UV Coating: A popular choice is the UV coating. Although they may be slightly smoother, these cubes have a premium feel. A UV finish is a specific type of glossy coating achieved by applying a special varnish that is then cured under ultraviolet (UV) light. In addition to a glossy appearance, the UV finish offers extra protection against scratches and wear, making the cube very durable.
Frosted: A frosted finish is a slightly rough, grainy texture with a subtle, soft sheen. This texture makes fingerprints and smudges less visible, provides a better grip, and offers increased resistance to scratches and wear.
Matte: A speedcube with a matte finish has a smooth, non-glossy surface that is consistent and uniform in texture and appearance, without any variations or irregularities—a finish that is completely non-reflective. This texture reduces the visibility of fingerprints and smudges, provides extra grip, and creates a calmer visual appearance without reflections.
Black: Traditional speed cubes often have a black base plastic, which creates a strong visual contrast with the colored stickers. Stickers offer many customization options, but can wear out or come loose over time. As an alternative, many cubers opt for stickerless cubes, which use colored plastic pieces and eliminate the risk of sticker wear. These remain vibrant and are easy to maintain, although some competitions once had restrictions on their use.
Primary: For a more subtle look, there are cubes made of primary plastic—light gray or off-white base plastic—that offer a more subdued appearance. Although the visual contrast with the colored surfaces is less striking than with black cubes, they do have a unique and appealing aesthetic.
Gummy: There’s also the gummy texture, also known as a gummy finish. This rubbery coating provides extra grip, which is especially useful for cubers with sweaty hands. It allows for better control while turning, though it may feel a bit sticky to some users.
Glossy: Another popular choice is the glossy finish, which creates a shiny, reflective surface. Although visually appealing, a glossy finish may offer slightly less grip compared to matte or rubberized finishes.
Jelly: Jelly speedcubes stand out for their unique and eye-catching design. These cubes feature a translucent, pastel-colored finish that gives them a fresh, colorful look. The brightly colored, semi-transparent pieces make the cube visually appealing and playful. Despite their distinctive appearance, jelly cubes offer the same texture as standard plastic cubes, without the extra grip of a gummy finish. For speedcubers who are looking not only for performance but also for a cube with a unique look, jelly cubes are the perfect choice.
Metallic: For those looking for something truly unique, there’s also a metallic coating. These provide a striking sheen and a distinctive look; they’re primarily for decorative purposes and aren’t standard in the speedcubing world.