Top 3 Portable Go Boards
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Experience the portability of Go with boards designed for travel and outdoor play. We've researched and curated a list of the top 5 portable Go boards that combine durability, compactness, and craftsmanship.
From budget-friendly magnetic boards to handcrafted bamboo boards, these boards demonstrate innovation and convenience. Need not sacrifice quality and enjoyment. Just tuck one away and play anywhere - the park, the beach, your favorite café.
In this blog, we evaluate each board on criteria like size, weight, material, accessories, and visual appeal. Whether you're a beginner or a devoted player, you'll discover a refined travel companion.
Let's explore the freedom these boards unlock for your Go game, anywhere you wander.
Magnetic Go Game Set
from ColorGo
The ColorGo portable magnetic Go set offers a compact 19x19 board and stones for on-the-go gameplay. When folded, it measures 11.3" x 5.65" x 1.24" - smaller than a full-sized board and easily fitting into a bag or backpack.
The magnetic stones are also diminutive but functional. While this set may not provide the full experience of larger wood and slate versions, its durability, portability, and low $15 price make it a great economical choice for travel.
For Go fans wanting an accessible set to bring everywhere, the ColorGo allows you to seize moments to play wherever you may be.
The price is usually around $16 on Amazon.
Pros:
Affordable price under $20
Portable and lightweight
Durable HIPS plastic material
Cons:
Not as high quality as wood sets
Stones don't make a satisfying "click" sound
Single-convex Stones
Slim Folding Go Set
This premium 19x19 folding bamboo Go set delivers quality craftsmanship in a portable package. When open, the 18.71 x 17.33 x 1.97-inch board reveals Chinese standard 22 x 24 mm grids for optimal play. Folded down to a slim 17.33 x 9.45 x 1.97 inches, the bamboo construction remains durable yet lightweight for travel.
Felt-lined compartments neatly organize the pieces when stored inside the board, secured by decorative metal clasps.
Suitable for travel, camping, or quick games with family and friends, this folding Go set makes gameplay possible anywhere without sacrificing premium materials. Produced by a company with years of game design expertise, it's built to entertain while on the move.
The price is usually around $40 on Amazon.
Pros:
Premium quality bamboo board
Folds down slim for easy portability
Lightweight but still durable construction
Stones securely stored inside felt-lined compartments
Decorative metal clasps keep the board closed
Good for travel, camping, outdoor play
Cons:
The handle breaks after a while
The board is slightly smaller than the regular boards
Single-Convex Stones
Full-size Folding Go Set
Designed for easy transport, this folding Go set packs premium quality in a slim 17.3 x 18.5 x 1.9 inch package. Sturdy construction ensures the playing surface stays smooth and protected when closed. Open up anywhere to reveal a regulation-size 44 x 47cm playing area ready for strategic gameplay.
The set includes 361 melamine stones in tapered 5.7 x 22mm size that provide satisfying feel. They are neatly divided in a dual-compartment storage tank, keeping black and white pieces organized for convenience.
Whether traveling, camping, or playing quick games at home, this lightweight folding set enables Go fun on the move. The included carrying case and divided storage protect the quality components when not in use. Treat yourself and a fellow enthusiast to magical moments playing Go wherever you go. This set makes gameplay possible even on your next grand adventure.
The price is usually around $70 on Amazon.
Pros:
Folds down for easy portability
Lightweight yet durable construction
Full regulation size 44 x 47cm playing surface
Dual-compartment storage tank keeps stones organized
The board itself is a carrying case
Cons:
The playing surface may wear faster than wood
The hand will break after a while
Potential cracking issues
Pricy-er than other options
Single-Convex Stones
Honorable Mention - Drawer Go Set
This Go set features a wood veneer board that emulates the look of premium Kaya wood. With dimensions of 12 inches, it offers a compact playing surface well-suited for space-constrained gameplay.
Integrated into the board are two drawers, one on each end, that provide built-in storage for the included white and black stones. This eliminates the need for separate go bowls. The double-convex plastic stones can simply be removed from the drawers during play, then returned for neat storage after. Two additional storage bags are also included to protect the stones and the board when traveling.
With its sleek styling, this set works well as a decorative piece for display in addition to gameplay. When not in use, the recessed drawers and clean lines create an attractive minimalist coffee table accent.
For Go fans wanting a quality board with integrated stone storage in a smaller footprint, this set delivers convenience and elegance.
The reason this go set did not make it to the Top 3 list is that it is too small to play on and too big to be portable.
However, if you like having a decorative “portable” go set, then this would be a great addition to your collection!
The price is usually around $40 on Amazon.
Pros:
Double-convex stones
Easy storage
Great decoration
Cons:
Too big compared to other portable go sets
Too small to be played on for adults
Recommendations:
If your goal is to play Go or study Go while traveling, then the Magnetic Go Set would be a great choice.
If you want something nicer, then we highly recommend the Slim Folding Go Set due to its durability and elegant look. However, if you want a full-size board to play with while traveling, then you should consider Full-Size Folding Go Set.
If you are looking to buy your first go set, then here we have our Beginner’s Guide to the First Go Set:
