Best Backgammon Set: 18 Best Boards (2022)

The best backgammon set can be hard to choose when there are so many available. Whether you are just starting out or are a serious player, we want to make your choice easier.

Included in this list you’ll find the best quality backgammon set you can buy on a budget, the best travel backgammon set, the best wooden backgammon set and more.

If you have never played before we have recommended some affordable boards that are a no-brainer. Just buy one and get started!

Remember, there is no reason why you can’t have more than one backgammon set. Most keen players end up with more than one board.

They are kind of like shoes: there’s a backgammon set for every occasion. So you don’t think you have to just choose only one!

Let’s get started.

Best Backgammon Boards: A Quick Summary

In a hurry and just want to know which to buy right now? We’ve carefully picked the top three best backgammon boards for you to choose from.

1. Best Backgammon Set to Buy Right Now

Get The Games Out Top Backgammon Set (Medium)

Best for: The best all-round starter board suitable for everyone.

Budget: Under US$70

2. Nice Backgammon Set at a Reasonable Price

Silverman & Co 19-inch Premium Backgammon Set

Best for: When you don’t mind paying a little extra for a quality board.

Budget: Under US$200

3. The Best Travel Backgammon Set

WE Games Magnetic Backgammon Set - Travel Size

Best for: Maximum portability and versatility.

Budget: Under US$50

Best Backgammon Set: The 18 Best (2022)

Ready to learn more about the range of backgammon boards available? No matter what your budget or who you're buying for, you'll find the perfect board from our list below.

1. Best Backgammon Set to Buy Right Now

Get The Games Out Top Backgammon Set (Medium)

Best for: The best all-round starter board suitable for everyone.

Budget: Under US$70

This backgammon set is an extremely popular choice that is perfect for those who have never owned a board.

• With over 10,000 glowing ratings on Amazon, you don’t even need to think twice. If you need to buy a backgammon set right now, then this is it.
• You have probably seen this exact backgammon board before in someone else’s home. It’s a classic standard backgammon set that belongs in every board game collection.
• The medium size is ideal for playing at home, and perfect for taking along to a friend’s house, the pub, park or on holiday.
• Get The Games Out make this backgammon set in 3 different sizes (small, medium and large) and 6 unique color combinations. If in doubt, go medium in brown. It’s a no brainer!

Materials: Faux leather exterior, felt interior with leatherette accents.

Size: 15 x 9.5 x 2 inches (closed) / 19 x 14.75 x 1 inches (open)

Pros: Felt interior provides a quiet base when rolling the dice and a smooth surface to slide the checkers on.

Cons: This is an entry level board perfect for your board game collection. However once you get more serious about the game you might desire a more luxury backgammon set.

2. Nice Backgammon Set at a Reasonable Price

Silverman & Co 19-inch Premium Backgammon Set

Best for: When you don’t mind paying a little extra for a quality board.

Budget: Under US$200

Silverman & Co have a fantastic reputation in the backgammon community for excellent quality and affordability.

This is why seasoned players often recommend Silverman & Co for a fantastic premium-standard starter backgammon set.

• The elevated standard of materials and construction will strike you as soon as you unbox this beauty.
• Experienced backgammon players always prefer a larger playing surface, and you’ll see why with the glorious game play offered by this 19” board.
• You’ll notice how smoothly the pieces move across the soft felt playing surface. The dice and checkers have a nice, heavy and solid feel.
• This backgammon board is a pleasure to play with, and will significantly increase your enjoyment of the game.

Materials: Premium leatherette exterior, padded felt playing surface, nickel latches, ergonomic dice cups with smooth felt lining.

Size: 19 x 12.6 x 2.75 inches, doubling cube: large 1”, dice: 5/8”

Pros: You will not get a better set for this price.

Cons: This is not a travel set. For that you’ll want something smaller and lighter.

3. The Best Travel Backgammon Set

WE Games Magnetic Backgammon Set - Travel Size

Best for: Maximum portability and versatility.

