Chess Guide
Quality of the chess pieces
High-quality chess pieces not only enhance the overall playing experience but also add a touch of elegance to the game. Look for chess sets made from durable materials such as wood, which ensures longevity and a smooth playing surface. In particular, products like the House of Staunton" German Knight" Chess set or the Official Staunton Sherbourne Series Chess set are excellent examples of high-quality chess sets that meet these criteria. Both sets are meticulously handcrafted from premium rosewood and boxwood, offering impeccable tournament-standard quality. The House of Staunton" German Knight" Chess set even features a 4.4-inch King with a 1.9-inch base diameter, providing a pleasingly robust and stable feel during play. These chess sets exemplify a fusion of craftsmanship, quality, and attention to detail, and are perfect choices for players seeking the best and right chess set.
Board size
The standard size for a chess board is 20x20 inches, which provides ample playing space and comfortable movement for players. However, if you are looking for a portable option to carry with you while travelling, a smaller board size such as 12x12 inches would be more suitable. One excellent product that matches the standard size is the Regency Chess Tournament-size Chess Board. This board is made from high-quality wooden materials and designed with perfect 2.2-inch squares to accommodate tournament-style play. On the other hand, if you prefer a smaller option, the We Games Compact Tournament Magnetic Chess Set is a great choice. It features a 10x10 inch board that is both portable and magnetic, ensuring the pieces stay in place during games.
Type of chessboard material
There are various materials used for chessboards, each with its own advantages and characteristics. One popular material iswood, known for its durability and classical appeal. For instance, the WE Games Tournament Chess Set features a wooden board made from walnut and maple, with a high-gloss finish that enhances the aesthetics. Another material option is vinyl, which is a synthetic material that offers durability and affordability. A great example is the Homello Vinyl Chessboard which is made from high-quality vinyl and comes with large squares for comfortable play. Additionally, there are composite materials, such as the House of Staunton Brown Windsor Chess Board, which blends the look and feel of wood with durability and affordability. Moreover, some chessboards are made from glass like the CIK Chess Clear Glass Chess Set giving a modern and artistic touch to the game.
When choosing a chessboard, consider the material that best suits your preference for aesthetics, durability, and budget.
Design of the chess pieces
There are various designs available, each catering to different tastes and preferences. If you prefer a traditional design, The Staunton Chess Set is a classic choice that features a sleek and timeless design. For those looking for a more unique and artistic design, the Artistic Modern Chess Set showcases abstract and contemporary pieces. Another option is the Tournament Chess Set, which offers professional-grade pieces that are designed for competitive play. Additionally, there are themed chess sets available, such as the Lord of the Rings Chess Set for fans of the fantasy series or the Civil War Chess Set for history enthusiasts. The design of the chess pieces greatly influences the overall aesthetics of the set, allowing players to choose a set that reflects their personal style and interests.
Durability of chess pieces
You want to ensure that the chess pieces are built to withstand frequent usage and handling. One excellent option that boasts impressive longevity is the DGT Timeless Staunton Chess Pieces. Crafted from high-quality ebonized boxwood and natural boxwood, these chess pieces are designed to withstand rigorous gameplay for years to come. Another durable option is the House of Staunton Series Chess Pieces. These precision-crafted, tournament-sized pieces are made from the finest woods and have a highly-polished lacquer finish, enhancing their durability and giving them a classic appeal. Additionally, the Weighted Magnetic Travel Chess Set is perfect for those who are always on the go. Made with tough, impact-resistant plastics, this compact set is ideal for travel and is built to endure the rigors of transportation without compromising on durability.
