4x4x4 

After the classic 3x3x3, the 4x4x4 cube is the most popular puzzle among cubers. It also goes by other names: Rubik's Revenge and Master Cube. It was designed in 1981 by Péter Sebestény. Unlike the 3x3x3, it has no fixed centers, so you decide where each color goes while you solve it.

If you already know how to solve a 3x3x3 cube, learning the 4x4x4 shouldn't be a problem for you. First you build the centers and pair up the edges, then you solve the whole thing like a regular 3x3x3. This is the basis of the classic Reduction method, while speedcubers often choose the Yau or Hoya methods. You also need to learn parity algorithms for cases that don't occur on a 3x3x3. The official single-solve world record belongs to a Polish cuber: Tymon Kolasiński solved the 4x4x4 in 15.18 seconds at the Spanish Championship 2025. He also holds the world record for the average, which is 18.56 seconds.

For learning, a cheaper model is enough, for example the MoYu Meilong 4x4x4, QiYi QiYuan S3 4x4x4 or YuXin Black Kylin 4x4 V2. In a similar budget you'll also find magnetic cubes such as the MoYu Meilong 4x4x4 Magnetic, YuXin Little Magic 4x4x4 Magnetic or QiYi Warrior 4x4 M. Magnets help the layers snap into place after a turn. On a cube with many layers, this means fewer slightly misaligned layers and fewer lockups, i.e. layers jamming mid-move.

More advanced cubers can choose from models such as the MoYu AoSu V7, QiYi M Pro 4x4 V2 Ball Core UV or GAN 460 M V2. The AoSu V7 comes in several versions. The Single-Track version has magnets between the pieces of the outer layers. The Triple-Track version adds magnets between the corners and the core, as well as between the outer and inner edges, so the layers are guided more firmly. Not everyone needs this. Some people prefer the simpler version, which gives a freer turning feel. The UV label refers to a coating that changes the grip and look of the cube's surface.