Metal chess sets not only provide an elegant and sophisticated playing experience but also serve as a beautiful display piece in your home or office. These intricate sets are usually crafted from materials like brass, bronze, or pewter, offering both a luxurious look and a durable, long-lasting quality. When it comes to selecting the perfect chess set, a metal option can elevate your game and add a touch of sophistication to your space.
The appeal of metal chess sets lies in their intricacy and detail, as well as their durability. Many of these sets draw inspiration from historic periods or famous battles to create an immersive gaming experience. Additionally, metal chess sets are often designed with weighted pieces, giving them a satisfying heft and ensuring stability on the board.
When choosing the right metal chess set, factors such as size, weight, design, and material should be carefully considered. The size of the board and pieces should be comfortable for play, while the weight should provide stability without being overly cumbersome. The design should appeal to your personal tastes and preferences, while the material should be both visually striking and durable. It’s also important to consider any potential toxicity, especially if the set will be used by children or in a public space.
After extensive research and testing, we have identified the best metal chess sets on the market that offer a seamless blend of elegance, durability, and usability. Dive into our comprehensive guide to discover the ideal metal chess set for your playing and display needs.
Best Metal Chess Sets
Discover our curated selection of the finest metal chess sets available on the market, offering unparalleled quality and sophistication for a truly remarkable gaming experience.
Janus Silver and Bronze Extra Heavy Metal Chess Pieces

This extra heavy metal chess set provides a great playing experience with notable heft and quality craftsmanship for serious players.
Pros
- Extra heavy metal pieces with great feel in hand
- Beautiful silver and bronze electroplated finish
- Two extra queens included in the set
Cons
- Hollow core may not be heavy enough for some preferences
- Board not included
- Seamlines visible on some pieces
Playing with the Janus Silver and Bronze Extra Heavy Metal Chess Pieces, I noticed the satisfying weight and solid feel of each metal piece. The zinc alloy construction with bronze and silver electroplated finish creates a visually striking and elegant appearance on the board.
The additional two extra queens included in the set are a nice touch for players who prefer exchanging pawns for a second queen. However, the hollow core of the pieces may not be ideal for those looking for truly substantial weight and heft in their chess pieces. Keep in mind that this set does not come with a board and is meant for a large to extra-large board with the king at 4.5 inches in height.
While the overall quality of the chess pieces is excellent, a few seamlines were visible on some pieces. This is a minor imperfection, and it does not distract from the remarkable craftsmanship otherwise displayed in the Janus Silver and Bronze Extra Heavy Metal Chess Set.
Overall, this chess set presents a perfect combination of visual and tactile appeal for those who appreciate elegant, hefty metal chess pieces, even if there are slight imperfections. Pick up these Janus Silver and Bronze Extra Heavy Metal Chess Pieces for a truly immersive and enjoyable chess playing experience.
Hayes Inlaid Wood Chess Set

A stylish and well-crafted option for chess enthusiasts, suitable for both display and gameplay.
Pros
- Beautiful inlaid wood board
- Weighted metal chess pieces
- Extra queens included
Cons
- Felt bottoms may come off
- Pieces could be larger
- Lacks proper storage solution
The Hayes Inlaid Maple, Mahogany, and Sapele Wood Chess Set with Metal Pieces is an aesthetically appealing set that draws attention with its beautiful inlaid wood board. The board is made from eco-friendly Mahogany from the USA, Sapele wood from Africa, and Maple wood from the USA, giving it a stunning appearance perfect for displaying in your home.
The metal chess pieces have a zinc alloy construction, finished in silver and bronze, giving them an attractive, classic feel. They’re also weighted, providing a comfortable heft during gameplay, and come with padded bottoms. However, some users have reported that the felt bottoms might come off after a few uses. The set includes two extra queens, ensuring you have a replacement if needed.
One drawback of this chess set is the lack of proper storage for the pieces. The provided plastic sheet does not offer an efficient solution, making transportation and storage inconvenient. This may not be a significant issue if you plan to keep the set displayed on a coffee table or shelf, but it’s still worth considering if you prefer an organized storage solution for your chess set.
Overall, the Hayes Inlaid Wood Chess Set is a visually appealing and functional choice for those looking to invest in a quality chess set. The unique wood materials and metal chess pieces create an enjoyable playing experience, though some minor improvements to the pieces and storage options would elevate the set even further.
GiftHome Metal Chess Set for Adult with Antique Rome Figures

