It would be a big shame if we passed on a review of one of the most iconic chess clocks in recent times: The DGT 2010.
This clock was the official clock used in the 2010 FIDE World Chess Championship between Viswanathan Anand and Veselin Topalov.
It’s also the most popular clock you’ll find at most FIDE-approved tournaments today. Knowing the history and status of this clock, we had to do a review.
Keep reading to find out our thoughts on the DGT 2010 Chess Clock.
The Packaging
The clock comes in white cardboard packaging that is built to prevent moisture or any other external agents that might deteriorate the clock.
An image of the clock can be seen on the cardboard, allowing you to get an early glimpse of the product.
Design of The Clock
Unlike other versions of DGT, like the 3000 and the North American, the DGT 2010 comes in a rather quiet brown color. It deviates from the flashy red and blue of the other DGT versions.
However, this does not mean the DGT 2010 is a dull-looking clock. The opposite is the case. It is built in an elegant and portable style with well-defined edges that provide stability on the board.
The buttons are well-placed and have a satisfying click when you press them, giving you a good feel as you deal damage to your opponent’s position.
The LCD display is clear, ensuring that you can quickly glance at the clock without any squinting or second-guessing.
Build Quality
The build quality of the DGT 2010 is one we can confidently vouch for. The clock feels solid in hand, and the construction is robust. It can handle the occasional bump or knock that comes with the intensity of competitive play.
This clock was able to bear the intensity of a world chess championship match, so you can be completely confident in its ability to handle the heat of your own games.
Battery Life
The battery life of the clock is very good. The clock is powered by 2 AA batteries. One installation can last you a very long time.
The clock comes with battery-conserving features that ensure the batteries do not drain any more than necessary.
Display
The clock has a wide display screen that shows the time allotted to each player, two king icons that signify where the time for each player is located, and an alphabetical addition that shows min (minutes) and sec (seconds).
The display is wide and has excellent visibility, meaning that you won’t have to strain your eyes to see the time.
Timing System
The DGT 2010 comes with 36 timing modes but 22 out of these are pre-programmed. This gives you a variety of options to choose from as each time system has its specialty.
To select a timing system, simply turn on the clock using the ON/OFF button located at the bottom of the timer. Then you can use the buttons available on the clock to select the time control you want to play and start playing.
The DGT 2010 Chess Clock offers an extra upcount timing method, which makes it suitable for use in other board games as well. You can use it for games like Go, draughts, shogi, scrabble, and many more.
Compatibility with Electronic Boards
The DGT 2010 is compatible with the DGT Electronics Sensor Board. This allows you to integrate the clock with the sensor board, and enable automatic and accurate move registration during your games.
Comparing The DGT 2010 with the DGT3000
The DGT 2010 is no doubt one of the best chess clocks out there. We decided to pit it against another powerhouse that is the DGT3000 and see how it would perform.
| FEATURES | DGT 2010 | DGT3000 |
| HIGHLIGHT MOMENT | It was used in the 2010 World Chess Championship match between Anand and Topalov | It was used in the 2014 World Chess Championship match between Carlsen and Anand |
| POPULARITY | Approved by FIDE and very widely used in FIDE tournaments | An emerging favorite among chess enthusiasts, fide approved. Not as widely used as the DGT 2010 |
| COMPATIBILITY | Very compatible with casual games, learning, and tournament use. Compatible with electronic boards | Compatible with tournament, casual, and learning situations. Also compatible with electronic boards. |
| EASE OF USE | Instructive manual, easy to set up when you learn the way it works | Instructive manual, but more complex settings. Better suited for advanced users |
| TIMING SYSTEMS | Comes with 22 pre-programmed timing systems | Comes with 25 pre-set timing systems |
While both clocks are exceptional in their own right, the DGT3000 narrowly takes the win owing to its slightly lower price and more robust timing system.
Cons of The DGT 2010
However, It isn’t all rosy with this clock. We found some things we were not comfortable with.
Learning Curve
While the clock comes with an instructive manual, it may take some time for some players to fully familiarize themselves with the ins and outs of the clock.
This might not be a problem if you are an expert with chess clocks, but for a newbie, it can prove challenging at first.
Limited Color Options
Unlike other chess clocks like the Leap KK9908 that come in different colors, the DGT 2010 doesn’t boast a wide range of color choices.
This may offer fewer personalization options for users who prefer a specific aesthetic.
Our Verdict
The DGT 2010 is an excellent chess clock in itself. And one can see that it is true in the way it is favored by the chess world.
It was even used at the highest possible level in chess. While it has a few cons like the limited colors, it is a chess clock worth the purchase.