Offline vs Online Chess — Which One Truly Builds a Better Player?
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1 day ago
0
#2
It’s kinda a 55/45 for me. 55 for OTB/over the board chess and 45 for online chess. OTB has the nice way of teaching someone how to get used to a more social time and online gives computers and convenience.
1 day ago
0
#5
It's a life rule. If it's easy it's not worth it and minimal or no growth will come from it. If it's difficult, uncomfortable, and causes you to want to quit and you don't. That is when true growth happens. For me online is easy and doesn't present much growth. OTB play, study with a real board and pieces. Pen and paper is where my real growth comes from. Just my. 02
Imo offline chess game, specifically otb tournament, I said so because it has more stake to lose than online chess game.
Offline
10 hrs ago
0
#9
Josh11live wrote:
It’s kinda a 55/45 for me. 55 for OTB/over the board chess and 45 for online chess. OTB has the nice way of teaching someone how to get used to a more social time and online gives computers and convenience.
That’s a well-balanced perspective. I like how you framed it. OTB really does build those interpersonal and practical skills that online can’t fully replicate, while online offers unmatched convenience and analytical tools. Your 55/45 split actually reflects how many serious players structure their training: grounding themselves in classical play but using online chess to stay sharp and flexible.
10 hrs ago
0
#10
niketas_27 wrote:
I think that both sides have it's own merits and demerits
Absolutely, that’s a fair point. Both formats bring unique strengths and challenges, and understanding how to use each effectively can really boost overall growth as a player.
10 hrs ago
0
#11
LieutenantFrankColumbo wrote:
It's a life rule. If it's easy it's not worth it and minimal or no growth will come from it. If it's difficult, uncomfortable, and causes you to want to quit and you don't. That is when true growth happens. For me online is easy and doesn't present much growth. OTB play, study with a real board and pieces. Pen and paper is where my real growth comes from. Just my. 02
That’s a powerful way to put it. Growth really does come from pushing through the tougher paths, and OTB play brings that kind of challenge in a way online often can’t. Your approach shows real discipline and a strong mindset toward improvement.
10 hrs ago
0
#12
Verwarr wrote:
Imo offline chess game, specifically otb tournament, I said so because it has more stake to lose than online chess game.
That’s a great point. The higher stakes in OTB tournaments definitely bring a different level of focus and pressure. Those real consequences often push players to take the game more seriously and perform at their best.
Every chess player has their favorite way to play. Some love the classic feel of the board, the click of the pieces, and the focused atmosphere of face-to-face battles. Playing offline often brings a sense of tradition, discipline, and human connection that’s hard to replicate. It teaches players to manage the clock, control nerves, and handle real tournament pressure — skills that shape strong competitors.
On the other hand, online chess has completely changed the game. With just a few clicks, you can play opponents from anywhere in the world, analyze games instantly, and squeeze in multiple matches in a short time. It’s fast, flexible, and filled with opportunities to experiment, learn, and grow. For many players, online platforms have become the main arena for sharpening tactics and testing new ideas.
Both sides have strong arguments, and each offers unique benefits to different types of players. But when it comes to overall improvement, experience, and growth as a chess player… which format truly takes the crown?
💬 Share your thoughts, experiences, and opinions below — your perspective might inspire someone to rethink the way they play.