Type of chess pieces (standard or themed)
Standard chess pieces are characterized by the classical Staunton design, which includes a simple and elegant style suitable for traditional play. One excellent example of a standard chess set is the Bey-Berk International Standard Staunton Chess Set. This set features hand-carved sycamore wood pieces that are unweighted and come with a two-inch king. Additionally, you may also consider the House of Staunton Premium Staunton Series Chess Pieces`, which has a classic look and meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
On the other hand, themed chess sets provide a unique and visually appealing experience. These sets often feature different themes such as historical events, famous battles, or cultural motifs. For instance, the Art of War Chess Set inspired by Sun Tzu's famous book is a popular choice among enthusiasts. This set showcases the Terracotta Warriors as the pieces, combining artistry with historical significance. Another option is the Harry Potter Wizard Chess Set, based on the game played in the popular book and movie series. It includes intricate and detailed resin pieces showcasing the iconic characters from the wizarding world.
Weight of the chess pieces
The weight of chess pieces affects their stability on the board and can impact the feel and quality of your playing experience. Generally, heavier chess pieces are more stable and easier to handle, providing a satisfying tactile experience. For example, the The House of Staunton Grandmaster Series Chess Set features pieces crafted from ebonized boxwood that are weighted for improved stability during gameplay.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a lightweight set, the Travel Magnetic Chess Set by WE Games offers a great solution. Its pieces are made of plastic and feature magnetic bases, making them highly portable and perfect for playing on the go. The weights of these pieces are kept to a minimum while still maintaining a stable feel on the chessboard.
Availability of spare pieces
It is important to find a chess set that offers easy access to additional pieces in case any are lost or damaged during gameplay. One option to consider is the WE Games Tournament Chess Set which includes extra queens for pawn promotion and is compatible with both standard and collectors' boards. Another option is the House of Chess 3.75" Grandmaster Wilde Knight Series Chess Pieces which not only features additional queens but also offers specific replacements for each piece. For those looking for a more luxurious option, the Grosvenor Sheesham & Boxwood Luxury Chess Pieces provide extra queens while also offering a superbly handcrafted set with intricate detailing and unique aesthetics. Regardless of the type of chess set chosen, availability of spare pieces ensures continued enjoyment and longevity of the game.
Portability of the chess set
If you plan on taking your chess set on the go, whether it's for outdoor games or frequent travel, you'll want to choose a set that is compact and easy to transport. One portable option is the We Games Pocket Chess Set. This set measures 7 x 3.5 inches and folds down into a compact size, making it easy to carry in your bag or pocket. Additionally, it features a magnetic board and playing pieces with small pegs that fit securely into the board, ensuring they do not slide around during transportation. Another portable option is the Travel Magnetic Chess Set by Wegiel. This set is specifically designed for players on the move, as it comes with a folding board that measures 9.8 x 4.9 inches and is also magnetic. The pieces are compact and fit neatly inside the folded board, keeping everything organized and lightweight for travel.
Folding or roll-up chessboard
These types of chessboards are highly portable and easy to store, making them ideal for players who often travel or play chess on-the-go. One great example of a folding chessboard is the We Games Roll-Up Travel Chess Set. This chessboard measures 20 inches in size and features a felted playing surface, allowing pieces to glide smoothly across the board. It also comes with a nylon bag for easy transportation. Another option to consider is the QuadPro Magnetic Folding Travel Chess Set. This chessboard is compact and foldable, making it extremely portable. It also comes with magnetic pieces, ensuring that they stay in place during gameplay. Overall, folding or roll-up chessboards are convenient choices that provide flexibility and ease of use for chess enthusiasts.
Storage capabilities of the chess set
Portable chess sets, such as the We Games Roll-Up Vinyl Chess Board & Pieces Set, are an excellent choice for those who need a compact option that can be easily rolled up and carried. This set provides a 19.75-inch vinyl chess board with 2.25-inch squares and a full set of plastic tournament-style chess pieces.
If you prefer a more luxurious option, the The House of Staunton Deluxe Chess Box is an ideal choice. This handcrafted box features individual storage compartments for each chess piece, ensuring minimal movement and potential damage while in transit. Made from solid wood with a glossy finish, this chess box provides not only practical storage but also adds an elegant touch to any chess set.
