How we choose chess sets
The criteria we use, where the facts come from, and how we handle affiliate links.
The criteria
We do not test sets, so we do not rank them by how they felt in the hand. We pick product types and listings by whether they suit a clear use, then check the listing's own facts.
| Criterion | What we look for |
|---|---|
| Fit with a real use | The set suits one job: learning, club play, travel, display or gifting. |
| Piece shapes | Staunton-style pieces that are easy to tell apart. |
| Size match | King height and square size that work together. FIDE's equipment standard is our reference: squares of 5 to 6 cm and a king of 95 mm. Check yours with the size calculator. |
| Materials and build | The material is named in the listing, and weighted or felted bases are stated where relevant. |
| Honest listing | Dimensions, material and contents are stated, so a buyer can check them. |
Where the facts come from
Product details come from the maker's page or the amazon.com listing. Rules and sizes come from FIDE, with a second source named on the page where we use one. If we cannot read a source, we do not cite it. We never state a price, rating or specification that the listing does not show.
How often we check
There is no fixed schedule. Each guide shows an updated date, and the tool pages show a "Last checked" date for their data. We re-check the listing details whenever we change a guide, and the date changes only when the content does.
Affiliate links
Some links go to Amazon through the Amazon Associates program, and we may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Links go to Amazon searches or listings, and they do not decide what we write. See the affiliate disclosure.
Related
About the site and the editorial policy.