How to Choose a Chess Set Size
Three numbers decide whether a chess set feels right: the board, the square, and the king.
Start with where it will be played
A set for the kitchen table and a set for a backpack are different objects. Decide where the board will spend most of its life, then pick the size that fits that place.
| 10-inch | Travel size. Fits a tray table or a daypack; pieces are small and usually magnetic. |
|---|---|
| 12-inch | Compact. Good for children, dorm desks and side tables. |
| 15-inch | The home standard. Large enough to read the whole position, still folds away. |
| 16–19 inch | Display and tournament size. Wants a table of its own. |
Match the king to the square
Pieces look and play best when the king's base covers about 75% of a square. Too small and the board looks empty; too large and pieces crowd each other.
| King about 2.2" | Squares near 1.25" |
|---|---|
| King about 3" | Squares near 1.5" to 1.75" |
| King about 3.5" | Squares near 2" |
| King about 4" or more | Squares of 2.25" and up |
Folding or fixed
A folding board stores its pieces and travels well. A fixed board, with or without drawers, has no centre seam and stays flatter over the years. If the set will be put away after every game, fold. If it will stay out, see our drawer chess sets.
Buying pieces and board separately
Measure one square of the board you own, multiply by 0.75, and look for a king base close to that number on the pieces and boards shelf. Each page lists king height and what is in the bag.
