Best Chess Set for Beginners and Pros in 2024

Chess is a game that has been played for centuries, and it continues to be a popular pastime today. One of the essential components of chess is the chess set, which includes the board and the pieces. There are many different types of chess sets available, ranging from simple plastic sets to ornate wooden sets with intricate designs.

When looking for the best chess set, there are several critical factors to consider. The first is the material of the set. Chess sets can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, metal, and glass. The material you choose will depend on your personal preferences and your budget.

Another important factor to consider is the size of the set. Chess sets come in a range of sizes, from small travel sets to large tournament-sized sets. The size you choose will depend on how you plan to use the set and how much space you have available.

Finally, it’s essential to consider the design of the set. Chess sets can have a wide range of designs, from traditional Staunton sets to themed sets featuring characters from movies or TV shows. The design you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the style of your home or office.

We spent hours researching and testing various chess sets to identify the ones that offer the best combination of quality, design, and value. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top chess sets on the market and what makes them stand out.

Best Chess Sets

We’ve scoured the market to bring you the best chess sets available today. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, a chess set is an essential tool for honing your skills and enjoying the game. From classic wooden sets to modern designs, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the top picks for the best chess sets on Amazon.

1) AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set

If you’re looking for a portable and durable chess set, the AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is a great option.

We recently purchased this chess set for our family game nights and have been thoroughly impressed. The magnetic chess pieces are a great feature, ensuring that the pieces stay in place during gameplay. The folding board design also makes it easy to carry around and store, perfect for taking on trips or playing outside. The handmade wooden material gives a smooth touch comfort while playing, making it enjoyable for all ages.

One minor issue we encountered was that the storage slots for the pieces can be a bit tight and difficult to fit, but with some practice, it becomes easier. Additionally, the board may be a bit small for some players, so keep that in mind when considering this set. Finally, the magnets may not be strong enough for some players, so be aware of that if you prefer a stronger hold.

Overall, we highly recommend the AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set for anyone looking for a portable and durable chess set that is perfect for on-the-go gameplay.

2) Best Chess Set Ever Tournament Chess Set

If you’re looking for a durable and high-quality chess set for competitive play, the Best Chess Set Ever Tournament Chess Set is an ideal choice. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

In our experience, the Best Chess Set Ever Tournament Chess Set is a great investment for serious players who want a high-quality and durable set. The silicone board is a superior alternative to traditional wooden boards, and the large, weighted pieces provide a stable game experience both indoors and outdoors. The set also includes a detailed strategy guide, making it an excellent educational tool for beginners and advanced players alike.

Overall, we highly recommend the Best Chess Set Ever Tournament Chess Set for anyone looking for a reliable and professional-grade chess set.

3) Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set

We highly recommend the Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set for anyone looking for a high-quality chess set.

We were impressed with the excellent quality of the Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set, which is made up of walnut and maple with well-polished and smooth pieces that make it a classic and nicely finished feel. The magnetic chess board is also large enough but quite compact when folded up, making it a portable chess set at 3.6 pounds of weight, both you and your children can easily carry it around to play. The handcrafted magnetic chessmen are constructed of nice quality wood and built in strong magnetism, making them ideal for travel or outdoor use.

However, the size of the squares is approx 1.61 inches, which some players may find too small. Additionally, the board itself is a storage box, but it doesn’t come with a carrying case, which may be inconvenient for some users. Lastly, the manufacturer recommended age is 6 years and up, which may not be suitable for younger children.

Overall, the Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set is a great gifting idea for kids and adults. It’s perfect for tournaments, learners, or display in living rooms or sitting rooms. This unique and portable wooden chessboard game really helps to keep your mind and thoughts in shape, making it ideal for all ages.

4) Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set

If you’re looking for a portable chess set that’s perfect for both beginners and professionals, the Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set is definitely worth considering.

We were impressed with the quality of the pieces and the board itself. The Staunton style wooden chess game set is made up of walnut and maple, with a well-polished and smooth finish. The 34 pieces are also carved beautifully and clearly, with felt bottoms to prevent chess board scratching. The wood grain and color of the board and pieces give it a classic and nicely finished feel, making it a great decoration for any room.

The magnetic chess board is large enough for comfortable play, but quite compact when folded up. The extended size is 15 x 15 x 1 inches, and the brass hinges allow the board to be flexibly extended without warping. The closure snaps are aligned perfectly, ensuring that the board stays securely closed when not in use.

