Skewb 

Skewb: a cube that turns around its corners

A skewb doesn't have the classic layers of a 3x3 cube. Instead, it's cut by four planes that run through its centre. Each move turns half of the skewb by 120 degrees, which means four corners and three centres. With just 8 corners and 6 centres, you can solve it after learning a few simple algorithms, so the skewb is often the next puzzle people pick up after the 3x3. It's also an official WCA event, where every fraction of a second counts.

Skewbs for competitions and speedsolving

At competitions, skewb is solved in rounds of five attempts, and the result is the average. Polish cubers have been among the very best in this event for years. In 2015, Jonatan Kłosko set the world record single (1.10 s), and in 2017 Łukasz Burliga broke the world record average with 2.03 s. Both have averages under 3 seconds. You'll find competition-legal models in the Skewb WCA subcategory.

How to choose a skewb

• Your first skewb – YuXin Little Magic, MoYu Meilong and QiYi QiCheng are simple models without advanced adjustment options. They're perfect for learning and casual solving.
• Magnetic skewb – magnets help the puzzle "snap" into place after each move. This makes precise turns easier at high TPS and reduces lockups. One example is the MoYu RS Magnetic Skewb.
• MagLev – in these models, the springs are replaced with repelling magnets, so turning feels lighter and faster. The MoYu RS Maglev and MoYu Weilong Skewb Maglev are built this way. The Weilong also lets you adjust the magnet strength. If you prefer a more controlled feel, you may need a moment to get used to it.
• Gan Skewb M – available in Standard, Enhanced and Enhanced UV versions. These versions differ in features and finish, so it's worth comparing their descriptions before you buy.

A more expensive skewb isn't always the better choice. If you just want to get to know the puzzle first, a simple budget model will be more than enough.

Skewb variants

In this category, you'll also find puzzles that work on the skewb mechanism but have a different shape or number of pieces: Ivy Cube (MoFangGe, MoYu Meilong, also as the QiYi Super Ivy Cube and a keychain), QiYi X-cube, QiYi Six Spot Cube, MoFangGe Twisty Skewb, MoYu Meilong Mixup Skewb and YJ Yeet Ball Cube. They aren't WCA events, but if you already know the skewb, they'll give you a fresh challenge. They also make a great addition to any collection.