Overview

The ChessUp 2 Electronic Chess Board by Bryght Labs is a smart chess set that brings a unique, interactive experience to players of all levels. This electronic chess board connects seamlessly to Chess.com and Lichess, enabling players to compete online without needing an additional device. Its TouchSense pieces light up to guide users through possible moves, errors, and blunders, making it an excellent tool for learning. The companion app adds value by offering personalized game reviews and improvement tips. With built-in WiFi, this chess board offers a streamlined, wireless experience perfect for beginners and experts alike.

Features & Benefits

This smart chess board is designed with customizable AI coaching that adapts to each player's skill level, making it ideal for both beginners and more advanced players. The wireless play feature allows users to compete directly through the board without requiring a phone or laptop. The interactive LED lighting for move visualization helps players understand the game better and avoid mistakes. Additionally, you can set up or recreate any chess position, test strategies, and improve your skills at your own pace using the built-in app and intuitive AI.

Best For

The ChessUp 2 is perfect for a wide range of users. It is especially beneficial for beginners learning chess, as the light-up pieces and AI assistance provide real-time guidance. Intermediate players looking to sharpen their strategies will appreciate the customizable AI coaching. Chess enthusiasts who want an engaging, smart way to play will find this electronic chess set a fun addition to their collection. Additionally, it’s an excellent tool for families and educators who want to teach children chess in an interactive and engaging way.

User Feedback

Many users praise the ChessUp 2 for its AI-driven guidance that helps them improve their chess skills, especially beginners who find the light-up feature extremely helpful. The companion app is frequently highlighted for its ability to track progress and offer game analysis. However, some users wish for more advanced customization options, particularly in terms of AI settings and game difficulty levels. Despite this, the overall feedback is positive, with most players appreciating the innovative approach to chess learning and its ease of use for casual or competitive play.

Pros

  • AI-driven coaching helps beginners improve at their own pace.
  • Light-up pieces visually guide users through possible moves.
  • No phone or laptop required for seamless wireless play.
  • Compatible with both Chess.com and Lichess for online matches.
  • Companion app allows for in-depth game analysis and progress tracking.
  • The smart chess board offers a hands-on learning experience for players of all skill levels.

Cons

  • The AI coaching may lack depth for advanced players seeking more challenges.
  • Customization options are limited, especially for advanced users.
  • Some users experienced connectivity issues with the app during game analysis.
  • The device’s touch-sensitive squares can sometimes be overly sensitive, leading to misinterpreted moves.
  • The board is relatively bulky and may not be ideal for portable use.
  • Some buyers feel the price is high for the features offered.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, the scores for this product reflect authentic feedback, filtering out spam, bot, incentivized, and off-topic reviews. Both the strengths and pain points of the ChessUp 2 Electronic Chess Board by Bryght Labs are considered in these ratings. The results highlight the device's overall value and performance, with some minor areas of concern noted by users, especially regarding customization options and app integration. The feedback is sourced from diverse locations, offering a broad perspective on this chess board’s appeal and functionality.

