Looking for some high-quality chess clock reviews? It can really be a tedious task if you are not aware of the best in business chess product sellers or where to find the top-selling products.
Modern chess clocks are mostly digital and are used in all official tournaments. However, for those with a penchant for classic products, there are also mechanical clocks that have their own buyers who appreciate the vintage touch.
In this blog, we will recommend some good digital and mechanical chess clocks based on their ratings and buyer reviews.
Top 8 Best Digital and Mechanical Chess Clocks
1. DGT 3000 Chess Clock
The DGT 3000 Chess Clock, with its high rating of 4.7 out of 5 after 522 reviews, stands out as a preferred choice among chess enthusiasts. Praised for its functionality and durability, this clock is a popular option for both casual and tournament play.
Pros:
- Superior Quality: Users commend the clock for its excellent build quality, aesthetic design, and ease of programming.
- Feature-Rich: Offers a range of functions including USCF delay compliance and a clear display showing hours, minutes, and seconds.
- User-Friendly: Many reviews highlight the clock’s intuitive nature, with programming instructions printed on the rear for convenience.
- Durability: Despite its light plastic construction, the clock is noted for being sturdy and resilient.
- Battery Efficiency: Easy to install batteries with an on-screen low battery indicator.
- Versatility: Multiple user modes available for different time controls and it’s suitable for a variety of games including Scrabble.
- Visibility: Features a large, clear display that shows all necessary information, enhancing the gaming experience.
Cons:
- Over-Complexity for Some: A few users felt the clock offers more features than needed, especially for those not using a DGT board.
- Comparatively Fragile: There are concerns about its durability in blitz games, particularly if players are rough with the clock.
- Price Point: Although considered worth its cost, some users found it a bit expensive.
- Rocker Switch Concerns: The rocker switch, while adequate, might not be ideal for all users, especially in fast-paced games.
- Learning Curve: The clock has many features which may require time to learn and understand fully.
2. DGT 2010 Digital Chess Clock
The DGT 2010 Digital Chess Clock, boasting a high rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 620 reviews, is a highly regarded chess timekeeper. Notably used in the 2010 World Chess Championship, it’s appreciated for its functionality and reliability.
Pros:
- Prestigious History: Gained credibility from its use in the 2010 World Chess Championship, showcasing its reliability and professional-grade quality.
- Simplicity in Timekeeping: Designed without move counters in certain modes, it avoids complications and ensures straightforward time management.
- Versatile Timing Modes: Offers 36 timing modes, catering to a wide range of games and preferences.
- User-Friendly Memory Function: Can remember one user setting per category, aiding in quick setup for frequently played modes.
- Solid and Smooth Mechanics: The mechanical lever is noted for its smooth and responsive operation, a significant improvement over some competitors.
- Audible Warning Feature: Provides an audible alert when time falls below 10 seconds, helpful in high-pressure situations.
Cons:
- Complex Instructions: Some users find the instruction manual challenging to understand, making initial setup and programming a bit daunting.
- Limited Memory for Settings: While it can remember settings, it’s limited to one per category, which might be restrictive for some users.
- Bronstein Delay Confusion: The implementation of the Bronstein delay can lead to misunderstandings and disputes, particularly in time-critical situations.
- Initial Setup Confusion: New users might find starting the clock unintuitive, as it requires pressing the center button, which isn’t immediately obvious.
- Cumbersome Reset Process: The five-step reset procedure is considered too lengthy, especially for blitz players who prefer quick game turnovers. This is seen as a disadvantage compared to other models like the Chronos.
3. DGT 960 Digital Chess Clock
The DGT 960 Digital Chess Clock is a popular choice among chess enthusiasts, especially for those who are looking for a portable and user-friendly option. With its compact design, this chess clock has garnered appreciation for being an excellent on-the-go companion for both beginners and seasoned players.
Average Rating: 4.3/5 (Based on 40 Ratings)
Pros:
- Compact and Portable: Many users, including parents of young chess players, have found its small size ideal for carrying to chess clubs and tournaments.
- Ease of Use: Its simplicity has been highlighted as a plus, particularly for children and those new to using digital chess clocks.
Cons:
- Durability Concerns: A few users mentioned that the build quality seems a bit fragile, especially considering its price point. This raises some questions about its long-term durability.
- Functional Issues: There have been instances of the clock arriving with defects. Problems such as unresponsive buttons and issues with registering the end of a turn have been noted, leading to some returns.
- Complex Setup: A few users found the setup process to be more complicated than expected, which could be a downside for those who prefer more straightforward, plug-and-play devices.
4. WE Games Digital Chess Clock
The WE Games Digital Chess Clock is a versatile and user-friendly option for chess enthusiasts, well-suited for both casual play and more serious chess club environments.
Average Rating: 4.2/5 (Based on 35 Ratings)
Pros:
- User-Friendly Features: Many users appreciate the printed instructions on the bottom of the unit, making it straightforward to operate without constantly referring to a manual.
- Delay Timer Functionality: The delay timer feature has been highlighted as a valuable addition, enhancing the gameplay experience and allowing for quicker moves.
- Memory Function: The ability to remember the last setting after powering off is a convenient feature that users find helpful.
- Portability and Size: Its compact size is praised for not being obtrusive during play and for ease of transportation, making it a good fit for chess clubs and personal use.
- Sturdy Build: Despite its lightweight, the clock is considered sturdy enough to withstand regular use.
- Simple Controls: The controls and modes are straightforward and precise, contributing to its overall positive reception.
Cons:
- Potential Misunderstandings on Functionality: Some buyers were not fully aware of how the timer functioned, expecting different features (like a per-move timer).
- Occasional Electrical Issues: There have been reports of electrical problems, such as flickering displays and power shutdowns, though these seem to be resolved with replacements.
