Chess Sets for Beginners and Kids, With a Strategy Guide

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A chess set in its starting position with one cream pawn advanced to e4, the first move of a game

A good chess set for beginners is full size, not the smallest box on the shelf. Tiny pieces tip over, a paper board creases, and nothing explains the game past the rules sheet. These are full tournament size, weighted so a position survives a nudge, with a board that labels every square and a 32 page guide that goes from first moves to attacking play.

Which one is right for me?

An adult learning the game Best Chess Set Ever 3X TournamentClub standard size and weight, and a guide that goes well past the rules See this one

A family set for kids and adults Best Chess Set Ever 4X Tournament ModernThe largest pieces we make, easy to pick up and heavy enough for a busy table See this one

A present for someone starting out Best Chess Set Ever 3X TournamentEverything in one box, including the 32 page guide See this one

Shop both sets for learning

-8%

Best Chess Set Ever 3X Tournament

$54.99 USD

~~$59.99 USD~~

-7%

Best Chess Set Ever 4X Tournament Modern

$64.99 USD

~~$69.99 USD~~

Why a full size set is easier to learn on

Learners look at the board harder than anyone. A 2.25 inch square leaves room between the pieces, so it is clear which square each one stands on and what is attacking what. Small travel sets crowd everything together, and that is where beginners lose track of the position.

Letters and numbers on every edge

Both faces of the board carry algebraic notation, a to h along the bottom and 1 to 8 up the side. A teacher can say knight to f3 and a learner can find it, and it is the same system every chess book and app uses, including the guide in the box.

A guide that starts from nothing

The 32 illustrated pages begin with how each piece moves and how to set up the board, then carry on through openings to attacking play. It keeps going past the point where a rules leaflet stops, which is exactly when a new player starts asking better questions.

Weighted pieces for small hands and busy tables

Each piece has an iron insert under a felt base. Children reach across the board and elbows catch the edge, and a light plastic piece goes flying. A weighted one stays where it was, so a game in progress is still a game in progress.

Chess for kids: what to know

Full size pieces suit children who are old enough to play, and the silicone board wipes clean and does not tear. There is no separate children's version: kids learn on the same set the adults in the house play on. The sets contain small parts and are not suitable for children under 3.

Two extra queens for the first promotion

The first time a pawn reaches the far side, a beginner asks what happens next. The answer is a new queen, and both sets include a spare queen in each colour so there is one to hand rather than an upturned rook standing in for it.

Frequently asked

What is the best chess set for a beginner?

One at full size with weighted pieces and a labelled board. It is easier to read, harder to knock over, and it will not need replacing once the beginner improves. Our longer guide to choosing a first set is on the blog.

Is this a good chess set for kids?

For children old enough to play, yes. Full size pieces are easier for small hands to pick up than a miniature set, and the weighting keeps the position intact. The sets contain small parts and are not suitable for children under 3.

Does it teach you how to play?

The 32 page illustrated guide in the box starts with how each piece moves and how to set up the board, then continues through openings to attacking play.

Should a beginner choose the 3X or the 4X?

Either works. The 3X is the usual club weight and lighter to carry. The 4X has the largest pieces we make, with a 4.4 inch king, which makes them the easiest to pick up. Same board and the same guide in both.

Do we have to learn notation to use it?

No. The letters and numbers on the board are there when you want them, for following the guide or a lesson, and can be ignored the rest of the time.

What if a piece arrives damaged?

Tell us and we replace it. The 12 month guarantee covers anything wrong with the set, the whole set or a single piece, and we pay the return shipping. A real person answers within 24 hours.