Chess is a timeless game, enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It’s a game of strategy, patience, and concentration that can be both stimulating and entertaining. Choosing the best chess board can elevate your playing experience and considerably improve the aesthetics of your game setup.
There are various chess boards available, made from different materials such as wood, marble, and plastic. The choice of material not only affects the appearance of your chess board but also its durability and feel during play. For instance, a wooden chess board brings a classic, luxurious touch to your game, while options like marble can add elegance and sophistication. Alternatively, plastic boards offer a cost-effective and lightweight solution, ideal for casual players or those on the move.
When selecting a chess board, it’s essential to consider factors such as size, weight, and design. You’ll want a board with appropriately sized squares and pieces to ensure comfortable play, as well as a sturdy construction to withstand regular use. Additionally, the design and color scheme should align with your preferences and intended environment โ whether it’s a luxurious living room or a casual family setting.
In this article, we’ll explore the best chess boards on the market, taking into account their material, size, weight, and design. Our extensive research and testing will provide you with a comprehensive guide to making a well-informed decision in choosing the perfect chess board for your needs and preferences.
Best Chess Boards
Discover our top picks in this carefully curated selection of the finest chess boards available, suitable for players of all levels.
AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set

An excellent choice for all skill levels, this travel-friendly, magnetic chess set offers a balance of craftsmanship and playability.
Pros
- High-quality wooden material and craftsmanship
- Magnetic pieces for stable and convenient gameplay
- Foldable and lightweight design for portability
Cons
- May arrive with minor imperfections on some pieces
- Magnets might not be strong enough for extremely rough handling
- Not suitable for those who prefer a larger board
The AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is ideal for players of all skill levels, as well as beginners looking to learn the game. Handmade with high-quality wooden materials, this chess board’s smooth surface ensures optimal touch comfort during each game. The 2 extra queens provided show attention to detail and enhance the overall playing experience.
One of the main selling points of this chess set is its portability. The folding board design and lightweight structure make it easy to carry, while the magnetic chess pieces prevent them from falling off during gameplay. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy playing chess during travel or share their love for the game with others.
As a gift or personal purchase, the AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set promotes intellectual development and fosters relationships between players, making it a suitable addition to any collection. Apart from the occasional imperfections in some pieces or relatively moderate magnet strength, this set provides high value for money and a delightful experience for chess enthusiasts of all levels.
Chess Armory 15 Inch Magnetic Wooden Chess Set

Ideal for beginners and veteran chess players, this Chess Armory set delivers a satisfying experience with its inlaid walnut board and handcrafted wooden pieces.
Pros
- Smooth inlaid walnut magnetic board
- Handcrafted Staunton magnetic wooden pieces with felted bottom
- Compact and easy-to-store design
Cons
- Magnets could be stronger
- May have minor cosmetic flaws upon arrival
- Elastic strap holding pieces may loosen over time
This Chess Armory chess set not only looks elegant but also provides great functionality with its magnetic inlaid walnut board. Measuring 15 inches by 15 inches, the board folds in half for easy storage and transport. Each square on the board is 1.625 inches, making it a comfortable size for enjoyable gameplay.
The wooden chess pieces included in the set are designed in the classic Staunton style and come with a felted bottom to protect the board from scratches. The pieces are light yet sturdy, which gives them a good solid feel in the hand. With a 3-inch king, the Staunton-style pieces are easily distinguishable and enjoyable to play with.
The set also includes a free online course taught by an expert chess player to help enhance your skills and knowledge of the game. The custom foam inserts and the felted interior provide secure storage for the chess pieces, while the elegant storage box keeps the set in great condition. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned one, this Chess Armory chess set is perfect for honing your skills, challenging your friends, and enjoying hours of delightful gameplay.
Chess and games shop Muba Handcrafted Wooden Chess Set

The Chess and games shop Muba Handcrafted Wooden Chess Set provides a classic, visually appealing playing experience with few drawbacks.
Pros
- High-quality, handcrafted wooden materials
- Compact and easily foldable design with secured compartments
- Weighted, felt-bottomed chessmen for better stability on the board
Cons
- Some minor quality inconsistencies due to handcrafted nature
- Strong chemical smell from the protective foam for chess pieces
- May not appeal to those who dislike the alternating color tops
The Chess and games shop Muba Handcrafted Wooden Chess Set is an excellent choice for chess enthusiasts looking for a beautiful and well-crafted playing experience. Made from beech and birch wood, the chessboard provides a classic, handmade feel that is appreciated by many players. The board’s size is compact enough for travel, and its folding design, secured with two brass clasps, makes it convenient to store your chess pieces.
Moreover, the chessmen are handcrafted from hornbeam and sycamore wood, with felt bottoms and a weighted design, offering better stability on the board. The elegantly intricate details on each playing piece are quite impressive, adding to the set’s overall aesthetics.
However, some users may find minor quality inconsistencies due to the handcrafted nature of the chess set. Additionally, the strong chemical smell emanating from the protective foam housing the chess pieces may be off-putting. The alternating color tops on some chessmen might also not appeal to everyone’s tastes.
Regardless, the Chess and games shop Muba Handcrafted Wooden Chess Set still stands as a solid option for those seeking a beautiful, handcrafted chess set that offers a great playing experience for beginners and intermediate players alike.
PLAYVIBE 15″ Wooden Chess & Checkers Set

