A chess clock gives each player their own countdown and stops one side as the other starts. A digital model also handles delay, bonus time and move counts, which a plain wind-up clock cannot. The main choices are the number of timing modes, how the clock is powered, its size and weight, and how the buttons feel under quick play.
The six clocks below run from light plastic timers to a metal-cased unit with a second display. Modes, power and sizes come from each listing page and are the makers’ own claims. We have not used these clocks ourselves. Where a listing disagrees with itself, we say so, and we dropped one clock whose page gave no readable data.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Timing modes | Delay, bonus and increment settings decide which formats you can play |
| Power | Check the battery type and whether batteries are included |
| Size and weight | A light clock travels, a heavy one stays put on the table |
| Controls | A lever, rocker or touch button changes how you press at speed |
Specs at a Glance
| Clock | Modes | Power | Size and weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chess Armory | Standard, bonus and delay | 1 AA | 4 x 1.5 x 2.5 in; 249 g |
| VINJOE | Basic, bonus, delay, positive time | 1 AA, not included | 5.11 x 3.43 x 1.58 in; 150 g |
| A and A | 38 presets | 2 AAA, not included | Not listed |
| DGT North American | 22 or 30 (conflict) | Not listed | 7.5 x 4 x 2 in; 399 g |
| DGT 2500 | Tournament options | 2 AA, included | 7.8 x 4.32 x 2.34 in; 320 g |
| TapNset-Pro | 1 to 40 minute modes | 3 AA, included | 8 oz; metal case |
The 6 Best Chess Clocks
1. Chess Armory Digital Chess Clock
A plastic portable timer for two players with a standard chess mode plus bonus time and delay. It runs on one AA battery, weighs 249 grams and measures 4 by 1.5 by 2.5 inches. The listing says it can time other two-player games as well. The table also shows a size of 20 inches, which does not match the other dimensions.
Suits: casual and travel play. Strengths: small body and a single AA battery. Weaknesses: a confusing size entry. Skip it if you want a large tournament display.
2. VINJOE Chess Clock Digital Chess Timer
A light plastic clock of 150 grams with four functions: basic, bonus, delay and positive time. The maker offers an 18 month warranty and a printed manual. It takes one AA battery that is not included, and the listed title is cut off at the end.
Suits: a lightweight bag clock. Strengths: four modes and a low weight. Weaknesses: no battery in the box. Skip it if you want a long list of presets.
3. A and A Chess Clock with 38 Tournament Modes
A minimalist clock with a rocker bar and 38 preset timing options, offered in black or white. The maker says two AAA batteries, not included, give more than 4,000 hours of play, and lists a quick reset, sound on or off, arbiter mode and a high-contrast display with move counts. Dimensions and weight are not on the page.
Suits: club players who want presets. Strengths: 38 modes and a rocker bar. Weaknesses: no size or weight listed. Skip it if you need to know the exact footprint.
4. DGT North American Chess Clock and Game Timer
A DGT clock with a large display and quick-set options for popular controls. The title mentions 22 preset timing modes and delay functions, while the details table says 30 settings, so the count is not consistent. It measures 7.5 by 4 by 2 inches and weighs 399 grams, the heaviest of the six. The page does not list the power source.
Suits: a sturdy table clock. Strengths: large display and several color options. Weaknesses: power not listed and a mixed mode count. Skip it if you need a very light clock.
View DGT North American Chess Clock and Game Timer on Amazon
5. DGT 2500 Official FIDE Chess Clock
A tournament-style clock that the maker says is approved by the International Chess Federation. The listing mentions a clear display, a more visible lever, a flag bar, optional automatic period transition and low energy use. It takes two AA batteries, which are included, measures 7.8 by 4.32 by 2.34 inches and weighs 320 grams.
Suits: club and event play. Strengths: batteries included and a visible lever. Weaknesses: larger than the pocket clocks. Skip it if you only play at home.
6. Professional Tournament TapNset-Pro Chess Clock, Metal Case
A metal-cased clock with stainless steel touch-sensing buttons and a dual display so spectators can see the time. The listing says it is programmable by phone app or by hand, offers delay, increment and Scrabble modes between 1 and 40 minutes, and was designed and assembled in the USA. It uses three AA batteries, included, and weighs 8 ounces. The brand shows as Generic and the page sits in Home and Kitchen.
Suits: players who want touch buttons and an app. Strengths: metal case and a second display. Weaknesses: an unclear brand entry. Skip it if you prefer a lever clock.
View Professional Tournament TapNset-Pro Chess Clock Blue – Metal CASE on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Install fresh batteries and set the time control before the first move.
- Keep the clock on a flat, stable part of the table.
- Agree on the delay or bonus rule with your opponent before you start.
- Remove the batteries if you store the clock for a long time.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying a clock without checking whether batteries are included.
- Assuming every listed mode count is accurate when a page shows two.
- Choosing a heavy clock for a travel bag.
- Skipping the manual for delay and bonus settings.
Chess Clock FAQ
What is the difference between delay and bonus time?
Delay holds the countdown for a few seconds at the start of each turn. Bonus adds time to your clock after each move. Check the manual for how your model handles each.
Can these clocks be used for other games?
The Chess Armory listing says it can time other two-player games, and the VINJOE lists use for board games. Check the others before you buy.
The Short Version
For a small clock, the Chess Armory. For a light four-mode model, the VINJOE. For many presets, the A and A. For a sturdy large display, the DGT North American. For tournament-style play, the DGT 2500. For touch buttons in a metal case, the TapNset-Pro.