Step-by-Step Tutorial: Solve the 5×5 Rubik’s Cube in Under 5 Minutes
The 5×5 Rubik’s Cube, also known as the Professor’s Cube, is a more advanced version of the standard 3×3 Rubik’s Cube. While it may seem complex, with the right approach and techniques, you can solve it efficiently—even in under 5 minutes!
If you’re looking to master the 5×5 Rubik’s Cube, this step-by-step tutorial will guide you through the best solving methods, helping you solve it faster and with confidence.
1. Understanding the 5×5 Rubik’s Cube Structure
The 5×5 Rubik’s Cube consists of:
✔ Center Pieces (9 per face) – Unlike the 3×3, centers move and must be solved first.
✔ Edge Pieces (12 per layer) – These consist of three smaller pieces instead of one.
✔ Corner Pieces (8 total) – These behave exactly like the 3×3 cube corners.
Key Concept: The 5×5 cube follows reduction methods, meaning we first solve it like a 3×3 after reducing the center and edge pieces.
2. Step-by-Step Guide to Solving the 5×5 Rubik’s Cube
Step 1: Solve the Center Pieces
Unlike the 3×3 Rubik’s Cube, the 5×5 has center pieces that move. The goal is to form a 3×3 block of the same color on each face.
How to Do It:
- Find matching center pieces and move them into position.
- Use simple moves like (r U r’ U r U2 r’) to shift center pieces without disturbing solved parts.
- Repeat for all six sides, ensuring each center is a solid 3×3 block.
Tip: Solve the white center first, followed by the yellow opposite center, then move to side centers.
Step 2: Pair the Edge Pieces
Each edge is made of three pieces that must be grouped together.
How to Do It:
- Find two matching edge pieces and align them in the same row.
- Use the edge pairing algorithm:
(U R U’ L’ U R’ U’ L) to swap pieces. - Repeat for all edges while keeping the centers intact.
Tip: The last two edges require special algorithms. If stuck, use:
- (R U R’ F R’ F’ R) for flipping edge pieces.
Step 3: Solve Like a 3×3 Rubik’s Cube
Now that the centers and edges are solved, your 5×5 Rubik’s Cube will look like a giant 3×3 cube. From this point, follow standard 3×3 solving methods.
How to Do It:
- Solve the white cross as in a 3×3 cube.
- Complete the first two layers (F2L).
- Solve the last layer (OLL & PLL) using standard 3×3 algorithms.
Tip: If you already know how to solve a 3×3, this step will be easy!
3. Advanced Tips to Solve the 5×5 Rubik’s Cube Faster
A. Master Finger Tricks for Faster Solving
- Use quick wrist rotations for turning layers.
- Reduce unnecessary cube rotations to save time.
B. Memorize Edge Pairing Algorithms
- Faster edge pairing means lower solve times.
- Practice cases for efficient last two edges solving.
C. Solve Cross Edges Early
- Planning ahead will speed up the 3×3 solving phase.
D. Use a Speedcube for Faster Turns
- Recommended Cubes:
- MoYu AoFu WRM 5×5 – Best for speedcubers.
- GAN 5×5 M – Smooth turning with magnets.
- YJ MGC 5×5 – Budget-friendly and fast.
4. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Scrambling the Centers After Solving Them
Fix: Always check that center pieces are aligned before moving to edge pairing.
Mistake 2: Misaligned Edge Pairing
Fix: If edges are swapped incorrectly, use the edge-flipping algorithm.
Mistake 3: Treating it Like a 3×3 Too Early
Fix: Complete center and edge pairing before using 3×3 solving techniques.
5. Final Thoughts
Solving the 5×5 Rubik’s Cube in under 5 minutes takes practice, but by following this step-by-step guide, you can significantly improve your solving speed.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Step 1: Solve the Centers.
✔ Step 2: Pair the Edges.
✔ Step 3: Solve like a 3×3 Cube.
✔ Practice edge pairing and reduce cube rotations for better speed.
Ready to Level Up?
Keep practicing, time yourself, and soon you’ll be solving the 5×5 Rubik’s Cube faster than ever!
