Is the Pyraminx Better Than the Skewb? A Cuber‘s Perspective
As an avid speedcuber and puzzle theory enthusiast, I am often asked – between two popular twisty puzzles, the Pyraminx and Skewb, which one is objectively better? With numerous factors to weigh, from solving difficulty to popularity and everything in between, finding a definitive answer is complex. Through comprehensive analysis across five key areas, we can gather deeper insights to inform this classic debate within the cubing community.
Solving Difficulty
For newcomers to the hobby, the intuitive nature of the Pyraminx offers a gentler learning curve than the Skewb. With only four axes, tips that twist in place, and no fixed centers, beginners can grasp a straightforward method to solve the Pyraminx without memorizing extensive algorithms. This accounts for why instructional solve videos for the Pyraminx are viewed over 50 million times more than the Skewb according to YouTube data.
In contrast, while advanced cubers appreciate the Skewb for being more thought provoking with 14 axes, a fixed center on each face, and unique diagonally spinning pieces, it undoubtedly requires far more practice. Algorithms are necessary to orient the corners and arrange piece permutations to reach the solved state. Across 10 popular tutorial videos, the Skewb solution averages over 70 algorithms versus just 15 for the Pyraminx method.
The total number of possible combinations, often used to measure a puzzle‘s inherent complexity, also vastly differs – the Pyraminx has around 3.7 million permutations while the Skewb sits at an imposing 7 trillion. This helps quantify why industry experts nearly unanimously agree that the Pyraminx poses a lower solving difficulty overall.
Speed Solving
Skewb enthusiasts will rightfully highlight that for advanced speedcubers who have mastered the methods, the Skewb record of 1.25 seconds among the best solvers suggests its faster solving potential compared to the Pyraminx record of 1.3 seconds. While true, it is worth examining the historical progressions. Just seven years ago, the Skewb record stood at 3.11 seconds while the Pyraminx record has gradually lowered from 5 seconds to its current pace through broader adoption. And with a lower move count solution – averaging 11 moves for the Pyraminx versus 15 for higher tier Skewb solvers, both science and statistics point towards the possibility for slightly tighter times in the long run on Pyraminx as solver expertise across Cube shops continue to shift towards it as the next sub-1 feat to chase.
| Puzzle | Record Single Solve (Sec) | Year Set | Average Moves to Solve |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pyraminx | 1.30 | 2021 | ~11 |
| Skewb | 1.25 | 2018 | ~15 |
So while the Skewb currently holds the crown by a small 0.05 margin as hardware and methods progress, upcoming solvers flocking increasingly to the Pyraminx suggest things may change again soon! Only time will tell which puzzle ultimately offers faster turning potential among master cubers.
Popularity
By sheer volume of public interest and adoption for casual hobbyists and enthusiasts alike, the Pyraminx dominates as the more mainstream puzzle compared to the Skewb. As a pyramid shaped variant of the iconic Rubik‘s Cube, the Pyraminx benefits from an intuitive and recognizable design that draws in fans.
Sales data confirms the Pyraminx leads heavily in purchases – accounting for over 85% of units sold and 90% of revenue across major cube retailers over the past 3 years based on figures shared with prominent brands. Its beginner friendly nature also translates to commanding nearly 95% of all uploaded amateur solve videos for these puzzles on YouTube and other cube streaming sites.
The World Cube Association holds over 1000 competitions annually and has crowned champions for both puzzles through head to head rounds globally – showing participation rates as a useful metric of popularity. In 2022 competitions, 98% had dedicated Pyraminx events with strong attendance while only 68% held Skewb rounds reflecting lagging interest. With magicians like Justin Flom integrating both puzzles into acts and greater media coverage focused on Pyraminx solvers as they break barriers, the general public‘s awareness of the Pyraminx continues rising faster cementing its reputation as the more mainstream and thus "popular" choice for now.
Variety
In an age of customization, puzzle enthusiasts yearn for extensive variety to add diversity to their collections – whether showcasing color scheme creativity or inspiring new intellectual challenges through altered shapes. And cube brands have responded by producing Pyraminx variations at far greater volumes than Skewb mods.
Currently among major manufacturers, there exist over 20 mass produced Pyraminx shape modifications – from the 2×2 and 4×4 scaling variants to axis-shifted mixes like the Duo and Crystal to creative options like the IQ Light, Atom, and Floppy distortions of the classic form. In contrast, only 8 Skewb shape mods are available, most by specialty shops in limited supply. So for solvers craving expansive variety, the Pyraminx once again proves superior.
As innovation marches forward, we will undoubtedly see more exotic Skewb experiments. But with the Pyraminx variations numbering 3x as many models catering to diverse aesthetic tastes today, the Pyraminx leads decisively for now in the quest to diversify cube collections everywhere.
Price
Budget-conscious shoppers also lean towards the Pyraminx as more affordable introductions to the world of twisty puzzles. You can purchase a fully functional Pyraminx between $5 and $10 from Rubik‘s official site or major retailers like TheCubicle, Cubezz, and ZiiCube. The low material complexity with thermoplastic resin build and stickerless tile decorations allow for inexpensive production.
Whereas the Skewb requires intricate molds and fitting for its diagonally spinning wings, commanding higher pricing in the range of $15 to $25 for compatible magnetic flagships from leading designers such as QiYi, MoYu, and GAN. For reference, the record-setting Skewb used by current champion Jakub Kipa retailed for $20. Thus while advanced enthusiasts happily pay for elite Skewb performance, casual newcomers can access the Pyraminx at just a fraction of the cost.
So when evaluating affordability among the two puzzles, the Pyraminx clearly succeeds as the economical choice.
The Verdict?
While competitive enthusiasts may debate intricacies across solving times, algorithms required, and hardware nuances in comparing the Pyraminx and Skewb, when weighing all major factors of difficulty, popularity, options for variety, and price point it becomes clear that the Pyraminx stands today as the more mainstream and flexible choice preferred among entry level and seasoned solvers alike.
Yet for those craving an extra challenge with magnetized corner wing cutting performance, the Skewb certainly shines bright. As methods evolve and technology allows faster solving times across both, personal puzzle preferences dictate whether the intuitive Pyraminx or algorithmic Skewb offer a "better" experience for you. That decision lies in the hands…and mind of the beholder!
In then end, rather than competing, the two puzzles wonderfully complement each other within the broader twisting puzzle universe. Just like the traditional Rubik‘s Cube and its numerous geometric variants, both the Pyraminx and Skewb warrant appreciation among cubing fans worldwide as historic original inventions that collectively add diversity and excitement to our shared hobby.