Budget: Under US$50

This little backgammon board is idea for travel no matter where you’re going: a road trip, business trip, weekend getaway, plane trip, overseas holiday, beach-side resort, cabin in the woods, the pub, a wine bar, a friends house or the park.

• The size is ideal for popping easily into a backpack or shoulder bag, and the wrist strap makes it easy to carry.
• The magnetic pieces are essential for travel. Whether you’re on a bumpy train, a packed plane or a busy bar, you won’t risk losing any pieces.
• This travel backgammon set is lightweight and offers excellent durability. WE GAMES has been making traditional board games since 1977, so its a brand you can trust.
• This backgammon set comes in black, navy, burgundy or a cool antique world-map print, so you’re sure to find one that suits your style.

Materials: Faux leather exterior, velvety soft felt interior, leatherette points, magnetic surface and pieces, leatherette dice cups with felt lining.

Size: Closed: 9.125 x 7 x 2.134”, Open: 14 x 9.125 x 1.026”

Pros: Everything about this backgammon set is designed with travel in mind.

Cons: As you can imagine with a travel size backgammon set, the playing field is small.

4. Travel Backgammon Set (Best Mid-Range)

Silverman & Co. 13-inch Premium Backgammon Set - Travel Size

Best for: Holidaying in style

Budget: Around US$100

What sets this Silverman & Co. travel backgammon set apart, is its elegant design, attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship .

• Premium materials make for an elevated playing experience that is leagues above a budget travel backgammon set.
• This board would not be out of place on a first class flight, in the bar of an expensive hotel or by the poolside at a 5-star resort.
• The best thing: achieving a luxury feeling with this beautiful backgammon set will only set you back around $100.

Materials: Premium leatherette exterior, playing surface is an ultra fine padded felt, ergonomic oval dice cups with smooth felt lining.

Size: 13” x 9 1/4” x 2 1/2” (closed), checkers: 1” diameter and 1/4” thick

Pros: With this classy travel backgammon set you can travel in style.

Cons: Some reviewers complain the included dice are on the small side. But these can easily be replaced. Board and pieces are not magnetic.

5. Travel Backgammon Set (High-end)

Zaza & Sacci® Leather Backgammon Set - Model ZS-242 - Travel - Blue

Best for: Travellers who enjoy the finest things in life.

Budget: US$900

This exquisite Zaza & Sacci leather backgammon set takes travel backgammon to the next level.

• You’ll love playing backgammon with this little beauty on-board your private jet, at a 5-star restaurant overlooking Lake Como, on your yacht as you sail the Mediterranean, or by the pool at your holiday house in Mallorca.
• Or you could bring that feeling of high-class luxury into your home or your holiday, no matter where you are!
• Your friends will be impressed by the top quality Dollaro leather, precision dice and polished mother-of-pearl checkers that have a simply incredible feel.
• You can find this size Zaza & Sacci backgammon set in several different color combinations, so you can find one to match your style perfectly.
• This board makes for the perfect gift for someone special in your life. Even if they don't play backgammon yet! The beauty of this piece will convert them.

Materials: Leather case, leather playing field, backgammon checkers made of high gloss mother of pearl, nickel clasp with smooth magnetic closure.

Size: 15 1/4“ x 9 3/4” x 2 1/2” (closed)

Pros: This board is a symbol of success. You know you’ve made it in life when you’re travelling with his beautiful luxury travel backgammon set.

Cons: Carefully handmade in Italy from gorgeous materials: this board is so beautiful you might be afraid to play it.

6. Roll Up Backgammon Set

Sondergut Roll-Up Suede Backgammon Game

Best for: Packing in your bag to take wherever you go

Budget: Under US$50

Looking for a super lightweight and packable backgammon board for your adventures?

Sondergut are a Germany company that produces deluxe leather backgammon sets. The word Sondergut is German and means “a very special great thing”.