Alternatively, for those who are already invested in chess, the RADICALn 16-Inch Chess Set can be a great choice. This set comes with an intricately designed 16-inch solid olive wood board and weighted chess pieces, making it perfect for serious players looking for storage functionality combined with a high-quality set.
Staunton chess piece design
One of the most commonly preferred and widely recognized designs is the Staunton chess piece design. The Staunton design features a distinct and elegant look with a king as the tallest piece, followed by the queen, bishops, knights, and rooks. These pieces are typically weighted and balanced, ensuring stability and ease of play.
This design has been preferred by chess players for its simplicity and clarity on the chessboard. Many reputable chess brands offer chess sets with the Staunton design. Some popular choices include the Weaver Tournament Chessmen, which are made from hand-carved Boxwood and placed on a top-quality folding chess board. Another option is the House of Staunton Heritage Series Cooke Luxury Chess Set, crafted out of [[luxuryrosewood]] and boxwood, with a unique and classic design that is highly prized by collectors. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option that still boasts the Staunton design and quality, the US Chess Federation Commemorative Triple Weighted Chess Set is a great choice, suitable for players of all levels.
Regulation tournament size
Regulation tournament size for chess sets requires a board with 2.25-inch square dimensions and chess pieces that are proportionate in size. For instance, a great option that meets these specifications is the Staunton No. 5 Tournament Chess Set. It features a 20-inch x 20-inch vinyl board with 2.25-inch squares, accompanied by 3.75-inch tall weighted chess pieces. Additionally, the Regulation Tournament Chess Set Package includes a 20-inch x 20-inch silicone mat board with 2.25-inch squares, complete with a set of 3.75-inch Design IV chess pieces.
Other options available include the FIDE Tournament Chess Set. This set features a 20-inch x 20-inch folding board made of vinyl, with 2.25-inch squares and a set of 3.75-inch tall standard tournament pieces. There is even the ultra-portable Traveling Tournament Chess Set, boasting a 12-inch x 12-inch foldable chessboard with 1.25-inch squares and compact 2.5-inch king-sized chess pieces. These products satisfy the regulation tournament size requirements, providing players the appropriate dimensions for competition play.
Resistance to wear and tear
This refers to the durability and longevity of the materials, ensuring that the chess set can withstand frequent use without significant damage. One example of a chess set known for its resistance to wear and tear is the Saitek Competition Pro Chess Set. Made from solid plastic, this set is designed to withstand years of intense gameplay. Another option is the DGT Centaur Chess Set, which features specially designed plastic pieces that are more resistant to breaking or cracking, ensuring a durable and long-lasting set. For an even more premium option, the Staunton Series Chess Set by The House of Staunton is handcrafted from highly durable ebony and bud rosewood, offering unparalleled durability.
Level of craftsmanship
Paying attention to the craftsmanship ensures the quality of the chess set, including its durability and aesthetic appeal. For those looking for a high level of craftsmanship, products such as the House of Staunton Grandmaster Series Chess Set or the Purling London Chess Set are excellent options. These sets are handcrafted using the finest materials, such as solid wood or glossy lacquered finishes. They feature intricate detailing on each piece, with attention given to the shaping of the individual chessmen. The precision carving and finishing techniques demonstrated in these sets result in a truly remarkable level of craftsmanship.
Non-slippery board surface
This ensures that the chess pieces stay in place during gameplay, preventing accidental displacement that could impact the accuracy of moves.
There are several products in the market that offer non-slippery board surfaces. One great option is the 'DGT Smart Board', known for its specially designed board surface that prevents pieces from sliding around. This board features a sensor technology that recognizes each move and communicates it to your computer or chess engine. Another popular choice is the 'Millennium ChessBoard', which is made with non-slip leather and provides a stable playing surface for both casual and professional chess players. Additionally, the 'House of Staunton' Folding Magnetic Travel Chess Set is an excellent option for chess enthusiasts on-the-go, as it comes with a board that has a built-in magnetic locking system to keep the pieces in place and prevent slippage.
