Last updated on June 16, 2026
In this Deluxe Backgammon post, we discuss how to choose the right equipment to play backgammon. If you want to really enjoy backgammon and play it well, having the right equipment can make all the difference. The game feels more fun and balanced when your equipment is tournament quality. The dice roll correctly, the checkers stay in place, and you know the rolls are fair because of the dice cups. Whether you’re playing casually or in serious tournaments, here is everything you need to know about selecting good-quality backgammon sets and accessories.
Boards
The obvious place to start is the board. A good, tournament-sized board isn’t just a luxury. It’s essential for serious backgammon. A well-made board not only improves the gameplay experience, but also ensures a level playing field for all involved.
Poorly made boards can create all sorts of problems. For instance:
• Checker size: If the checkers don’t fit snugly on the points, you’ll constantly have to adjust them, which can be very frustrating during a game.
• Dice issues: Cheap dice might stop rolling too quickly, bounce too much, fly off the board, or get stuck against the checkers. Replace small, cheap plastic dice with precision dice.
• Colour contrast: If the pip colours blend with the checkers, it’s easy to lose track of what’s happening.
Tournament-sized boards have the edge over smaller ones because they offer more space to roll dice fairly. On smaller boards, dice rolls can feel repetitive or unfair, and there’s a higher chance they’ll land awkwardly on top of checkers or tumble off the table. A larger board also helps you spot every possible play without missing hidden checkers in tricky corners.
Material
Traditionally, backgammon boards are made of wood. Visit a Greek taverna or a Turkish cafe in Istanbul, and you will find locals playing their local versions of backgammon (Tavli and Tavla, respectively) on traditional wooden boards. The wooden playing fields are tough, hard-wearing and noticeably noisy as the checkers clatter across the board. For a quieter experience, try a backgammon set with a leather playing field. Although both surfaces are hard-wearing, there are some basic cleaning tips associated with each surface to keep them clean.
Great backgammon boards are made worldwide, with prices ranging from a couple of hundred pounds to several thousand. While the higher-end boards may seem expensive, they’re worth it for durability, functionality, and a smoother game.
Checkers
Your checkers should fit your board like a tailored suit. It’s a good idea to buy them together to ensure compatibility. A mismatch between the checkers and the board can make the game clunky.
Checkers also wear out over time. They can chip, break, or even get lost, so you might need replacements at some point. When that happens, it’s crucial to match the size, both width and diameter, and choose colours that complement your board. The goal is to avoid colours that blend in too much with the pips, making checkers hard to see.
Opt for thick, heavy checkers for two big reasons:
• Fewer dice issues: Thicker, heavier checkers reduce the chances of dice landing awkwardly on top (cocked dice), which means less re-rolling.
• Stability: They’re less likely to slide around if the table gets bumped.
A lot of backgammon players like the old Bakelite checkers. They are common in vintage and antique backgammon sets. These beauties are heavy, durable, and often have a finger-dish design. This is a handy indentation in the centre, making them easy to move with one finger. While Bakelite checkers are rare and pricey, you can still find them online or in speciality shops. Just remember to double-check the dimensions before buying.
Dice: precision matters
Serious players swear by precision dice. These aren’t your everyday dice. They are made to be perfectly balanced, ensuring fair and random rolls. Precision dice typically have rounded corners to help them roll more smoothly, and the clear ones often have markings inside to prevent dice-switching.
Why worry about dice-switching? In high-stakes games, some players have been caught using crooked dice. Weighted or magnetic dice can be manipulated to produce specific numbers, giving cheaters an unfair advantage. Even with fair dice, rolling tricks or “dice mechanics” can influence results. That’s why it’s important to use precision dice and ensure both players roll fairly.
Dice cups: shake things up
A good dice cup can make all the difference in gameplay. The right cup should be large enough for the dice to tumble properly but not so big that they spill out. Look for cups with a lip inside. This ensures the dice rotate as they roll out, giving a true, random result.
When playing, encourage your opponent to shake the cup thoroughly, up and down a few times, before rolling. It’s not about distrust. It just ensures a clean roll and avoids suspicion.
Other items to consider
To protect your investment, store your board in a cloth carrying bag. This keeps the exterior looking sharp and prevents scratches. If you’re playing in tournaments (USBGF Tournament Rules), consider a scoreboard. It’s a handy tool for keeping track of the score, not just for you and your opponent, but for anyone watching the match.
Take your time before buying
Investing in backgammon equipment can be expensive, so it’s worth doing your homework. Check out other players’ boards, read reviews, and browse online options. Visiting a good-quality game store is also a good option. The “hands-on” experience gives you a better feel for the build quality. Spending a bit more time and money on quality gear means it not only lasts longer but also makes every game more enjoyable.
Summary
The right backgammon equipment improves the whole game-playing experience. A solid wooden board, perfectly matched checkers, precision dice, and a good dice cup can transform how you play. Listen to the dice as you shake your leather-bound dice cup, hear them clatter as they roll across a mahogany playing field. Feel the bakelite checker as you slide it across the board. It doesn’t matter if you are playing in your local pub for fun or gearing up for a serious tournament. Investing in high-quality backgammon boards and accessories is always worth it. With the right equipment, you’ll not only play better, but also enjoy every single roll of the dice.