ChessBase vs Forward Chess
The professional's database and analysis suite. Interactive chess ebook reader with embedded engine.
| ChessBase | Forward Chess | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | From €199 one-time | Free |
| Platforms | Windows, Web, macOS | Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS |
| Audience | advanced, expert | intermediate, advanced, expert |
| Languages | EN, DE, ES, FR | EN, ES, FR, DE, IT, PT |
| 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 ChessBase if…
- Deepest opening preparation tool on the market
- Mega Database with 10M+ annotated games
- Industry standard for pro coaching
Pick Forward Chess if…
- 800+ titles from top chess publishers
- Stockfish embedded for instant move checking
- Excellent guess-the-move and position trainer
- Owns-forever model, no subscription lock-in
FAQ
- Is ChessBase better than Forward Chess?
- Neither is strictly "better" — they serve different priorities. ChessBase excels at: Deepest opening preparation tool on the market. Forward Chess excels at: 800+ titles from top chess publishers. Pick based on the job you want done.
- Is ChessBase free?
- ChessBase is paid. Annual database updates sold separately. Account on ChessBase Online adds cloud features.
- Is Forward Chess free?
- Forward Chess has a free tier. Paid plans unlock: App is free to install with free sample chapters; books sold individually, typically $10–$30. ChessPublishing subscription available $19.99–$99.99/year..
- On what platforms are ChessBase and Forward Chess available?
- ChessBase runs on Windows, Web, macOS. Forward Chess runs on Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS.
- Who should use ChessBase vs Forward Chess?
- ChessBase is aimed at advanced, expert. Forward Chess targets intermediate, advanced, expert. Our take: try the one whose audience description fits you.