Comparison

FICSBoard vs Chess Online

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both games, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

FICSBoard

Connect to the Free Internet Chess Server to play live chess games against real opponents. Enjoy a clean interface with real-time updates and sound effects for a focused online chess experience.

Highlights
  • Play live online chess on FICS
  • Guest and registered account login
  • Real-time board updates
  • Text messaging through FICS command console
  • Sound effects for moves and game events
  • Clean, distraction-free interface
Features
Read full description

FICSBoard is a fast, lightweight chess client for playing live games on the Free Internet Chess Server (FICS), one of the longest-running online chess communities in the world. Play real opponents in real time with a clean, focused interface designed specifically for online chess. FEATURES: • Play live online chess on FICS • Guest and registered account login • Real-time board updates • Players can send and receive text messages through the FICS command console. • Sound effects for moves and game events • Clean, distraction-free interface • Optimized for iPhone and iPad Whether you’re playing casual games or competitive rated matches, FICSBoard gives you a smooth and reliable way to connect and play from anywhere. FICSBoard is an independent client and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Free Internet Chess Server (FICS).

About

Chess Online

Features
Read full description

Welcome to Chess Online – Multiplayer, the ultimate online chess game for iPhone and iPad. Play live chess matches against real players, improve your strategy, and compete in a clean, fast, and fair chess environment designed for the US audience. Whether you’re a casual chess fan or a competitive player, this multiplayer chess app delivers smooth gameplay, smart matchmaking, and nonstop chess action. Why US Players Love Chess Online Live Multiplayer Chess Matches Play real-time chess games against players across the USA and around the world. Strategy-Based Gameplay Sharpen your logic, focus, and problem-solving skills with every move. Optimized for iOS Devices Fast loading, smooth animations, and battery-friendly performance. Player Rankings & Progress Track your wins, improve your rating, and climb the leaderboard. Fair Play & Secure Games Balanced matchmaking ensures competitive and trusted chess matches. Play Anytime, Anywhere Perfect for quick games or long strategy sessions. Key Features • Online multiplayer chess • Classic chess board experience • Live player vs player matches • Simple and modern UI • Rankings and achievements • Free to play chess game Built for Chess Fans in the USA If you enjoy online chess, multiplayer board games, or strategy games, this app offers one of the best Chess Online experiences on iOS. Challenge players, improve your skills, and enjoy classic chess anytime. Download now and start playing Chess Online – Multiplayer today!

Screenshots

FICSBoard4 screens
Chess Online3 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: FICSBoard at none against Chess Online's 6. FICSBoard also leads on ads (none vs shown). Chess Online's advantage is iOS requirement (15.0 vs 26.1). On price and device support there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. Chess Online sells 6 one-off in-app purchases. FICSBoard asks for nothing beyond the download.

Scorecard3 real differences · 6 level
FICSBoard versus Chess Online: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterFICSBoardChess Online
PriceFreeFree
Rating5.0 (1 ratings) — better—
Number of ratings1 — better—
Update frequency—Every 8 months
AdsNo — betterYes
In-app purchasesNo — betterYes
MonetizationFree—
DevicesiPhone, iPadiPhone, iPad, iPod — better
Requires iOS26.115.0 — better
Further details — not scored
Size2 MB131 MB
Age rating12+17+
DeveloperTONY E CAMPBELLGAMOSTAR

In-app purchases

None

FICSBoard

No in-app purchases

6 purchases

Chess Online

One-time6
  • Chess Online Pack 1$0.99
  • Chess Online Pack 2$1.99
  • Chess Online Pack 3$2.99
Show 3 more
  • Chess Online Pack 4$3.99
  • Chess Online Pack 5$4.99
  • Chess Online Pack 6$9.99

Questions

Is FICSBoard free?
FICSBoard is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Is Chess Online free?
Chess Online is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Do FICSBoard or Chess Online have ads?
Chess Online shows ads; FICSBoard does not.

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