Chess is a globally celebrated board game that captivates players with its blend of art, science, and sport. The surge in interest following Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit has only reinforced its timeless appeal. Chess is accessible yet infinitely complex, offering endless opportunities for strategic growth and enjoyment. Many enthusiasts appreciate having a chess set at home, whether for regular play or as a stylish decor piece that subtly invites them to engage in the game.
Selecting the perfect chess set, however, involves more than just picking any set off the shelf. While budget options are plentiful, they often lack the quality and durability desired for a satisfying game. High-quality sets, whether made of plastic or wood, often feature added weights to enhance stability and playability. It's also crucial to choose contrasting colors to ensure the pieces stand out clearly on the board.
No matter your budget or preferred style, we've curated a selection of the best chess sets currently available to meet your needs.
Chess Sets | Image Credit: GettyBest Basic Chess Set
Weighted Gambit Plastic Set
### LONDON CHESS CENTRE Best Basic Chess Set
3$26.98 at chess.co.ukFor those seeking a reliable yet affordable chess set, the Weighted Gambit Plastic Set is an excellent choice. Ideal for beginners and seasoned players alike, this set combines affordability with quality. The weighted pieces offer a stable and comfortable playing experience, and the roll-up vinyl board is perfect for portability and storage. The unique green and white squares enhance visibility, making it the top-selling plastic chess set globally, according to its manufacturer.
Best Wooden Chess Set
High-Quality & Hand-Carved
Hand-carved Dubrovnik II Wooden SetFor chess aficionados, a wooden set is a classic choice. Among the many options, the hand-carved Dubrovnik II set from Slovenia stands out as a luxury item. Inspired by the pieces used in the 1950 Chess Olympiad in Dubrovnik, this set is celebrated for its elegance and was favored by chess legends like Bobby Fischer. While the original set is slated for release in 2025, an accessible alternative from Royal Chess Mall offers the same iconic style with modern enhancements, such as increased weighting for a more satisfying play experience.
### Best Wooden Chess Set
11See itBest Glass Chess Set
For Elegant Design and Decor Appearance
### Gamie Best Glass Chess Set
3See itGlass chess sets, while delicate, add a modern and sophisticated touch to any collection. The Gamie Glass Chess Set is our top pick for its larger-than-standard pieces and thoughtful design, including felt feet for protection and a storage box. This set is not only a pleasure to play with but also serves as an eye-catching display piece.
Best Marble Chess Set
For a Luxurious Set at a Higher Budget
### Italfama Best Marble Chess Set
10See itMarble chess sets offer a luxurious feel, but they come with their own challenges, such as fragility and potential blending of pieces with the board. The Italfama Marble Chess Set, available in the U.K., beautifully balances these concerns with its pink and black stone design, providing clear contrast and a visually appealing game experience.
### Italfama Marble Chess Set
1Free Standard UK Delivery on all orders over £50See itBest Lego Chess Set
Fun for the Whole Family
### LEGO Traditional Chess Set
1See it at LEGOFor a unique twist on the classic game, the LEGO Traditional Chess Set is perfect. It retains the standard chess piece layout but with the distinctive charm of LEGO bricks, offering both the joy of building and playing.
Best Harry Potter Chess Set
Fit for a Wizard
### Best Harry Potter Chess Set
7See itHarry Potter fans can immerse themselves in the wizarding world with a chess set inspired by the series. Our top pick is a durable plastic set featuring the iconic wizard chess pieces from the first film, allowing players to relive the movie's excitement without breaking the bank. This set is an excellent gift for any Potter enthusiast in 2025.
Best Star Wars Chess Sets
Top Pick: Star Wars Saga Edition
### Best Star Wars Chess Set
6See it
### Star Wars: The Force Awakens Chess Set
1$59.99 See itStar Wars fans can enjoy themed chess sets featuring characters from the beloved franchise. The Saga Edition, focusing on the original trilogy, is highly detailed and made of quality plastic. Although currently out of stock, a more affordable option themed around Star Wars film and TV releases remains a fantastic choice.
Best The Lord of the Rings Chess Sets
### HOYLE'S OF OXFORD Best LOTR Chess Set
3See itLord of the Rings enthusiasts will appreciate a chess set that resonates with the medieval aesthetics of the series. The set from Hoyle's of Oxford, featuring iconic characters and officially approved by the Tolkien estate, is a must-have for fans. For those seeking a more luxurious option, The Noble Collection offers an exquisite epic The Lord of the Rings chess set at a higher price point.
Another LOTR Winner (With a Higher Price Tag)
Best Travel Chess Set
ChessHouse Leather Travel Magnetic Chess Set
### Best Travel Chess Set
6See itFor chess on the go, the ChessHouse Leather Travel Magnetic Chess Set is ideal. Its compact size, strong magnets, and stylish design make it a practical and enjoyable choice for travel. For budget-friendly alternatives, consider options under $50, $40, or $30.
Best Giant Chess Set
MegaChess Large Chess Set
### MegaChess Large Chess Set
2See it at AmazonFor those looking to enjoy chess outdoors, the MegaChess Large Chess Set is perfect. Its manageable size and ease of storage make it ideal for casual outdoor play or indoor use.
How to Play Chess
If you're new to chess or looking to refine your skills, Chess.com offers a comprehensive seven-step guide, including a video tutorial. Key points include:
- How to set up the chess board
- Understanding the pieces and their movements
- Learning special rules
- How to win
- Basic strategies
Practice is key to mastering the game.
How to Set Up a Chess Board
Setting Up a Chess Board | Image Credit: GettyTo prepare for a game, follow these steps:
- Place a white square at the bottom right of the board.
- Arrange pawns on the second row from each side.
- Position rooks in the corners, knights next to them, and bishops next to the knights.
- Place the queen on her color and the king on the remaining square.
With your board set, you're ready to dive into the world of chess!
For more gaming options, explore our recommendations for:
Best Classic Board Games, Best War Games and Strategy Games, Best Family Board Games, and find board game deals and gift ideas for board gamers!
