Chess is a timeless game that challenges the mind and provides endless hours of entertainment. The use of a chess clock adds an additional layer of strategy and competitive spirit to the game, as it requires players to manage their thinking time carefully. For beginners, incorporating a chess clock into their games can enhance their skills, improve decision-making under pressure, and prepare them for more challenging matches.
Chess clocks are designed to track the time spent by each player during a game, ensuring a fair and straightforward approach to time management. They come in various models, ranging from traditional mechanical types to more advanced digital versions. A high-quality chess clock can elevate the game experience and provide players with useful features, such as time delay and increment settings.
When selecting a chess clock for beginners, it is crucial to consider factors such as ease of use, durability, and value for money. Beginners should look for a clock that is simple to set up and operate, with clear displays and reliable functionality. Additionally, it is essential to choose a clock that is sturdy and well-constructed, ensuring it can withstand countless games and last for years to come.
We thoroughly researched and tested various chess clocks to identify the best options for beginners who desire a blend of simplicity and functionality. Continue reading to discover our top picks and find the perfect chess clock to enhance your gaming experience.
Best Chess Clocks for Beginners
In the following list, we present the top chess clocks suited for beginners, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience in your initial chess adventures.
JIESENG Chess Clock Digital Timer
The JIESENG Chess Clock is a versatile choice for beginners, offering easy operation and multiple features to enhance any chess match.
Pros
- Easy-to-operate, multifunctional timer with count-up and count-down
- Compact and portable design, made with high-quality ABS material
- Powered by a single AA battery (not included), ensuring consistent use
Cons
- May not be loud enough for some users
- Requires turning off and on again to reset timer
- No battery included
The JIESENG Chess Clock Digital Timer is designed to be a perfect companion for chess games in bars, clubs, or at home. Its multifunctional timer allows you to count up and down and includes bonus and delay features for added convenience. The LCD display is visible, accurate, and suitable for different lighting conditions.
The compact and lightweight design is made of high-quality ABS material, making it easy to carry around wherever you go. While it runs on a single AA battery, it is not included, so make sure to keep one handy. Moreover, the alarm function alerts players when the game ends, ensuring everyone is aware of the time.
One thing to consider is that some users have found the device not loud enough, so be mindful of playing in noisy environments. Additionally, resetting the timer requires turning it off and back on manually, which might be inconvenient for some users.
In conclusion, the JIESENG Chess Clock Digital Timer offers several useful features for chess players, specifically beginners, with its easy-to-use interface and multifunctional timer. However, if you are looking for a louder device or one with a simpler reset process, you might want to explore other options.
LEAP Chess Clock Digital Timer
A great choice for beginners seeking an affordable and easy-to-use chess clock to improve their game experience.
Pros
- Simple setup with only 3 buttons
- Features bonus and delay time functions
- Portable and lightweight
Cons
- Battery not included (requires one AA battery)
- Might take time to understand the settings
- Not as durable as some higher-priced options
The LEAP Chess Clock Digital Timer is perfect for beginners who want to practice chess with a professional touch. The clock is easy to set up with only three buttons to control, so you can quickly get to playing your game. The smart program also helps make setting up the timer a breeze.
One of the best features of this chess clock is its bonus and delay time functions, allowing versatile gameplay for users. It’s not just limited to chess – you can use this clock for other two-player games, providing great value for money. The lightweight and portable design make it a fitting choice for both casual play at home and tournament settings.
Although the LEAP Chess Clock Digital Timer delivers impressive functions at an affordable price, there are a few minor drawbacks. The clock requires an AA battery, which is not included in the purchase. Some users have mentioned that it takes a bit of time to understand the settings and get the desired time control, but once mastered, the clock works flawlessly.
In conclusion, the LEAP Chess Clock Digital Timer is an excellent option for beginners looking to upgrade their chess experience. With its simple setup, versatile functions, and portability, it provides great value for money. Just be prepared to invest a little time in understanding the settings and purchase an AA battery separately.
AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set
A great option for beginners and experienced players alike seeking a high-quality, portable chess set that offers style and practicality.
Pros
- Magnetic chessmen with felt bottoms for secure and smooth gameplay
- Lightweight, foldable design for convenient portability
- Premium quality, handmade wooden material with two extra queens included
Cons
- Possible minor chipping on pieces during shipping
- Not as luxurious as some higher-priced sets
- Smaller board size may not suit everyone
The AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is designed for both beginners and experienced players looking for an attractive and engaging game. Its magnetic chess pieces and felt bottoms ensure smooth and secure gameplay, even during travel or on-the-go situations. The beautiful, handmade design with high-quality wood material adds an element of elegance to this functional board game.