Clear distinction between different pieces
Each piece should be easily distinguishable from the others to ensure gameplay is smooth and enjoyable. One example of a chess set that excels in this aspect is the Fremont Die Deluxe Staunton Chess Set. This set features handcrafted wooden pieces with distinct sizes and shapes, making it easy to distinguish between the different chessmen. Another great option is the WE Games Ambassador European Chess Set, which is crafted from mahogany and birch wood. This set also boasts individualized silhouettes that provide clear distinctions for each piece. Both of these sets offer exceptional quality and design, ensuring players can easily differentiate between the different chess pieces.
Simplicity of piece movement
This factor is particularly crucial for beginners or those who are new to the game. Opting for a set where the pieces are easy to understand and move will greatly enhance the learning experience and overall enjoyment of playing chess.
One example of a chess set that excels in simplicity of piece movement is the 'US Chess Federation Basic Plastic Chess Set'. Its tournament-size pieces are clear and highly recognizable, making it easy for players to quickly understand their movement patterns. Another great option is the 'Giantville Giant Chess Set', which is suitable for both beginners and experienced players. Its large, plastic pieces are very simple to handle and move, ensuring an uncomplicated gameplay experience.
If you are looking for something more premium, the 'NO Stress Chess' is a highly recommended option. This set comes with a unique deck of cards that dictate the movement of the pieces. By following the card instructions, players can learn and understand the movement of each piece step by step, making it a perfect choice for beginners.
Compatibility with chess clock
Not all chess sets are designed to collaborate seamlessly with a chess clock, so it is essential to check for this compatibility. For instance, the DGT Flexx Timer Chess Clock provides universal compatibility with all DGT e-Boards, including an option to set the clock for individual timings per move. For a more traditional option, the Garde Chess Timer is known for its compatibility with most club-approved chess clocks, facilitating tournament play.
Additionally, many digital chess clocks support various time control modes, such as Fischer, Bronstein, and Byo-yomi, which may require specific compatibility requirements. In this segment, the DGT3000 Limited Edition Chess Clock stands out as it supports over 350 pre-programmed time controls and provides manual programming of various time controls for specific needs. Meanwhile, the Chronos GX Chess Clock offers compatibility with popular timing methods such as the FIDE rules, accommodating different time controls for a dynamic chess experience.
Stackable or not
Stackable chess sets are convenient for travel or storage purposes as the pieces can be easily stacked on top of each other. One example of a stackable chess set is the WE Games Travel Magnetic Chess Set. This compact set features magnetic pieces that can be secured onto the chessboard, preventing them from falling off during transport. Additionally, the pieces are designed to be easily stackable, making it a great option for on-the-go gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional and non-stackable chess set, you might consider the House of Staunton The Deluxe Chess Set and Box Combination. This set features handcrafted wooden Staunton pieces and a stunning gift box for storage, offering a classic and elegant look for your chess games.
Ease of set-up and takedown
Some sets require complex assembly, while others can be quickly set up in a few simple steps. One example of a chess set that is known for its ease of set-up and takedown is the Travel Magnetic Chess Set by Wegiel. This portable set is designed with magnetic pieces and a folding board, allowing players to easily set up and start playing within seconds. Another option, the Foldable Chess Set by Amerous, features a unique folding design that enables effortless set-up and storage. With its compact size and high-quality craftsmanship, it is ideal for both travel and everyday use.
