Pyraminx for beginners: the friendly triangle puzzle

The Pyraminx (sometimes searched for as "Pyramix") is a puzzle shaped like a triangular pyramid (a tetrahedron). It is a favourite of speedcubers and a great second puzzle for beginners, because it has far fewer possibilities than a Rubik's Cube and can feel quicker to learn.

What is a Pyraminx?

A standard Pyraminx has four faces, each a different colour (commonly blue, green, red and yellow). Each face is made of nine small triangles. The puzzle has:

• 4 tips (the small corner pieces that can be turned on their own),
• 4 centres (axial pieces attached to the core),
• 6 edges.

You can turn each corner of the pyramid, and each corner has a larger turn that moves a layer and a small tip turn. The tips do not affect the rest of the puzzle, so they are easy to fix at the start or the end.

How it differs from a Rubik's Cube

• It has fewer pieces and fewer possible scrambles, so solves can be much quicker.
• The moves are 120° turns, not 90°, because the puzzle is a tetrahedron.
• A first solve often feels less overwhelming than a 3×3, which makes it a good confidence builder.
• Many cubers learn it after the 3×3, because they already understand ideas like layers and algorithms.

Reading Pyraminx notation

Pyraminx scrambles use four letters for the layer turns: R, L, U and B (right, left, up and back corners), with an apostrophe for the opposite direction. Lowercase letters (r, l, u, b) turn only the small tips. A scramble might look like R' U' L R B U' l' u. Our scramble generator makes Pyraminx scrambles in this standard format.

Tips for learning the Pyraminx

• Solve the tips last (or first), as a separate step. They are independent, which makes them easy wins.
• Match colours on one side first. Getting a correct arrangement around one corner helps you see how the rest fits.
• Turn slowly at first so you can see how a corner turn moves the pieces around it.
• Practise with timed solves once you can solve it reliably. Our Rubik's Cube timer includes Pyraminx scrambles and tracks Ao5 and Ao12.
• Be patient with tiny differences. The tip colours are easy to mix up, so check carefully.

Want to learn with a coach?

Our Rubik's Cube, speedcubing and Pyraminx classes cover the Pyraminx alongside the 3×3. A parent or guardian can ask about the right starting point for a child.

Common questions

Is the Pyraminx easier than the Rubik's Cube?

Many beginners find it easier to solve the first time because it has fewer pieces and fewer possible positions. Getting very fast still takes practice.

What is the difference between Pyraminx and Pyramix?

They usually mean the same puzzle. "Pyraminx" is the standard name; "Pyramix" is a common alternative spelling.

How many colours does a Pyraminx have?

Four, one for each face of the pyramid. Typical colours are blue, green, red and yellow.

How long does it take to learn?

With a good beginner method, many people can solve a Pyraminx within a few days of short practice. Fluency takes longer.

Do I need to know the Rubik's Cube first?

No. It is a good first or second puzzle. Knowing the cube helps you understand layers and algorithms, but it is not required.

This guide is general information. For exams, follow your school, teacher and official exam board, and use your own judgement about what suits your child.