Whether you're a newbie or a pro, a quality chess set can make a lasting impression on your opponent and set the atmosphere of the game. Chess sets come in a wide variety of styles, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs. After all, chess is an "entire world of just 64 squares."
Whether you want to enter tournaments or bring something to family game night, there's a chess set for everyone. We've found 10 chess sets that reviewers love. Our top choice is the Tournament Chess Set from WE Games since it's simple, tournament-ready, and suitable for players of all skill levels. For more of our top picks, please continue reading. Also, don't forget to check out our buying guide for tips on how to select the right chess set for you.
Chess has become a household staple for many people. We've created a list of 10 beloved chess sets with different sizes, designs, styles, and gameplay.
$19.99
Features | Roll-up, equalizer dice |
---|---|
King height | 3.75 in. |
Board dimensions | 19.75 x 19.75 in. |
Materials | Vinyl, plastic |
$39.95
Features | Foldable, storage, 2 extra queens |
---|---|
King height | 3.75 in. |
Board dimensions | 17 x 17 in. |
Materials | Walnut wood |
$27.07
Features | 2 storage drawers, magnetized |
---|---|
King height | 2.13 in. |
Board dimensions | 9.88 x 9.88 in. |
Materials | Walnut wood |
$9.99
Features | Pocket-sized, foldable, magnetized |
---|---|
King height | 0.1 in. |
Dimensions | 5.75 x 9.75 in. unfolded |
Materials | Vinyl |
$17.99
Features | Teaching guide, magnetized, spinner |
---|---|
King height | 1.95 in. |
Board dimensions | 7 x 7.2 in. |
Materials | Plastic |
$39.99
Features | Piece storage bags |
---|---|
King height | 4 in. |
Dimensions | 18.5 x 18.5 in. |
Materials | Plastic, coated card stock |
$365.00
Features | Artificial intelligence, LED display, rechargeable |
---|---|
King height | 3.38 in. |
Board dimensions | 17.5 x 15.8 in. |
Materials | Plastic, aluminum |
$49.95
Features | 3-player |
---|---|
King height | 2.5 in. |
Board dimensions | 19 x 19 in. |
Materials | PVC plastic |
$26.26
Features | 4 players |
---|---|
King height | 2.5 in. |
Board dimensions | 20 x 20 in. |
Materials | Plastic, card stock |
$48.30
Features | 3-dimensional |
---|---|
King height | 2.5 in. |
Board dimensions | 8 x 8 x 12 in. |
Materials | Plastic, stainless steel |
Image | 1 ![]() WE Games | 2 ![]() Pawnson Creations | 3 ![]() Hey! Play! | 4 ![]() WE Games | 5 ![]() Winning Fingers | 6 ![]() The Noble Collection | 7 ![]() DGT | 8 ![]() 3 Man Chess | 9 ![]() John N. Hansen | 10 ![]() John N. Hansen |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name | Tournament Chess Set | Wooden Chess Set | Magnetized Wood Chess Set | Mini Magnetic Pocket Chess Set | Chess Set for Kids and Adults | Harry Potter Wizard Chess Set | New Revolutionary Chess Computer | 3 Man Chess | Chess 4 | Strato Chess |
Features | A Portable Chess Set for Tournaments | A Foldable Chess Set for All Skill Levels | A Polished Chess Set With Two Drawers | A Mini Chess Set That Fits in Your Pocket | A Chess Set That Thoroughly Teaches How to Play | A Themed Chess Set from an Iconic Film Series | An Intelligent Chess Set for Solo Players | A Circular Chess Set for Three Players | A Chaotic Chess Set for Four Players | A Unique Chess Set With Three Levels |
Price | $19.99 | $39.95 | $27.07 | $9.99 | $17.99 | $39.99 | $365.00 | $49.95 | $26.26 | $48.30 |
Features | Roll-up, equalizer dice | Foldable, storage, 2 extra queens | 2 storage drawers, magnetized | Pocket-sized, foldable, magnetized | Teaching guide, magnetized, spinner | Piece storage bags | Artificial intelligence, LED display, rechargeable | 3-player | 4 players | 3-dimensional |
King height | 3.75 in. | 3.75 in. | 2.13 in. | 0.1 in. | 1.95 in. | 4 in. | 3.38 in. | 2.5 in. | 2.5 in. | 2.5 in. |
Board dimensions | 19.75 x 19.75 in. | 17 x 17 in. | 9.88 x 9.88 in. | 5.75 x 9.75 in. unfolded | 7 x 7.2 in. | 18.5 x 18.5 in. | 17.5 x 15.8 in. | 19 x 19 in. | 20 x 20 in. | 8 x 8 x 12 in. |
Materials | Vinyl, plastic | Walnut wood | Walnut wood | Vinyl | Plastic | Plastic, coated card stock | Plastic, aluminum | PVC plastic | Plastic, card stock | Plastic, stainless steel |
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The right chess set can help you make the impression on your opponent that you desire. Before you buy a chess set, here are a few tips on finding the best one for you.
For most people, a quality wooden chess set will withstand daily or weekly games. However, competitive chess players, especially high-speed “blitz” players, will need chess sets that can take rough treatment. Chess sets for blitz players are usually made of wood or plastic. Some chess sets may also be magnetic for extra security.
If you need a portable chess set, a vinyl roll-up board is the best. Silicone or mousepad roll-up boards are also portable, but they won't work for tournaments. Foldable boards may distract the game with their crease, but they often have built-in storage compartments that keep the pieces organized and secure.
If you want a chess set for children or beginners, look for products that include extra-detailed instructions that will teach you how to play. These chess sets will often be labeled with terms such as "family," "kids," or "learning."
Some chess sets are not meant to be played competitively or played at all. Decorative chess sets are often used as centerpieces, gifts for chess lovers, or heirlooms to be passed through generations. There are also themed chess sets that can add extra fun but are not good for serious games.
If you plan to play in competitive tournaments, you may need a chess set that follows the specifications of the United States Chess Federation (USCF). Competitive chess players may stare at the same board for hours, so it’s good to get colors that don’t contrast too harshly and strain your eyes.
Unless specified otherwise, tournament chess sets must be in the Staunton style and have algebraic notation. Staunton style is the most common standardized style for competitive chess since its pieces are easily discernable. For more details on USCF specifications, please visit this link.
For blitz players, it’s essential that the pieces are all properly weighted. The weight prevents pieces from falling in unstable or windy settings.
Maybe you want to play chess but also want the option to play other games. Certain chess sets come with a variety of classic board games, like Checkers and Backgammon.
However, these multi-game chess sets are likely to lack quality and often don't meet the specifications for tournaments. They are best for people who want to play casually or families that want a versatile set.
Other than chess, there's plenty of other games that anyone can enjoy. Check out some of our other favorite tabletop games for more ideas!
When it comes to a traditional tabletop game like chess, there's a variety of styles that you can choose from. Decide if you need a set for tournaments or casual play, and think about the style of board that will meet your needs.
Author: Sarah Yip
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