What Size Table is Best for Backgammon? Find Out Here!

As a two-player board game, Backgammon is a very traditional and old game that dates back some 5,000 years. In the modern day, you've now got the accessibility of online backgammon, which has made the game a more appealing option for younger generations who may not have had any prior knowledge of the game's existence.

However, when playing the game in person, players might experience different appearances in the boards they play on. Backgammon table sizes can vary depending on their intended use. In this guide, we'll take a look at the differences between the table sizes and how to choose a board for your next game.

Ideal Backgammon Table Sizes

Ideal backgammon table sizes will vary by use. Official tournament boards will often range from 44cm x 55cm to 65cm x 88cm when opened up.

Medium sizes for casual play will usually be somewhere around 48cm. It's a popular and versatile choice, while travel versions are often a lot smaller. The best size depends on personal preference and intended use, whether that's tournament play, home use, or portability.

It's not just table sizes but the checker sizes too. Larger checkers are often used in tournament competitions. These are typically around 4.45cm in size.

So how do you choose a size that suits your needs? The size of the table is most comfortable for you, and it needs to fit your available space. A benefit of these boards is that they are often foldable and therefore can be a lot more adaptable to smaller storage spaces.

Travel-sized boards are ideal for portability. You want to think about portability vs. enjoyment. Be aware that the smaller boards may compromise the enjoyment of the game you're playing, especially as it comes with smaller checkers and therefore a more cramped playing surface.

If you're someone who struggles picking up the smaller checkers or finds themselves more comfortable with a bigger board, it's a good idea to explore the size options available.

Small vs Large Backgammon Boards

There are a few differences between small and large backgammon games. Larger boards offer a better gameplay experience, whether you're choosing to play seriously or you're just wanting to play at home.

Larger boards provide a lot more space for rolling the dice fairly. It can help you see the game more easily. It allows for more free movement on the board, too. Larger checkers also make it a more comfortable thing to handle, which is helpful for those who struggle with handling smaller pieces of a game board in general.

Small boards can be inconvenient, and with checkers that are too small, they may feel uncomfortable playing with them as a result. However, the portability of smaller boards makes them more advantageous.

Let's take a more detailed look at how the difference between small and large boards impacts various features of the game itself.

Features	Small boards	Large boards
Portability	A great size for travel, especially when you're looking to take it on vacation with you.	Less portable, making them bulky and heavy. A harder challenge when it comes to taking it on your travels.
Dice rolling	If there's less room for the dice to tumble, that could affect the chance or luck you have. It could lead to unfair or repetitive rolls.	More space for the dice to roll fairly, thus reducing the chance of unfair rolls.
Gameplay	Gameplay will often feel cramped when playing on the table. Checkers that are smaller and more difficult to move as a result.	Checkers will fit better and are easier to manipulate. You'll also be able to see the entirety of the board more easily without needing to strain.
Durability	The type of material will depend on how durable the board is. Travel sets can be more vulnerable to damage naturally.	Larger boards are often more sturdy and therefore good for frequent use and long-term use in the home.

Smaller tables are often best for travel, for those who have limited storage space and like to play backgammon while traveling. For bigger tables, it's usually for the purpose of playing seriously and for visual appearance as a centerpiece in the home.

Choosing Your Backgammon Table

When choosing a backgammon table, consider the size and the way in which the game will be played. As mentioned above, the size for portability will be smaller, and for tournament players, a lot bigger in comparison.

Wood is often a classic material used for playing backgammon, while a table made out of leatherette will make for quieter play. Other factors that should be considered when it comes to the design of the backgammon table are whether you opt for a printed or inlaid surface.

The checker fit is something to consider, as is the overall aesthetic, which can all contribute to the enjoyment of the game. Here are some things to think about when it comes to the different elements that make up backgammon.

Materials and playing surfaces

There are a number of materials and playing surfaces to consider, as briefly mentioned above, that will influence the gameplay and your overall satisfaction.

Wood

Wood is a traditional and sturdy option for backgammon games and can make for an enjoyable, sensory experience. However, for some, it can be noisy when the dice is dropped, which might not be enjoyable for every player.

Leatherette

A leatherette is a much more appealing material to use because it offers a quieter and smoother playing experience in general. It can also look more luxurious, which is why it might make for a more attractive option.

Inlaid

Premium options where points are carved from wood are likely a useful one for those who are looking for a keepsake, or are devoted to the game and happy to spend a little more on a premium look.

Printed

A more affordable option and useful for traveling with the game is a printed surface. This will often come with more vibrant colors, too.

Felt or cork

Some boards will use felt or cork for the surface, which is good for the playing experience and for smooth checker movement. It also helps minimize the noise, which might be useful when playing in quieter environments.

Other considerations

There are some other considerations when it comes to the table and the game itself. Such considerations are:

Checker fit

The checkers should fit snugly with very little wiggle room. However, they should still slide smoothly and be handled comfortably by the players.

Aesthetics

Choosing a design and color scheme that you find visually pleasing is a good way of making your backgammon board a more personal fit.

Accessories

There are also the accessories to consider. You want to make sure the set comes with all the necessary dice, doubling cups, and dice cups. This will ensure the overall quality of the board remains consistent.

Budget

Sets will often range significantly depending on the materials and craftsmanship. Not only that, but the notoriety of the brand that makes the backgammon table is also important to consider when it comes to the money you'll spend.

Best Tables for Backgammon Play

If you're wondering what the best tables for backgammon play are, then it's best to focus on the key factors, from the board's size to making sure your board fits the space and playing style. The materials are also important to think about before making a decision.

From travel sets to full-size tables, you might wish to have one of each or opt for just a singular size depending on your needs.

There are combination tables that are often appealing for backgammon and chess. With a reversible playing surface, this might be attractive for those who want to play more than just backgammon.

The construction of the board is useful to be attentive to as well. Look for the quality in the craftsmanship, not just on the board itself, but with all of the accessories that come with the board. From the checkers to the dice cups, it's important to ensure everything is in good condition.

All of the accessories that make up the game influence and enhance the gameplay experience. That's why more of the premium boards are sought after because of the aesthetics they deliver and the gameplay they provide.

A well-made, beautiful board offers more than just the game itself, but also an opportunity to style it with your home. Depending on the board chosen, you could have a centerpiece and board game that lasts for many years. Consider factors like handle sturdiness, case clasps, etc, before you make a decision on what feels like the best option for the table.

Backgammon is growing in its resurgence of popularity, and with the benefit of online gameplay for these games, it offers the chance for many people to access a game that they would otherwise not have thought much about.

When shopping for a backgammon table, consider all of the above and think carefully about your options before you choose what table is best for you.