- Durability Concerns: A few users experienced the device failing within a short period, though customer service seems responsive in handling returns.
- Feature Limitations: Some users noted the inability to set different times for each player as a limitation, although this was not a dealbreaker for most.
5. DGT PI Chess Clock and Game Timer
The DGT PI Chess Clock and Game Timer, rated 4.1 out of 5 after 68 reviews, is a multifaceted chess accessory designed to work with DGT electronic boards. It integrates eight chess engines, catering to players from beginners to grandmasters. While offering standalone clock functionality, it also serves as a chess computer when connected to compatible DGT boards.
Pros:
- Multiple Chess Engines: Equipped with eight advanced chess engines, suitable for various skill levels.
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with DGT e-boards and Smartboards, alongside DGT electronic chess pieces.
- Versatile Use: Can be used as a standalone chess clock, enhancing its utility.
- Enhanced Learning Tool: Ideal for players returning to chess or aiming to improve their skills.
- Good Value for Price: Many users found the product worth its cost, especially given its diverse functionalities.
- Independent Operation: Can operate without the need to connect to a computer, facilitating easy setup and use.
- User-Friendly Features: Includes options like setting up endgame positions for practice against strong engines.
Cons:
- Poor Documentation and Customer Service: Several users reported inadequate instructions and unresponsive customer service.
- Quality Control Issues: Instances of faulty components like SD cards, leading to operational problems.
- Display and Design Limitations: The digital display is considered primitive, and the design could be more user-friendly, particularly in USB connectivity and battery installation.
- Lack of Advanced Features: Absence of capabilities like saving games in PGN format.
- Dependence on Additional Hardware: Requires a DGT e-board or Smartboard and electronic pieces for full functionality.
6. DGT Easy PLUS Best Chess Clock in Black
The DGT Easy PLUS Chess Clock, rated 3.8 out of 5 after 29 reviews, is known for its simplicity and user-friendly design. With easy setup and programming, it offers a modern look and a range of features suitable for both casual and tournament play.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive arrow key controls make setup and programming straightforward, with no codes to memorize.
- Long Battery Life: Operates on standard AA batteries, with users reporting long-lasting battery life.
- Suitable for Tournaments: Delay and increment settings make it suitable for rated tournament play.
- Satisfying Button Press Feel: Features soft clack buttons, providing a modern and satisfying button press feel.
- Versatile Modes: Offers a variety of modes, meeting the needs of different players and gaming scenarios.
- Quick Learning Curve: Users appreciate the ease of learning and using the clock without the need for extensive manual reading.
Cons:
- Durability Concerns: Some users reported issues with the clock malfunctioning or not turning on after a few months of use.
- Loud Button Sound: A few users found the button press to be relatively loud, which could be distracting in a tournament setting.
- Possible Design Flaw: One user noted a design or assembly issue where the lever hitting the body of the clock caused a loud noise, which they had to address with a DIY fix.
- Limited Time Controls: A user mentioned that the time limit didn’t meet tournament requirements.
- Mixed Reviews on Ease of Use: While some found it easy to use, there are contrasting opinions, with a few users finding it hard to use initially.
7. INSA Wooden Mechanical Chess Clock
The INSA Wooden Mechanical Chess Clock, rated 4.5 out of 5 from 66 reviews, combines classic aesthetics with manual winding functionality. It appeals to those who appreciate the analog look, flag drop feature, and a touch of nostalgia in their chess equipment.
Pros:
- Analog Aesthetics: Features an analog clock face, providing a classic and visually appealing design.
- Flag Drop Indicator: Includes a special last-minute indicator through a flag drop, adding a unique element to the chess-playing experience.
- Manual Winding: Requires manual winding, offering a traditional and tactile feel to the chess clock.
- Durable Wood Case: Constructed with a sturdy wood case, enhancing the overall durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Nostalgic Appeal: Perfect for chess players who enjoy the aesthetic and nostalgia of a wooden chess clock.
- Large Dials for Visibility: The 3″ dials contribute to better visual comprehension during play.
Cons:
- Learning Curve for Winding: Some users faced challenges initially, needing to wind the clock correctly to activate both sides.
- No Advanced Features: Lacks features like delay and other functionalities found in more modern digital clocks.
- Quality Variability: A few users noted a decrease in quality compared to earlier models or other chess clocks in the same price range.
- Concerns about Fragility: Reports of hands coming out of place or breaking, raising concerns about long-term durability.
8. We Games Royal Crest Mechanical Analog Chess Clock
The We Games Royal Crest Mechanical Analog Chess Clock, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 203 reviews, is a substantial and straightforward analog chess clock. It stands out for its large size and ease of use, suitable for both club/recreational play and as a decorative desk clock.
Pros:
- Large Size: Its enormous size makes it very easy to read, even from a distance.
- Simple Operation: The clock is easy to set up and operate, making it user-friendly for players of all levels.
- Durable Buttons: The buttons are sturdy enough to handle whole-palm slams, suggesting good durability for intense games.
- Weight and Stability: It has sufficient weight to remain stable on a tabletop during play.
- Visibility: Large faces and sweeping second hand enhance visibility.
- Longevity: Some users report long-term durability, with similar models lasting for decades.
- Ideal for Speed Chess: Its design is particularly praised for speed chess games.
Cons:
- Plastic Construction: Despite the brand name, the clock is entirely made of plastic, which might disappoint those expecting wood.
- Noisy Ticking: A slight ticking sound is noticeable, which might be a distraction for some players.
- Reset Function Limitation: The absence of a quick reset button for the second hand can be inconvenient, requiring a wait for the hand to reach the 12 o’clock position.
- No Battery Tester Button: Lacks a battery tester feature found in some older models.
