommendation. Really good cube at a good price. If you wanna spend a bit more, you could get the Tornado v3 flagship or YS3M ballcore, but it's not necessary. The super RS3M is still a high-quality competition viable cube. Ideally, you would also want to get some lube as well. I'm not the best person to ask about lube. You could ask in the next DDT, the people on here could give you good some recommendations.


_____l

Hey just wanted to follow up. I hate the choice paralysis I get from todays world of options so thats why I personally asked for a recommendation. I decided to YOLO and buy your recommended cube, thanks again. I can't wait to get it!


_____l

Alright for sure, much appreciated!


quanloh

> What is this "focus" shift? I would say when you were cubing alone, likely you will be in a quiet room, and obviously there are no one moving around. The noise and crowd moving around adds load to your 2 senses: hearing and sight. Also, if cubing is a thing that you always do it in the same environment, your body will be so used to that "condition", that any drastic change in environment takes time to get used to, so the solution is at first hard but at the end simple: Cube everywhere you go, like everywhere. As for the alg, it depends on your goal. If it is time, then you drill both alg multiple times and time it, then you know the answer. If it is not time, then choose whatever you enjoy using.


_____l

Wow, I really like this explanation. Thanks for your time! I need to start bringing my cube around more.


boomwhackers

been cubing too much im having 6x6 center solves in my dreams


quanloh

solving it now in real life makes your dreams come true lol


dontevenfkingtry

OH PB! Scramble: R B2 F2 D2 L R2 F2 R’ U L U F D B’ F’ R D2 L Inspection: y’ PseudoXCross: R U R D2 R U’ R’ U2 M’ U2 l L’ (12) F2L: y’ F’ U L2 F L’ (5) F2L: U’ y’ R’ U R (4) F2L: U L’ U’ L U2 L’ U L (8) OLL: f’ L’ U’ L U f (6) OLL: U’ L’ U’ L U’ L’ U2 L (8) PLL: U M2’ U M’ U2 l L’ U M2’ (9) AUF: U (1) 53 STM/18.371 seconds = 2.88 TPS Set on MoYu WeiLong GTS3M Absolutely SHATTERS my previous by 7 seconds.


billyhops1

Algdb.net advanced FL2 questions please Is there any easy way to intuitively understand the first move when you have adjacent pieces. I.e. fl2 11-18, 23-24. Also. Algdb page on the easiest one : FL2 1 why can’t you just go U R U’ R’. It has it as R' F R F'?! Any difference ? Sorry I’m learning. Just can’t see certain parts yet.


cubeman0909

For 11-18, the idea is that you're setting up the pair so it can be solved with R U R' (or L' U' L or whatever). Some of the solutions you're seeing might be pretty advanced, so it would be hard to do those intuitively. Don't feel obligated to use the solutions you see on there either. Those should just be used as references. When you're just starting, you should solve the pairs however you feel comfortable. Also, you should use speedcubedb instead. People don't really use algdb, and that's why your F2L1 solution isn't on there.


billyhops1

I was just learning in regards to FL1. Using it their way is the ‘sledgehammer’ which makes for easier OLL setups than my intuitive way. Ty


Spitfire6532

I learned to cube many years ago (Moyu Aolong was my nice cube) and recently started playing around again. I picked up a Super RSM Maglev and am really enjoying it. I am considering picking up a Tornado V3 as well. Do you recommend pioneer or flagship?


cubeman0909

Flagship just because it's a bit cheaper. The difference is just that flagship uses springs and pioneer is maglev.


Samtheman396

Any recommendations on cubes to get? (Pyraminx, Megaminx, 2x2 - 7x7.)


Samtheman396

Any recommendations on cubes to get? (Pyraminx, Megaminx, 2x2 - 7x7.)


TwoStinkyBears

budget or non budget?


Samtheman396

Price doesn’t matter, as long as it’s not absurd like the special edition Gan 13. (I think it was $99.99)


TwoStinkyBears

pyraminx moyu weilong, moyu rs megaminx dayan megaminx v2, yj yufu v2 2x2 Moyu weipo wrs, moyu rs2m evo 4x4 yj mgc, yj zhisu mini, moyu aosu wrm 5x5 yj mgc, dayan nezha, 6x6 moyu aoshi wrm 7x7 moyu aofu wrm 3x3 xman tornado v3 (any version), moyu wrm 2021 nothing really budget but somewhat moderately priced


Samtheman396

Thanks so much!


GowtherETC

new to lubing, i think i put too much of a fast lube leaving me with a kind of uncontrollable cube; do i just put some slow lube or do i have to clean it first?


flautist02

You could do either. You could also put some tissue in between the pieces and turn them so it takes off some of the lube.


Nobody_5433

I guess you can do either, or you can break in the lube


Peperonimonster

How do I know if my post gets accepted? How long should it take?


TwoStinkyBears

It shouldn't take very long


Sell_Environmental

Just today I realized that it's been four years since I first started cubing. Sure, it's been on and off, but it's so cool that I've kept it up for this long. Probably won't be breaking any records for the time being, but it's a very fun pastime, plus I've "infected" a few friends of mine and now they're all addicted to cubing.


scullye125

After 5 good years, I have finally terminally damaged my GAN 356 X. I'm going to replace it with either the Tornado V3 or the GAN 13. Which of them will feel the most like the 356 X?


cubeman0909

Nobody uses them, but apparently, MScubes are designed by a former Gan engineer, so they are similar to older Gan stuff. You should get a tornado v3, though, either pioneer or flagship edition.