Maintenance requirements
Some sets require minimal upkeep, while others may need more regular care. For example, if you are looking for a low-maintenance option, you might consider the Regulation Triple Weighted Chess Set. This set features weighted pieces made from Staunton wood, which are resistant to wear and tear. Additionally, the pieces are double-varnished, making them easy to clean with a soft cloth. On the other hand, if you prioritize durability and longevity, the French Knight Staunton Chess Set is an excellent option. Crafted from premium rosewood and boxwood, this set boasts a lacquer coating that provides protection against scratches. For maintenance, a small amount of lemon oil on the pieces can restore their natural shine. Overall, there is a range of Chess sets available on the market today that cater to different maintenance requirements.
Size of the kings
Typically, the size of the king refers to the height from its base to the top of its highest point. Smaller king sizes are generally more suitable for travel or for players who prefer a compact and portable set. In this category, the Zurich Chess Set offers a King height of 3.75 inches, making it ideal for on-the-go gaming without sacrificing quality.
On the other hand, larger king sizes can provide a more commanding presence and are often preferred for home use or for players who desire a more immersive gaming experience. For those looking for a larger set, the Staunton Championship Chess Set offers a King height of 4.4 inches, ensuring an imposing presence on the board.
Within the realm of larger king sizes, there are also various subcategories to cater to different preferences. Some collectors and enthusiasts may opt for the Grandmaster Series Chess Set, a tournament-sized set with a King height of 4.8 inches, favored by professionals and serious players for its larger-than-average pieces.
Remember, the size of the kings is just one aspect to consider when selecting the best and right Chess set for your needs. Be sure to explore other factors such as material, design, and overall quality to make an informed decision.
Accessibility for visually impaired individuals
Opting for a set that provides tactile cues and distinct contrasting colors can greatly enhance the playing experience for visually impaired players. One highly recommended product is the Square Off NEO Chess Set. It features raised squares and felted pieces with Braille marking, allowing visually impaired players to easily identify the positions of the pieces. Additionally, the set can be connected to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, enabling the user to have the moves communicated in audio format.
Another notable option is the Royal Chess Mall: Touch Sensor Electronic Chess Set. This set includes a tactile chessboard with raised squares and electronic pieces. The pieces have pegs that fit securely into the squares, ensuring that visually impaired individuals can correctly position the pieces. The chessboard also has sensor capabilities, allowing the moves to be registered digitally, and LED lights indicating the current move being played for a smooth user experience.
Other groups of chess sets suitable for visually impaired individuals fall under the category of tactile chess sets for the visually impaired, such as the Maxiaids: Plastic Tactile Chess Set or the Scandic Games: Sensory Evaluation Chess Set. These sets feature heavily textured chessboards with conspicuous and distinguishable tactile markings. The pieces in these sets are typically solid in shape, providing ease of handling and identifying different pieces by touch.
Magnetic pieces for travel use
Look for sets like the 'Chess Armory 12" Folding Magnetic Travel Chess Set' which offers a compact and portable design. This set features 2.5" king height, felted interior with individual slots for each piece, and a smooth vinyl PU leather chessboard. Another option is the 'WeiShi Folding Magnetic Travel Chess Set' which offers a practical 10" size, making it truly portable, and includes 2.2" king height pieces with a folding design for easy storage. If you prefer a smaller set, consider the 'YellowMountainImports Mini Magnetic Chess Set' which is just 6.3" in size and offers magnetized pieces that stay in place even when the set is turned upside down, making it perfect for air travel or playing on the go. Reflecting on these options, it's evident that magnetic chess sets for travel come in a variety of sizes, materials, and designs, catering to different preferences and needs.
Compatibility with chess software or digital chessboards
Many chess players enjoy analyzing their games or playing against AI opponents on their computers, which requires the use of specialized software and digital chessboards. In this regard, it is worth looking for sets that come with USB connections or Bluetooth capabilities, as these allow for easy integration with various software platforms.
One example of a chess set that offers compatibility with chess software is the DGT Smart Board. This digital chessboard can detect and record moves made on the board, making it ideal for both live and online play. It comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to seamlessly connect it to your computer or tablet. Another notable option is the US Chess Live Digital Ultimate Chessboard. It also offers USB and Bluetooth connections for compatibility with software like Fritz, Arena, and Smart Chess Boards. Additionally, this chessboard supports both Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring wide compatibility for various chess software options.