Portability is a key factor when considering a chess set for beginners, and this product fits the bill perfectly. Its lightweight and foldable design make it easy to transport, fitting effortlessly into luggage or bags when traveling. The compact board size is spacious enough for comfortable gameplay, while the chess pieces are large enough to handle with ease.
In conclusion, the AMEROUS 15 Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is a fantastic option for those seeking an affordable, portable, and high-quality chess set. Its intelligent design and attention to detail make it both practical and stylish, perfect for beginners and experienced players alike.
Story Time Chess – 2021 Toy of The Year Award Winner
The Story Time Chess set is a fantastic choice for teaching beginners – young and old – chess, with engaging stories and characters.
Pros
- Adventure-based learning for kids as young as 3
- No chess experience required, caters to both parents and children
- More than 30 engaging mini-games
Cons
- Not optimal for more advanced players
- Some might find the storytelling approach too childish
- May become less appealing for older age groups
Story Time Chess is an innovative game that teaches beginners how to play chess in a fun, engaging way. The game uses stories and characters to illustrate the chess moves and strategies, making it enjoyable even for young children as young as 3. With over 30 mini-games, Story Time Chess provides a variety of activities for kids to learn and practice their chess skills.
The chess set itself is beautifully crafted with dual-sided, custom chess pieces and a chess board designed to be used for both Story Time Chess and regular chess or tournament play. With an award-winning storybook, drawn by the former Disney illustrator Ryan Terry, the game is sure to capture the imagination of learners.
While Story Time Chess is an excellent teaching tool for beginners, it might not be the best choice for more advanced players who prefer a traditional chess approach. Additionally, some may find the storytelling aspect too childish and may become less appealing for older age groups as they progress in their chess skills.
In conclusion, Story Time Chess is a unique and enjoyable way to introduce chess to young beginners and those who have no prior experience with the game. Its engaging storytelling and mini-games can make learning chess an exciting and memorable experience. For those seeking a creative way to teach the game to their children or looking to learn the basics themselves, Story Time Chess is a must-try.
DGT North American Chess Clock and Game Timer
The DGT North American Chess Clock and Game Timer is an excellent choice for beginners seeking a user-friendly and reliable clock for their chess games.
Pros
- Quick and easy to set and program
- 16 contrast settings for various lighting conditions
- Offers quick-set options for popular controls
Cons
- Setting different times for both sides could be more intuitive
- Some users might find the instructions complicated
- Battery issues observed by a few customers
The DGT North American Chess Clock and Game Timer is a breeze to set up, thanks to its quick and straightforward programming options. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who might not be familiar with more advanced clock settings. 16 contrast settings make it easy to adapt the clock display to any lighting environment, ensuring that players can easily read the remaining time.
Another impressive feature of this chess clock is the range of quick-set options for the most popular controls. This allows beginners to start a game without worrying about manually entering various time controls. However, when setting different times for each player, the process isn’t as intuitive as it could be, which might be an area for improvement.
The instructions that come with the clock have been criticized by some for being too complicated, but beginners can also find numerous YouTube videos explaining how to set up and use their DGT chess clock correctly. It’s worth noting that a few customers have reported issues with batteries leaking and affecting the clock’s display. However, most users seem to be extremely satisfied with their purchase, giving this clock a 4.7-star rating out of 5.
Overall, the DGT North American Chess Clock and Game Timer offers a great balance of user-friendliness, quality, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for beginners starting their chess journey.
Buying Guide
Price Range
When looking for the best chess clock for beginners, the price range can be an important factor to consider. Beginner chess clocks typically fall within the following price ranges:
- Low-end: $10-$30
- Mid-range: $30-$60
- High-end: $60 and above
Keep in mind that higher-priced clocks may offer more advanced features, while lower-priced clocks may be more basic and user-friendly.
Key features
When choosing a chess clock, focus on the key features that are most relevant for beginners:
- Ease of use: Look for a clock with a simple interface and controls that are easy to learn.
- Durability: Make sure the product is made of high-quality materials and can withstand accidental bumps and falls.
- Battery life: You’ll want a clock that has a long battery life, so you won’t have to worry about it dying during a game.
- Customizable settings: A clock with adjustable settings can help beginners practice different time controls and increment options.
Noise Level
Another crucial factor to consider is the noise level produced by the clock. Some players prefer a silent operation, while others enjoy the sound of a ticking timer. Consider your personal preference or the environment in which the chess clock will be used.
Design and Portability
Chess clocks come in a variety of styles and designs. It’s essential to pick a design that not only suits your taste but also meets your requirements for portability. Lightweight and compact clocks are perfect for on-the-go players, while larger, stationary models might be more suitable for home use.
Remember not to get overwhelmed by a multitude of options. Keep these features and considerations in mind while choosing the best chess clock for your needs as a beginner.