• The design and craftsmanship on this roll up backgammon set is impeccable. The hand-sewn leather backgammon board rolls up nicely yet lays perfectly flat.
• The suede surface is soft yet hardy, and gives the perfect amount of texture so that the pieces do not slide around everywhere.
• The Sondergut Roll Up travel backgammon set was specifically designed to weigh next-to-nothing, and rolls snugly into the size of a compact umbrella.
• Its perfect for your RV, for camping, backpacking, biking, or just to have in your bag at all times so you can play backgammon whenever or wherever you are!
• This roll up backgammon set is the perfect gift for someone who has everything.

Materials: Leather

Size: 10 x 2” (rolled up), 10 x 12-2/3” (opened up)

Weight: Less than ½ a pound (around 220 grams)

Pros: Due to ingenious German design, this board is incredibly lightweight yet still feels luxurious and sturdy.

Cons: If you will mostly play at home, it’d be better to choose a more structured board.

7. Pendleton Backgammon: The Best Poolside Backgammon Set

Pendleton Backgammon

Best for: The perfect gift for any occasion.

Budget: About US$50

Pendleton is a renowned American company with over 150 years of supplying world class wool blankets, apparel and luxury fabrics. So you know you are getting top-notch quality and a piece of history with this superb roll up backgammon set.

• The Pendleton Backgammon set is perfect for all kinds of travel, especially poolside and beach-side getaways, stays at a hotel or resort, camping, backpacking, and weekend getaways in the country.
• The vibrant, trademark Pendleton print will instantly put you in a holiday mood.
• Weighing in at only 240 grams and rolling up into a compact cylinder, this set is ideal for packing in your suitcase or backpack.
• Pendleton Backgammon sets make an awesome gift for all kinds of occasions: Birthdays, Christmas, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Graduations, or as a going away present for someone setting off on an adventure.

Materials: Canvas board, vegan leather pouch

Size: 7.9 x 7.7 x 27.9 centimetres (rolled up)

Weight: 240 Grams

Pros: Lightweight materials make this backgammon set so easy to pack.

Cons: As this is not a solid board, it does not offer a luxury playing experience.

8. Wooden Backgammon Set (Best Budget)

Yellow Mountain Imports Wooden Inlaid Backgammon Set

Best for: Those who love to entertain guests at home, or families with children.

Budget: Under US$100

Wooden backgammon sets have a beautiful look to them that will add a touch of class to any room.

With the material felt board that comes with other backgammon sets, you may have some concerns about drink spillages, scratches or children damaging the soft surface.

A wooden backgammon set will solve that problem, as the durable surface can easily be wiped down. This particular backgammon set is:

• Great value for money.
• Well made, good quality and looks great.
• The 17” size has a substantial, classy feel to it that will elevate your game experience.

Materials: Wooden board, wooden dice cups, acrylic checkers.

Size: 17.32 x 9.84 x 1.97 inches / 44 x 25 x 5 centimeters (closed)

Pros: A fantastic solid board that will last the test of time.

Cons: Some reviewers comment that the checkers don’t feel as high quality as the board itself. However, this backgammon set is still great value for money. And if the checkers bother you, you can always buy a more premium set to go with your board.

9. Wooden Backgammon Set (Mid-range)

Manopoulos Walnut Backgammon Set - Hand Made in Greece

Best for: When you want an authentic, handmade piece of culture.

Budget: ~US$200

This is a beautiful handmade backgammon set made by skilled craftsmen at Manopoulos, a family company in Greece. The family has been making and selling backgammon boards for over 50 years, and are the go-to for a quality, authentic wooden backgammon board.

There are a few things you should know about buying a wooden backgammon board from Manopoulos:

• Seasoned backgammon players are not always a fan of wooden backgammon boards, as not everyone enjoys the clatter of dice on the wooden surface.
• However the look, feel and sound of a wooden Manopoulos backgammon set more is more authentic to what you’d experience playing backgammon on the the street in Greece, Turkey or the Middle East.

