Which is Faster: the Roux Method or Fridrich Method?

The Fridrich method (CFOP), also known as cross-first or fourth-block method, is generally considered faster than the Roux method for solving the Rubik's Cube, particularly among speedcubers. This article explores the differences between these two methods, their typical solve times, and which one might be faster for you.

Comparison of Methods

The Fridrich Method

The Fridrich method is composed of the following five steps:

CROSS Cross F2L First Two Layers OLL Orientation of Last Layer PLL Permutation of Last Layer

The Fridrich method is optimized for speed. It relies heavily on algorithms, which allows for a larger number of optimized algorithms. Many top cubers can average around 5-7 seconds using this method.

The Roux Method

The Roux method involves these five steps:

FMB First Block (first two layers solved in a single block) MFB Second Block (second two layers solved in a single block) CMLL Corners of the Last Layer LSE Last Six Edges

The Roux method is designed to have a lower move count, which is beneficial for those aiming for fewer turns. However, it typically requires more intuition and practice to master effectively, and top Roux solvers may average around 6-8 seconds. Achieving this level of proficiency can take considerable time and effort.

Conclusion

While both methods can be highly efficient, the Fridrich method typically leads to faster solve times for most speedcubers due to its structured approach and reliance on algorithms.

However, personal preference and comfort with each method can also influence performance. Some cubers find the logic-based approach of the Roux method more appealing, while others prefer the algorithm-based nature of the Fridrich method.

Understanding the Move Count Difference

Roux has a lower move count average, but this must be balanced against the types of moves used. This is why most solvers prefer CFOP. Feliks Zemdegs, a well-known speedcuber, has explained this thoroughly in his blog. TPS (turns per second) is also a factor; fewer M moves (180-degree turns) mean higher TPS, which aligns better with CFOP's potential in the long run.

Blockbuilding vs. Layer-by-Layer

While Roux's blockbuilding approach is more efficient than the layer-by-layer approach of CFOP, many cubers struggle with this part. Blockbuilding requires significant practice and intentionality but can lead to more efficient solving once mastered. ZZ, which utilizes both blockbuilding and layer-by-layer techniques, lies somewhere in between.

CFOP is easier to master and get faster with, while Roux is harder but offers the potential to match CFOP in speed with enough practice.

However, the fact that fewer records are set with Roux is due to its relative popularity. This is not an insurmountable challenge, as many cubers have successfully mastered Roux and achieved impressive times.

Examples of Roux Solves

Below are some published solves that demonstrate the impressive times achieved with the Roux method. These examples provide a sense of the average and how consistently solvers can perform with the method:

Radu13 (one of the fastest Roux solvers):
5.76s Ianega (another top Roux solver):
7.32s

These examples illustrate the potential of the Roux method for achieving quick solve times with enough practice.