Where to Buy Chess Equipment and Tournament Gear
The best places to buy chess sets, clocks, scorebooks, and tournament supplies — online stores, trusted brands, and what to look for.
Keep this guide handy — bookmark it for quick reference on tournament day.
The Short Answer
For tournament-legal equipment in the US, the most reliable sources are US Chess Sales, House of Staunton, and ChessHouse. For clocks specifically, DGT is the standard brand and is available through most chess retailers. Amazon carries many items but quality varies significantly — stick to known brands.
Trusted Online Retailers
US Chess Sales
uschess.org/shop
The official store of the United States Chess Federation. Carries tournament-legal sets, clocks (including DGT), scorebooks, and chess bags. A reliable first stop — everything they sell is appropriate for USCF-rated play.
House of Staunton
houseofstaunton.com
Specializes in premium chess sets and equipment. Their tournament sets are tournament-legal and well-made. Higher price point than basic sets, but excellent quality. Good source for a set you expect to last many years.
ChessHouse
chesshouse.com
A dedicated chess retailer with a wide range of sets, clocks, bags, and accessories across multiple price points. Good selection for both beginners and experienced players.
America’s Chess Equipment
A retailer focused specifically on tournament supplies — vinyl boards, plastic pieces, DGT clocks, scorebooks, and carrying bags. Practical and competitively priced.
Chess.com Shop
chess.com/shop
Chess.com has expanded into physical merchandise, including sets and clocks. Solid mid-range options, often with their branding.
Amazon
Amazon carries chess equipment from many brands at various price points. The risk is inconsistency — low-quality sets are listed alongside good ones. When buying from Amazon, search by specific brand (DGT, House of Staunton, Wegiel, Jaques) rather than generic search terms.
What to Buy: Quick Recommendations
Chess Clock
DGT North American — the standard clock for USCF tournament play. Most tournaments use this clock; your child should practice with the same model they’ll use in events.
Also widely used: DGT 3000, DGT Easy Plus. All are available from US Chess Sales and ChessHouse.
See our full chess clock buying guide for detailed recommendations.
Chess Set (Board + Pieces)
For tournament play: A green/white or blue/white vinyl roll-up board with a standard plastic Staunton-style piece set (king height 3.75”) is the typical combination used at scholastic and club events.
Recommended brands:
- Wegiel — affordable, tournament-legal plastic pieces
- House of Staunton (Triple Weighted) — heavier, more satisfying feel
- USCF Sales Club Special — good value for beginners
King size of 3.75” (95mm) is the standard for most USCF events. Some events use 3.5” — check your specific event if in doubt.
Scorebook
Any lined scorebook with pre-printed algebraic notation grids works. US Chess Sales sells official USCF scorebooks. Alternatively, print your own scoresheets — see our free printable scoresheet.
Chess Bag
A dedicated bag keeps everything organized for tournament day. Most chess-specific bags have slots for the clock, a board roll, and pieces. Not essential, but very convenient for frequent tournament players.
Buying for a First Tournament
If your child is playing their first tournament and you’re not sure how committed they’ll be, start simple:
| Item | Budget option | Where to get |
|---|---|---|
| Clock | DGT Easy Plus (~$40) | US Chess Sales |
| Set + board | USCF Club Special (~$20–30) | US Chess Sales |
| Scorebook | US Chess scorebook (~$5) | US Chess Sales |
Total first-tournament setup: ~$60–80. If they continue playing, you can upgrade the clock to a DGT North American and invest in a better set.
Local Options
Local chess clubs sometimes sell equipment at reasonable prices or can point you to local vendors.
Game stores occasionally carry chess equipment but selection is limited and prices vary.
School chess programs may have equipment available or know of group-buy opportunities through the school.
Brands to Know
| Brand | Known for |
|---|---|
| DGT | Chess clocks (industry standard) |
| House of Staunton | Premium sets and boards |
| Wegiel | Affordable tournament-legal pieces |
| Jaques of London | Historic, premium wooden sets |
| USCF Sales | Branded tournament supplies |
Also see: Best Chess Clock for Tournament Play | How to Set a DGT Chess Clock | Tournament Chess Gear Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring a clock to every tournament?
Not always, but it's strongly recommended. Organizers typically provide clocks for boards that don't have one, but you'll have less control over what clock you use. Having your own DGT North American or DGT 3000 means you can set it up correctly and won't have to wait.
Can I use any chess set in a tournament?
Typically no — for rated games, the organizer provides a standard set. You don't need to bring your own set unless the tournament specifically requires it (very rare at scholastic events). You do need to bring your own clock.
What is the difference between DGT North American and DGT 3000?
The DGT North American is the most common tournament clock in the US and is well-supported. The DGT 3000 is an older model, still valid but gradually being replaced. For new purchases, the DGT North American or DGT 2010 are the recommended choices.
Bookmark this guide for easy access before your next tournament.