What chess to buy? Practical guide for beginners (2026)
"Chess is not just a game — it is a ritual.
And a good set is its heart." (Artificialis Inteligentia)
Quick response (for those who want to get to the point)
The best chess for beginners is a Staunton style wood set, size 4 or 5.
It offers good visibility of the pieces, durability and comfort both at home and in more serious games.
Which chess to choose – quick selection (checklist)
For beginners:
- Staunton, size 4 or 5
For children:
- larger pieces
- stable base
For home:
- wood
- folding board
For gift:
- aesthetic wooden sets
Wooden vs Plastic Chess (Comparison)
Wooden chess:
- durable
- stable
- elegant
- better for playing frequently
Plastic chess:
- cheaper
- light
- ideal for school and travel
👉 Conclusion: wood is the best option for home and learning.
What size chess is best?
| Size | for whom | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | children | basic learning |
| 4 | beginners | home, leisure |
| 5 | advanced | tournaments |
👉 Most universal choice: size 4 or 5
What is the Staunton style?
The Staunton style is the standard chess piece design used throughout the world.
Why choose it:
- easy recognition of parts
- meets tournament rules
- universal design
👉 If you don't have experience or clear preferences — choose Staunton.
What chess to choose for a child?
The ideal is:
- larger pieces (size 4 or 5)
- board with good contrast
- solid construction
- wood instead of plastic (more durability)
- simple design (makes learning easier)
Common mistakes when buying chess
- sets too small
- impractical decorative designs
- very cheap low quality models
- not adapting the set to the player's level
Recommendations (practical choice)
For most people, the best option is:
- Staunton style wooden chess
- size 4 or 5
- classic folding board
👉 It's a set that works for years — from the first games to a more advanced level.
Summary
The best chess to learn is a Staunton wooden set in size 4 or 5, as it combines clarity, durability and tournament standard.
It is the most universal option for beginners and intermediate players.
Additional expert advice
If you view chess as more than just a casual game, choosing a good set from the start makes a big difference.
Comfort when playing directly influences how quickly you learn… and how eager you are to get back to the board.
Choose the chess set you've always wanted
Which chess is best to start with?
A Staunton style wooden chess set in size 4 or 5. It is the most balanced option to learn and improve.
Is wooden chess better than plastic chess?
Yes, especially for home use. Wood is more durable, stable and comfortable to play.
What size chess to choose?
Size 4 or 5 is the most recommended, as it offers good visibility and comfort during play.
Is it worth buying an expensive chess set at the beginning?
There's no need. A set of medium quality wood is enough to start and progress.
Does chess improve intelligence?
Chess helps develop memory, concentration and logical thinking with constant practice.