AI Coaching Effectiveness
91%
Many users praise the AI-driven coaching for its ability to adapt to various skill levels. Beginners find it especially helpful for learning new strategies and improving tactics. The personalized feedback and progress tracking make it a valuable learning tool for anyone looking to advance their chess skills.
Some users feel that the AI coaching could offer more challenging scenarios for advanced players. A few reviewers also mention that the AI doesn't always give nuanced enough advice in certain situations, limiting its usefulness for those seeking higher-level guidance.
Ease of Use
89%
The product is easy to set up and start using right out of the box. The intuitive interface, combined with the touch-sensitive pieces, allows for smooth gameplay. Most users report a hassle-free experience, especially with the wireless connection that eliminates the need for additional devices like phones or laptops.
A handful of users found the initial app setup a bit confusing and time-consuming. While the board itself is easy to use, some mention that the app could be more user-friendly in terms of navigation and game review features.
Wireless Play Experience
94%
One of the standout features of this chess set is its wireless play capability. Many users are impressed by how seamlessly it connects to Chess.com and Lichess without needing any external devices. The strong WiFi connection ensures smooth gameplay, even during long online matches.
While most users appreciate the wireless functionality, a few have mentioned occasional connection drops, especially in areas with weaker WiFi signals. Some also wish for more detailed troubleshooting support for connection issues in the companion app.
Build Quality
87%
The board's build quality is generally praised, with many users appreciating its sturdy, well-made design. The pieces are lightweight yet durable, and the overall feel is high-quality. The sleek, modern design adds to the overall appeal of the product.
A small number of users have reported concerns about the durability of the board’s surface, especially when it comes to wear and tear over time. Some have noted that the touch-sensitive squares might not respond as consistently after extended use.
TouchSense Features
85%
The TouchSense pieces are a standout feature for many users. They help guide players, especially beginners, by lighting up to show legal moves and mistakes. This visual feedback enhances the learning experience, making it easier to grasp the rules and strategies of the game.
Not all users find the TouchSense features as intuitive as expected. A few have mentioned that the lighting feature can be distracting or that it occasionally doesn’t register certain moves, making it less reliable in some situations.
Companion App Functionality
83%
The companion app is highly valued for its game review and analysis features. Many players enjoy the ability to study their matches, review key moments, and track their improvement over time. The app offers detailed insights that are helpful for both beginners and more experienced players.
Some users have found the app to be a bit slow or buggy at times, with occasional crashes or glitches. Additionally, a few feel that it lacks some advanced features, such as deeper analytics or more customization options for game reviews.
Customization Options
72%
28%
Users appreciate the customizable AI coaching options, allowing for different difficulty levels and personalized feedback. The ability to adjust settings based on individual progress makes the learning process more tailored and effective.
However, many users feel that there’s room for improvement in the level of customization. Some would like more options to modify gameplay features or to tailor the experience to their unique preferences, especially for higher-level players.
Interactive Learning
88%
The interactive features of the board, particularly the light-up squares, are frequently highlighted as great for learning. Many users report that these visual cues help solidify understanding of the game’s rules, especially for beginners who are just starting out.
While helpful for most, some users feel that the learning features might be too simplistic for more experienced players. The focus on beginner-friendly features can sometimes be limiting for advanced users who are looking for more challenging modes or deeper analysis.
Customer Support
78%
22%
When users have needed support, the response from customer service is generally prompt and helpful. Several buyers appreciated the detailed troubleshooting guides and assistance with setup issues. Customer support is available across multiple channels, which adds convenience.
However, some users felt that customer service could be more proactive and provide faster resolutions for more complex issues. A few reports mention that follow-up support after initial inquiries can sometimes be slow or insufficient.
Compatibility with Chess Platforms
93%
The ChessUp 2 seamlessly connects to major online platforms like Chess.com and Lichess, which is a huge plus for players who enjoy online competition. The easy integration allows for quick access to matches and a smooth gaming experience without technical hassles.
While most users are happy with the compatibility, a few have reported occasional syncing issues or delays when trying to connect to their Chess.com or Lichess accounts. These issues seem to happen sporadically and may be tied to WiFi signal strength.
App Integration with Games
81%
19%
The integration between the app and the board is mostly seamless, allowing players to track their progress, analyze games, and revisit key moments. Many users find this feature particularly valuable for improving their game and understanding past mistakes.
Some users have expressed frustration with the app’s performance, particularly with lagging or freezing during gameplay analysis. These technical hiccups sometimes make it difficult to get the full benefit from the app’s game review features.
Price-to-Value Ratio
90%
Most users feel that the product offers good value for its price, given the interactive features, AI-driven coaching, and seamless online play. The board's advanced technology and learning tools justify the cost for most buyers, especially those who are serious about improving their chess skills.
A few buyers feel that the price is on the higher side, especially when considering the limited advanced customization options and occasional technical issues. Some also believe that additional features could have been included for the price, like more advanced AI modes.

Suitable for:

The ChessUp 2 Electronic Chess Board by Bryght Labs is ideal for beginner and intermediate chess players looking to improve their skills in a guided and interactive manner. The customizable AI coaching is particularly beneficial for those new to chess or players looking to refine their strategies. Additionally, the intuitive design with touch-sensitive pieces and wireless functionality makes it a great option for families or educators teaching children chess. The companion app’s game review features also offer valuable insights for players eager to track their progress. Overall, this device is perfect for anyone seeking a smart, user-friendly tool to enhance their chess experience, whether for casual play or structured learning.

