If you are learning or playing chess online, two names come up again and again: Chess.com and Lichess.
Both platforms are extremely popular and trusted by millions of players worldwide, including beginners, kids, and professional players.
But the big question is:
👉 Chess.com vs Lichess – which one is better for you?
What is Chess.com?
Chess.com is the world’s largest online chess website. It offers playing, learning, puzzles, tournaments, and coaching tools under one platform.
Key Features of Chess.com
- Play with millions of players worldwide
- Chess lessons for beginners to advanced
- Daily puzzles and puzzle rush
- Online tournaments and events
- Mobile app with smooth experience
Chess.com is widely used by kids, schools, and online chess academies.
What is Lichess?
Lichess is a completely free and open-source chess platform. It is loved by serious players and developers.
Key Features of Lichess
- 100% free (no ads, no premium lock)
- Unlimited puzzles and analysis
- Strong computer analysis
- Clean and fast interface
- Community-driven platform
Lichess focuses more on pure chess rather than gamification.
Chess.com vs Lichess: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Chess.com | Lichess |
|---|---|---|
| Free Access | Limited | 100% Free |
| Premium Option | Yes | No |
| Ads | Yes (free version) | No |
| Lessons | Yes (structured) | Limited |
| Analysis | Limited (free) | Unlimited |
| Puzzles | Limited (free) | Unlimited |
| Interface | Colorful & modern | Clean & simple |
Which Is Better for Beginners?
Chess.com is better for beginners.
Why?
- Step-by-step lessons
- Beginner-friendly design
- Clear explanations
- Gamified learning (badges, streaks)
If you are a kid or parent, Chess.com feels easier and more engaging.
Which Is Better for Advanced Players?
Lichess is better for advanced and serious players.
Why?
- Unlimited engine analysis
- Strong study tools
- No distractions
- Better for deep game review
Many professional players use both, but rely on Lichess for analysis.
Chess.com vs Lichess for Kids
| Factor | Chess.com | Lichess |
|---|---|---|
| Kid-friendly UI | ✅ Yes | ❌ Basic |
| Lessons | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited |
| Fun elements | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Ads | ❌ Yes | ✅ No |
👉 Best for kids: Chess.com
👉 Best for focused practice: Lichess
Pricing: Chess.com vs Lichess
Chess.com Pricing
- Free plan (limited features)
- Paid plans unlock lessons, puzzles, analysis
Lichess Pricing
- Completely free
- No subscription required
Winner on pricing: Lichess 🏆
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Chess.com if:
- You are a beginner
- You want structured learning
- You are a parent or student
- You like guided lessons
Choose Lichess if:
- You are an intermediate or advanced player
- You want free unlimited analysis
- You prefer a clean, ad-free experience
👉 Best advice: Use both platforms together.