Top 11 Chess Sets to Purchase Now

Chess is not just a game; it's a timeless blend of art, science, and sport that captivates millions worldwide. Its resurgence in popularity, partly fueled by the success of Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit, has only deepened its appeal. Chess is simple enough for beginners to learn the rules quickly, yet complex enough to offer a lifetime of strategic exploration. This duality makes it a cherished pastime, with many enthusiasts proudly displaying chess sets in their homes, whether they play frequently or simply appreciate the aesthetic.

Choosing the right chess set, however, involves more than just picking the first option you see. While you can easily find budget-friendly sets at toy stores, these might not offer the durability or playability you desire. High-quality sets, whether made from plastic or wood, often include weighted pieces for a better feel during play. Opting for a triple-rated set can enhance your gaming experience. Additionally, selecting pieces with colors that contrast well with the board—such as green and white instead of the traditional black and white—can improve visibility and enjoyment.

No matter your budget or preferred material, we've curated a selection of the best chess sets available to meet your needs.

Best Basic Chess Set

Weighted Gambit Plastic Set

### LONDON CHESS CENTRE Best Basic Chess Set

3$26.98 at chess.co.ukWhen seeking a basic yet quality chess set, the Weighted Gambit Plastic Set stands out. Ideal for those who appreciate the classic design often seen in schools and chess clubs, this set combines affordability with quality. The added weights enhance stability and comfort during play, while the roll-up vinyl board makes it portable and easy to store. The green and white squares provide better contrast with the pieces, making it easier to play and allegedly the most popular plastic chess set worldwide.

Best Wooden Chess Set

High-Quality & Hand-Carved

Wooden chess sets are steeped in tradition, offering a wide range of options. For a classic yet luxurious choice, consider the hand-carved Dubrovnik II set from Slovenia, renowned for its craftsmanship. Inspired by the pieces used in the 1950 Chess Olympiad and beloved by champions like Bobby Fischer, this set is a modern take on a classic design. While the original Dubrovnik II won't be available until 2025, you can enjoy a similar style with the 1950s Reproduction Fischer Dubrovnik Chess Set from Royal Chess Mall, featuring light boxwood and mahogany-gilded dark pieces for an authentic look with enhanced weighting for play.

### Best Wooden Chess Set

11See itBest Glass Chess Set

For Elegant Design and Decor Appearance

### Gamie Best Glass Chess Set

3See itGlass chess sets might seem fragile, but their elegance and affordability make them a popular choice. They beautifully capture light, and the clear and frosted finishes add a modern touch. The Gamie Glass Chess Set stands out with its larger, well-designed pieces and thoughtful details like felt feet for protection and a storage box. This set not only plays well but also serves as an attractive display piece.

Best Marble Chess Set

For a Luxurious Set at a Higher Budget

### Italfama Best Marble Chess Set

10See itMarble chess sets exude luxury, but they require careful handling due to their fragility. The rich colors and veining can sometimes blend too much with the board, making it hard to distinguish pieces. The Italfama Marble Chess Set, with its striking pink and black contrast, offers a solution to these issues, making it a top choice for those seeking a high-end set. U.K. shoppers can enjoy free standard delivery on orders over £50.

### 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, the LEGO Traditional Chess Set combines the joy of building with the classic game. Unlike other themed Lego sets that might compromise on the Lego feel or playability, this set offers a standard chess experience with the added fun of assembly. It's the only Lego chess set currently in production, making it a must-have for Lego and chess enthusiasts alike.

Best Harry Potter Chess Set

Fit for a Wizard

### Best Harry Potter Chess Set

7See itHarry Potter fans can enjoy the magic of wizard chess with a set inspired by the iconic game from the series. Unlike character-themed sets that can be pricey and confusing, this set features pieces reminiscent of the film's wizard chess, offering a familiar yet distinctive design. Made of durable plastic, it's a cost-effective way to bring a piece of the movie magic home. It's also a top gift choice for Potter fans 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 have several themed chess sets to choose from, with the Saga Edition focusing on the beloved characters from the original trilogy. Although currently out of stock, the detailed sculpts and high-quality plastic make it a standout choice. For those looking for an alternative, the Star Wars: The Force Awakens Chess Set is a more affordable and still impressive option.

Best The Lord of the Rings Chess Sets

### HOYLE'S OF OXFORD Best LOTR Chess Set

3See itFor fans of Tolkien's Middle-earth, the Lord of the Rings chess set from Hoyle's of Oxford offers a unique blend of classic and thematic elements. Inspired by the medieval Lewis chessmen, this set features detailed sculpts of iconic characters like Aragorn and Sauron, officially approved by the Tolkien estate. It's an excellent gift for fans who enjoy both the series and the game.

Another LOTR Winner (With a Higher Price Tag)

If the top pick is sold out, consider The Noble Collection The Lord of The Rings - Chess Set: Battle for Middle-Earth. This collector's item, priced at nearly $500, brings the epic battle of Middle-earth to your chessboard.

Best Travel Chess Set

ChessHouse Leather Travel Magnetic Chess Set

### Best Travel Chess Set

6See itWhen traveling, a compact and functional chess set is essential. The ChessHouse Leather Travel Magnetic Chess Set offers a standard-format game in a smaller size, complete with a handy pouch for easy packing. The strong magnets keep the pieces in place, making it ideal for play on the go.

For alternative travel chess options around the same price, see:

Under $50 Under $40 Under $30 Best Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

### MegaChess Large Chess Set

2See it at AmazonFor those who enjoy outdoor or large-scale indoor games, the MegaChess Large Chess Set is a practical choice. With pieces up to 12 inches tall and a 4x4 ft mat, it's perfect for casual yard games or larger indoor spaces, and it's easy to store.

How to Play Chess

Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, Chess.com offers a comprehensive guide in seven steps, complete with a video breakdown. Key points include setting up the board, understanding piece movements, special rules, winning strategies, and the importance of practice.

How to Set Up a Chess Board

To start playing with your new set, follow these steps to arrange the pieces:

Begin by orienting the board so a white square is in the bottom right.Place pawns on the second row of squares on both sides.Position rooks in the corners behind the pawns.Place knights next to each rook, followed by bishops on the next open squares.The queen goes on the square matching her color, with the king on the remaining square next to the queen.Now you're ready to play!

For more gaming options, explore our picks for:

Best Classic Board GamesBest War Games and Strategy GamesBest Family Board Games…and board game deals and gift ideas for board gamers!