How to choose a good backgammon set

There are not written rules as such, regarding what constitutes a good backgammon set, rather there are preferences shared by serious players that have become the norm. In order to choose a good backgammon set there are a number of factors that you must consider.

The size of the backgammon board is very important. Too small is fiddly and difficult to play on, whilst too big is awkward to transport. Generally, a backgammon board with checkers less than 1.5 inches (40 mm) is on the small side, whilst bigger than 1.75 inches (44mm) is considered gigantic. A lot of tournament players find 1.75 inch pieces to be perfect.

The second very important factor in choosing your backgammon set is its material. If you are playing at home it is less important, but if the backgammon board is to be used for tournaments, or against tournament level opponents, the body of the board should not be made of wood. Preferable fabrics for your backgammon board may include felt, cork or leather; even denim or vinyl boards are acceptable as they muffle the noise of the rolling dice.

Last but not least are the backgammon dice and dice cups. Precision backgammon dice are a must for a backgammon set not only are they better, but often players will refuse to play if another type of die is being used. The dice cup should be lipped; this again is often a deal breaker for many serious players.