Compare Portable Electronic Chess Sets

Excalibur
New York Times Deluxe Talking Touch Chess
NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Saitek
Mephisto Maestro
Travel Chess Computer

Saitek
Micro Chess Computer

Key Benefit

Simple to read pieces, 500 puzzles to solve

Easy touch and key input, compact, backlight

Low cost

Key Shortfall

Larger than Maestro

Need good vision

Cursor move input

Product Rating

Top Play Level

2000 USCF

1800 USCF

1650 USCF

Levels

136 levels
500 puzzles

100
60 Fun, 40 Competition
64 Study Positions

50
FUN, CASUAL PLAY
64 Study Games

Tips/Hints

Y

Y

Y

Coach Mode

Y

Y

Y

Voice Mode

Y

-

-

Sound on/off

Y

Y

Y

Move Input

Stylus (touch screen)

Stylus (touch screen)

Stylus (touch screen)

Protective Case

Deluxe zipper case

Slim protective case

-

Backlight Option

Y

Y (bright)

-

Takeback Moves

Y

200 moves

Y

Unfinished Game Save

Y

Y

Y

Setup Position

Y

Y

Y

Built-in Clock

Y

Y

Size

6� x 3.5� x 3/4"

5� x 3 1/4" x 1/2"

5� x 3 1/4� x 3/4"

Power

Requires 2 AAA

Requires 3 AAA

Requires 3 AAA

Auto Power Down

Y

Y

Y