A game of chess requires minimal space to play, whether it’s played by amateurs at home or by Grandmaster members of the United States Chess Federation.
Ideally, a table for a standard USCF tournament set should be at least 30 inches (70 cm) on each side, which would be room enough for elbows, scoresheets, and any other chess supplies.
A standard chessboard has dimensions of 8 squares by 8 squares, making a total of 64 squares. Each square is typically between 2 to 2.5 inches on each side, which means a standard chess board measures about 16 to 20 inches (40 to 50 centimeters) on each side.
All things considered, the minimum table space that would be enough space for the players, clocks, and would be at least 24 (60 cm) inches on each side. That leaves 4 inches of clearance all round.
However, chessboards vary wildly in size and design. Let’s explore different chess board dimensions ranging from a tournament chess board size to domestic chess board dimensions.
So - How much space is needed for a chessboard? While the answer may seem straightforward, it's important to consider all aspects to make your experience fulfilling.
Common Chess Board Dimensions
Although there are standard and recommended dimensions for chessboards, some chess lovers appreciate the variety and customization that non-standard boards offer.
The image below shows the dimensions of a typical chess board.
Different sizes of chess boards can cater to specific preferences, playing environments, and aesthetic choices. For instance, a larger board might be ideal for a grand display in a living room, while a smaller one could be perfect for travel or compact spaces.
Moreover, players with visual impairments might prefer boards with larger squares for easier piece recognition. Chess House caters to these diverse needs by selling exclusive chess tables in nonstandard sizes, tailored to suit player specifications and enhance the playing experience.
The table below shows some common chess board dimensions in inches and centimeters.
|
Chess Board Type |
Dimensions (inch) |
Dimensions (cm) |
|
Popular Home Size |
16 x 16 |
40.6 x 40.6 |
|
Popular Home Size |
18 x 18 |
45.7 x 45.7 |
|
Popular Home Size |
20 x 20 |
50.8 x 50.8 |
|
Tournament Size |
21 x 21 |
53.3 x 53.3 |
|
Tournament Size |
22 x 22 |
55.9 x 55.9 |
|
Standard Square Size |
2 - 2.5 (per square) |
5.08 - 6.35 (per square) |
With our wide range of Specialty Chess Boards, you can express your personal style by buying and displaying an artfully crafted board from Chess House.
Even better, plan ahead for both play and storage by getting a chessboard with storage that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Don't forget to account for additional space around the edges of the chess board for a comfortable playing area.
Space Recommendations for Chess House Fine Folding Chessboard
As an example, take a look at the Chess House video below, which shows the size and spacing of one of our fine hardwood folding chessboards.
This is a common chess board size, but boards vary in height depending on the design. For example, the folding chessboard shown in the video above has a height of 0.75”, which is about the standard height of most chessboards.
On the other hand, ornamental boards may be much taller, depending on the aesthetic of the board. Some of our most unique boards, such as the Gold and Silver Egyptian Chess Set and the Medieval Knights 3D Chess Set, may be as much as 9” high.
Different chess board dimensions cater to different game types and personal preferences, so consider all that when setting aside space for a play area.
Regulation Chess Square Sizes and Dimensions: FIDE
The World Chess Federation (FIDE) sets recommendations for chess board square sizes. Current regulations (as of 2024) set the standard chess square between 1.5 inches and 1.75 inches square.
The 1.5” square size is considered “standard” and is perfect for traditional chess pieces with a 2.5” or 3” king.
Next, the 1.75” “executive” size is at least 4” larger on every side, but still plays comfortably and fits nicely on most coffee tables or end tables. Boards with this square size are suitable for larger chess sets with a 3” or 3.5” king.
Other chess square size options include:
- 2” square (18” to 22” overall): smaller than tournament size and suitable for 3.75” to 4” chessmen
- 2.25” square (19” to 23” overall): this is the typical professional or tournament chess board size, suitable for chess pieces with a 3.75” to 4.25” king
- 2.5” square or larger: much larger than standard chess boards, being at least 24” overall; they’re perfect for chess sets with a 4.5” tall king or larger
In addition to being perfect for tournament play, the 2.25” and 2.5” square size chess board dimensions are best for display where you want the set to be a focal point in the room. Their large, imposing size makes them perfect for ardent chess enthusiasts.
As a rule of thumb, the king’s base diameter should fill 75 to 80% of the chess square. For example, see how the king fills out the square in the image below. Else, get a board and set combination at once, which is guaranteed to be a perfect fit.