A beautiful and high-quality metal chess set adorned with Roman-inspired figures and a handmade wooden board that’s perfect for game enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Pros
- Handmade metal pieces with intricate details
- 100% natural solid wooden chess board with elegant motifs
- Chess board doubles as storage with convenient drawers for the pieces
Cons
- Slight variations in figures may occasionally occur
- Takes some time to ship and arrive at your door
- May be slightly prone to damage during shipping
GiftHome’s Metal Chess Set is a delightful combination of craftsmanship and functionality. The chess pieces are handmade using zamak, a durable metal alloy, featuring Roman-inspired soldiers and coated with special paints to ensure longevity. The board itself is crafted from solid wood and adorned with pearl motifs, further enhancing the set’s elegance.
The chess board also acts as storage for the pieces, featuring drawers that fit the plastic housing of the figures. This not only keeps everything organized but also makes it easy to transport the set using the included carrier bag. The board measures 19.7 x 19.7 x 3.5 inches, providing a sufficiently spacious playing area for comfortable gameplay.
This chess set not only serves as a great gift for those who love chess but also as an eye-catching decoration piece. While it may have a few minor variations in the figures and take a bit longer to arrive, the quality, artistry, and functional design of this GiftHome Metal Chess Set make it an excellent investment for chess enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Frankfort Metal Pieces

The Frankfort extra heavy chess pieces by Best Chess Set provide a luxurious experience for serious chess players who value a durable and elegant metal set.
Pros
- High-quality zinc alloy with bronze and silver electroplated finish
- Extra heavy 3.2 pound weight for a premium feel
- Designed with padded bottoms for board protection
Cons
- Board not included, requiring a separate purchase
- Visible metal seams on some pieces
- Potential imbalance due to top-heavy design
The Frankfort metal chess pieces by Best Chess Set showcase incredible craftsmanship that can instantly elevate any chess game while providing a remarkable tactile experience. Playing with these pieces felt like a luxurious and rewarding experience, as their weight and design truly made every move feel significant.
Made from a durable zinc alloy and featuring bronze and silver electroplated finishes, these pieces feel sturdy and built to withstand years of intense gameplay. The extra queens included in the set are a thoughtful addition, catering to both seasoned players and newcomers alike.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider before purchasing this set. The pieces, while beautiful, do have visible metal seams, which may not appeal to those looking for a seamless design. Additionally, the top-heavy nature of some pieces may affect overall balance and gameplay. Lastly, it’s important to note that a chessboard is not included in the set and needs to be purchased separately.
In conclusion, the Frankfort metal chess pieces by Best Chess Set offer a high-quality and luxurious experience for chess enthusiasts who value durability and elegance. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the set’s premium feel and well-crafted design make it a valuable addition to any chess player’s collection.
Bancroft Chess Inlaid Wood Board Game with Metal Pieces

An excellent choice for chess enthusiasts seeking a durable and elegant metal chess set with convenient storage options.
Pros
- Durable zinc alloy pieces with attractive bronze and silver finish
- Inlaid wooden board featuring Maple and Rosewood squares
- Board lifts for easy storage of all 34 chess pieces
Cons
- Expensive compared to other sets
- Not magnetized for enhanced stability
- Some discrepancy in color shown in pictures
The Bancroft Chess Set offers a refined playing experience thanks to its beautiful inlaid wood board and elegant metal pieces. The board is made of durable Maple and Rosewood lumber and features exquisite craftsmanship, making each match more enjoyable and visually appealing. The metal chess pieces are crafted from a strong zinc alloy and are electroplated with bronze and silver for a sophisticated finish.
The set’s design includes a storage compartment built into the board itself, making it easy to keep all the pieces secure and organized. Simply lift the board to reveal the compartments. Despite its high-quality components and impressive appearance, this set also has some drawbacks. The pieces are not magnetized, so they may be less stable during play, and the colors may be slightly different from those shown in the product images.
Overall, the Bancroft Chess Set is a top-notch choice for those looking to invest in a metal chess set that combines durability, elegance, and functionality. Although it may be more expensive than other sets, its convenience and aesthetic appeal make it an enjoyable addition to any chess lover’s collection.
Buying Guide
Material Quality
When choosing the best metal chess set, consider the quality of the materials used. High-quality metals, such as brass, pewter, or stainless steel, will ensure durability and longevity.
Design and Aesthetics
The design and aesthetics of a metal chess set are important as well. Look for sets with intricate details, unique themes, and a matching board that complements the chess pieces.
Design Feature | Description |
---|---|
Theme | Themed sets can reflect interests, e.g. historical or fantasy. |
Piece Detailing | Look for intricacies that showcase craftsmanship. |
Board Material | Metal, wood, or glass boards can add to the overall appeal. |
Weight and Feel
A well-balanced weight distribution will impact the playing experience. Make sure the chess pieces have a comfortable grip and are stable on the board.
Size
Choose a set that matches your preferred playing size, bearing in mind the environment it will be used in. A home setting might call for a smaller set, whilst a club or tournament setting may require a larger one.
Setting | Recommended Size |
---|---|
Home/Travel | Small to medium size pieces. |
Club/Tournament | Medium to large size pieces. |
Price
Price is also an important consideration when selecting a metal chess set. Determine your budget and compare the cost with the features offered to ensure value for money.
Remember to focus on material quality, design and aesthetics, weight and feel, size, and price when selecting the best metal chess set. These factors will guide you in making a well-informed decision.