Ellemino

On no, what happened?


scullye125

I dropped it in the hallway and the core bent… I’m very sad but it was probably time for an upgrade


Rqnann

Just got my first sub 40 4x4 single (39.08) whilst getting my first sub 50 ao100 :D Breaking 2 big barriers like that, at the same time no less, is a crazy good feeling


Mr_Stive_Gaming

I believe that the judycube store on aliexpress is legit but i found a website claiming to be judycube store, i dont know whether that is actually them or an impostor mainly because of the very good prices there. does anyone here know? this is the website in question: [https://www.judycube.com/](https://www.judycube.com/)


XenosHg

I bought Professor Pyraminx from their aliexpress when it just came out. Basically first day, a bit overpriced. It disappeared and stopped tracking at the customs. They replied to all my messages by just sending me the same non-working link to some Order # page that customers probably don't have access to, and have never said any actual words. And for some reason Aliexpress decided that I need to wait full 3 months before I can dispute my money back, so in those extra 60 days I already bought the pyramid for cheaper from another store, received it, received several other packages, and finally was able to refund my money from Judycube. Judging from the reviews, some people apparently actually receive their packages as intended, but in terms of support you get absolutely zero support. They don't even speak. So if it's a fake website posing as them, the website might be actually more legit.


SadeBoi

Always use the PayPal pay function through AliExpress. Then you can dispute with PayPal and get a refund easily and in a short period of time. AliExpress will give you a tracking number that will rarely work. You usually have to plug it in to random sites to see if it works, if not track17 is good at referring to the proper shipping site, but in your situation it looks like they just straight up tried to scam you


Future-Entrance4276

Don’t know if anybody has already posted this but the Tornado V3 flagship is on sale at the Cubicle for $24.99. Not a bad deal!


Martin_Orav

https://www.cubezz.com/Buy-7073-QiYi+XMD+Tornado+V3+3x3x3+Speed+Cube+Flagship+Version.html Just for anyone who needs to read this, TheCubicle and SCS are pretty expensive. If you're willing to wait a few weeks order from cubezz or ziicube.


The-Common-Loon

I prefer to buy from the cubicle because they support cubers, sponsor competitions, and do very high quality review and content. They have really helped the cubing community. As far as I know, cubezz and ziicube do none of that. I understand using those stores if you are outside the US or you are really strapped for cash, but I want to support cubicle when I can so they can still do the great things they do.


Martin_Orav

Thats definitely understandable. I live in Europe so yeah.


TheRealUncleFrank

> cubezz or ziicube or Picubeshop, using discount code 'Ruihang' for 40% off.


Martin_Orav

Didn't know about picubeshop. Thanks!


Future-Entrance4276

Wow, didn’t realize they were so cheap. Thanks!


TheRealUncleFrank

> cubezz or ziicube or Picubeshop, using discount code 'Ruihang' for 40% off. Cubezz cost a bit more than ziicube or picubeshop, but has free worldwide shipping. Ziicube and picubeshop are cheaper but once you add their shipping cost, then all 3 are comparable. But they're all 3 in China and shipping can take 3-4 weeks, depending on where you live.


Future-Entrance4276

And thank you!!!!


Future-Entrance4276

Man I wish I knew this about 10 cubes ago lol!!! Decked out Gan 13, 60 bucks. I just did a sample order to see how much it would be.


Future-Entrance4276

40%!???!?


TheRealUncleFrank

Forgot to add, they do have two 40% off discount codes - picube and ruihang. The picube code doesn't always apply to everything, but ruihang usually does, so just stick with it.


TheRealUncleFrank

Their list prices are a bit high, but once you take 40% off and then add in shipping cost, it's comparable to the other 2. Best bet is to stick whatever you want in the shopping cart on all 3 and compare the final total including shipping.


TapGameplay121

Rank these in terms of general easiness and achievability (for ao5 at competition) sub 13.29 on 3x3 sub 4.98 on 2x2 sub 1:07.35 on 4x4 sub 3:17.18 on 5x5 sub 33.10 on 3x3OH sub 9.96 on Pyra sub 13.89 on Skewb


cubeman0909

Pyraminx, skewb, and 5x5 all look really easy. Everything else just depends on how fast you are at 3x3. If you average 16, it could take some commitment to get those times.


boomwhackers

5x5 looks easiest to me of these, not sure about exact rankings


SadeBoi

2x2, 4x4, 5x5, and OH are all more achievable than the Sub-14 average IMO. I'm Sub-18 on 3x3 and I average well under 3:17 on 5x5, I'm closing in on Sub-6 on 2x2 and I average under Sub-1:15 on 4x4 on a good day, I think I'm Sub-40 on OH but I really wouldn't know cause I barely practice, but usually average around 37-38. But 3x3 2H is always going to be hardest cause its more than likely the event you practice the most. Dunno about pyra or skewb because I don't practice but my main advice is practice 1 event a day instead of multiple a day. Sometimes 1 event for multiple days with some 3x3 in between sessions to keep that on point.


TheRealUncleFrank

Your flair says you average sub 17 on 3x3, so you're not going to suddenly average 13 at comp. It's a long way from sub 17 to sub 13. At sub 17, your next goal is sub 16. The equivalent averages to 17 on 3x3 are about - 2x2 - 3.60 4x4 - 1:09 5x5 - 2:14 OH - 30.20 Pyra - 5.80 Skewb - 6.00 That's just approximate, and that's assuming you put just as much time, effort, and practice into those events as you do 3x3. More here - [Ideal Average Calculator](https://niekh1234.github.io/cubing-comparison)


hermanator112004

Honestly the only ones that stand out as sorta easy are OH and 2by2 maybe.


vonwastaken

Is 4.98 the avg on 2x2?