Every backgammon player needs a nice wooden backgammon set for their collection, and you can’t go past a Manopoulos.

Materials: Walnut wood

Size: Closed: 18 3/4” x 11 3/4” x 3” Open: 18 3/4” x 23 3/4” x 1 1/2”

Pros: This is a stunning board that gives you an authentic experience.

Cons: Some might prefer the softer, quieter playing surfaces of other boards.

10. Wooden Backgammon Set (High-end)

Zaza & Sacci® Folding Wood Backgammon Set - Model ZS-008 - Large - Leather/Mahogany

Best for: When you want to enjoy the finest things in life.

Budget: ~US$1000

Zaza & Sacci is a fine Italian leather goods company that specialise in classic board games and sumptuous leather bags. You can find their items in the finest stores of Rome, Paris, New York and London.

Each Zaza & Sacci backgammon set is a work of art. It's hard to find more beautiful workmanship in any other handmade backgammon set.

• Crafted with the highest quality mahogany wood and premium leather, this Zaza & Sacci backgammon set is finished with special touches including beautifully made leather dice cups and 24kt gold plated lock and hinges.
• While they are beautiful, wooden backgammon boards are not always favoured by experienced players as not everyone likes the sound of dice on wood.
• However with this luxury board you get the best of both worlds: a gorgeous wooden exterior that looks great, teamed with a quiet luxurious leather playing surface inside.

When you are looking for a special gift, or just want to treat yourself to a simply beautiful backgammon set, look no further.

Materials: Mahogany / leather exterior, leather playing surface, 24kt gold plated clasp, checkers made of high gloss mother of pearl.

Size: Closed: 20 1/2” x 13” x 3”, Open: 20 1/2” x 26” x 1 1/2”

Pros: Exquisite materials and workmanship. The leather playing surface means that even though this is a wooden board, you won't have noisy dice rolls.

Cons: This piece is so beautiful it could almost be more fitting in a museum than your living room!

11. Luxury Backgammon Sets (The Best You Can Get)

Geoffrey Parker: Luxury Backgammon Sets

Best for: Lovers of luxury who want the best money can buy.

Budget: US$2000 - $20,000

When it comes to luxury backgammon sets, you can’t beat Geoffrey Parker. This renowned luxury British brand could be considered the Rolls Royce of backgammon sets.

• Custom backgammon boards from Geoffrey Parker will be handmade according to your desires, from the highest quality materials.
• You’ll be able to choose from a huge variety of board configurations, playing surfaces and styles of checker.
• A Geoffrey Parker backgammon set is a treasure to be passed down the generations. But a Parker board isn’t meant to just sit on the shelf.
• Geoffrey Parker backgammon boards are well loved and used by serious players in the backgammon community socially and at tournaments.

Materials: Leather

Size: Many different sizes available.

Pros: Any serious backgammon player will recognise and compliment your fine taste.

Cons: Geoffrey Parker backgammon sets are handmade to order. As with other custom handmade backgammon sets, there will be a wait of several months or so for your board to be created.

12. Best Backgammon Board When You’re Starting to Get Serious

Crisloid Classic Brown Tournament Attaché Backgammon

Best for: Outstanding reputation and quality for a reasonable price.

Budget: Around US$300

Are you looking at getting your first quality backgammon set, but you’re not sure where to start?

Crisloid boards have an excellent reputation in the backgammon community for being an ideal starter backgammon board for those getting serious about their game.

• The cork playing surface is classic, durable and long-lasting. Polished backgammon checkers have a super smooth glide across the board.
• A custom backgammon board from Crisloid will set you back over US$500, but you can pick up a really nice ready-made tournament attaché (case) board for around $300.
• A tournament attaché backgammon set like this is extremely versatile: you’ll enjoy playing it at home, but it’s also perfect for taking to a friend’s house or a backgammon meet-up.
• Serious backgammon players will recognise and enjoy playing on your board, so a Crisloid is fantastic if you are considering playing socially or in a tournament.

