Chess Gifts for Every Budget

Buying for a chess player or someone who's always wanted to learn doesn't have to mean guessing at what they already own. Chess gifts range from small, thoughtful additions right up to genuine heirloom pieces, so whatever your budget, there's something that'll actually get used rather than left in a drawer. Here's how to shop by price point.

Under £30: Thoughtful and Practical

This budget is perfect for stocking fillers, "just because" gifts, or introducing someone to the game for the first time.

• A complete beginner starter set. A board, pieces, and everything needed to start playing straight away — ideal for someone who's mentioned wanting to learn but hasn't taken the plunge. Browse our non-electronic chess sets for options that include everything in one box.
• Cards vs Gravity Pro. Not chess, but a brilliant gift for the games-night crowd a gravity-defying, card-balancing party game for 2-8 players, with a carry case so it travels well. A great choice if you're buying for a group rather than one dedicated chess player.

£30-£100: A Genuine Step Up

This range is where you can gift something that feels like a real upgrade from a basic set, without needing to know every detail of what the recipient already owns.

• A themed chess set. For chess fans who also love film, TV or gaming, a themed set like Harry Potter, Batman, Star Trek, Jurassic Park, or Minecraft — turns a familiar game into something personal and display-worthy. These make particularly strong gifts for younger players or anyone who finds a plain board a little uninspiring.
• A dedicated chess clock. For someone who already plays regularly, a chess timer is the natural next purchase — it opens up faster games, proper time-control practice, and a more serious edge to casual matches.

£100+: The Serious Gift

If you're buying for someone who takes their chess seriously or want to make a real impression this is where electronics and craftsmanship come in.

• A DGT electronic chess board. For players who want to record games, play online, or practise solo, an electronic board is a genuinely useful upgrade, not just a novelty. Pair it with a DGT chess computer for an opponent that's always available.
• A Ferrer handcrafted wooden board. For the player who already has the equipment and simply wants something beautiful, Ferrer boards are handmade from premium woods like tulipie and olive, finished to be as much a display piece as a board to play on. This is the gift for someone who'll keep it out on a table, not in a cupboard.

Not Sure What They Already Have?

A few quick questions can save you from duplicate gifting:

• Do they play in person, online, or both? (Points you toward traditional vs electronic.)
• Do they already own a clock? (If not, it's a well-loved upgrade almost every regular player appreciates.)
• Is this their main hobby, or a casual interest? (Casual players lean toward themed sets and starter kits; committed players appreciate electronics or premium wood.)

Still stuck? Get in touch and tell us a bit about who you're buying for we're happy to point you toward the right gift rather than just the most expensive one.