What's the Difference? CLL and EG Methods
🧩 Understanding CLL, EG-1, and EG-2
If you're diving deeper into 2x2 speedcubing and exploring advanced solving methods, you'll likely come across terms like CLL, EG-1, and EG-2. Whilst they may seem a little confusing, the idea behind them is relatively simple. Let's compare CLL to the EG method.
🔹 What is CLL?
CLL stands for Corners of the Last Layer. It’s a method where you:
- Solve the first layer completely (both the face and corner pieces).
- Then use one algorithm to solve all four last-layer corners at once, regardless of their orientation.
This approach skips the more traditional last-layer steps (like OLL and PLL in 3x3), which can speed up your solves dramatically on 2x2.
- Total CLL cases: 42
- Ideal for: Solvers who are comfortable with full layer recognition and want to step up from the Ortega method.
Download our CLL Algorithms PDF
🔹 What is the EG Method?
The EG Method is a more advanced technique used by top 2x2 solvers. Unlike CLL, it doesn’t require solving the entire first layer.
Instead, it goes like this:
- Solve one face (colour) of the cube, but ignore corner permutation.
- Use one of the EG algorithms to solve the rest of the cube in one step.
The EG Method is divided into two main subsets: EG-1 and EG-2.
✅ EG-1 vs EG-2: What’s the Difference?
Here’s how the two sub-methods break down:
EG-1:
- Used when the face you built requires a 'T-Perm'.
- Recognition is easier because you have a bar on the bottom
- Considered a smoother extension of CLL.
EG-2:
- Used when the face you built requires a 'Y-Perm'.
- Recognition is harder but offers even more flexibility and speed in advanced solves.
🧠 CLL vs EG-1 vs EG-2 – Summary
| Method | First Layer Solved? | Last Layer Solved In... | Number of Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLL | ✅ Fully | One step | ~42 |
| EG-1 | T-Perm on Bottom | One step | ~42 |
| EG-2 | Y-Perm on Bottom | One step | ~42 |
🧪 Which One Should You Learn?
- If you’re just moving on from beginner methods like Ortega or Layer-by-Layer, CLL is a solid next step.
- If you’re aiming to compete seriously or just want the fastest possible solves, learning EG-1 and eventually EG-2 can help shave off valuable time.
🎁 Bonus Tip
EG recognition and execution are very fast, but learning 84 total cases (42 EG-1 + 42 EG-2) is a big commitment. Start with CLL, then add EG-1, and only take on EG-2 if you’re aiming for sub-2 or sub-3 averages.