Your Next Magnetic Chess Set: Everything You Need to Know
Magnetic chess sets have become a game-changer for chess enthusiasts everywhere. No longer will a sudden u-turn while traveling send your carefully crafted strategy into disarray. These ingenious boards, equipped with magnets, keep your pieces firmly in place.
Let’s say you’re locked in an intense chess match with your rival, your mind racing with calculated moves. Victory is within reach, but an accidental bump to the table sends your queen tumbling off the board. As much as it's frustrating, it can also affect your focus and momentum. With magnetic chess sets, such woes are a thing of the past, or at least much less likely.
In this guide, we will explain different features, materials, and functionalities to help you find the perfect magnetic chess set that combines durability, convenience, and all the elegance chess deserves.
Table of Contents
Why Magnetic Chess Sets: Convenient and Travel-Friendly
A magnetic chess set has magnets on the bases of the chess pieces to keep the board position intact. These chess sets are incredibly versatile and offer benefits for all player levels that often go far beyond simply preventing checkmate meltdowns or pieces from getting knocked over while traveling.
Travel-friendly
Traveling for chess enthusiasts may seem like it means keeping your love for chess at home because it’s impossible to lug around a traditional chess set. Just imagine the number of (expensive) chess pieces you might lose during transit! But this problem is solved using magnets. Magnetic sets are incredibly portable and designed as such, making them ideal for travel. The pieces cling to the board so you can play on planes, trains, or even in the backseat of a car without fear of them getting scattered everywhere.
Convenience at Home
Storing a traditional chess set often involves carefully placing the pieces back in their designated slots in a chess box or the predetermined place in the board, which can be tedious. Magnetic sets eliminate this hassle. The pieces simply stick to the board, typically allowing for quick and easy storage. No more misplaced knights or missing bishops – everything stays neatly organized and ready for your next strategic showdown. In some cases, you can save a setup mid-game.
Focus on Strategy
With a magnetic chessboard, you can finally channel all your focus into strategizing and outwitting your opponent. No more worrying about accidental bumps or nudges dislodging your pieces. This allows for a smoother, more uninterrupted flow to the game, letting your strategic brilliance shine.
Great for Learning
Magnetic sets can be a valuable tool for beginners grappling with the fundamentals of chess. The frustration of constantly resetting fallen pieces can hinder the learning process. Magnetic sets provide a stable environment, allowing new players to concentrate on learning the moves and developing their chess skills without unnecessary interruptions. And if you plan on traveling soon, then a magnetic chess set can be the perfect companion. You can practice your tactics while catching a train to Zurich or even find new travel enthusiasts and challenge them to a match.
[product skus="VI0001,TRV0035,TRV0054"]Choosing Your Perfect Magnetic Chess Set
Finding your next magnetic travel chess set is no easy feat, as you must consider many factors to discover your ideal fit. Here’s a quick guide to help you settle on the correct set:
Size
Travel-sized (1.75” and below squares)
Perfect for on-the-go chess enthusiasts. These compact sets are ideal for playing on airplanes, trains, or cafes. They are lightweight and portable, often folding for easy storage in backpacks or purses. However, the smaller squares might make you feel slightly constricted if you are playing with another opponent.
Standard (1.75” - 2.25” squares)
This is the most common size, offering a good balance between portability and playability. The squares provide enough space for comfortable piece handling without feeling bulky. Standard sets are versatile for home use and occasional travel.
Large (2.375” squares and above)
Are you looking for a grand playing experience with the features of a magnetic chess set? These luxurious sets cater to players who prioritize aesthetics above functionality. The larger squares offer a more spacious playing area and a classic feel. However, they come with increased weight and require dedicated storage space.
Tip: Think about where you will play most often. If portability is key, a travel-sized set is ideal. If you have dedicated storage space and prioritize a comfortable playing experience, a standard or large set might be a better fit.
Material
Most sets are made from primarily either wood or plastic.
Wood
If you are a chess enthusiast who prefers the timeless appeal of a traditional wooden chessboard but still wants your chess pieces to stay intact, then wood is the suitable material. Wood boards are typically more durable than plastic and can develop a beautiful patina. However, they can be heavier and more susceptible to warping or scratches. The best part about wooden chess sets is that you get many choices:
- Rosewood
- Mahogany
- Walnut
- Maple
- Zebrawood
- Sheesham Wood
- And many others
Plastic
Plastic chess sets are lightweight and durable, making them perfect for traveling. While they won’t provide the same satisfying feel as wooden ones, they are quite functional and easy to maintain.
Tip: If aesthetics and durability are top priorities, wood is a great choice. For portability and affordability, plastic is a good option.
