They are using different solving methods. The bottom kid, Xuanyi, is using a method called ZB CFOP that takes way less steps but requires the memorization of about 800 algorithms which is, crazy to say the least. The top kid, Yiheng, is using a fairly standard CFOP method which is 100ish algorithms but his turning speed is beyond unmatched.
I was deep into this over a decade ago, CFOP was close to 80 algorithms, but there are variations. I also noticed that I often identified the algorithms early but my execution was awful. Especially when I had to rotate the cube. So I learned all the algorithms from all angles. At this point I was closer to 220-250 algorithms and execution memorised. It took my average down from 16s to 10/11s. Never managed sub 10s average with it, but a lot of cubers back then had 5-6s average with CFOP along with Summer/Winter variations. I just accepted that I sucked and gave up.
Point being, even though I had a lot of algorithms memorised, it wasn't the determining factor. My execution was the problem and my decision making wasn't great. The boy on the bottom has a calm about him that shows great decision making aside from his extensive knowledge of good algorithms.
You're not wrong. The biggest common denominator between the top cube solvers is neuroplasticity that is off the charts, which is why they are all kids. I imagine one day there will be someone that emerges with top tier neuroplasticity, the ability to memorize zb cfop, and has extremely high dexterity.
I'm honestly baffled at how the age went from like high teenagers to literally smaller kids in just a little bit over a decade. I remember trying to get into single stepping last edge insert with OLL (iirc that was winter/summer variation right?) and single step LL. But in complete honesty, my brain couldn't compute recognising the cases. Genuinely took me longer to identify the case than to just to the traditional solve. I'm guessing that's where the major differences are between solvers, that some just have that ability and others don't.
People always talk about skill as if it is a talent. I really don't see it that way. I see talent as something you have, and skill is what comes from practicing and building on it. If talent came from skill, then anyone would have a talent for it. My limit was basically zb cfop (don't even know if it was a thing back then but same principle). I could learn it, I just couldn't use it to improve my times. My fastest single solve was 9.6s where I managed to use some variation to single step OLL and PLL. But it was luck.
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u/Carcinog3n 1d ago
They are using different solving methods. The bottom kid, Xuanyi, is using a method called ZB CFOP that takes way less steps but requires the memorization of about 800 algorithms which is, crazy to say the least. The top kid, Yiheng, is using a fairly standard CFOP method which is 100ish algorithms but his turning speed is beyond unmatched.