Here’s a detailed review of the AMEROUS 15‑Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set — its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it might be a good fit for you. If you like, I can also pull up comparisons with similar sets in your area.
What It Is / Key Features
From the product listings and user reviews we know that this set includes:
- A 15‑inch folding wooden chessboard (approx. 15 x 15 in) with a hinge so that it closes like a box.
- Wooden pieces (standard Staunton style), with felt or cork bottoms, and magnetic bases to help pieces stay in place.
- Slots inside the board for storing the chessmen so that pieces don’t rattle or get lost when closed.
- Includes 2 extra queens (one for each color), which is useful in case of pawn promotion or in case of loss.
- A carrying bag / sleeve, often included in “travel” versions.
What’s Good (Pros)
- Portability & Travel‑Friendly
Because the board folds up and stores the pieces inside, it’s very convenient to carry around — for travel, cafés, car trips, etc. The magnetic pieces help ensure you won’t lose many pieces if the set is jostled.
Many reviews say the magnets in the bases are strong enough to keep pieces stable even if the board is tilted or bumped. This is a big plus in windy conditions or when playing on uneven surfaces. - Nice Aesthetics & Feel
Users like that it’s made of wood, traditionally styled, polished look, felt/cork bottoms, and generally a nicer appearance than plastic travel or economy sets. The finish aesthetics are often praised. - Good Value for the Price
Many buyers feel that for what it offers — wood, magnetic pieces, folding board with storage, extra queens — it’s a good deal. Especially for beginners, casual players, or travel use. - Storage & Organization
The slots inside the board help keep pieces protected and ensure that nothing rattles around or goes missing. That adds convenience.
What Could Be Better / Weaknesses (Cons)
- Quality Control & Inconsistencies
Some users report defects: scratches on the board, uneven staining, pieces or board arriving with visible imperfections, or weak hinges/clasps etc. - Magnet Strength / Stability
While many pieces are well‑magnetized, some reviews say certain pieces are weaker and move/slip if the board is tilted or held at an angle. Not always 100% secure in rough or very uneven settings. - Durability of Surface / Finish
The varnish or finish (especially around lighter‑colored squares) can wear off, scratch, or chip, particularly if the board is used frequently or handled roughly. Some users mention the finish is thin or less protective. - Storage Fit for Extra Pieces
The two extra queens are included, but in some reviews they don’t have a snug slot in the storage layout, or they are a bit loose when the board is closed. That means they might shift or rattle. - Exterior Case & Hinges
The folding board mechanism is useful, but hinges / clasps or the outer box can scratch surfaces, or the hardware may be less solid. Some reports caution about these damaging table surfaces, or the board not closing perfectly flat.
Who It’s Best For
This set works well for:
- Beginners / casual players who want a nicer set than simple plastic boards without paying premium prices.
- People who travel, move around, or like to carry chess sets to different places (cafés, parks, trips).
- Families or kids: magnetic pieces help with stability, and the wooden components make the experience more satisfying.
- As a gift: visually appealing, comes with extras, covers many bases.
Who It Might Not Be Great For
- Serious tournament players or those who want heavy, weighted pieces, flawless craftsmanship — this set has trade‑offs in durability and precision.
- Those very sensitive to quality flaws; if you want perfect finish, exact alignment, high end wood/varnish, you may find some sets less than ideal.
- Heavy daily use in rough environments likely to expose scratches, wear, or magnet wear.
- Users who need a set that sits flat absolutely, with rigid board; if the board warps or hinges loosen, may become annoying.
Overall Verdict
The AMEROUS 15‑Inches Magnetic Wooden Chess Set is a very good option in the “mid / travel / beginner” class of wooden chess sets. It offers much more than the cheapest sets — strong point is the combination of portability, magnetic pieces, storage, and a pleasant look — for a fairly reasonable price. You do accept some compromises in finishing, strength of magnet on some pieces, and occasional quality defects or cosmetic issues.
If I were to rate it (for a typical casual / travel use) out of 5, I’d give something like:
- Appearance / First Impression: 4.5 / 5
- Portability / Convenience: 4.5 / 5
- Piece Stability / Magnetic Function: 4 / 5
- Durability / Long‑term Wear: 3.5 / 5
- Value for Money: 4.5 / 5
- Overall: ≈ 4.2 / 5