Setting up the board and pieces is very easy, and the foam inserts inside the board make it easy to store the pieces and prevent them from rattling around during transport. The board itself is a storage box, which is a convenient feature that we appreciated.

Overall, we think that the Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, portable chess set. It’s perfect for both beginners and professionals, and the magnetic pieces make it ideal for travel or outdoor use. We highly recommend it!

5) Chess Armory Wooden Chess Set

If you’re looking for a quality wooden chess set that is both beautiful and functional, the Chess Armory Wooden Chess Set is definitely worth considering.

We were impressed with the quality of this chess set. The inlaid walnut chess board is beautiful and easy to store, and the Staunton chess pieces are well-made and functional. We appreciated the free online course that comes with the set, as it’s a great way to get started with chess or to improve your skills.

The only minor issues we noticed were some rough spots on a few of the pieces, and the elastic straps that secure the pieces inside the board may be a little tight. Additionally, more experienced players may want to invest in a more high-end set, but for beginners or casual players, this set is perfect.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Chess Armory Wooden Chess Set to anyone looking for a quality wooden chess set that is both beautiful and functional.

6) AMEROUS Magnetic Wooden Chess and Checkers Game Set, 15 Inches

If you’re looking for a magnetic chess set that’s perfect for home and on-the-go, the AMEROUS Magnetic Wooden Chess and Checkers Game Set is a great option to consider.

This magnetic chess set is made of high-quality solid wood that gives it a high-class look and texture, making it perfect for gifting to friends, family, and anyone who loves chess games. The set is also perfect for those who travel a lot, thanks to its magnetic feature that keeps all the pieces in place securely.

The folding chess board also serves as a compact-sized storage box for the wooden chess pieces and checkers, making it easier to carry around. The set contains 24 checkers and complete pieces, including 2 extra queens. The king is 3 inches in height for a better grip for people who love large chess pieces.

Overall, the AMEROUS Magnetic Wooden Chess and Checkers Game Set is a great investment for chess lovers who want a portable and high-quality chess set.

7) Demiwise Magnetic Wooden Chess Set

If you’re looking for a versatile magnetic chess set that can be used both indoors and outdoors, then the Demiwise Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is an excellent choice.

We were impressed by the design and quality of this chess set. The board folds up easily and can be conveniently closed with the two metal latches for easy storage and portability. The board is lined with soft felt and provides storage space and protection for your chess pieces. The small size of the chessboard makes it easy to carry, while the large enough pieces make it comfortable to play.

The pieces and board of chess are made of lightweight and durable wood with handmade craftsmanship. Their textures and patterns will bring you visual enjoyment. Each piece has a felt layer at the bottom, which not only protects the chessboard from scratches but also reduces the sound when moving the pieces, providing a quiet environment for your thinking.

On the same chessboard, you can choose to play chess or checkers, as the set offers two types of pieces. Extra 2 Queen pieces are provided as free accessories. You can also play the chess smoothly on the road, in car, train or plane without worrying about the pieces falling, as the pieces can be magnetically attached onto the chessboard.

Overall, the Demiwise Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is a great product for chess enthusiasts and beginners alike. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, making it perfect for school, family gatherings, parties, camping trips, picnics, or travel. It can also be a great gift for children or adults on important days such as festivals, birthdays, or celebrations.

8) Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Disney Princess Edition Preschool Board Game

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging board game for your little ones, the Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Disney Princess Edition is a great choice.

The Candy Land Disney Princess Edition board game takes players on a journey through eight magical lands, featuring beloved Disney characters along the way. Players can choose to play as Cinderella, Rapunzel, or Ariel, and race to the enchanted castle to win. The game is designed for 2-3 players and is recommended for ages 3 and up.

One of the standout features of this game is the Disney Princess theme, which adds an extra layer of excitement for young players. The gameboard features colorful illustrations of popular Disney movies, including Aladdin, Snow White, and The Little Mermaid. Additionally, the game doesn’t require reading, making it accessible for children who haven’t learned to read yet.

The game is easy to learn and play, making it a great choice for family game nights or playdates. However, the game may be too simple for older children or adults to enjoy, and the plastic gameboard and pieces may not be as durable as other materials. Additionally, the game may become repetitive after multiple playthroughs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and engaging board game for young children, the Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Disney Princess Edition is a great choice.

9) Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set

If you are looking for a portable and durable chess set that is perfect for both beginners and professionals, then the Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set is a great option.