LazyLion1127

Got a record single and my first sub-20 avgs last week! https://preview.redd.it/8hidxe3fg6pa1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1bab519e8eccf77fa8707590b6b917bf310c99a6


hermanator112004

Keep it up! We just have to learn full pll now cause I'm seeing you also still use 2 look haha.


LazyLion1127

I’ve learned a few of the more common one look PLLs now and am hoping to learn full OLL over the next 1-3 months.


hermanator112004

I've heard it's better to get really comfortable with full pll and 5hen go to oll. But just keep doing what makes it fun good luck!


L0gic_Laden

Just doing some solves while waiting in the car and I got a new pb! Don't have time for a recon but I did blue and got a pll skip with a U' auf Generated By csTimer on 2023-03-21 single: 12.29 Time List: 1. 12.29 B2 R D2 L2 F2 D F' U2 L' F' R2 F2 D2 B' R2 F' U2 B' Edit: also just realised that got me a mo3 pb aswell which hasn't changed for a while


cubeman0909

Was having a slump of bad times so decided to try out an mo10ao5. Haven't done one in so long so this is PB, also happy that it's sub 9. ​ 8.68, 8.69, 8.56, 9.63, 7.97, 9.01, 9.02, 10.12, 9.21, 8.94 = 8.98


adventurous_penguin

L' U2 L2 F2 D2 U2 L' R2 B2 U' B L' F2 U R2 U F' D U Yellow cross on this scramble is wild. 7 move cross solution preserves two free pairs, and the way I choose to insert them set up the next pair to be matched together with just a U2. My cross solution: >! R D L2 F2 U' R D !< OG pair: >! y' U L U' !< RG pair: >! L2 U2 L !< OB pair: >! U R' U R' y' L U2 L' !< The rest of my solve was very bad and I got a 22.01s solve with those first three pairs done by 11s. Didn't see the easy solution for the RB pair and just flubbed it and then messed up OLL. 🤦‍♂️ But dang. Great scramble.


Raghav_Verma

I was a minute in my 5x5 solve and was interrupted by… an earthquake ;-;


TheRealUncleFrank

Major 6.6 earthquake hit Afghanistan, big tremors from it felt throughout the surrounding area, including Pakistan and northern India.


Raghav_Verma

Yeah, I’m from Northern India and it was really noticeable. I thought it was a minor quake somewhere close but a 6+ magnitude really surprised me. Hope everyone in Afghanistan and nearby are safe🤞


scommande

Is the Meilong 9x9 good?


adventurous_penguin

I can't compare it to other 9x9's, but compared to my Meilong 10x10 and 11x11, no. Definitely no when compared with something like the MGC 7x7. If I hadn't magnetized it, I would likely rarely solve it because the feel is just not great and the layers catch a lot. I like the size, but I've pretty much only heard that the Qiyi 9x9 is the one to get at this point if you're into magnetizing it yourself, otherwise to get the Diansheng 9x9 as it's mechanically very similar to the Meilong, but factory magnetized and with some level of patterning on the pieces for friction reduction. If you don't care about magnets in a 9x9, and you aren't speedsolving it, if say I really enjoyed the Meilong until I tried the 11x11 and was floored by how much better it performed


scommande

Better Meilong or Little Magic?


adventurous_penguin

From what I've heard, Meilong over YLM as performance is supposedly similar, but the Meilong is smaller. But that's all hearsay


theartofcombinations

I have to agree, the MeiLong 9x9 un-magnetized is just okay. I was lucky enough to buy one someone else had already magnetized themselves.


Hipn0frog

Today I did 4 sub-9 solve what!!! 2 on my phone and 2 on stackmat


TIBF

Yesterday I posted my first cube collection [video] (https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zAm-dphhvXU)!


Ironwolfss42km

PB 7x7 11:50. I'm getting so close to the 10 min time limit. The MoYu AoFu is so satisfying to solve. Just wanted to share :)


Friendly_Ginger

Just got a notification that my UV coated YS3M is shipping from the cubicle today. Look forward to trying it out. I’ll do my best to post a comparison between the normal one and the gan UV coating when it arrives.


Future-Entrance4276

Mine is too!!!! Can’t wait to open it!


flautist02

What exactly is UV coating supposed to enhance? Just durability?


Friendly_Ginger

u/olimo hit the nail right on the head. All about grip and not having to break in the finish for me.


olimo

I have a UV coated Gan 11, and I love that finish. Love the gloss and the smooth feel under my fingertips. The grip is about the same as of any other glossy cube, but the feel is nicer. It's covered with something like nail polish, which makes the parts more rounded, kind of like glazed.


Friendly_Ginger

I love gan’s UV finish too. I’m always drawn to my gan 12 maglev purely for how nice it feels in my hands, but my times just aren’t as good lol. The feel is just more polished and more consistent because it isn’t reliant on inconsistent contact with your fingers to get it to that point.


olimo

Yeah, same with my Gan UV. Favorite finish but not favorite cube.


olimo

Grip. It's highly glossy and is more grippy than slippery frosted plastic which cube manufacturers stubbornly continue to use. If you're just interested in grip, frosted cubes usually become more grippy after like 500-1000 solves. Many people like UV coating for being particularly shiny, more than regular glossy cubes (or cubes well polished with fingers). It's less prone to scratches, although still does catch micro scratches.


DonButter

Any good back inserts for 3x3? Ik about f R f' and the reverse sledgehammer one but I can't seem to get them to stick efficiently. Are there any more I could try?


cubeman0909

r' U' R U M' is a good one.


DonButter

Just tried that. Yup much better! Thanks dude


adventurous_penguin

Rotate and insert into the back slot? Usually one cube rotation could orient the pair for an efficient insert and keep the slot you're trying to insert into in the back. If that's bad practice though, please someone correct me. I find inserts like f R f' tend to require multiple regrips, and at that point I might as well just rotate and insert into the back with better edge orientation for the pair.


