The Navigationist

Best Chess Sets | Chess Boards

Article By:

The Editors

Updated:
Cover Image for Best Chess Sets | Chess Boards

Chess is a game that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for centuries. It is a game of strategy and skill, and it has captured the imagination of people from all walks of life. In this article, we will discuss the history of chess and the types of chess boards available.

History of Chess

Chess has a long and rich history that dates back to the 6th century. It is believed to have originated in India, and it was originally known as chaturanga. The game spread to Persia, where it was modified and eventually made its way to Europe in the 9th century. The game became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, and it evolved into the modern version of chess that we know today.

Types of Chess Boards

There are many different types of chess boards available, from classic wooden boards to modern electronic boards. Here are some of the most popular types of chess boards:

Wooden Chess Boards

Wooden chess boards are the most traditional type of chess board. They are typically made from hardwoods like walnut, maple, and oak, and they are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Wooden chess boards can be simple or ornate, and they are often made with inlaid designs and intricate carving.

Vinyl Chess Boards

Vinyl chess boards are a more affordable option that is perfect for beginners or casual players. They are made from durable vinyl material and are available in a variety of colors and designs. Vinyl chess boards are lightweight and easy to transport, making them a great option for travel or outdoor play.

Magnetic Chess Boards

Magnetic chess boards are a great option for travel or outdoor play. They are made with magnets that hold the pieces in place, which makes them perfect for playing on the go. Magnetic chess boards are available in a variety of materials, including wood and plastic.

Electronic Chess Boards

Electronic chess boards are a modern option that is perfect for serious players or those who want to improve their game. They feature built-in chess computers that can challenge players of all levels, and they often come with advanced features like tutorials and analysis tools.

Chess is a recent passion of mine. I took it up 4 years ago and have been playing it non-stop ever since. If you’re looking for a chess board to give as a gift, as a decoration, or as learner, you’ve come to the right place. 

If you’re looking for other board games check out our Best Board Games for Kids and Best Board Games for Adults  Or if you're looking for gender neutral gift ideas, Stoner's delight: the best gifts for your favorite pothead, or 25 Gender Neutral Gift Ideas for New Parents

Best Chess Boards

Best Travel Chess Set

Yellow Mountain Imports Travel Magnetic Chess Set  photo
4.6 stars, 2255 reviews

This is my personal favorite board. Someone in my office decided to bring this board in one day, and every single person in the office became obsessed with chess. I soon after bought this board so we would have multiple boards to play on at lunch time :) This board is small enough that you can take it to the park, school, or work, and the pieces are magnetic and give each piece a weight that feels just right for a chess board. 

Best Handmade Wooden Chess Set

Handmade Chess Set European Ambassador  photo
4.7 stars, 728 reviews

I love this chess set. The details on the pieces are beautiful and even more than that, this board has the labeling on the columns and rows. This is great for players to play on to re-enforce this nomenclature and to learn on to bring their game to the next level.

Most Affordable Wooden Chess Set

15" Magnetic Wooden Chess Set photo
4.6 stars, 17063 reviews

This beautiful chess set is perfect as an artistic accent in your room or as a stylish set to impress your guests and opponents alike. One reviewer wrote in describing the board and pisces saying, “We love the quality of the wood, the overall design, as the feel, look and weight of the individual chess pieces.” Another wrote in saying, “The craftsmanship is great”.

Chess is a game that has captured the imagination of people for centuries, and there are many different types of chess boards available to suit every taste and budget. Whether you are a serious player or a beginner, there is a chess board out there that is perfect for you. From traditional wooden boards to modern electronic boards, the options are endless. With the right chess board, you can enjoy hours of challenging and engaging gameplay, and you can continue to explore the rich history and traditions of this beloved game.

Here at The Navigationist, we obsess over the things we buy and what sets products apart. We try as many product as we can. But even though we would like to try them all, we can’t try everything. We scour the internet to find the best-reviewed products by feature comparison and customer reviews for you.
TheNavigationist.com is designed to surface the best, most useful, and expert recommended things to buy across the expansive internet and the large volume of potential product choices. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
Every editorial review independently selects products. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.