Smart boardBest first smart board

Chessnut Air

by Chessnut

A compact board that recognises every piece and lights up your opponent’s moves. It is the board most people buy first.

$249.99at Chessnut, checked November 2026

View at Chessnut

Best forA first smart board, and playing online away from your desk

Made by: Chessnut
Type: Smart board
Opponent’s move: Lit squares show it; you move the piece
Needs a phone: Yes, for the app
Plays online on: Chess.com, Lichess
Board: 33 cm, wood and plastic
Pieces: Plastic, with full recognition
Connects: Bluetooth to the Chessnut app

Why we picked it

Full piece recognition, so you can set up any position
LEDs under the squares show your opponent’s move
Compact 33 cm board that packs into a bag

Keep in mind

Needs a phone or tablet running the app, and the pieces are light and small compared with a tournament set.

Compare

Alternatives at a similar price.

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Goes well with

Complete the kit.

Chosen because players widely use and recommend it, not because a maker paid to be listed. We don’t earn commissions from these links. Prices change often; check the store before you buy. About this guide