Space-saving design
A space-saving chess set is especially useful for those who have limited playing area or enjoy playing chess on the go. One great example of a space-saving chess set is the WE Games Tournament Roll-up Travel Chess Set. This set is designed to be portable and easy to store, featuring a roll-up chessboard made of vinyl material. It comes with weighted and magnetic pieces that can securely stick to the board, eliminating the risk of pieces sliding during gameplay. Another option to consider is the WOODBOO Magnetic Folding Chess Set. It is crafted with a foldable design, allowing the chessboard to double as a storage space for the wooden magnetic chess pieces. This set is not only practical but also visually pleasing with a polished surface and coordinating colors on the board and pieces.
Non-reflective board surface
A non-reflective surface ensures that players can focus on the game without distractions or reflections from the board. One product that offers a non-reflective board surface is the DGT Timeless Chess Set. This high-quality set features a non-reflective ebonized playing surface that enhances the visual experience and prevents glare from disturbing concentration. Another option is the House of Staunton Dubrovnik Chess Set, which also provides a non-reflective satin finish that helps intensify the gameplay. Both of these sets's non-reflective board surfaces are carefully designed to maximize the enjoyment and focus of players.
Anti-scratch surface protection
Ensuring that the chessboard and chess pieces have a durable and scratch-resistant surface can greatly enhance the longevity and aesthetics of your set. There are several products in the market that excel in this aspect. For example, the DGT 3000 Tournament Chess Board features a lacquered coating that provides excellent anti-scratch protection. Another option is the House of Staunton The Collector Series Luxury Chess Set which is individually handcrafted and utilizes a high gloss lacquered finish to prevent scratches. These products stand out in terms of durability and reflect the dedication of manufacturers to produce top-quality chess sets.
Color contrast between light and dark squares
This aspect plays a significant role in creating a visually appealing and easy-to-read board. Look for sets that offer a stark contrast between the light and dark squares to ensure better visibility and enhance the overall playing experience.
For example, the USCF King’s dangerous elegance Chess Set features a contrasting ebony wood and natural boxwood construction. The sleek ebony wooden board exhibits deep black tones, skillfully contrasting against the light color of the boxwood chess pieces. Similarly, the Staunton Series Chess Set boasts a seamless design with a crisp contrast between its glossy, dark brown ebonized chessboard and the buffed cream and dark brown camel bone chess pieces. These sets provide clear distinctions between the light and dark squares, making it easier for chess enthusiasts to strategize their moves and enjoy the game.
Suitability for outdoor use
Look for sets specifically designed for outdoor use, ideally made from materials such as weather-resistant plastic, hardwearing wood, or even metal. One such example is the 'Dragon Chess Set' by Garden Gear, which is made from UV-resistant plastic and stainless steel, making it suitable for use in all weather conditions. Another option is the 'The House of Staunton Chess Set', which is handcrafted from luxury-grade solid teak wood, perfect for outdoor play as it is resistant to rot and decay.
Some products on the market can be grouped based on material and design features. In the plastic segment, 'The Square Off Chess Set' stands out as it is not only weather resistant but also offers the convenience of electronically moving the opponent's pieces. In the wooden segment, 'The Dal Rossi Italy Folding Chess Set' with its high-quality rosewood and boxwood pieces, is ideal for outdoor chess enthusiasts who value elegance combined with durability. Lastly, the 'Regency Chess Pewter Chess Set' caters to those seeking a metal-based set, with its intricately detailed pewter pieces that can withstand outdoor conditions while adding a touch of luxury to the game.
Inclusion of a notation grid
A notation grid is a grid system printed on the board that helps players keep track of moves during their game. It provides a useful and easy way to record chess moves and analyze games later.
