Chess.com is one of the most popular online platforms for playing chess, with millions of users worldwide.
While the basic features of the site are available for free, Chess.com also offers a premium membership option called Chess.com Premium.
We look at whether Chess.com Premium is worth the investment, considering its features, benefits, and value for chess enthusiasts.
What is Chess.com Premium?
Chess.com Premium is a subscription-based membership offered by Chess.com.
It provides users with access to additional features and benefits beyond what is available in the free version of the platform.
The premium membership is available at different price points, offering various levels of access and perks.
Features and Benefits of Chess.com Premium
Chess.com Premium offers several features and benefits that enhance the overall chess-playing experience.
Here are some key highlights:
Unlimited Puzzle Rush
Puzzle Rush is a popular feature on Chess.com that challenges players to solve puzzles against the clock.
With Chess.com Premium, users can enjoy unlimited Puzzle Rush sessions, allowing them to improve their tactical skills and compete for high scores without any restrictions.
Video Lessons and Courses
Chess.com Premium provides access to a vast library of video lessons and courses created by top chess coaches and grandmasters.
These educational resources cover various aspects of chess, including opening theory, middlegame strategies, endgame techniques, and more.
Premium members can learn from the best and enhance their understanding of the game.
Advanced Game Analysis
Chess.com Premium offers advanced game analysis tools that allow users to review their games in detail.
Premium members can analyze their moves, identify mistakes, and receive personalized feedback to improve their gameplay.
This feature provides valuable insights and helps players refine their strategies.
Ad-Free Experience
One of the significant advantages of Chess.com Premium is the elimination of advertisements.
Free users often encounter ads while using the platform, which can be distracting and disrupt the flow of the game.
Premium members enjoy an ad-free experience, allowing them to focus solely on their chess matches.
Access to Tournaments and Events
Chess.com hosts various tournaments and events throughout the year, ranging from casual competitions to high-stakes championships.
Premium members gain exclusive access to these events, giving them the opportunity to compete against skilled players and showcase their skills on a larger stage.
Pricing Options for Chess.com Premium
Chess.com Premium offers three pricing options:
- Gold: $4 per month or $40 per year
- Platinum: $6 per month or $60 per year
- Diamond: $10 per month or $100 per year
All three plans offer a free 7-day trial.
Features Table of Chess.com Premium
Here is a table comparing the features of each plan:
| Feature | Gold | Platinum | Diamond |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited games | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited tactics puzzles | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited video lessons | No | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited game review | No | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited coach explanations | No | No | Yes |
| Unlimited insights | No | No | Yes |
Which plan is right for you?
If you are a casual chess player, the Gold plan is a good option. It gives you access to all of the essential features, including unlimited games, tactics puzzles, and video lessons.
If you are more serious about improving your chess, the Platinum or Diamond plan is a better choice.
These plans offer additional features such as unlimited game review, coach explanations, and insights.
The Diamond plan is the best option for players who are serious about taking their chess to the next level. It offers access to all of the features available on Chess.com, including unlimited access to all of the learning tools and resources.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which plan is right for you is to try out the free 7-day trial and see which features you use the most.
User Feedback and Satisfaction
Chess.com Premium has garnered positive feedback from many users who have found value in the premium features and benefits.
The availability of high-quality video lessons, advanced game analysis, and ad-free experience has been praised by chess enthusiasts looking to improve their skills and enjoy a seamless chess-playing experience.
Furthermore, Chess.com Premium members have expressed satisfaction with the platform’s continuous updates and improvements.
The regular addition of new features and the dedication to user experience have contributed to the overall positive sentiment surrounding Chess.com Premium.
Comparison with Free Version
While Chess.com Premium offers several advantages, it is essential to consider how it compares to the free version of the platform.
Here are some key differences:
Limited Puzzle Rush
In the free version of Chess.com, users have a limited number of Puzzle Rush sessions per day.
Chess.com Premium removes this restriction, allowing unlimited access to Puzzle Rush.
This is a significant advantage for puzzle enthusiasts who want to practice and improve their tactical skills extensively.
No Video Lessons and Courses
Chess.com Premium provides access to a vast library of video lessons and courses, which are not available in the free version.