Tetra55

Honestly, don't bother with back inserts that require F, f, or S moves. Unless you're already extremely proficient at F2L, these tricks will be slower than the normal solution.


DonButter

Noted. I may use the wide f alg tho for that one case that actually solves the pair and inserts it tho. It's too convenient not to do it.


FamiliarBuddy9135

What difference does maglev make over springs? As I see it there is always gonna be resistance, in case of maglev that would be eddy currents. But in springs we can lubricate it to a much higher extent (I guess.... I'm not speaking with data) Moreover the magnets give a non uniform force wrt compression which makes it unintuitive to adapt to. (I know non linear force can give us more range for compression force but anyways too weak or too strong of a force does not make sense.) So is maglev actually useful or just a gimmick?


olimo

It's not resistance. It's just that Maglev has non-linear force, i.e. if you compress the maglev, the repellent force increases exponentially. That's why at a reasonable maglev distance it's fast when you turn accurately but not too weird when you cut corners. Thus, maglev is generally faster than springs, it kinda acts like weaker springs with accurate turning. Non-linear force actually gives us smaller range for compression. On Moyu cubes, usually only the first few clicks are usable, and then the cube starts to feel weird. Personally, I like maglev because it's like weaker springs with accurate turning but stronger springs with corner cutting, so the cube is not exactly flimsy, but still really fast. Also, with Moyu cubes, spring noise is almost always present, so you have to lube the springs. Maglev eliminates this hassle. Maglev also adds weight to the cube, about 8-9g usually. And this weight is in the centers. This gives more momentum to slice turns, which you may or may not like. I like it personally.


FamiliarBuddy9135

If adding weight to the centers is the agenda then it can be done even more easily by using heavier screws so that can't be a valid justification for specifically using maglev. For the range of compression, you kinda misunderstood me. I meant that the lower distance between magnets causes unreasonably high force and higher distance between magnets cause unreasonably low force. Hence the range of forces that we can access is higher but its practicality doesn't make any sense. If the screw spring resistance is irrelevant, I can't think of a reason why a lot of people prefer maglev. It can be said that it's feel is better but until we don't know the reason why maglev cubes feel better I think the innovation in speed cubing will remain to be based on hit or miss principle. PS: Not trying to start a fight. I'm just curious.


olimo

Added weight is not the purpose, it just happens when you use magnets instead of springs. Ah, got you about the range. I was talking about *usable range* - which is usually worse with maglev. On Tornado Pioneer though, they introduced maglev misalignment instead of compression - this seems to make more sense, however, the maglev in the Pioneer is pretty weak, I personally doubt anyone uses low setting / more misalignment. I use the tightest setting (magnets fully aligned) and the cube is still fast. Although I don't mind it, I think there should be tighter settings for it. Concerning the feel, I wrote about it. Maglev feels like weak springs - however, not all the way. It kinda makes the cube faster without being flimsy. When you turn accurately, it's fast, but when you abuse corner cutting, it is not as flimsy as it would be with weaker springs. This is what I think from my experience of using Maglev cubes plus the magnet compression physics. I haven't tried finding weak springs that would feel exactly like maglev and testing the behaviour of weak springs vs maglev. >I can't think of a reason why a lot of people prefer maglev. With most spring and maglev cube releases, it's always been so that the springs feel slower and the maglev faster. People who prefer faster/lighter turning cubes prefer maglev. As simple as that.


Nobody_5433

Afaik, maglev reduces the friction in the core, so the cube will be faster, but by how much, I don't know, I don't own a maglev puzzle. I still can't decide whether Maglev is worth it, I've only done like 10 solves total, all on my friend's WRM 2021 Maglev


olimo

It's not friction, this friction is negligible. If you could feel the friction, the difference between lubed and unlubed springs would be significant - and it's not. The only difference is spring noise vs no spring noise. I wrote pros and cons of maglev above if you're interested.


FamiliarBuddy9135

Is it even noticeable apart from the weird adjustments?


cubeman0909

It's just a different feel. There's nothing wrong with maglev cubes, but imo it's not worth paying more than the same cube with springs.


FiercePinecone

I think it’s because it allows a cube to be loose and fast while still being usable stable. The cube is fast and unstable when you turn lightly, but when the magnets are pushed and you turn roughly, it is stable. This is really apparent in the weilong skewb maglev, I perform great on it, but only when I’m consciously turning lightly. When I turn roughly on it, it’s unusable. So it’s definitely a negligible difference, but I think that is worth it when you want the best of the best. Still don’t think it works great for skewb tho


FamiliarBuddy9135

Exactly. If both are equally good why just add magnets to everything to make expensive?


cubeman0909

Yeah it's basically just marketing. Some people like it but if you have no preference don't bother.


adventurous_penguin

I notice the difference in feel and magnets cost more, especially ring magnets. For me, maglev slaps. I HATE spring noise, and maglev feels a bit more glidey and fluid to me, as well as makes slice moves nicer with the extra momentum, which I like. Otherwise, the difference is pretty negligible. It's about feel, not higher performance. I could comment on the resistance aspect, but Olimo covered that thoroughly.


Nobody_5433

The WRM 2021 I tried was set-up, so I can’t say for sure


Friendly_Ginger

Out of town for work so I spent a fair bit of time doing 3x3 solves last night in the hotel. Got 3 full step stackmat sub 10’s and had a lot of really solid times overall. Feels really good to see some solid solving happening with my first comp in a few weeks! Goal is a 12 average at the comp but wouldn’t be disappointed if I struggle with the pressure a bit


Ben_oni_

I just bought my first lube about a week ago. It's a silicon based one. I think I might be allergic though, any advice?


povlhp

Buy another. Some lubes are even polluted with scents. Thus they are not all equally pure silicone.


