WCA Skewb 

Skewb WCA – skewbs for speedcubing and competitions

A skewb is shaped like a cube, but it turns in a completely different way from a 3x3 cube. The cuts run diagonally, and every move turns half of the puzzle around an axis that goes through a corner. The puzzle has only 8 corners and 6 centers, so you can learn the basic method fairly quickly. Solutions are short, which is why smooth, confident turning matters most. This category features skewbs in the classic version, the same one used in the WCA event. You will find budget models, magnetic models, MagLev models and versions with core magnets.

From your first skewb to a flagship model

A cheaper model is all you need to learn, for example the QiYi QiCheng A, QiYi's entry-level skewb, or the YuXin Little Magic. They let you get to know the moves and your first algorithms without spending much. The MoYu RS series offers budget magnetic skewbs with tension adjustment, available in a spring version and a MagLev version. Further up are models such as the Gan Skewb M, DaYan Skewb V2 and MoYu WeiLong Skewb Maglev. They offer more setup options and more advanced magnet systems.

Magnets, MagLev and core magnets – how the versions differ

• Positioning magnets help the layer stop in the right place. This makes it easier to avoid overshooting and go straight into the next move.
• MagLev means the springs in the mechanism have been replaced with repelling magnets. Turning is usually lighter and faster, but some people prefer classic springs because they give them more control.
• Core magnets are additional magnets in the core that work together with the corners and keep the pieces stable in position. Models labelled Picube Core Magnet are MoYu RS and MoYu WeiLong skewbs upgraded with these magnets.
• Standard and Enhanced: for example, the Gan Skewb M Enhanced has a more advanced magnetic positioning system than the Standard version.
• UV refers to a coating that gives a glossy surface and a different grip than matte plastic.

Adjustment and choosing a skewb

On some skewbs, for example the MoYu RS and Gan Skewb M, you can adjust the tension and compression of the springs. A looser setup speeds up turning and makes corner cutting easier. A tighter setup gives you more control and better stability when solving fast. For a child or a beginner, a simple magnetic skewb is a better choice than the most expensive version with several magnet systems. The differences between flagship models will mainly be appreciated by people who already solve against the clock and know what feel they are looking for.