If you’re on the hunt for the perfect chess set for your kid, one that’s not just fun but actually teaches them the game, you’ve probably realized how overwhelming the options are.
Some are flashy but fall apart in a week. Others are sturdy but too complicated for young learners.
The best ones strike a balance: they’re fun, built to last, safe for small hands, and ideally sneak in a little education along the way.
That’s why we’ve rounded up five of the best chess sets for kids you can find right now.
1. Story Time Chess Set
This isn’t just a chess set; it’s an entire chess universe wrapped in fun stories. The Story Time Chess set teaches each piece’s movement through character-based tales that kids actually want to listen to.
Your knight isn’t just a horse; it’s a silly character on a mission with a reason to jump in L-shapes.
Why It Stands Out
- Educational value: Makes learning intuitive through storytelling.
- Kid-first design: Chunky, easy-to-grip pieces; no sharp corners.
- Safety: Everything’s well-crafted and non-toxic.
- Durability: Cards, boards, and pieces are sturdy enough to survive spills and tosses.
If your child is imaginative or loves bedtime stories, this set is a genius gateway into chess.
The Story Time set is also the most awarded children’s board game in history, with over 17 prestigious awards.
Best for: Kids aged 3–8 who’ve never played chess before.
Price: $40
2. Hurdaos Magnetic Tournament Chess Set
The Hurdaos Magnetic set blends portability with tournament-board-level style. The pieces are weighted and magnetic, which means fewer lost pawns under the couch and smoother play overall. This set feels a little more “grown-up,” which is perfect for kids who want to move past cartoons but still need user-friendly features.
Why It Stands Out
- Portability: It folds up with storage inside, and magnets keep things in place.
- Design appeal: The wood-style finish gives it a classic tournament look.
- Durability: Made from tough plastic with good heft. It won’t crack if dropped.
Think of it as a “training wheels off” kind of set; it respects a kid’s growing skill without overwhelming them.
Best for: Older kids (7+) who are starting to take chess seriously.
Price: $40
3. Fun Family Chess Set
The Fun Family Chess set makes learning a game within a game. With its color-coded guide, players roll a die that tells them what moves to make, so kids learn piece movement without needing to memorize anything upfront. It’s a smart way to get the whole family playing without pressure or confusion.
Why It Stands Out
- Educational value: Perfect stepping stone for total beginners.
- Kid appeal: Bright, simple visuals with cheerful instructions.
- Portability: Comes with a box that doubles as a board.
With this set, parents will appreciate that they don’t need to know chess themselves, as the system teaches everyone as they go.
Best for: Families with kids who want to learn together.
Price: $25
4. Cardinal Classics Strategy Chess Set
Not every chess journey starts with a deluxe set, and that’s totally fine. The Cardinal Classics Strategy Set is a great basic option for beginners. It doesn’t come with stories or color coding, but it gives you the full board and classic pieces.
Another plus is that the set comes with labeled pieces that indicate how each of them moves.
Why It Stands Out
- Price point: Super affordable entry-level choice.
- Design: The pieces are labeled to show how they move.
If you’re not sure your kid is going to stick with chess, this is a risk-free way to start.
Best for: Kids who want to try chess without a big upfront investment.
Price: $13
5. iCore Electronic Chess Set
For kids who love gadgets, the iCore Electronic Chess Set turns chess into an interactive learning adventure. With a built-in voice-guided AI, it teaches rules, suggests moves, and plays back, making it perfect for beginners and curious minds.
The sensor-based board responds to every move in real-time, offering multiple game modes and skill levels. It’s screen-free, smart, and keeps kids engaged while building strategy skills.
Why It Stands Out
- Kids get to learn as they play with AI support
- Great for solo or head-to-head games
- Educational and super fun
This set is ideal as a birthday gift or reward and it gives kids a sense of pride in learning the game.
Best for: Kids who love gadgets and chess.
Price: $90
Final Thoughts
Every kid learns differently. Some need stories and color guides, others just want to feel like a champion in training. No matter your preference, these five sets cover every stage of the journey.