Overview of Best Online Chess Platforms

Online chess has never been more popular, allowing people to play anytime, anywhere. Among the top platforms are Chess.com, Lichess.org, Chess24, and the Internet Chess Club (ICC) – each with unique features and strengths. We explore what makes each platform appealing and compare their user experience, functionality, and community engagement.

Chess.com

Chess.com is the world’s largest online chess platform​, with over 100 million registered users. It runs on a freemium model: many features are free, while advanced tools (like lessons or unlimited puzzles) require a subscription.

The site provides a polished experience with play modes ranging from casual daily games to fast blitz and bullet matches, as well as several chess variants​. Players can solve puzzles, take lessons, and analyze their games with computer assistance. A vibrant community of clubs, forums, and streamers—along with regular online tournaments—keeps Chess.com engaging for players around the world.

Lichess.org

Lichess is a free, open-source chess server where all features are available to everyone with no ads or paywalls​. Funded by community donations, it offers a clean interface and smooth, fast gameplay that many blitz and bullet players appreciate.

The platform features unlimited puzzles, powerful analysis tools, study modes, and many chess variants – all free of charge. Lichess also hosts regular online tournaments and “arena” competitions for all skill levels. Its passionate, inclusive community and open-source philosophy appeal to players who value a no-cost, ad-free environment for improving their game.

Chess24

Launched in 2014, Chess24 became known for its extensive library of chess video lessons and live tournament broadcasts with grandmaster commentary​, while also providing standard features for online play (games and tournaments). Premium members enjoyed extras like deeper engine analysis and exclusive events such as “Banter Blitz,” where they could challenge chess masters in live-streamed games​.

Chess24’s user base was smaller than Chess.com’s or Lichess’s, but its rich content attracted a loyal following. (Chess24 was acquired by Chess.com in 2022 and merged into Chess.com’s platform by 2024.)

Internet Chess Club (ICC)

Founded in 1995​ , the Internet Chess Club (ICC) was one of the first online chess servers and for years the go-to site for serious players. It offers live play at various speeds and hosts frequent tournaments. Historically subscription-based, ICC attracted many chess masters and offered extras like live grandmaster commentary on top tournaments and extensive game libraries​.

Its interface originally required special software, but a modern web-based option is now available. ICC’s community is smaller today than those on Chess.com or Lichess, yet it remains a hub for players who appreciate its classic competitive atmosphere.