Materials: Cork playing surface, leatherette case

Size: Closed: 15″ × 20¾” × 3½” / Open: 30¼” × 20¾” × 1¾”

Pros: Crisloid boards are proudly made in the USA (Providence, RI).

Cons: The smooth cork is durable with great glide, but some serious players prefer playing on a felt surface.

13. Tournament Backgammon Set (Best Entry Level)

Middleton Games 21” Tournament Backgammon Set

Best for: Starting out at backgammon tournaments

Budget: ~ US$100

Get out to a backgammon tournament and you’ll notice straight away: the boards are all bigger than your typical entry-level backgammon board. Experienced players at tournaments tend to prefer boards that measure at least 19 inches from top to bottom.

Playing on a big smooth board gives the game an extra level of enjoyment. The only problem is that large tournament boards will set you back at least $300.

This 21” board by Middleton is the perfect compromise.

• The quality construction and large smooth playing surface makes for a decent board that experienced players will enjoy playing on.
• If after playing socially and in tournaments for a while and you want to take your game to the next level, you can always invest in a more premium board later on. But if you’re new to tournaments it’s wise to go with this perfect starter board that will only set you back around US $100.

Materials: Black leatherette exterior, velvet playing field

Size: Attache style case that measures 21” x 13” x 2 1/2” when closed

Pros: Due to its size, this backgammon board is not ideal for travelling.

Cons: The Middleton tournament board is excellent value for money and will be respected by serious players at any meet-up or tournament.

14. Tournament Backgammon Set (Best Mid-range, Luxe Materials)

Wycliffe Brothers Tournament Backgammon Set - 21”

Best for: A luxury-feel at a reasonable price

Budget: Around US$300

Wycliffe Brothers backgammon boards are constructed to provide an opulent sensory experience.

• The V-Fiber playing field is ultra-smooth, providing perfect cushioning of dice and glorious checker glide.
• The dice cups come with trip lips and are lined with V-Fiber to minimize dice noise. The highly-polished 44.5mm marbleized checkers are indented with finger dish which feel beautiful in your fingers.
• All of these elements make Wycliffe Brothers backgammon boards the very best buy when you have a budget of around $300 and appreciate luxury materials.

Materials: V-Fiber playing field, V-Fiber lined dice cups, marbleized checkers.

Size: 21”. When closed the attractive case measures 53.5cm x 37cm (21” x 14.25”).

Pros: Wycliffe Brothers backgammon sets provide an affordable luxury experience.

Cons: According to experienced backgammon players who play often, the super fine materials and construction are not as durable as say, that of a Crisloid. This is only really an issue if you plan to play very frequently.

15. Tournament Backgammon Set (High-end with Luxe Materials)

FTH / Gammon Stuff

Best for: The quietest, highest quality playing surface made by an expert craftsman.

Budget: US$800 - $1500.

What sets the FTH backgammon board apart is its gorgeous playing surface.

• The highest quality fine merino wool is smooth, long wearing and will not fade or smudge. The points are inlaid (not stitched on) which means the checkers glide over smoothly.
• When you turn up with an FTH to a tournament you’ll get nods of recognition and appreciation for your great taste.
• FTH are known for the range of bright colors available. Why go with boring brown when you can own a sumptuous and vivid piece of art?
• FTH backgammon sets are handmade by renowned German craftsman Fazil Terlemez (FTH) and his wife Hanim, and are distributed in the United States by Gammon Stuff.

Materials: Fine merino wool playing surface

Size: Many different sized boards available

Pros: The checkers glide so smoothly on the fine merino wool surface.

Cons: A board so beautiful you might not want to share it!

16. Tournament Backgammon Set (High-end, Modern)

P-40

Best for: Lovers of modern, slick and utilitarian design.

Budget: US$1000+

Are you looking for a high quality board with a more modern style?