One chess set that offers a notation grid is the DGT Bluetooth and USB Electronic Chess Set. This set is equipped with Bluetooth and USB connectors, allowing you to connect it to your computer or smartphone for online gameplay or analysis using popular chess programs. The board features coordinates on the edges, making it easy to notate moves accurately. Another option is the Chess Armory Wooden Chess Set, which offers a foldable board with a clear and well-defined notation grid. The wooden pieces are handcrafted and the grid is clear, making it readable from a distance. With both of these sets, you will have an advantage during both gameplay and post-game analysis, as the notation grid helps to keep your moves well-documented and assists with recognizing patterns or reviewing strategies.
Inclusion of algebraic notation
Algebraic notation is a standard and widely used system for recording and documenting chess moves. It uses letters and numbers to represent each square on the chessboard, making it easier to notate and replay games. When selecting a chess set, look for one that comes with a board that includes algebraic notation markings either around the edge of the board or directly on the squares.
Some examples of chess sets that include algebraic notation markings are the DGT Easy Game Timer & Game Notation foldable chess set and the Smart Wood Wooden Chess Set with notation on the board. These sets offer the convenience of algebraic notation markings, allowing players to easily analyze and replay their games.
Support for analysis or notation recording
This feature allows players to analyze and record their moves for future reference and study. One recommended product that offers excellent support for analysis is the DGT Smart Board. It is a physical chess board that can integrate with electronic chess software for analysis and notation recording. The board has built-in electronic sensors that can detect the movements of the pieces and transfer them to the software. Another option is the Millennium Chess Genius Exclusive. It is a high-quality electronic chess board that includes a powerful built-in chess engine for analysis and a large LCD screen to display the moves. It allows users to input their moves manually and save the game for later analysis. Other products in this segment include the Novag Citrine, which offers analysis of positions and games and the Garde ROYAL Larger X Figurines which is a handcrafted wooden Chesboard specifically designed for recording games annotation.
Price
There is a wide range of options available, catering to different budgets. For those looking for an affordable yet high-quality chess set, the Winning Moves Games No Stress Chess is a great choice. Priced at around $17.99, it includes a folding game board, easy-to-follow instructions, and two sets of chess pieces. Another option in the mid-range price point is the Regulation Silicone Tournament Chess Pieces and Board Combination. It features tournament-size chess pieces made of durable silicone, priced at approximately $39.95. At the higher end of the spectrum, the elegant The House of Staunton Grandmaster Series Chess Set & Board Combination offers luxury and precision. Priced at around $699.00, this set showcases exquisitely crafted Grandmaster Series chessmen and a deluxe blackwood and maple chessboard.
Variety of brands
Different brands have their own unique characteristics, quality, and price points. Some popular brands in the chess industry include The House of Staunton, Zmart Fun, and Regency Chess Company. These brands offer a wide range of options for chess players, from budget-friendly sets to high-quality luxury sets.
For instance, The House of Staunton is known for producing high-end chess sets made from premium wood, such as rosewood and ebony. These sets often feature intricate, hand-carved details, magnetic closures, and felted bottoms for extra stability and protection. On the other hand, Zmart Fun offers more affordable yet durable plastic chess sets that are suitable for beginners and casual players. These sets are often portable, lightweight, and come with roll-up boards or storage bags for convenience.
Another brand worth considering is Regency Chess Company, which specializes in exquisite themed chess sets. These sets include popular themes like historical figures, famous battles, and fantasy worlds. Made from various materials such as resin and metal, they are designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the game. It is important to note that branded sets often come with a higher price tag, but they also offer superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, and excellent durability.
At the end of the day, the choice of the best chess set brand depends on personal preferences, budget, and the level of seriousness in playing chess. Whether you opt for a luxurious handcrafted set or a portable plastic set, selecting a trusted brand guarantees a unique and enjoyable chess-playing experience.