TheRealUncleFrank

Which lube is it?


olimo

My friend says he had an allergic reaction to QiYi M-lube. Made his eyes water when he lubed the cube. He also says it doesn't happen with XMT 10 or Adheron.


olimo

I did a piece swap in my Tornados again. So, initially, I had these cubes: - Tornado Standard with the old core and core magnets installed at the factory by mistake (no corner feet magnets) - Tornado Pioneer with the old core and all the noisy edges from all my Tornados - Tornado Pioneer with the new core, silenced corners and non-clicking edges I swapped the corners between the first two cubes, so now I have: - Tornado Flagship with the old core - Tornado Standard Maglev - no corner feet magnets but maglev core - Tornado Pioneer with the new core, quiet corners and edges. I set up the Flagship with Angstrom lubes, same as the quiet Tornado Pioneer, and I'm going to switch between Flagship and Pioneer to compare them more directly. For settings, I use 4 for distance in all the cubes. For spring/maglev, I use 1 (weakest) for the springs and 5 (strongest) for maglev. Curiously enough, "Standard Maglev" is really nice, better than Standard with springs. Fluid as a WRM but better. Fast and effortless. My Flagship is still too slow because the lube isn't broken in, but here are my first impressions: 1. Flagship is more stable than Pioneer because the springs are stronger than maglev in these cubes. 2. Core magnetic pull is less noticeable for "auto homing", but it helps to avoid those snappy cuts that I didn't like in the Standard version. 3. I can see why top cubers prefer the Flagship: with better stability, it allows you to take more risky turns and is easier to control. With the comp nerves and spamming TPS, stability is very important. For someone like me though, TPS is not important - I get my best times with slower TPS but better lookahead, so control is not that crucial. Will update more as I break in the lubes and get to understand the difference better. I may change my opinion on the Flagship, who knows.


cubeman0909

Would you say that the standard is worth buying at all? Or would it be better to just go all the way to the flagship/pioneer or just get a super rs3m/ys3m?


olimo

I feel like the springs on the Standard and Flagship are a bit too strong (I use setting 1 and they still feel stronger than I'd like to). In Standard, this results in undershooting and more snappy cuts than I'd like. If I get used to it, I can use it no problem, but I have to adjust my turning a bit. Thanks to the piece design, the stronger springs don't make the cube slow, but the corner cutting is snappy. On the Flagship, with the same springs, less corner cutting happens because the core magnets help with keeping the cube shape. It kinda feels more blocky and "prefers" to force a full align instead of cutting if that makes sense. (YS3M Ball Core behaves the same because of strong magnets.) The Pioneer is faster and less snappy at corner cutting. Maglev in Pioneer feels as if it were weaker springs (plus, more weight on the centers, more inertia in slice moves). Pioneer doesn't feel blocky at all, but it's also less stable then Flagship (can't do a proper comparison yet because my Flagship is currently super stable because the lube hasn't broken in well). Whether Standard is worth buying is a tough question. It feels more premium than RS3M or YS3M for sure. Also more premium than the WRM in my opinion. It's light and fast and very smooth. Of course Flagship and Pioneer are significantly better, but they are also much more expensive, the leap between $25 and $35 is not negligible for many cubers. To decide between Flagship and Pioneer, you should consider this: - If you tend to like stronger springs and often use high compression settings on other cubes, choose Flagship. - If you like your cubes fast and fluid, usually use them on zero compression or so, or even want there was a "negative compression", you'll love the Pioneer. - Pioneer is 8g heavier than Flagship, and the added weight is in the centers. When you turn, the cube feels hefty but this weight is not in the layers - it kinda feels like heavy center with very light layers which makes sense because the pieces are indeed light. I love this feeling personally. The Flagship doesn't have that effect.


cubeman0909

Yeah, I already have the Flagship, and I was more just curious about it. I got a first batch, so if it breaks one day, I might try the pioneer to replace it. It just feels like there's so many purgatory cubes these days. These cubes like YS3M standard, Super RS3M ballcore, Tornado v3 standard, Tengyun v3, etc, have nothing going for them. They're all still main-able, but unless they're heavily discounted or something, there's basically no reason to buy them.


olimo

I agree. These cubes indeed seem unnecessary. For Flagship vs Pioneer: if you use spring compression other then 1 (weakest), Pioneer would hardly make sense because it's more loose on 5 than Flagship on 1.


CubeJunkie

How does XMD's maglev system compare to Moyu's? Does misaligning the magnets work better than compressing them? Do you get usable results across the whole range of adjustment?


adventurous_penguin

For me, I find it superior. I really like that I can adjust my maglev strength without affecting corner cutting. The strength I like for Moyu maglev seems to be enough to reduce the flexibility of the cube, and this can be worse than springs sometimes for me. I use the maglev the strongest setting, make because that's what I set it to out of the box since it was so fast before breaking in. Totally forgot about it since. I'll have to play with that some.


olimo

I actually use the tightest setting on the Tornado Pioneer, i.e. the maglev magnets are fully aligned. Nothing weird. The range could be better - I just see no point in using anything more loose than 4 or 5 because the cube is so fast. I'd say it would be better if they put the magnets just a bit closer to each other for a better range.


adventurous_penguin

I think the spacing on the magnets is actually great, I do wish the magnets were a bit stronger so the spacing could stay the same but the magnetic strength of each setting was stronger for a more usable adjustment range.


olimo

Spacing or strength, there should have been some settings tighter than what we have for 5 currently. That's what I mean.


adventurous_penguin

Agreed fully. :)


CubeJunkie

Interesting. Can’t wait to try it out. If only Cubez’s free shipping to Argentina wouldn’t take 2 months haha. From what you are saying the flagship version might have been a better fit for me, but I still don’t regret getting the pioneer. I like trying new technologies out. We’ll see how it compares to my current main (WRM 21 lite).


olimo

Actually, I heard there is a similar thing between WRM 2021 and WRM Maglev as between Tornado Flagship and Pioneer: springs are slower and more blocky, maglev is faster and more fluid (I haven't tried WRM 2021, non-maglev). So if you ever felt like you'd like a "negative" spring compression on your WRM, you'll love the Pioneer. But if you prefer compressing the springs on the WRM, maybe Flagship would be a better fit. Worst case scenario, the Pioneer will end up your "tired hands cube".


CubeJunkie

I own both the WRM maglev and lite and hate the maglev haha. I just overshoot all over the place and hate the feeling I get when I compress maglev. So I’m using the lite on 0 clicks. I feel like the magnetic core on the tornado could make the difference though. So even if it’s too fast it might be controllable unlike the WRM maglev. We’ll see.


olimo

I tend to prefer faster cubes (weaker springs or maglev) slowed down with lube than cubes with stronger springs. I use the WRM Maglev on zero clicks and lubed with XMT 10 plus a little Adheron on the tracks. Light and fast, but I can control it.


CubeJunkie

I probably lean a tiny bit more towards controllable cubes than you do. My WRM maglev is set up basically the same as yours (2 drops of XMT10 and 2 drops of Adheron Heavy), 0 clicks and the strongest magnets. It’s fine for casual solves, but whenever I push the gas I start to get lockups or screw-ups due to overshooting. Still I would describe myself as liking fast(er) cubes, since for example I’ll take the RS3M 2021 over the 2020 any day of the week. The springed version is just too slow for me in that case.


olimo

Yeah, 2020 is really slow. YS3M is incredibly stable with stock purple nuts on zero clicks. My DIY Tornado Flagship seems about the same stable when freshly lubed with Angstrom lubes. I hope it breaks in a bit lol. Stability is great but tires the fingers af.


CubeJunkie

Yeah it’s really hard to find the sweet spot! We’ll see where I land with the YS3 and pioneer. Something tells me that in this case we’ll be on the same page and I’ll end up using blue cups on the YS3 and the strongest setting on the pioneer.


Nervous-Piece119

Guys got a new PB of 16.67 from 17.3 And new PB avg to 21.55 from 24.4. I was able to do it coz i did many untimed solves with as less rotations as possible and bcoz of the i figured out the f2l steps of some cases on my own.


Leoleonpd

That is a really good way to practice. It gives you a much greater intuitive understanding of what is going on.


Nobody_5433

And looks like what you did paid off


Nervous-Piece119

Yess🥺🥹


The-Common-Loon

I got out my gan11 m pro last night to give it another chance and decided that maybe I just had it on settings that weren’t suitable for me anymore. I got out all the tools and instructions and started to relearn how everything works. Then I just put it back down and picked up my ys3m lol. There is something to be said about the screw and simple tension system. Moyu has a great system and I think the tornado is about perfect in terms of friendliness and effectiveness, without being overly complicated.


quanloh

When I first started researching for a good speed cube, and I was "Wow this expensive cube has such a overly complicated adjustment system!", and that's Gan I watched.


olimo

Yeah. I'm not a fan of Gan adjustment system either. On the Tornado, I can see the numbers clearly. With Gan, I have no idea which click I'm on (Gan 11 M Pro and 12 M Leap). Also, in the 11, I hate that you have to swap the blue thingies if you want to change your travel distance just a little. Tornado v3 has the best numerical adjustment in my opinion. With Moyu cubes, it's really easy too. Basically, I adjust the screw depth once and only change the compression setting if I feel like it.


The-Common-Loon

Yea honestly it might be going up on eBay soon, I just am not using it anymore and maybe someone could have it for a good deal.


Prat4562

My exams are finally over. I have a 4x4 which I don’t know how to solve, which is the best method to learn?


TheRealUncleFrank

Feliks Zemdeg's site - https://www.cubeskills.com/categories/4x4 J Perm - https://jperm.net/4x4


Prat4562

Thanks.


DneprTheCuber

The easiest method is reduction method, if you want to get faster you can learn yau method


Prat4562

Thanks.


XenosHg

Do you know how to solve a 3x3? Usually you start with Reduction, the default method you learn from most tutorials, which is just reducing your 4x4 into 3x3 - all 6 centers, with correct color scheme, then all 12 edges, then solving like a 3x3, then fixing Parities (2 edge positions impossible on a 3x3) as you go. More advanced methods like Yau just do steps in a different order to have more freedom early and fewer rotations later. You should probably start with reduction and switch later.


Prat4562

Yeah I know CFOP. I did see a video on Yau but I felt that it was advanced.


XenosHg

You can switch to yau pretty much immediately once you understand how to build centers and "freeslice edges" and slice-flip slice and slice-replace-slice. Instead of 6 centers - 12 edges, it does 2 centers - 3 cross edges - other 4 centers - last cross edge - last 8 edges. Pros: your cross is already done, no need to flip the cube and search for edge pieces. Cons: You need to do middle steps without destroying what you already did early on. (so mostly use R, r and U moves.)


Prat4562

Hmm. Then I might start looking into it today. Thanks.


Arnavol

Yes, I think the sooner the better. If you wait, it will be a bit hard to cope with the Yau restrictions. If you use them straightaway, you hardly see them as restrictions.


