Chess is one of the most popular board games in the world, and for good reason. It's not just about winning; chess is an art, a science, and a sport that offers endless learning opportunities. Even after the surge in interest sparked by Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit a few years ago, chess remains a beloved game, transcending fleeting trends. Why? The rules are easy to grasp, yet the depth of strategy is profound, allowing players to continue improving throughout their lives. It's no surprise that many people enjoy having a chess set at home, even if they only play occasionally—or not at all. A well-crafted set can serve as an elegant centerpiece on a sideboard or coffee table, subtly inviting you to engage with this timeless game.
However, purchasing a good chess set involves more than you might think. While you can find inexpensive options at any toy store, these may not offer the satisfaction or durability you seek. A quality set of chess pieces should have a certain weight to enhance play, which is why better-quality plastic and wood pieces often include added weights (aim for a triple-rated set). Additionally, the colors should be carefully chosen to ensure good contrast; surprisingly, plain black and white pieces can get lost on a black-and-white board.
No matter your budget or preferred material and theme, we've curated a selection of the best chess sets available today.
Chess Sets | Image Credit: Getty
Best Basic Chess Set
### LONDON CHESS CENTRE Best Basic Chess Set
3$26.98 at chess.co.uk
When we talk about basic, we mean affordable yet quality-focused. If you're looking for a simple set without compromising on quality, the Weighted Gambit Plastic Set is a reliable choice. Chess is a game you can delve into for a lifetime, so investing a bit more for a substantial set is worthwhile. This set, commonly found in schools and chess clubs, features weighted pieces for stability and comfort during play. The roll-up vinyl board is perfect for travel and storage, and the green and white squares provide excellent visual contrast, enhancing gameplay. It's no wonder it's reputed to be the world's most popular plastic chess set, according to the manufacturer.
Best Wooden Chess Set
Hand-carved Dubrovnik II Wooden Set
Wood is the classic material for chess sets, offering a wide range of options. For a straightforward set, look for one with weighted pieces and good board contrast. But if you're after the finest wooden chess set, consider luxury brands. The hand-carved Dubrovnik II set from Slovenia stands out, touted by its maker as the "best chessmen ever." Inspired by the pieces used in the 1950 Chess Olympiad in Dubrovnik, this set became an instant classic, admired by chess champions like Bobby Fischer. The Dubrovnik II retains the original styling with a modern touch, though it won't be available until 2025. For an immediate alternative, the Royal Chess Mall's 1950s Reproduction Fischer Dubrovnik Chess Set, crafted from light boxwood with mahogany-gilded dark pieces, offers similar craftsmanship and quality, with slightly increased weighting for a satisfying play experience.
### Best Wooden Chess Set
11See it
Best Glass Chess Set
### Gamie Best Glass Chess Set
3See it
Glass might not seem the most practical material for a chess set due to its fragility, but its aesthetic appeal and affordability make it a popular choice. Glass sets capture light beautifully, and the clear and frosted distinction between squares and pieces offers a modern, clean look. Our top pick, the Gamie Glass Chess Set, stands out with larger, well-designed pieces, felt feet to prevent damage, and a storage box. Its elegance makes it a great display piece, reducing the need for frequent storage.
Best Marble Chess Set
### Italfama Best Marble Chess Set
10See it
The Italfama Marble Chess Set is the epitome of luxury for those with a higher budget. While the ideal black and pink color palette isn't currently available in the U.S., this set remains a worthwhile investment for serious players. Marble's luxurious appearance and feel are what make it popular, though it requires careful handling due to its fragility. The rich colors and veining can sometimes distract from gameplay, blending pieces into the board. For U.K. shoppers, the Italfama Black and Pink Marble Chess Set offers a well-contrasted solution, enhancing playability while maintaining a warm aesthetic.
### Italfama Marble Chess Set
1Free Standard UK Delivery on all orders over £50See it
Best Lego Chess Set
### LEGO Traditional Chess Set
1See it at LEGO
While themed Lego chess sets exist, they often feel like a compromise. The LEGO Traditional Chess Set, however, offers the unique appeal of a standard set built from Lego bricks, providing both the joy of assembly and the pleasure of play. It's the only currently available LEGO chess set, making it a standout choice for Lego enthusiasts and chess players alike.
Best Harry Potter Chess Set
### Best Harry Potter Chess Set
7See it
When envisioning a Harry Potter chess set, you might picture pieces resembling famous characters, but such sets can be costly and confusing. A better option is a set inspired by the wizard chess from the first story, featuring pieces similar to standard chessmen yet designed with the iconic style from the films. This durable plastic set is both affordable and visually striking, allowing you to immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter without breaking the bank. It's an excellent gift for any Potter fan in 2025.
Best Star Wars Chess Sets
### Best Star Wars Chess Set
6See it
### Star Wars: The Force Awakens Chess Set
1$59.99 See it
While there's no official holochess rules from the original Star Wars movie, fans can enjoy classic chess sets themed around the saga. The Star Wars Saga Edition focuses on the original trilogy, featuring beloved characters like Chewbacca and Darth Vader. Although currently out of stock, the Star Wars: The Force Awakens Chess Set remains a solid and more affordable option.
Best The Lord of the Rings Chess Sets
### HOYLE'S OF OXFORD Best LOTR Chess Set
3See it
Though chess isn't explicitly mentioned in Tolkien's works, its presence in Middle-earth is implied. This set, crafted by a renowned British artisan, features cold-cast pieces with an antique wash, depicting iconic characters like Aragorn and Galadriel facing off against Sauron and Shelob. Officially approved by the Tolkien estate, it's a perfect gift for fans of both Lord of the Rings and chess. For a higher-end option, consider The Noble Collection's The Lord of The Rings - Chess Set: Battle for Middle-Earth, an authentic LOTR set priced at nearly $500.
Best Travel Chess Set
### Best Travel Chess Set
6See it
Choosing a travel chess set involves balancing practicality with playability. While flat, folding sets are easy to store, they can detract from the playing experience. The ChessHouse Leather Travel Magnetic Chess Set offers a compact, standard-format set with a handy pouch for quick packing. Strong magnets keep the pieces in place, making it ideal for on-the-go gaming.
Best Giant Chess Set
### MegaChess Large Chess Set
2See it at Amazon
For outdoor or indoor giant chess, the MegaChess set from Amazon is a practical choice. With 12-inch tall pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, it's easy to store and perfect for casual play in your yard or indoors.
How to Play Chess
If you're new to chess or looking to refine your skills, Chess.com offers a comprehensive guide in seven steps, including a video breakdown. Key aspects include:
- How to set up the chess board
- Understanding the pieces and their movements
- Learning special rules
- Knowing how to win
- Grasping basic strategies
Mastery comes with practice.
How to Set Up a Chess Board
Setting Up a Chess Board | Image Credit: Getty
To set up your chess board for play:
- Position the board so a white square is in the bottom right corner.
- Place a row of pawns on the second row of squares on both sides.
- Place rooks in each corner behind the pawns, followed by knights next to each rook, and bishops next to each knight.
- Leave two empty squares behind the pawns, then place the queen on the square matching her color, and the king on the remaining square next to the queen.
Now, you and your guests are ready to enjoy the game!
For more gaming options, explore our picks for:
Best Classic Board GamesBest War Games and Strategy GamesBest Family Board Games ...and check out board game deals and gift ideas for board gamers!