Folding vs. Non-Folding Magnetic Chessboards
Magnetic chess sets offer the joy of strategic gameplay without worrying about pieces falling over. But when it comes to the board itself, an important decision arises: folding or non-folding?
| Feature | Folding Board | Non-Folding Board |
| Portability | Excellent - Folds flat for easy transport | Poor - Bulky and cumbersome to carry |
| Storage | Great - Folds for compact storage | Poor - Requires dedicated storage space |
| Playing Surface | May have a slight ridge or unevenness at the fold | Provides a flat, uninterrupted surface |
| Durability | Folding mechanism can wear out over time | Generally more robust and less prone to damage |
| Best For | Travel, casual play, limited storage space | Players who prioritize a smooth playing experience, dedicated chess enthusiasts |
Playing Experience
Magnet Strength
The magnets should be strong enough to hold the pieces securely, even if the board is bumped or tilted. However, overly strong magnets can make it difficult to move the pieces smoothly. Look for sets with magnets that offer a good balance between holding power and easy movement.
Piece Design
Opt for weighted pieces if you need the luxurious feel when playing on a magnetic chess set.
Price Range
This is the deciding factor for most chess enthusiasts, and thankfully, buying a magnetic chess set won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Magnetic chess sets can range in price from around $10 to $100 or more. The size, material, features, and brand of the set typically influence the price. Travel-sized plastic sets are generally the most affordable, while large, handcrafted wooden sets with premium features can be quite expensive.
Tip: Set your budget before shopping. With a clear budget in mind, you can focus on sets that offer the features and quality you desire within your price range.
Top Magnetic Chess Sets in the Market
Finally, you’ve settled on the size, material, price, and playing experience of your magnetic chess set, so now it’s time to give you some top contenders. These chess sets have been carefully curated, and each one brings its own quirk to the table.
US Chess Standard Checkbook Magnetic Travel Chess Set - 6” x 6” Board
Quirk: Fits in Your Pocket
This compact chess set is perfect for players who are always on the move. The board, measuring 5.75” x 6.25”, features a green and buff color scheme. Despite its small size, it is fully playable and incredibly portable. The strong magnets make sure that the pieces stay firmly in place, even when the board is folded. You can even fit it in your hand carry while traveling and whip up a game with your fellow travelers.
Additionally, the board includes algebraic notation along the edges, making it a useful learning tool for players at any skill level.
Wooden Folding Magnetic Travel Chess Set - 14” - Golden Rosewood and Maple
Quirk: Luxurious Design and Durability
This handcrafted set from The House of Staunton is made from Golden Rosewood and Maple, known for its strong magnetic properties. When opened, the board measures 14” x 14”, and when folded, it measures 14” x 7”. The king piece stands at 2.8” tall with 1.5” squares on the board. The set includes foam inserts to securely store the chess pieces when not in use, providing excellent protection.
Its beautiful design, paired with a strong construction, gives you the best of both functionality and style, so you can travel with something similar to a traditional chess set.
The Blue Magnetic Chess Set
Quirk: European Craftsmanship
Imported from Europe, the Blue Magnetic Chess Set is handcrafted and hand-finished from natural and stained hornbeam wood. It features the traditional Staunton pattern for easy recognition. Each piece has a large magnet in its base, providing stability for play on the go. The board is designed with a rich lacquered finish and looks like it came straight out of Van Gogh’s Starry Night painting.
It includes traditional rank and file labels around the perimeter and can be folded in half for easy storage. Inside the board, there are individual fitted compartments to protect each piece and prevent them from getting lost during transit.
Ultimate Wooden Magnetic Travel Chess Set - 12”
Quirk: Secure Position Saving
The Ultimate Wooden Magnetic Travel Chess Set, also from The House of Staunton, is crafted from Golden Rosewood and Maple. It is known for having the strongest magnets among travel sets. What sets it apart is its revolutionary two-part closure system, allowing you to save the game’s position for future play.
The strong wooden chessmen are designed in a new pattern that is reminiscent of older and classic chess sets, providing both nostalgia and practicality. The set measures 12” and folds down easily to fit your suitcase.
Caring for Your Magnetic Chess Set
Your magnetic chess set will be with you throughout your travels, which means it will experience a fair share of wear and tear. But if you want your investment to last for years of strategic battles, follow these basic upkeep tips:
Storage is Key
Folding Boards
When you are not using your folding boards, keep them closed so the folding mechanism doesn’t warp or become loose. Store it flat in a drawer or shelf and don’t put heavy objects on top of the board.
Non-Folding Boards
Choose a dedicated space that is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. To protect the board from dust and scratches, use a chess bag or a box with a lid.
Cleaning the Board
Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris from the board surface regularly. This will help prevent dirt build-up, which can eventually affect the magnetic attraction between the pieces and the board.
Caring for the Pieces
While the magnets will hold the pieces securely, avoid rough handling or dropping them from a height. This can damage the magnets or chip the paint on the pieces.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are sitting in Chess & Checkers House in Central Park in New York City, challenging an opponent to a match, or practicing strategies while traveling on your own, a magnetic chess set proves to be the epitome of convenience. If you're planning to invest in your next magnetic chess set, then start by setting a budget, choosing the material you like, deciding between folding and non-folding designs, and eventually exploring professional retailers like the House of Staunton.
Remember, the ideal magnetic chess board is a reflection of your playing style and preferences. Play well!