Speed cubes and twisty puzzles nowadays come in at a large range of price points, from super-budget options through too higher end prices. We go over the pros and cons of expensive vs budget speed cubes, and some recommendations to suit your preferences and budget.
What's should I look for?
The main things to consider when purchasing a puzzle, in particular 3x3s, are
- Price - how much does the puzzle cost?
- Plastic Color - Is the puzzle available in stickerless, black/white/primary plastic?
- Magnets - Is the puzzle magnetized, if so strong are the magnets/are they adjustable
- Premium Setup Versions - Bring out the best performance of your puzzle
- Customization Options - Are the magnets or spring elasticity adjustable?
Read our full article on finding the best speed cube here.
The main differentiating factors between budget and expensive speed cubes are customizability and the overall design of the puzzle.
- Generally, the more expensive the puzzle, the more research and development from the manufacturer has been put into the puzzle. This will lead to better performance which results in aspects such as better corner-cutting and less frequency in pops and corner twists. However, there are certainly exceptions to this, with emerging flagships from MoYu and X-Man Designs becoming available at lower and lower prices. Also, most modern puzzles are far less prone to popping than those of a couple years ago due to overall improvement in hardware across the board
- Customizability refers to the different setup options available within a puzzle, the most common examples being adjustable magnet strength, and adjustable spring elasticity. More expensive flagships tend to have more customization options, although again lower-priced options with the same customization options are becoming more prevalent
We tend to not recommend super budget options below $10 EUR (with some exceptions) due to their middling performance in comparison to some of the mid-range speedcubes available today. We recommend cubers to look into puzzles anywhere from the 10 to 30 EUR mark for the best price to performance, with some manufacturers offering their latest flagships with adjustable options at under $30 EUR.
What cube should I buy?
Here are some of our recommendations as of mid-2021.
Best Price to Performance
X-Man Tornado V2 3x3 Magnetic
$33.96
X-Man Tornado V2 3x3 Magnetic is packed full of high-end features but at a fraction of the price. Key features Adjustable magnet strengths (5 settings) Dual-adjustment core Overview Easy-to-use customization system Smooth, controllable turning Accessories included Leather storage bag ($3 value)… >> SHOP PRODUCT <<
Both of these puzzles come in at under $30 EUR, and both feature adjustable magnet strength and customizable spring elasticity. For the price, these flagship puzzles are certainly ones to pick up!
Budget
MoYu RS3 M 2020 3x3
$12.18
MoYu RS3 M 2020 3x3 is arguably the best bang for your buck and is no surprise that it is our best-selling speed cube. Tip: Improve stability and magnetic feel with our easy-to-install Magnet Upgrade Kit ($1.49) and Magnetic Core Conversion Kit… >> SHOP PRODUCT <<
The MoYu RS3 M 2020 feature's MoYu's dual adjustment spring elasticity system, similar to what is seen in the WR and GTS3 M lines. The magnet strength is moderate, but the puzzle performs extremely well for the prize, being the mains of many speedcubers despite more expensive options being available.
All the bells 'n' whistles
GAN 11 M Pro 3x3
$74.79
GAN 11 M Pro 3x3 is GAN cube's 2020 flagship model and has continued to be the choice of many speedcubers since its release. The great thing about the GAN 11 M Pro is that it is great for any… >> SHOP PRODUCT <<
At $64.95, this puzzle is at the higher end of twisty puzzles, from manufacturer GAN who is known for making world record-setting speed cubes. This puzzle features adjustable magnets and GAN's own spring elasticity system as well, but also boasts an alternative magnet system with both corner-edge magnetization and corner-core magnetization systems.
Premium Options
To bring out the best performance in your speedcube, we recommend checking out our premium speedcube options, which includes the tensioning and lubrication of the puzzle to enhance the feel and turning experience of the puzzle. Read more about premium options here.
