When you’re looking to buy a chess set, you’ll find hundreds of options out there. Some will be overpriced, and some may be reasonably priced but of poor quality, breaking easily or losing their shape quickly.
Here are some simple guidelines to help you choose the best chess set for your needs.
1. Stick to the Standard
The best chess sets are those that adhere closely to the standard version, meaning they follow the usual rules and designs of chess.
Look for a set that has numbers from 1 to 8 and letters from a to h marked on it. For square colors, buy a set that has black and white squares or green and white squares.
This design is the most commonly used and is the world standard for both online and over-the-board chess.
2. Check the Square Size
The size of the squares on the chessboard is important. It’s best to pick a set where the squares are similar in size to the standard, which is about 2 to 2.5 inches.
To simplify this, place the pieces on their squares and see if they fit well. If the pieces fit comfortably within their squares without being too cramped or too loose, then the chess set passes the size check for both squares and pieces.
3. Pieces in the Right Shapes
The chess pieces should have the standard shapes we all recognize. The King, Queen, Bishop, Knight, Rook, and Pawn should look like you expect them to.
If you fall in love with a chessboard but the pieces are not in the standard shape, you can buy standard chess pieces online here.
4. Look at the Bases
Check the base of the chess pieces. The diameter of the base should be about 40-50% of the height of the piece. This helps to keep the pieces stable on the board.
5. Weighted Pieces and Sturdy Board
For a better chess-playing experience, choose a set with weighted pieces. This makes them feel more substantial and less likely to tip over. Also, make sure both the board and pieces are sturdy, so they last a long time.
6. Internal Storage
If you’re planning to play chess only at home and not in official tournaments, look for a set that comes with storage inside for the pieces. It helps keep everything organized.
7. Extra Queen
It’s a good idea to buy a set that includes an extra Queen. Sometimes in the game, you can promote a Pawn to a Queen, and having an extra one on hand is helpful. Alternatively, consider buying a set with 64 pieces instead of the standard 32.
8. Check Reviews
If you’re shopping online, read the reviews of the chess set you’re interested in. Make sure other customers are happy with their purchase. Good reviews are a sign of a quality chess set.
So, there you have it. When buying a chess set, stick to the standard in terms of size, shape, and colors. Look for weighted, sturdy pieces and a board with storage if you’ll be playing at home. Don’t forget to read reviews when shopping online to ensure you’re making a great choice. Enjoy your games of chess!
Related Blog Posts:
- 5 Signs that Prove a Chess Set is Valuable or Not
- How Much Does a Chess Set Cost?
- Where to Buy a Chess Set?
- How to Teach a Child Chess with Stories?