This PLAYVIBE 15″ Wooden Chess and Checkers Set offers an enjoyable and engaging gaming experience for both kids and adults.
Pros
- Compact and portable 15″ folding board
- Handcrafted wooden chess and checkers pieces
- Dual-use board for chess and checkers with felted storage interior
Cons
- Checker pieces not securely stored
- Not as finely crafted as a premium set
- Chess and checker pieces on the smaller side
The PLAYVIBE 15″ Wooden Chess and Checkers Set is an all-in-one board game solution, featuring both chess and checkers pieces along with a folding wooden board. Crafted from smooth inlaid wood, the board provides a comfortable playing surface and is easy to store thanks to its convenient foldable design.
The handcrafted wooden chess pieces in this set are light yet sturdy with a solid feel, and their felted bottom protects the board surface from scratches. The 3″ tall king piece brings a sense of classic aesthetic to your gameplay experience. The addition of the checkers pieces makes it easy to switch between games, ensuring versatility and hours of fun for you and your family.
One minor drawback is that the checker pieces are not held in place within the felted interior, posing a risk of them falling out when opening the board. However, given the overall quality, affordability, and practicality of this chess and checkers set, it is suitable for both casual and intermediate players looking for a versatile and compact gaming option.
In conclusion, the PLAYVIBE 15″ Wooden Chess and Checkers Set is a fantastic choice for those looking for a functional and enjoyable dual-purpose board game set. Its compact and foldable design, along with the handcrafted wooden pieces, make it a worthwhile investment for families, chess enthusiasts, and checker players alike.
A&A 15 inch Wooden Folding Chess & Checkers Set

This elegant and well-designed chess set with premium quality materials is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced players.
Pros
- Unbeatable flat design when opened
- Perfect proportions meeting USCF and FIDE standards
- Premium quality natural Beech wood
Cons
- Chess and checker pieces on the bottom when playing
- Slightly expensive compared to similar sets
- Some pieces may be slightly lopsided
The A&A Wooden Folding Chess & Checkers Set is a delightful option for those seeking a premium and portable chess experience. Made from natural Beech wood, the set boasts an unbeatable design that ensures a completely flat playing surface when opened, thanks to the mini bracket that supports the board like a table leg. This innovative design not only provides excellent protection for your table surface but also eliminates the typical bulging and gap issue often found in folding boards.
A standout feature of this set is its adherence to the standard proportions set by the US Chess Federation (USCF) and the World Chess Federation (FIDE), making it suitable for competitive play. The 15-inch board features 1.57-inch beech/maple squares, with Staunton pieces boasting a 3-inch king height and a 1.18-inch base diameter. The set also includes 24 checkers pieces, allowing for more gameplay options.
However, a minor drawback to keep in mind is that when the board is opened to play, the other pieces are still on the bottom, potentially causing some annoyance in trying to keep them in place. Additionally, some of the wood pieces may be slightly lopsided, but this should not significantly affect gameplay.
Overall, the A&A Wooden Folding Chess & Checkers Set is a fantastic purchase for those who appreciate great design, premium materials, and adherence to competition standards. Its portability and excellent craftsmanship make it an engaging and enjoyable addition to any game collection.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best chess board, consider the following features to make an informed decision:
Material
The material of the chess board significantly impacts its durability and aesthetics. Common materials include:
- Wood: Often high-quality, durable, and visually appealing
- Vinyl: Typically affordable and portable, but less luxurious
- Plastic: Affordable and lightweight, but less durable than wood
- Metal: Durable and visually striking, but may be heavy
Size
Chess boards come in various sizes, so it’s essential to choose one that suits your space and storage needs. Standard chess boards have a square size between 2 to 2.5 inches, while tournament-size boards measure around 20 x 20 inches.
Board Design
A chess board’s design can range from simple to ornate, depending on personal preferences. Some boards feature decorations and intricate artwork, while others are more understated. Consider factors such as color, style, and overall appearance when selecting a board.
Ease of Storage
Portability and storage options may be important if you plan on traveling with your chess board or have limited space. Folding boards are a popular choice for those who need a compact and accessible option.
Quality of Chess Pieces
The quality of chess pieces can vary greatly, so it’s essential to select a set with pieces that are well-crafted and visually appealing. Consider factors such as:
- Material: Wooden pieces are durable and offer a classic feel; plastic pieces are lightweight and affordable
- Weight: Heavier pieces tend to feel more satisfying to use and are less likely to be knocked over during play
- Design: Choose a style that complements your board and personal preferences
- Size: Ensure that the pieces are proportional to your chosen board’s square size
By taking these features into account, you will be well equipped to choose the best chess board that meets your needs and preferences.