A chess clock is two timers in one box. When you make a move, you press the button on your side. Your time stops and your opponent's starts running. When a player runs out of time, they usually lose the game.
Why you need one
A clock keeps the game orderly: both players get the same amount of time, and nobody can think forever. Tournaments are impossible without it, and in training it helps you learn to manage your time.
What games are played
- Blitz: up to 10 minutes per player.
- Rapid: from 10 to 60 minutes per player.
- Classical: games longer than 60 minutes.
What is time increment
Time increment adds a few seconds to a player's clock after each move. This makes it hard to lose on time alone when the position is already won or equal. Most modern clocks have this function.
How to choose a DGT clock
- For beginners and home: DGT 1001, DGT 1002 and DGT Easy Plus are electronic clocks with time increment.
- For quick games: DGT 1500 shows tenths of a second and lets you set a different time for each player (useful when a stronger player plays with less time).
- A larger display: DGT 2010, DGT 2500 and DGT North American (22 preset modes).
- For tournaments: DGT 3000 is FIDE approved, has 25 time modes and connects to DGT electronic chess boards.
You will find all the models in the chess clocks category.
How to get started
- Set the time and, if needed, the time increment.
- White starts: they make a move and press their button.
- After each move, press the button on your side.
- Press the button right after you make your move and keep an eye on the remaining time on the display.
When you use a clock for the first time, practise over a few games: press the button with the same hand you move the piece with.