In the world of speed cubing, even fractions of seconds can make the difference between winning and losing a championship. That's why speedcubers need a cube that is designed to move quickly and smoothly, allowing them to focus on solving instead of struggling with the mechanics of turning the cube.

Easy to turn

A speed cube is usually easier to turn than a regular Rubik's cube. This is because the plastic edges are rounded, which makes them easier to rotate.

It's also a good idea to lubricate your speed cube regularly, so it stays in top condition. Many speedcubers use a silicon-based lubricant, which works perfectly with plastic and helps to reduce friction.

Another benefit of lubrication is that it makes the cube feel more comfortable. This means that you can move more accurately at every turn and improve your performance.

One of the first things that beginners often do when starting to solve a Rubik's cube is to try and turn it aggressively, even when they don't really need to do so. This can be a mistake and can result in lock-ups, which is bad for your overall performance.

Easy to lubricate

3x3 speed cubes are incredibly easy to lubricate and maintain, and a little lube here and there can make a huge difference in your turning performance. You can choose from a variety of different types of lubes, and there is no one-size-fits-all - your choice will depend on the Rubik's Cube you have and how you like to turn it.

After you have cleaned the cube, put a small amount of Silicon oil (no WD-40) inside it. Spray it for a few seconds then turn the cube to get the lubricant evenly distributed around.

Adding a bit of lubrication can also help your cube to turn smoother and easier, especially on overly stiff cubes. It also helps to reduce friction on the inner parts of the cube to reduce noise and prolong the life of the puzzle.

Unlike traditional lubricants, which are made from oils and are not safe for plastic, speed cube lubes are silicone-based. They are safe for both speed cubers and the puzzles they lubricate, which means you can use them to improve the performance of your puzzle and keep it looking and feeling great for years.

Comfortable

Whether you are new to the speed cube or have been solving one for years, finding a cube that feels good is important. A comfortable speed cube will be easier to turn and will be less likely to pop.

In order to be comfortable, a cube should have rounded edges and a smooth feel. It also needs to be lubricated regularly so that it will perform better over time.

The type of plastic used to make the 3x3 can be an important consideration. Some plastics are more slippery than others and can be hard to turn.

It is also worth considering the surface finish of the cube’s plastic. Some of them have stickers or a glossy finish that helps the puzzle stay together more easily.

For the best performance, it is recommended that the plastic be lubricated with a high-quality lubricant. These lubricants are often made of silicon and can help reduce friction between the layers of the puzzle.

Fast

During a speed cubing championship, a fraction of seconds can make or break your game. That is why it is crucial to get a cube that moves quickly and smoothly.

This is done by using lubes on internal parts that are rubbing against each other. This lube helps to reduce friction and improve glide (CAUTION: lube will remove the stickers, so be careful not to get any on the cube).

It also helps to keep a cube stable as it flexes and deforms. Less stable cubes will often pop or warp, which is not ideal for speed cubing.

The most adjustable cubes are the Gan 11 pro-M and the GAN 356 XS. The former has a dual adjustment system for compression and tension while the latter allows you to adjust all magnets independently of each other.