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Choose a chess app by the task: playing other people, learning standard chess, analyzing games or enjoying a variant. A free download does not mean every lesson or analysis feature is free.
Lichess: online chess without a subscription tier
Lichess’s official mobile page describes a free, open-source app for phones and tablets with online play, puzzles and game analysis. It is a useful starting point if you want conventional chess without comparing paid membership levels.
Online games need a connection. Check the installed version for any offline tools you need rather than assuming every website feature behaves identically in the app.
Chess.com: play and structured training
Chess.com offers mobile play alongside lessons, puzzles and review features. Its membership comparison explains paid tiers and free access. Decide which learning functions you will actually use before starting a subscription.
Store-billed subscriptions are managed through the relevant store. Check renewal and cancellation terms, particularly if a trial is offered.
Really Bad Chess: a deliberate variant
Really Bad Chess changes the starting piece distribution while keeping familiar moves. That makes it a different tactical challenge, not a replacement for learning standard openings. The regular app and its Apple Arcade edition have separate availability and payment conditions.
Test the features you need
- Beginners: look for clear explanations of legal moves and mistakes.
- Competitive players: check time controls, ratings and fair-play rules.
- Offline use: test computer opponents, local play and analysis before a trip.
- Game review: check notation export and whether deeper analysis is limited.
- Accessibility: compare board size, contrast and touch controls on your device.
Protect any account you create and review what is public in your profile; password-manager and passkey choices can help with sign-in. If you prefer an army-based board-game style, see Advance Wars-like tactics games.