Picking a Perfect Pocket Chess Set

Whether you’re a seasoned player, or someone just starting chess, a pocket chess set is a must for every chess enthusiast! Having a pocket chess set can provide you with the extra training you need, whenever, wherever! However, with so many options available, picking the right chess pocket set can be a daunting task.

But shake off your concerns, as we'll walk you through all the factors you need to consider when purchasing the best pocket chess set.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Perfect Pocket Chess Set

When purchasing a pocket chess set, you will need to weigh in some personal and practical factors to decide what to buy. Since there are so many options, you should take your time to ensure you’re getting the right product. Here are some things you’ll need to consider when purchasing your next pocket chess set.

1. Size Matters

Select the size according to your own carrying capacity. Most players are more comfortable playing on a bigger chess board or standard dimensions, as it avoids crowding of pieces and helps them see each individual piece on the board clearly. However, this might not always be possible, which is what the pocket set is for.

If you always carry a large backpack with you, then maybe you can afford to buy a bigger chess set. However, the optimal size for a pocket set is around 6.25 x 6.25 Inches, like this available option. It will slide comfortably into your pocket and is easy to carry.

2. Material and Durability

Ultima-deluxe-pocket-chess-set

A chess pocket set comes in various materials, the most popular being wooden, plastic, and metal. Let’s take a minute to talk about each of them individually.

Plastic

  • Less durable compared to other options, but doesn’t get chipped or scratched easily.
  • Optimal for frequent use and easy to clean
  • Lightweight
  • Cheaper compared to other options
  • Available in a variety of styles and colors
  • Does not provide the same aesthetic vibe as wood or metal.

Wood

  • They’re highly durable. Depending on the quality, such as high-quality rosewood or ebony, wooden chess sets can last years of play without losing their glamor.
  • With proper care, wooden sets can last a lifetime and thus are ideal for frequent use.
  • If you appreciate craftsmanship and beauty, wooden chess sets might appeal to you the most. Most luxury chess sets are crafted from wood.
  • They’re quite expensive in comparison with other materials and are more prone to the elements.
  • They’re also difficult to carry around.

Metal

  • The most durable pocket chess sets are made up of metals like brass, aluminum, or stainless steel.
  • Being resistant to the elements and rough handling, they’re less likely to get scratched or dented, and thus are the best option for long-term use.
  • Chess sets made out of premium metals might cost significantly more than regular ones.
  • They’re quite heavy to carry.

3. Magnetic or Non-Magnetic

A pocket wooden chess set with a green interior

Recently, there has been an upward shift in people purchasing magnetic chess sets, and although they’ve been around for decades, the ones being made now have significantly better designs and durability. 

At the end of the day, it's up to you which one you want, but we’ll provide you with the additional benefits magnetic chess sets bring.

  • They are more portable than non-magnetic as the pieces adhere to each other and are easier to handle.
  • The pieces adhere to the board, so if you plan on playing chess in a setting such as a train or a plane, stick to a magnetic pocket chess set.
  • The magnetic pieces also contribute to increased stability of the board as they will remain in their place if you accidentally jostle the board a little.
  • You can easily move the board while playing without the fear of pieces falling down.

In terms of portability and ease of use, magnetic chess sets reign supreme over non-magnetic. However, they might not be able to fully provide the same aesthetic vibe as traditional chess sets.

As a great example, check out this Book Wooden Magnetic Travel Chess Set and see if it suits you.

4. Design and Aesthetics

Design and Aesthetics play a key role in the appeal of not just pocket chess sets, but any chess set. There are numerous styles of chess sets available for you to choose from based on your preference. 

Traditional sets come with a classic design, following their cultural motifs as reflected by their design. They typically have Staunton-styled pieces with a recognizable silhouette.

Conversely, the modern versions have minimalist designs, there is greater variety available. They often feature bold colors and geometric shapes, and they can be made from unconventional materials like acrylic or metal.

5. Functionality and Features

Besides the look and material, there are certain other features that a pocket chess set should provide you with.

Foldable Board

A very popular feature amongst pocket chess sets, foldable boards allow for a compact and portable design. The locking mechanism can be manual or magnetic, with the two halves folding on themselves. This makes them the ideal option when playing outside.

Storage Compartment

Although not seen as much in pocket chess sets, compartmentalization for your pieces can help you assemble and pack up the game easily, adding to your comfort.

Piece Locking

Seen in magnetic sets, pieces strongly cling to the board with the help of the magnet inside, and let you play on a very stable board.

Pricing

There is a huge range of prices in which you can get a chess pocket set, based on all the features we discussed above. Be sure to keep your budget constraints in mind when looking for a pocket chess set. 

In general, expensive chess sets are often made from premium material or involve some handcrafting. The best way is to find a balance between price, quality, and features. Consider reviews by people who’ve already purchased the product and if possible, try to buy from reputable brands such as The House of Staunton.

Final Thoughts

Two men playing outside on a portable chess set

Picking the perfect pocket chess set involves a blend of personal preference, practical needs, and budget restrictions. No matter your requirements, with diverse options, you are sure to find a pocket set that suits your needs.