What Is the Best Staunton Chess Set? A Buyer’s Guide

The Staunton chess set is the gold standard in chess design, recognized worldwide for its elegant craftsmanship, balanced weight, and ease of play. Since its official registration in 1849 by Nathaniel Cooke and its endorsement by Howard Staunton, this design has become the de facto tournament standard.

But with so many variations available, how do you choose the best Staunton chess set for your needs? In this guide, we’ll explore the top factors to consider when selecting the perfect set, and we’ll highlight five exceptional Staunton chess sets that stand out in terms of quality, craftsmanship, and value.

What to Look for in a High-Quality Staunton Chess Set

When selecting a Staunton chess set, consider these key factors:

1. Material Quality

A well-crafted Staunton chess set is made from premium materials such as:

• Ebony Wood – Luxurious, heavy, and durable.
• Boxwood – Common for white pieces, offering a smooth finish.
• Rosewood & Padauk – Exotic and rich in color.
• Ebonized Boxwood – Affordable but mimics real ebony.
• Weighted Resin or Plastic – Used for tournament sets.

2. Piece Craftsmanship

• Hand-carved knights with detailed facial features indicate high craftsmanship.
• Smooth lathe-turned pieces for uniformity.
• Felted bases protect the board and improve stability.

3. Weight & Balance

• Weighted chess pieces improve gameplay, preventing tipping.
• Heavily weighted sets (triple-weighted) are preferred for professional play.
• Tournament-grade sets typically have a King weighing 2.5 oz to 4 oz.

4. Size & Board Compatibility

• The King’s height should match the board square size:
  • 3.75-inch King → Standard tournament board (2-inch squares).
  • 4.4-inch King → Ideal for luxury display and analysis boards.
• Board materials matter: Mahogany, Walnut, and Rosewood are premium choices.

5. Historical Accuracy vs. Modern Refinements

• Collectors may prefer exact Jaques reproduction sets (1849, 1850, 1865 editions).
• Players may opt for modernized tournament Staunton sets with practical design adjustments.

The 5 Best Staunton Chess Sets to Consider

1. 1849 Jaques Staunton Chess Set – The Collector’s Choice

✔ Material: Ebony & Boxwood
✔ King Height: 4.4 inches
✔ Weight: Triple-weighted
✔ Best For: Historical collectors & luxury display

The Jaques 1849 Staunton Chess Set is a faithful reproduction of the original Staunton design that revolutionized chess. Featuring deeply hand-carved knights, extra queens, and historical authenticity, this is the ultimate choice for collectors who want a piece of chess history.

2. The Championship Staunton Chess Set – Tournament-Ready

✔ Material: Ebonized Boxwood & Boxwood
✔ King Height: 3.75 inches
✔ Weight: Tournament-weighted
✔ Best For: Club & tournament players

Used in official FIDE tournaments, this chess set meets all standard tournament regulations. The double-weighted pieces are designed for practical play, making it an excellent choice for serious players.

3. The Supreme Staunton Ebony Chess Set – Luxury Meets Functionality

✔ Material: Ebony & Boxwood
✔ King Height: 4 inches
✔ Weight: Heavily weighted
✔ Best For: Luxury chess enthusiasts & serious players

A perfect balance between luxury and playability, this set features ornate knight carvings with a solid feel in hand. Made from premium ebony, the dark pieces have a deep, rich appearance that ages beautifully over time.

4. The Leningrad Staunton Chess Set – Affordable Excellence

✔ Material: Acacia & Boxwood
✔ King Height: 3.9 inches
✔ Weight: Double-weighted
✔ Best For: Budget-conscious players & casual collectors

A cost-effective yet high-quality alternative to premium sets, the Leningrad Staunton Set is known for its beautifully hand-carved knights and durable craftsmanship. It provides excellent gameplay without the high-end price tag.

5. The Imperial Staunton Chess Set – A Grandmaster’s Choice

✔ Material: Rosewood & Boxwood
✔ King Height: 4.25 inches
✔ Weight: Triple-weighted
✔ Best For: Grandmasters, trainers & display

This prestigious Staunton chess set has been used by top grandmasters and is a staple in high-profile chess tournaments. The hand-polished rosewood finish gives it a regal touch, while the heavy weighting ensures excellent playability.

FAQs About Staunton Chess Sets

Q1: Why Are Staunton Chess Sets the Standard?

The Staunton design was introduced in 1849 as a universal chess piece style. Its recognizable shapes, durability, and practicality made it the official FIDE tournament set and the most popular design worldwide.

Q2: What Size Chess Set Do Grandmasters Use?

Grandmasters typically use a 3.75-inch Staunton chess set with 2-inch squares for FIDE tournament play. However, for personal use, some prefer 4 to 4.4-inch Kings for a more visually striking set.

Q3: What’s the Difference Between Jaques Staunton and Regular Staunton?

• Jaques Staunton sets are handmade reproductions of historical 1849-1900 designs, often featuring unique markings.
• Regular Staunton sets follow the same general shape but may have modern variations and materials.

Q4: How Do You Know If a Staunton Chess Set Is High Quality?

Look for:

• Hand-carved knights with detailed features.
• Heavy weighting for stability.
• Premium materials (ebony, rosewood, boxwood).
• Felted bases to protect the board.

Q5: What Is the Best Chess Board for a Staunton Set?

• For a 3.75-inch King → 20-inch chess board with 2-inch squares.
• For a 4-inch King → 21-22-inch board with 2.25-inch squares.
• For a 4.4-inch King → 23-24-inch board with 2.5-inch squares.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Staunton Chess Set

Selecting the best Staunton chess set depends on your needs, budget, and purpose. Whether you are a competitive player, collector, or enthusiast, there’s a perfect set for you.

• For collectors: The 1849 Jaques Staunton Set is a must-have.
• For serious players: The Championship Staunton Set is FIDE-approved.
• For a luxury experience: The Imperial Staunton Set offers the finest craftsmanship.

Investing in a high-quality Staunton chess set enhances your playing experience, preserves chess history, and serves as a cherished heirloom for generations to come.

♟️ Browse premium Staunton chess sets today at Official Staunton Chess Company!