Backgammon boards come in many sizes, and the right one depends on where and how you play. A compact board slips into a bag for the holidays; a large one becomes the centrepiece of the coffee table. This guide compares the sizes we carve, 30, 40, 50 and 60 cm, so you can choose with confidence.
How board size is listed
Each product page lists the board's dimensions, for example 60 × 60 × 3 cm for our 60 cm boards, along with the weight with and without packaging. Every set includes checkers and dice.
Backgammon board sizes compared
| Size | Typical weight* | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 30 cm | about 1.5 kg | Travel, small tables, children, a second board |
| 40 cm | about 3 kg | Compact everyday play, apartments, younger players |
| 50 cm | about 4 kg | Comfortable home play with plenty of carving detail |
| 60 cm | about 5 kg | The classic full-size board, collectors and gifts |
*Median weight of our backgammon sets of each size, without packaging. Individual models vary with the wood, inlay and hardware.
30 cm: the travel board
Our smallest boards are easy to carry and store, which makes them ideal for holidays, the office or a café table. They are also a friendly first board for children and an affordable way to own a hand-carved set. The trade-off is space: the checkers sit closer together, and there is less room for carving.
40 cm: compact but comfortable
A 40 cm board is still easy to tuck away but noticeably more comfortable to play on. It suits smaller homes and players who want a board they will use every day without giving up much table space.
50 cm: room to play
At 50 cm the board starts to feel generous. There is more room for the checkers and the carving gains detail, while the set stays light enough to carry from room to room. It is a good choice if you play often at home but still take the board to friends.
60 cm: the classic full-size board
Most of our designs are carved at 60 cm, and for good reason: it is the classic size for a fine wooden board. The large surface gives intricate ornaments, churches, animals and the Mount Ararat outline room to shine, and the board stays comfortable through long sessions. It is the size we recommend for gifts and for anyone choosing a board for life. For our most elaborate pieces, see the luxury backgammon sets.
How to choose: four quick questions
- Where will you play? Measure your table and allow space around the open board for the dice and for checkers borne off.
- Will you travel with it? Choose 30 or 40 cm if the board will often leave the house.
- Who will play? Children and beginners manage any size, but smaller boards are easier for them to carry.
- Is it a gift? A 50 or 60 cm board makes the strongest impression, especially with a free engraving of a name or date inside.
What about backgammon tables and three-player boards?
If you want the game to be part of the furniture, a backgammon table has the board built in. And if you often play in a group, our three-player boards in 30, 40 and 50 cm let three people play at once. Read how three-player backgammon works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard size of a backgammon board?
There is no single standard. Wooden boards are commonly made in several sizes; among our own boards, 60 cm is the classic full size and by far the most common.
Is a bigger backgammon board better?
Not always. A larger board is more comfortable and shows carving better, but a smaller one is easier to carry and store. Choose by where you will play most.
Which size is best for travel?
A 30 cm board, or 40 cm if you want a little more room to play.
Do all sizes come with checkers and dice?
Yes. Every backgammon set we make includes checkers and dice, and we can engrave a name, date or short wish inside the board free of charge.
Ready to choose? Browse all handmade backgammon sets, or read our guide to choosing a backgammon set.