Chessboard Perimeter Spacing Guidelines
The chess board’s wooden perimeter provides visual balance, enhancing the board’s appeal. It provides a visual transition from the board to the table and protects the playing surface from knocks and dents.
Ideally, your table should add at least a few inches on either side for pieces that are not in play, a timer, and other essentials.
Also consider elbow and leaning room, particularly for longer, more complex games, but avoid having too much space in front of either player. Allow 2 to 3 inches between the chess board and each player to ensure a comfortable reach and up to 7 inches, if you are including an elbow and leaning area.
See the ideal chess spacing in the image below.
As you can see, the space in front of each player is less important than the width available next to the chessboard. That’s where the pieces that are out of play will go, as well as scorekeeping materials, training materials, and anything else you need for your game.
If spacing is a problem, get a dedicated chess table like the one below. It doesn’t have as much perimeter space, but it fits nicely in almost any living room or game room. This lack of space would also make it poorly suited for tournament chess.
Proper Storage of Your Chess Sets
In addition to display space, proper spacing for a chess set should also take into account storage solutions. Taking good care of your chess board and set combination ensures longevity and maintains quality.
If your chess set comes with its own case, be sure to pack it away after every use to avoid damage. You can also buy a separate chess bag and case for most chess sets, whether folding or not.
Our expertly crafted standard chess board or tournament-size boards can also be laid out flat on a table for ornamental display. That way, you don’t have to worry about storage, and you can hop into friendly play at any time without needing to set up a game each time.
For example, a display chess piece and set combination, such as the Sydney Gruber handpainted set shown below, makes perfect sense for any home.
However, make sure you have enough space for the board and avoid placing any heavy or sharp objects on your chess set.
How to Store Folding Chessboards
Folding chess boards take up much less space. These boards usually have hinges to aid their unique folding design, making them compact and easy to store.
Get creative with the storage of your folding chess board by placing some chess pieces on top of it for an artistic display as shown in the image below.
Or, demand attention by using your folding chess board as a standing ornament with a few strategically placed chessmen on guard, as in the image below.
Take particular care when storing your folding chess board to avoid stressing or damaging the hinges. If you put a few pieces out on display, pack the excess pieces away in a basket or soft cloth bag to avoid damage.
|
Important : This 21" Folding Player's Chessboard JLP is exclusive to Chess House. It’s made in limited quantities and is in stock occasionally. Grab yours when you still can! |
Summary: Shop Unique Chess Kits at Chess House
Now you know that chess boards don’t always come in standard sizes. Even the regulations set by the World Chess Federation (FIDE) and the United States Chess Federation are more guidelines than strict rules, except when talking about sourcing a standard or tournament-sized board for tournament play.
Chess board dimensions vary widely when you’re getting an exclusive set for individual play. If you’re a seasoned player, you’ll want to ensure you get the correct board size to suit the chessmen you already have or want to buy.
If you’re a novice, the rule of thumb is to make sure the king’s base diameter covers 75% to 80% of the chess square space. This ensures maximum coverage, while the rest of the board dimensions can be given up to aesthetics and comfort.
With that in mind, you’re now all caught up on chess board dimensions, chess square size, and chess board storage. If you’re still confused, get a standard USCF tournament set approved for competitive play or talk to the friendly team of chess experts at Chess House.
We’re always happy to chat about chess, hear your feedback, and help you acquire a set you can be proud of for decades. Talk to us now.
4 comments
Jerry Ballinger
I have to agree with Jim. This looks like a fine chess board but one of its main features is that it folds up for storage. Before I lay out $300 for a board I would have to know every thing about especially details of the hinge area
Raphael
More photos will be coming in May 2018 showing the hinge side in detail, an nice brass hinges, the invisible barrel hinge. The reason it’s not shown in the photos or video yet is that it would show the core of the board which would not be seen in the actual production version. When the actual board is produced and available it will look even better in the hinge area than it does right now. The hinge is completely invisible from the upper or lower surface of the board when the board is flat. There’s no tape or tacky techniques.
Alan Penberthy
Very nice.,when I need a new board this will be it!
Jim Dautremont
It is a bad idea to hide from us how the new folding chessboard folds. A full disclosure of the folding mechanism is essential to a potential buyer. Caveat emptor! You should clearly show ALL of it to us so that we can make our own determination of desirability for our purposes. My current impression is that it is held together by some kind of tape. That would be tacky. On the other hand, if it is held together by a nice brass piano hinge, or some other nifty mechanical device(s), it could be highly desirable. As it is now, the customer is being kept in the dark about this very important aspect of the new board. Customers want full disclosures. Anything else makes us uncomfortable at best.
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