While the free version offers some educational resources, the premium membership unlocks a much wider range of learning materials created by top chess experts.
Basic Game Analysis
Free users on Chess.com have access to basic game analysis tools, but the advanced analysis features are exclusive to Chess.com Premium.
The ability to receive personalized feedback and in-depth analysis of gameplay is a significant advantage for premium members.
Advertisements
One of the most noticeable differences between the free version and Chess.com Premium is the presence of advertisements.
Free users encounter ads while using the platform, which can be distracting. Chess.com Premium eliminates these ads, providing a seamless and uninterrupted chess-playing experience.
FAQs – Is Chess.com Premium Worth It?
1. What is the cost of Chess.com Premium?
Chess.com Premium offers different pricing options:
| Plan | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Gold | $9.99 USD | $79.99 USD |
| Platinum | $19.99 USD | $159.99 USD |
| Diamond | $29.99 USD | $239.99 USD |
There are also discounts available for students and teachers.
To see the pricing in your local currency, please visit the Chess.com membership page.
Please note that these prices are subject to change at any time.
If you are not sure which plan is right for you, we recommend trying the free membership first.
This will give you access to many of the features of Chess.com, including the ability to play unlimited games, join clubs, and solve puzzles.
If you find that you are using the site frequently and want to unlock more features, you can upgrade to a premium membership at any time.
2. Can I try Chess.com Premium before subscribing?
Yes, Chess.com offers a free trial of Chess.com Premium for new users.
This allows you to experience the premium features and benefits before committing to a subscription.
3. Are there any discounts available for Chess.com Premium?
Chess.com occasionally offers discounts and promotions for Chess.com Premium.
It is recommended to keep an eye on their website or subscribe to their newsletter to stay updated on any available discounts.
4. Can I cancel my Chess.com Premium subscription?
Yes, you can cancel your Chess.com Premium subscription at any time.
However, it is important to note that subscription fees are non-refundable, and you will continue to have access to premium features until the end of the billing period.
5. Is Chess.com Premium suitable for beginners?
Chess.com Premium caters to chess players of all skill levels, including beginners.
The platform offers educational resources, video lessons, and game analysis tools that can benefit players at any stage of their chess journey.
6. Can I access Chess.com Premium on mobile devices?
Yes, Chess.com Premium is available on both desktop and mobile devices.
You can access the premium features and benefits on the Chess.com website or through the Chess.com mobile app.
7. Does Chess.com Premium guarantee improvement in my chess skills?
While Chess.com Premium provides valuable resources and tools to enhance your chess skills, improvement ultimately depends on your dedication, practice, and willingness to learn.
Chess.com Premium can be a valuable aid in your chess journey, but it is not a guarantee of improvement.
8. Are there any additional perks for Chess.com Premium members?
Yes, Chess.com Premium members gain access to exclusive forums and communities where they can interact with other premium members, discuss strategies, and participate in special events.
These additional perks foster a sense of community among premium members.
9. Can I switch from monthly to annual subscription or vice versa?
Yes, you can switch between different subscription plans on Chess.com.
If you wish to switch from a monthly to an annual subscription, you can do so by upgrading your plan.
Similarly, if you want to switch from an annual to a monthly subscription, you can downgrade your plan accordingly.
10. Is Chess.com Premium worth it for casual players?
Chess.com Premium offers a range of features and benefits that can enhance the chess-playing experience for casual players as well.
While the premium membership is often associated with more dedicated chess enthusiasts, casual players can still benefit from the ad-free experience, access to tournaments, and educational resources provided by Chess.com Premium.
Summary – Is Chess.com Premium Worth It?
Chess.com Premium offers a range of features and benefits that enhance the overall chess-playing experience.
From unlimited Puzzle Rush sessions to access to video lessons and advanced game analysis tools, premium members gain valuable resources to improve their skills and knowledge of the game.
The ad-free experience and exclusive access to tournaments further add to the appeal of Chess.com Premium.
While the free version of Chess.com provides a solid foundation for chess enthusiasts, Chess.com Premium takes the experience to the next level.
The availability of premium features, combined with positive user feedback and satisfaction, makes Chess.com Premium a worthwhile investment for those looking to enhance their chess skills and enjoy a more immersive chess-playing experience.
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