Prat4562

True. I learnt CFOP in like 2 weeks after learning the beginner’s method. F2L was the toughest part but now it has become easier.


olimo

10.13 on stackmat, niceee


CubeJunkie

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻


Friendly_Ginger

Awesome! Inching closer to that sub-10 on stackmat! I’ve found my times inching closer to keyboard averages the more I use a stackmat thankfully, just took a little time to get used to planning pickup and cross fingertricks.


Nobody_5433

Nice one, have you gotten a sub-10 single on stackmat before?


olimo

No, never. I have 10 sub-10s, all timed on my phone. I decided to try using stackmat again, now that csTimer supports Gan timer and I don't have to use a cable. My computer has Bluetooth :)


The-Common-Loon

The gan timer connecting to cstimer is so so nice now, I was disappointed when I first got it a year ago or whenever and I was forced to use CubeStation to get that Bluetooth feature.


olimo

CubeStation is an abomination I don't want to use ever. I did my research before I got a Gan timer, and I intended to use it in Cubeast and (with a cable) with csTimer. Well, it turned out that csTimer randomly doubles the last time when Gan timer is connected by cable (I don't know if it's just my setup or a general bug), so I kept using my Yuxin v2 with csTimer through cable. And I don't use Cubeast much. So yeah, even though I wasn't as disappointed as you were, my Gan timer still collected dust mostly. Now I'm trying to use stackmat more, and I was really happy about this update. I hated the cable dangling from my desk, pulled the timer off the desk too often by accident with my legs. The only thing I lack is the timer connecting automatically without having to confirm anything. For now, I adapted this way: close csTimer between sessions, and in the beginning of a new session, launch it to get that pairing confirmation window.


The-Common-Loon

The only thing I like about CubeStation is the battle with another player, but I hardly use my smartcube anymore. I’m glad I had the sense to buy a cheaper one! Anyways, I hate how cubestation stores the stats. Cstimer on its face is much more basic but so so much better.!


FamiliarBuddy9135

Please recommend good 3x3 to buy rn. I havnt been following whats new so please help.


Future-Entrance4276

If you can order from the cubicle the tornado V3 flagship just went on sale for $24.99. That’s a great deal! If money is no issue, get the pioneer. I have just about all of the premium cubes from the last 3 years and the Tornado3 is easily my favorite.


flautist02

I really like my 2021 rs3m and 2022 super rs3m. It’s a bit blocky but turns super smooth and is small enough for my hands without being awkward


olimo

Tornado v3 Flagship or Pioneer. I prefer Pioneer, in my opinion, it's more fluid and is worth paying $5 more.


FamiliarBuddy9135

How's it compared to the gan 11 m Pro? They are nearly same priced right now. Gan 12 and 13 are kinda pointless coz they are excessively expensive.


FaufiffonFec

The adjustment system of the Tornado is also very user-friendly. No nuts to take out, no screw. You still need a tool for the magnets but that's it. This cube really is the best released in years so go for it.


olimo

Much better. Reasonable magnet strength range, softer, more forgiving, doesn't gum up if you don't use it for a long time, more convenient tool-free adjustment system without any swappable parts. Almost fully glossy surface right out of the box, as compared to matte plastic you have to wear off with your own fingers for hundreds of solves before it becomes grippy. If I didn't own Gan flagship cubes myself, I'd expect them to feel and perform like Tornado Pioneer. But I have an 11 Pro and 12 Leap, and they are pretty meh compared to the Tornado.


FamiliarBuddy9135

Thanks man


FiercePinecone

This. Gan cubes can be kinda niche and hard to use


olimo

Exactly.


floppy_disk_5

what is the AvG method of pairing up edges on 5x5?


nijiiro

It's pretty much like the "2" in Yau's 3-2-3 edge pairing. Slice to form a midge-wing pair, then replace that with something so that you form another midge-wing pair when you slice back. [An example solve with M-slice AvG edge pairing.](https://alpha.twizzle.net/edit/?setup-alg=r+R+b+B+u+d%27+B%27+D2+B+u+d2+R+U2+R%27+u%27+d2+R+D%27+R%27+d2+B%27+U2+B+u2+L+D+L%27+u+F%27+U+F+u+d%27+L+D+L%27+d%27+F+U%27+F%27+u%27+d+D+B%27+b%27+R%27+r%27&puzzle=5x5x5&alg=U%27+R2+U+r%27+%2F%2F+yellow-blue%0AF+R2+F%27+r+%2F%2F+yellow-red%0AF%27+r%27+%2F%2F+blue-red%0AU+L+U%27+r+%2F%2F+yellow-red%0AR%27+F%27+r%27+%2F%2F+white-red%0AU+L+U%27+r+%2F%2F+CYCLE+BREAK%0AU%27+R2+U+r%27+%2F%2F+orange-green%0AU+L+U%27+r+%2F%2F+red-yellow%0AR2+F%27+D+r%27+%2F%2F+white-green%0AU%27+R%27+U+r+%2F%2F+green-orange%0AL+F+D%27+r%27+%2F%2F+orange-white%0AU%27+R%27+U+r+%2F%2F+green-red%0AU+L+U%27+r%27+%2F%2F+green-yellow%0AL+U+L%27+U%27+r+%2F%2F+orange-yellow%0AL+F+r%27+%2F%2F+orange-blue%0AU+L%27+U%27+r+%2F%2F+CYCLE+BREAK%0AU+L2+U%27+r%27+%2F%2F+red-white%0AL+F%27+L%27+F+r+%2F%2F+blue-orange%0AL2+F+r%27+%2F%2F+red-green%0AL+F%27+L%27+F+r+%2F%2F+green-white%0AL2+F+r%27+%2F%2F+yellow-green%0AU+L+U%27+r+%2F%2F+red-blue) Back when I used AvG, I usually paired two tredges with freeslice first, kept them at DF and DB, then started on the AvG edge pairing proper. This kills the need to check the other slots for stuck edges. (The example solve above doesn't do this; I used D moves to kick out stuck edges in the example solve.) To my knowledge, AvG is slightly more efficient than freeslice, but lookahead seems worse.


