How much does chess composition cost?

$63 buys all 3 essentials.

Everything essential, cheapest sensible pick

$63

3 items, nothing rented

What each thing costs

Every essential item, cheapest sensible option first. Mid-range and top picks alongside.

Books & Reference essential

mid $62top $38

$38

Chess Set essential

top $110

$16

Software & Databases essential

mid $50top $120

$10

All 3 essentials

$63

What you need

$63

Everything you need to start chess composition. None of it is a big commitment.

Chess Set

$16

A board and pieces to set and study positions away from a screen.

WE Games Weighted Wooden Chess Set

top $110

Software & Databases

$10

Solving and testing software to check a problem is sound and original.

Solving App + Engine

mid $50top $120

Books & Reference

$38

Anthologies and guides — how you learn the themes and craft.

Solving in Style (Chess Problems and Studies)

mid $62top $38

Cost questions

How much does Chess Composition cost to start?

About $63 for the 3 essential items, taking the cheapest sensible option for each.

What does each thing cost for Chess Composition?

Books & Reference: from $38. Chess Set: from $16. Software & Databases: from $10.

Is Chess Composition an expensive hobby?

Costs vary with the gear you pick. The list above shows the cheapest sensible option for each item.

What should I buy first for Chess Composition?

chess set, software & databases, books & reference — $63 together. They are the cheap half of the kit and the half you keep whatever you decide about the rest.

Start chess composition Chess Composition beginner guide