4x4 Cubes

The 4x4 cubes, also known as Rubik's Revenge, are the natural next step once you have the 3x3 down. Unlike the 3x3, the 4x4 has no fixed middle layer: the centres move and have to be built before pairing the edges, which adds two new stages (centre building and edge pairing) plus some parity cases specific to even NxN puzzles.

Modern 4x4 cubes usually measure between 58 and 62 mm. Almost all the current catalogue is magnetic, with increasingly sophisticated systems: single-track (one row of magnets) or dual-track (two rows, with more magnets and more assisted turns). Some models add a ball-core or a matte UV surface. Beginner cubes are still useful for learning the method without spending much.

If you are coming from the 3x3, the 4x4 is the next rung. After that people usually move to the 5x5 (the first larger odd cube) or the 6x6 if big cubes appeal. For a break from NxN take a look at the Megaminx or return to the Rubik's cubes hub. If you are after mechanical oddities, try unusual cubes and shape-mods. The cubing accessories section includes timers and multi-size packs.

Brands present in 4x4: MoYu (the widest), QiYi, Vin Cube, YJ with its MGC line and SengSo. Featured models in the catalogue:

• MoYu AoSu V7 4x4 Dual-Track 112 Magnets UV - current 4x4 high-end reference
• YJ MGC Elite 4x4 Magnetic - very popular in competition for its performance to price ratio
• VIN Cube 4x4 V2 Apex Magnetic Ball Core UV Coated - model with a ball core
• QiYi QiYuan S3 4x4 Carbon - affordable beginner option