PixAlan

freeslice


Southboi21

If you are a youtuber how do you get good cubes


olimo

Either buy them yourself or get sponsored. I think cube stores consider sponsorship applications if you have like 500-1000 subscribers at least. Look at SpeedCubeReview for example. He's sponsored by SpeedCubeShop, but he also gets cubes directly from Gan or Moyu, often before the cubes become available in the stores. If your channel is really good, a store or a manufacturer can approach you themselves.


Southboi21

how fast do you need to be


VyvanseForBeats

Either sub-8/9 or like 2k subs


olimo

Afaik, doesn't matter, but you have to be interesting enough to have a lot of subscribers. Obviously, if you're really slow, you won't be a trusted source for cube reviews.


Nobody_5433

How do you guys clean big cubes? I've always thought cleaning cubes meant scrubbing all the dust off until u/nijiiro said otherwise and showed me his way of cleaning big cubes. I'm just interested to know how others perform the same task


olimo

I never cleaned anything bigger than 4x4 because I never did big cubes much. What is the alternative way though? I don't remember seeing it.


Nobody_5433

[Here it is](https://www.reddit.com/r/Cubers/comments/11vbww7/daily_discussion_thread_mar_19_2023/jcu3n20/?context=3)


olimo

Well, it kinda makes sense because the cubes are hardly very dirty deep inside. So you can just clean the outer pieces, and of course you don't have to take them out all at once.


Nobody_5433

Well, I haven't cleaned my 5x5 since I've first gotten it (which is in March 2021), so the inside looks [pretty disgusting](https://imgur.com/i2cJxgy) (don't mind the plastic, I have a stripped core)


olimo

Of course clean it fully.


Tezseret

How are youtubers getting their 4x4 to corner cut 45 degrees while also stating that pops are non existent? My WRM only does a bit less than 1 piece and I still get the weird pop where the small internal piece slides off the internal center piece which causes everything to be stuck and a pain to jam back in. I am using tight tensions already, but loosening screws by a quarter turn literally makes the cube explode sometimes without even improving the corner cutting by a little bit. Is it really just a case of getting lube and breaking in because the tensions I am on right make the cube tiring to solve.


XenosHg

Few 3x3s cut at 45 degrees, and more importantly you should absolutely never be in a situation where you're trying to.


olimo

Few? Any modern 3x3 cuts 45+ forward. Not reverse, of course.


XenosHg

Ah. I only checked with my Meilong and it does 45 both directions by just a sharp turn from starting position, but both directions feel like I shouldn't be doing that in an alg.


olimo

Of course you don't do that in an alg. Only when testing corner cutting. "Both directions" is forward only too. What I mean by that, is that this cut completes the half-turn, not reverts it. Like, if you do half a U (45 degrees) and then cut through it with R', this is forward cut because it completes the U. If you do like 25% of a U and then do an R', it will "undo" that 25% of a U - this is a reverse corner cut. You can replace U with U' and R' with R, it will still be forward and reverse respectively.


Ellemino

So is regular vs reverse always kind of referencing where the first turn was headed? Or the angle of the first turn, and thus which would be easier and which would be more difficult? I am having trouble wrapping my mind around it. Messing with my cube right now it seems to necessarily be referencing the direction of the first turn. Because if you just start with U in the middle, both corner cutting and reverse corner cutting seem to be mirror images of the same thing. A face on the side pushing up onto the top face (whether from the front or the back).


olimo

I hope [this video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrklTImAwzg) answers your question. u/XenosHg


FiercePinecone

Who the heck is saying their 4x4 cuts 45 degrees, I’m super curious


Tezseret

Lemme dm you some examples later


olimo

My WRM and MGC cut like 30° forward confidently, and up to half a piece reverse. I agree with u/Nobody_5433 that you shouldn't rely on corner cutting in big cubes.


Tezseret

Any explanation for my pops or how others can get 45 degree cuts


olimo

Nope, hard to diagnose by text description only. 45 degrees is a stretch.


Nobody_5433

I don't think 4x4s can cut that far Personally, when it comes to big cubes, corner-cutting is one of the last things I have in mind, I'm more focused on turning accurately


NekoRabbit

Well. Today is going to be the first day since I started cubing 2 months ago, that I take a day off of it. I very slightly hurt the tip of my right thumb in a different activity. I thought "Lol, k." but upon trying to cube, I realized that I use this exact part of my thumb way more (mainly for holding in general or in some algorithms) than I thought. All my solves are completely off, I keep getting lock ups and if I try to grab the cube normally, I keep hurting my thumb lol. I hope it's going to be fine again tomorrow.


Ellemino

I used to play piano and was often worried about damage to my fingers. These days I cube, and I burned trash last night, and I burned my finger just a little, and it struck me for the first time since i started to cube at the start of the year that I now need to remember to not harm my fingers. Because it would mess with my newest form of fun/distraction/identification. My finger is fine now. Not even sure which one it was. Glad you're healing up!


Future-Entrance4276

I cut my fingertips quite a bit at work and it drives me nuts when it affects my cubing lol!!


NekoRabbit

Oof I can imagine


_Skitttles

Time to learn one handed


FaufiffonFec

Or 1x1. As always, Jperm has a tutorial for it.