Not suitable for:

This electronic chess set may not be the best choice for highly experienced or advanced players. Some users have reported that the AI coaching, while useful for beginners, lacks the depth needed for higher-level challenges. Additionally, players who seek extensive customization options or advanced gameplay modes might find the features somewhat limited. The occasional issues with the touch-sensitive squares and app functionality could also be a downside for those expecting a flawless, high-end experience. Those looking for a more professional-grade chess board or one with deep customization options might be better served by other products.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: The product measures 15 x 14 x 0.04 inches, making it compact and suitable for various spaces.
  • Weight: The device weighs 5.14 pounds, providing a solid, yet portable build.
  • Recommended Age: The ChessUp 2 is recommended for players aged 6 years and up, making it suitable for children and adults.
  • WiFi Connectivity: Built-in WiFi enables seamless wireless play and online connectivity with platforms like Chess.com and Lichess.
  • TouchSense Pieces: The chess pieces are equipped with TouchSense technology, lighting up to indicate possible moves and errors.
  • AI Coaching: The product includes customizable AI coaching that adjusts to different skill levels for personalized gameplay and training.
  • App Integration: A companion app is included for analyzing games, tracking progress, and reviewing past matches.
  • Compatibility: The ChessUp 2 is compatible with both Chess.com and Lichess, allowing for a seamless online chess experience.
  • Interactive Lighting: LED lighting on the board visually guides players, highlighting potential moves and errors in real-time.
  • Wireless Play: The device supports wireless play without the need for a phone or laptop, offering a standalone gaming experience.
  • Game Replay: You can study and recreate chess positions using the board’s replay feature for deeper analysis.
  • Material: The board is made from durable materials designed for long-lasting use and optimal playability.
  • Power Source: The device is powered by an internal rechargeable battery, which provides hours of uninterrupted play.
  • Durability: The build is sturdy enough for regular use, though it's best suited for home setups rather than heavy travel.
  • Setup Process: Initial setup involves connecting the board to WiFi via the app and syncing it with your Chess.com or Lichess account.
  • User Feedback: The system is well-received for its interactive features, particularly its AI-driven guidance and light-up pieces.
  • Age Suitability: The product is ideal for both beginners and intermediate players, with features that assist learning and strategy improvement.
  • Customization Options: While the AI coaching is customizable, some users desire more granular control over settings and game difficulty.

FAQ

The ChessUp 2 is an interactive chess board with built-in WiFi, designed for players of all skill levels. It works by connecting wirelessly to online platforms like Chess.com and Lichess. The board features TouchSense pieces that light up to indicate possible moves and errors, providing real-time feedback to help improve your gameplay.

To set up the ChessUp 2, simply unbox the device, place the pieces on the board, and connect the board to WiFi through the companion app. Once connected, you can link it to your Chess.com or Lichess accounts for online play. The app also guides you through the initial configuration.

Yes, the ChessUp 2 can be used without a phone or laptop. It has built-in WiFi and allows for wireless play directly on the board. You can enjoy solo games or compete online through Chess.com or Lichess without needing additional devices.

The ChessUp 2 is designed to cater to beginners, intermediate players, and even chess enthusiasts. Its customizable AI coaching adjusts to your skill level, making it a great tool for learning or improving strategies. The interactive features, like light-up squares, help players at all levels engage with the game.

Key features of the ChessUp 2 include customizable AI coaching, touch-sensitive pieces that light up for move guidance, wireless connectivity for online play, and the companion app for game review and analysis. It also has the ability to recreate and study chess positions to improve your game.

Yes, the ChessUp 2 includes a companion app that allows you to analyze your games. You can review your moves, get feedback on potential errors, and track your progress over time. This makes it a valuable tool for both beginners and more advanced players looking to improve.

The ChessUp 2 is recommended for players aged 6 and up. Its interactive features, like the light-up pieces, make it particularly useful for beginners and younger players who are learning the game, while still offering valuable training tools for more experienced players.

The ChessUp 2 works with its own specially designed TouchSense pieces that light up to provide visual feedback. It is not compatible with traditional chess pieces, so you will need to use the pieces that come with the board for the interactive features to function properly.

While the ChessUp 2 is relatively lightweight, it is not designed for ultra-portability. With a weight of 5.14 pounds and dimensions of 15 x 14 inches, it’s suitable for home use or fixed setups. It may not be ideal for travel or frequent on-the-go gaming.

The ChessUp 2 offers some customization options, particularly in terms of AI coaching levels and the game analysis features. However, some users have noted that more advanced customization options, like adjusting difficulty levels or game settings, could be expanded for a more personalized experience.