The geometric pattern of a chess board may seem very basic. But so many minute details are taken care of when it comes to a real tournament chess board.
Are you excited to find out? Make your first move now. Let’s begin.
Tournament Chess Boards – The 8X8 Grid of Colored Squares
What’s the first thing that strikes you when you see a chess board?
“It’s not an easy sport,” Isn’t it?
But for someone who admires Chess as a sport, there is a lot to think about while looking at a chess board.
No. We’re not talking about calculating moves but the standards that a real tournament chess board should meet. Just because it appears like a grid of 64 alternating-colored squares doesn’t make one a tournament chess board.
Starting from the dimensions of the squares to the relationship between the size of the squares and pieces used, original tournament chess boards are made by following numerous rules and guidelines of the sport set by the International Chess Federation FIDE(Fédération Internationale des Échecs).
You seem interested! Let’s learn more about the tournament chess boards.
What is a Tournament Chess Board?
You must be wondering why we are mentioning the ‘Tournament Chess Board’ again and again and not just a chess board.
The reason behind this emphasis is to make you aware that there is a big difference between what is sold in the market as the game of Chess and what it is in reality.
Any board of colored grids doesn’t justify the true identity of Chess as a sport. Moreover, it is essential for any serious player to get used to playing on chess boards that adhere to the standardized guidelines.
Now, coming back to our main question of what a tournament chess board is. Here’s an answer for you.
‘Tournament Chess Boards are precisely crafted chess boards that are designed to meet the standards defined by official chess organizations and are used in chess tournaments.‘
Easy to understand the gist. Right?
Moving further in the game, let’s discuss what differentiates a tournament chess board from an ordinary board.
Tournament Chess Board Vs. Ordinary Chess Board
Several factors differentiate tournament chess boards from ordinary ones. Let’s look at some of the most important ones one by one.
#1 Is The Size and Dimensions of Tournament Chess Boards
As mentioned earlier in this blog, tournament chess boards are designed to adhere to the regulations set by official chess organizations like FIDE. In contrast, ordinary boards come in various sizes and follow no standard dimensions.
The tournament chess board size is 20 inches, measuring the same on all sides. The size of each square of a tournament chess board may range from 2 to 2.5 inches(as per the United States Chess Federation).
Not only the size of the board, tournament chess boards are accompanied by pieces of relative standard size where the King’s height can be between 3.375 inches and 4.5 inches.
*Dimensions of a standard tournament chess board according to USCF – Square Size: 2.25 inches and King’s height: 3.375 inches.
It is important to note here that the size of a tournament chess board may differ from country to country.
#2 Is The Piece Guidelines
There is a well-defined relation between the square size of a tournament chess board and the pieces to be used for playing the sport.
While it is usually not given enough weightage in ordinary chess boards available in the market, the tournament chess boards designed by prestigious chess board makers follow the guidelines very strictly.
As per both FIDE and USCF, the diameter of the King’s base should be no more or less than 40%50% of the King’s height. Moreover, the base diameter of the King and the size of the square have to be in a proper ratio.
In premium tournament chess boards, the base diameter of the King is 75-80% of the square size, which then allows proper spacing between the pieces.
Related Reading: How to Measure a Perfect Chessboard for a Particular King Size
Avoiding this important factor leads to an overcrowded board, which doesn’t fit in the category of tournament chess boards.
#3 Design of Tournament Chess Boards
There is no way that an ordinary chess board having irregular contrast between the squares can offer a professional atmosphere to the players. Only tournament chess boards designed by considering the rules offer a conducive environment for the players who play or wish to play high-level chess tournaments.
Top quality tournament chess boards are designed with a clear and consistent contrast between the squares with no other irregularity, so the players can only focus on their game and face no distractions.
It is enough for any chess enthusiast to understand why they should buy a tournament chess board, not an ordinary one.
Let’s jump on to another exciting part – the color of tournament chess boards.
Tournament Chess Board Color Options
There is a lot of information on the internet about what color combination is ideal for tournament chess boards. Stay clear now. We’ve got the precise answers to your questions.
Tournament chess boards are designed with specific color schemes and other standard specifications. You may find chess boards available in several color combinations, but here are the most preferred ones when it comes to tournament chess boards –
- A combination of Black and White
- A combination of Brown and other light shades like Off-white
- A combination of Green and Cream
Though you can find chess boards in various schemes and choose as per your interest, these are the top preferred colors for tournament chess boards.
But do you know why the high contrast combination is essential in tournament chess boards?
It enhances visibility and allows easy differentiation between pieces. It also reduces the chances of errors for players, as Chess is a time-sensitive sport.
So, players, are you ready to buy your new tournament chess board?
Great!
“But is it expensive? How much money do I need to buy a tournament chess board?” We saw it coming. It is inevitable to have these questions. Read below to find the answers.
Do you need help picking the best tournament chess board? Here are some tips for you.
Cost of Tournament Chess Boards
After reading so many specifications about Tournament Chess Boards, Chess tournament rules, chess board sizes, etc., you must wonder if it is a costly affair to buy tournament chess boards.
What if we tell you that you can get one under $100? Does it surprise you? Absolutely!
At Chessbazaar.com, you can find premium tournament chess boards under US $100 and more options of tournament chess boards with coordinates. Chessbazaar.com is one of the most prestigious stores where you can find high-quality wooden and other materials for tournament chess boards at unbelievable prices. It is one of the most preferred names by chess players, collectors, and connoisseurs for finding everything you need to elevate your game of Chess, from wooden tournament chess boards to magnetic chess sets.
Some of the best-selling tournament chess boards on Chessbazaar are
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Tips to buy Tournament Chess Board
Check the design specifications
Look at the size and dimensions of the tournament chess board and check if it follows the standard guidelines mentioned earlier in this blog.
Consider the material
Quality chess boards made with premium quality wood or other durable materials and designed with the official guidelines of the sport are perfect for picking. Do make sure that the chess board is not made with any type of glossy material.
Compatibility of Board and Pieces
Make sure to check if the size of the pieces is well in proportion to the size of the squares of your tournament chess board.
Check the Reviews
After checking the product information, look at the reviews section and see what previous buyers have to say about the tournament chess board.
Consider your purpose and price
Take a final call on why you want to purchase the tournament chess board, and if it fits your requirements plus your budget, go ahead and buy it.
Don’t let anything hold you back. Find your favorite tournament chess board online on Chessbazaar.com now.
Choose the Right Tournament Chess Board
Given the fact that different organizations like FIDE set up several chess tournament rules, it isn’t easy to find an actual tournament chess board, and that too in budget.
With Chessbazaar.com, you can access a wide range of precisely made tournament chess boards starting at just US $100. You get everything you need in your tournament chess boards, from quality materials to highly accurate dimensions.
Have any doubts? Make another brilliant move and contact us. We’ll be happy to help. For latest product launch follow us on our social media channels: facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube
