The 6 Best Chess Gifts to Impress Your Loved Ones

Whether it's the holidays, a birthday celebration, or any other event, shopping for a gift for chess lovers can be tricky. You want to make sure that the gift proves to be helpful or or brings joy to the recipient. It can be a chess strategy book or, maybe, a new chess set combo for practice. To help you choose, I’ve compiled a list of the six best chess gift ideas that will impress any level of chess player you know. 

1. U.S. Chess Quiver Chess Set Combo

Price: $19.95 at House of Staunton

If you know someone who is just learning chess and doesn’t have their own set yet, this U.S. Chess Quiver Chess Set Combo is one of the best gifts for a chess player to prepare them for a professional challenge. This set is affordable but doesn’t skimp on quality, with tough plastic that can bear the weight of many good (and bad) chess games.

This tournament-style set comes with a roll-up vinyl mat, plastic pieces, a board, and a case. The board uses high-grade vinyl with rank and file labels on all four sides. This makes it easy for beginners to follow the game. To make it even more desirable, the Quiver chess bag is the cherry on top. Whether it's a game with your chess instructor or a quick bet with a friend, all you have to do is put your chessboard, weighted chess pieces, and even a digital chess clock in the bag before heading out to play.

2. Star Trek’s Tridimensional Chess

For someone who has mastered all the moves of traditional chess and wants to try something more challenging, Star Trek’s Tridimensional Chess is the perfect next step. And 3D chess (occasionally called space chess) doesn't deviate much from the classic design. Think of a chess board with three layers, each consisting of 4x4 squares, and an additional four 2x2 areas – making a total of 64 squares, just like regular chess. What sets it apart is the multi-level experience it brings to the table, quite literally.

This game brings together the brainy challenge of chess and the thrill of playing on different levels. It’s one of the perfect chess gifts for someone who's aced traditional chess and is ready to boldly go where no (ok, some) chess players have gone before.

3. The Camaratta Signature Championship Chess Table

Price: $1,195 at House of Staunton

If you plan to go all out and splurge on chess gifts, this championship chess table designed by the Maestro of chess design, Frank Camratta, is your go-to choice. The table has been thoughtfully designed to stay transitional with other furniture and even complements the room's interior. Whether having a laid-back chess evening or preparing for a serious tournament, this table will deliver a comfortable and stable gaming experience.

The roomy tabletop has enough space for a chess clock, scorepad, reference book, captured chessmen, and even provisions for a light snack and your favorite drink. Crafted from the finest Mahogany, this table stands tall at 30.5", with a playing surface measuring 38" long and 32" between players. Padded leather armrests will support you when thinking of your next chess move, while non-obstructive off-centered storage drawers keep the aesthetics clean.

4. A Good Chess Book

Chess books have been one of the oldest, tried-and-tested ways of learning chess strategies from experts like Aaron Nimzowitsch and David Bronstein. We live in a century where reading books might not be everyone’s favorite pastime, but you will still find many chess lovers who prefer to read paperbacks from or about their favorite grandmasters.

With the internet brimming with an endless river of chess books, picking the right one can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you're not a chess buff yourself. But fear not! Here are three fantastic options that would make perfect gifts for the chess player in your life:

“Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess” by Bobby Fischer, Stuart Margulies, and Don Mosenfelder

 Bobby Fischer is regarded as one of the greatest chess grandmasters in history. Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess is a book that has a special place in the hearts of many chess addicts because it's written by one. Packed with chess puzzles and instructions, this book is an excellent guide for players looking to sharpen their skills.

“My System” by Aron Nimzowitsch

Aron Nimzowitsch’s “My System” defines some of the most profound ideas and theories for positional chess. This book, dating back to 1925, has consistently ranked among the top five best-selling chess books ever. If someone is serious about taking their chess game to the next level, this book is a must-have, offering insights into positional chess that have influenced generations.

“Think Like a Grandmaster” by Alexander Kotov

Ever wondered how grandmasters think during a game? As the title suggests, this book provides a deep dive into the grandmaster's thought process. Alexander Kotov covers crucial aspects of chess, offering tools for tactical and positional growth. While more suitable for advanced players (1,600-2,200+ strength), it's a classic that stands firm.

5. Chronos GX Digital Game Clock, Touch