We recently purchased this chess set and have been thoroughly impressed with its quality and design. The wooden pieces are beautifully carved and have a nice weight to them, which makes them easy to move around the board. The magnetic feature is a great addition, as it keeps the pieces in place even if the board is jostled or tilted.

One thing to note is that the size of the squares on the board is relatively small, so if you prefer a larger playing area, this may not be the set for you. Additionally, the closure snaps on the board may be a bit tight, making it difficult to open and close the board at times.

Overall, we highly recommend the Hurdaos Magnetic Wooden Chess Board Set for anyone looking for a high-quality and portable chess set. It’s perfect for both beginners and professionals and makes a great gift for chess enthusiasts of all ages.

10) AMEROUS 15″ x 15″ Wooden Chess & Checkers Set with Built-in Storage Drawers/Weighted Chess Pieces / 2 Bonus Extra Queens / 24 Cherkers Pieces/Classic 2in1 Board Games for Kids, Adults

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable chess set that doubles as a checkers board, then the AMEROUS 15″ x 15″ Wooden Chess & Checkers Set is definitely worth considering.

We were impressed with the overall quality of this chess set. The wooden board and pieces are well-crafted and durable, and the drawer provides a convenient storage solution for all the pieces. The weighted chess pieces give the set a professional feel, and the green velvet backing helps to reduce noise during play.

One potential drawback is that the board may be too small for some players, especially if you’re used to playing on larger boards. Additionally, the lack of weighted checkers pieces may be a turn-off for some players who prefer a more consistent feel across all the pieces.

Overall, we think that the AMEROUS 15″ x 15″ Wooden Chess & Checkers Set is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and durable chess set that won’t break the bank. It’s perfect for beginners and experts alike, and the 2-in-1 design makes it great value for money.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best chess set, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend keeping the following factors in mind before making a purchase:

Material

The material of the chess set can greatly impact its durability, appearance, and feel. Common materials include wood, plastic, metal, and marble. Wood sets are often the most popular due to their classic look and feel. Plastic sets are usually the most affordable and lightweight, making them great for travel. Metal sets are durable and often have a modern look. Marble sets are elegant and unique, but can be heavy and fragile.

Size

The size of the chess set can also vary greatly. Consider where you will be using the set and how much space you have available. Smaller sets are great for travel or playing in tight spaces, while larger sets can be more comfortable to play with for longer periods of time.

Design

The design of the chess set can range from traditional to modern and everything in between. Some sets may have intricate details and unique pieces, while others may have a more minimalist look. Consider your personal style and preferences when choosing a design.

Cost

The cost of a chess set can vary greatly depending on the material, size, and design. Determine your budget beforehand and consider the quality and longevity of the set before making a purchase.

By considering these factors, you can find the best chess set for your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top considerations when choosing a chess set for competitive play?

When selecting a chess set for competitive play, the top considerations are the size and weight of the pieces, the type of board, and the material of the pieces and board. The pieces should be easy to handle and distinguish from each other, while the board should have clear markings and be durable enough to withstand frequent use.

How do I select the right size chess set for a beginner?

For beginners, it is recommended to choose a standard size chess set with a board size of around 20 inches and a king size of around 3.75 inches. This size is easy to handle and provides enough space for beginners to learn and practice their moves.

Which materials are preferred for a durable and high-quality chess set?

The most preferred materials for a durable and high-quality chess set are wood, plastic, and metal. Wooden sets are classic and elegant, while plastic sets are lightweight and easy to clean. Metal sets are the most durable and provide a luxurious feel.

What features should I look for in a chess set for children?

When choosing a chess set for children, it is important to look for a set that is durable, lightweight, and easy to handle. The pieces should be colorful and have clear markings to help children learn and distinguish them from each other. A magnetic set is also a good option for children as it prevents the pieces from falling off the board.

Can you recommend a chess set that is both luxurious and functional?

For a chess set that is both luxurious and functional, we recommend a wooden set with hand-carved pieces and a high-quality board. Look for sets with intricate designs and attention to detail, such as Staunton-style pieces. These sets provide a timeless and elegant look while still being functional for competitive play.

How do the chess sets used by professionals differ from standard sets?

Chess sets used by professionals are usually made of high-quality materials such as wood, metal, or marble. The pieces are often weighted and have felt bottoms to prevent them from sliding on the board. The board is also of high quality and has clear markings to prevent any disputes during play. Professional sets are often more expensive than standard sets but provide a superior playing experience.