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Chess Tempo vs Magnus Trainer

The serious puzzle grinder's tool. Gamified learning with lessons featuring Magnus Carlsen.

 Chess TempoMagnus Trainer
PricingFree · from $3.50/moFree · from $7.99/mo
PlatformsWeb, iOS, AndroidiOS, Android, Web
Audienceintermediate, advanced, expertbeginner, intermediate
LanguagesENEN
Features
Play online
Play bots
Local pass-and-play
Tactics puzzles
Opening trainer
Endgame trainer
Spaced repetition
Video lessons
Live coaching
Engine analysis
Board scanner (OCR)
Opening repertoire
Cloud sync
Offline mode
Kid-safe
Tournaments
Rating system
Correspondence chess
Chess variants
Study & share
AI coach
Streaming-ready
Game database

Pick Chess Tempo if…

  • Puzzles calibrated by actual solver performance
  • Strong endgame trainer with theoretical positions
  • Good at pushing you past plateaus
  • Deep statistics on your weaknesses
Full review →

Pick Magnus Trainer if…

  • Bite-sized lessons feel addictive, good for habit formation
  • Lessons taught by Magnus Carlsen and GM friends
  • Good for under-1500 players who want structure
Full review →

FAQ

Is Chess Tempo better than Magnus Trainer?
Neither is strictly "better" — they serve different priorities. Chess Tempo excels at: Puzzles calibrated by actual solver performance. Magnus Trainer excels at: Bite-sized lessons feel addictive, good for habit formation. Pick based on the job you want done.
Is Chess Tempo free?
Chess Tempo has a free tier. Paid plans unlock: advanced features.
Is Magnus Trainer free?
Magnus Trainer has a free tier. Paid plans unlock: advanced features.
On what platforms are Chess Tempo and Magnus Trainer available?
Chess Tempo runs on Web, iOS, Android. Magnus Trainer runs on iOS, Android, Web.
Who should use Chess Tempo vs Magnus Trainer?
Chess Tempo is aimed at intermediate, advanced, expert. Magnus Trainer targets beginner, intermediate. Our take: try the one whose audience description fits you.