• The P-40 is utilitarian and intelligent. Unlike other traditional boards with built-in felt, leather, cork or wool playing surfaces that can wear down, the P-40 boasts a high quality washable synthetic playing surface that can easily be removed and replaced.
• Your opponents will love playing on this board at a tournament. The metal frame and metal-rimmed playing pieces add a super cool clink of metal to the playing experience.
• P-40 backgammon boards stand out from the pack. Unlike most other luxury backgammon boards they are not handmade. They are machine-made, with the highest degree of precision.
• When you order a P-40 you can customize the color of everything from the frame to the checker rims on the P-40 Board Builder.
• With a chic industrial, military aesthetic, the P-40 is a sexy board that makes a luxe statement piece for your living room that will impress your guests.

Materials: High quality synthetic playing surface, metal frame, metal-rimmed checkers.

Size: Many different sized boards available.

Pros: Highly intelligent utilitarian design.

Cons: Some might prefer a more traditional looking backgammon board.

17. Turkish Backgammon Set (High-end)

Artgammon

Best for: Those looking for a high quality Turkish backgammon board.

Budget: US$400 - $1000+

Artgammon is a Turkish company that creates gorgeous handmade backgammon boards that are perfect for tournaments, or for your home board game collection.

• A individually handcrafted Turkish backgammon board from Artgammon will be admired by experienced players as it is a well-renowned brand in the global backgammon community.
• The playing surface of an Artgammon backgammon board is made from a glorious synthetic material which was created to be highly durable and stain resistant while offering a superior glide for your checkers.
• The style, colors and size of your board are all customizable. Smaller Artgammon sets are priced at around $450, but they are large enough for tournaments.

Materials: High quality synthetic playing surface, high quality acrylic checkers.

Size: Many different sized boards are available.

Pros: Artgammon backgammon sets have a beautiful feel about them.

Cons: Some purchasers find that there are very slight inconsistencies with the handmade production. This is only really an issue if you are very particular.

18. Best Custom Backgammon Set (Legendary Status)

Custom “Taki-Board” by Tak Morioka

Best for: Serious collectors seeking something one-of-a-kind

Budget: ~ US$1500

Are you looking for a personalized backgammon set by a master craftsman?

If you’re seeking a custom backgammon set that seasoned players will admire and respect, you simply cannot go past a “Taki-board” by Tak Morioka.

• Tak Morioka is a world-renowned Chicago-based craftsman who creates the most beautiful wooden-frame backgammon sets.
• With their walnut or cherry frames and cotton velvet playing surfaces, Taki-boards are solid and elegant.
• You can choose the wood type, exterior fabric, checker material and color, point style and playing field color scheme.
• Taki-boards are quite simply a delight to play on, and provide a glorious playing experience.

Materials: Wood frame, cotton velvet playing surface

Size: Customizable

Pros: The legendary status of Taki-boards will gain you much respect at a tournament.

Cons: Compared to some other boards, the surfaces can wear more easily with frequent play. Tak provides a resurfacing option so its not a problem to update your Taki-board.

Conclusion

And there you have it: the best backgammon sets you can buy – no matter what your budget, experience level or lifestyle.

The important thing to remember is that if you get really into the game, you will probably collect backgammon sets for different occasions. So don’t sweat too much about buying your first board. If you’re just starting out, you can’t go wrong with one of the entry-level boards we’ve recommended.

A cool travel backgammon set is a must-have for anyone who spends some amount of time travelling or on the road. They also make fantastic presents for birthdays or for christmas, especially for the person who has everything.

Some of the higher-end boards will also make beautiful gifts, even for people who are not yet into backgammon. Beautiful boards will convert anyone into a keen player!

If you get serious about the game, we recommend that you get involved with local social clubs and tournaments. That way you can not only meet new friends, but you can also experience game play on a range of different boards.

No matter what board you choose, we wish you many fun games and lucky rolls.