Chess is a beautiful game that is open to everyone. All you need to get started with a chess game is a chessboard and an opponent to play with.
You can choose from different boards, ranging from wooden, plastic, metallic, and even glass. Among these chess sets, the magnetic boards stand out as unique.
Quite literally, magnetic chess sets are designed so that the base of the pieces and the board attract each other.
These boards are convenient for players who want to play without concerns about losing pieces or the board’s portability.
Here are some of the best magnetic chess sets that will elevate your playing experience.
World Chess Travel Chess Set
The World Chess Travel Chess Set is a wonderful offering from World Chess, the same organization responsible for designing chess sets that have been used in every major World Championship in recent years, including the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2024.
Known for its high-quality chess set, the World Chess Travel Chess set maintains the same standard expected from a World Chess set.
The board features a 12-inch by 12-inch dimension, with each square measuring 1.2 inches by 1.2 inches and a king height of 2.2 inches.
The board is made of walnut and maple wood, and it is foldable with magnets securing it in place.
The pieces are wooden with classic world championship designs, suitable for both casual and tournament players. Each piece is uniquely hand-carved and magnetic, with a minimalistic, neat design.
Pros
- Portable: The set is foldable, making it easy to carry around, and the magnets ensure the piece stays and slides firmly on the chessboard during gameplay. It is a brilliant choice for players who play outdoors a lot.
- Durable Wood Material: Boxwood is used for the pieces, while maple and walnut are used for the board. This wood material is of top quality and can last for decades of use.
- Aesthetic Appeal: While not the most extravagant, this wooden board exudes a timeless aesthetic that enhances any setting.
Cons
- Not suited for tournament play: Because of the smaller form factor, it is not large enough for most competitive play.
Wooden Magnetic Travel Chess Set, 12″ Square
The Wooden Magnetic Travel Chess Set from the famed House of Staunton, known for its high-quality boards, this wooden set is large compared to other travel sets.
Similarly, the set features a 12-inch board crafted from golden rosewood and maple. The board strikes the perfect balance between size and portability.
Also, the board houses the pieces in a sliding drawer at the side of the board. The pieces are magnetic and attach to the board well, sliding perfectly during play.
With a king height of 2.25 inches and square sizes of 1.25 inches, it offers a comfortable size for most players. The pieces follow the common Staunton design, ensuring familiarity for most players.
Pros
- Portable: At 12 inches, it is portable for travel, and yet, it is not a cramped size to play on.
- Durable Wood Material: As with the rosewood and maple used to build the board, it is a high-quality build that would last for years if properly maintained.
- Aesthetic Appeal: This set maintains the luxury feel of a wooden chess set. As such, it can serve as a decor set.
Cons
- Inconsistent Magnets: Although it is not a major issue, I found that the magnets used at the base of each piece have varying strengths.
AMEROUS 15-Inch Magnetic Wooden Chess Set
With a foldable frame, the Amerous Wooden 15-Inch Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is a work of art. The wooden material used for the board is sturdy and of high quality.
In addition, the chessboard also doubles as a storage unit that houses all the pieces. The 15-inch size is perfect for any avid chess player.
Featuring a 3-inch king size, the piece features the Staunton design and is the ideal size for most outdoor play.
The set includes two extra queens out of the box for easy promotions during gameplay. With familiar Staunton-type pieces, it feels right in place for most players, as this is the most common chess piece design.
Pros
- Portability: The ability to fold the set into a smaller form factor makes it easy to transport. This makes handling the set convenient for travellers.
- Quality Build: The durability and quality of the wood material used for the board make it such that you won’t worry about it losing quality after short use.
- Decor Set: The look of the Amerous Magnetic Wooden Chess Set ensures it can serve as decor for rooms.
Cons
- Pieces feel light: While this is not a deal-breaker for most, I found the pieces are a little lighter than most chess pieces I have played on. Perhaps it would have been different if it were weighted.
- No Extra Queens: The set doesn’t come with extra queens, in contrast to other sets in a similar price range.
Chess Armory Magnetic Wooden Chess Set
The Chess Armory Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is a foldable set with a unique and quality wooden build.
The magnetic pieces ensure a secure grip on the board, allowing for uninterrupted gameplay even in outdoor settings.
The chess pieces have a minimalist design featuring the familiar Staunton design, making them feel right at home for all chess enthusiasts.
Featuring a 15-inch by 15-inch large board, handcrafted with a 3-inch-tall king. The whole package measures 2.1 pounds.
Pros
- Durable and Portable: Aside from the quality of wood used in this set, the foldable build of the Chess Armory Magnetic Wooden Chess Board makes it easy to store chess pieces. The smaller size and the ability to lock the pieces in place when folded are why it is ideal for travel. You don’t have to worry about losing any of the chess pieces.
- Aesthetic Appeal: As with wooden chess sets, this set is beautiful to look at.
- Extra Queen: The set has two extra queens included for easy promotion of pawns.
Cons
- Light piece: The pieces feel light, which may not suit players who prefer weighted pieces.
Chesshouse 16” Folding Magnetic Wooden Chess Set
This 16’ Folding Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is the most premium magnetic wooden chess set I have ever tried. With a 16-inch-wide chessboard, it is large even for tournament players.
The king size is about 3 inches, and the board square size is about 1.75 inches. The wood material is boxwood and sheesham wood, meaning the strength and durability are top-notch.
For the more professional players, I recommend this set.
Pros
- Large 16-inch Board: This is ideal for players who don’t appreciate playing on cramped boards. This way, you won’t miss any tactics on the board.
- Premium Wood Feel: This set from Chesshouse has the luxury feel that one would expect from a quality set. It can also serve as a decorative material.
- Durable: Built to last, the chess set feels sturdy to touch, and the pieces aren’t ones to break easily on dropping or with extended play.
Cons
- Not a Budget Purchase: Compared to other magnetic chess sets featured in this list, the 16-inch folding magnetic chess set is on the expensive spectrum.
Conclusion
It is important to take time in selecting the perfect magnetic chess set, as the choice of board enhances the joy and convenience of playing this timeless game.
Each set reviewed here offers its unique blend of portability, durability, aesthetics, and playing experience.
For those seeking a balance between portability and quality, options like the World Chess Travel Chess Set and the Wooden Magnetic Travel Chess Set from House of Staunton are excellent choices.
Their foldable designs and durable materials make them ideal for both casual and travel play.
Regardless of preference, any of the listed boards in this article will serve any chess player.