Chess Piece Values
Is a Bishop worth more than a Knight? To make good decisions, you need to know the value of your army. This guide explains the standard chess point system (1-3-3-5-9), helping you evaluate trades and calculate material advantages. Learn the relative worth of each piece to ensure you come out ahead in every exchange.
The 1-3-3-5-9 System
This standard point system provides a baseline for evaluating material advantages and making trade decisions.
| Piece | Points | Strength |
|---|---|---|
Pawn
|
1 | The basic unit. Strong in groups. |
Knight
|
3 | Jumps over pieces. Good in closed positions. |
Bishop
|
3 | Long range. Good in open positions. |
Rook
|
5 | Very powerful on open files. |
Queen
|
9 | The powerhouse (Rook + Bishop combined). |
King
|
∞ | Invaluable. If lost, game over. |
Common Questions & Nuances
1. Bishop vs. Knight (The "3 vs 3" Debate)
Although both are worth 3 points, experienced players often value the Bishop slightly higher (e.g., 3.25) in "Open Positions" where the board is clear of pawns.
- Bishop Preference: Better in endgames and open boards.
- Knight Preference: Better in "Closed Positions" where pawns block the board, because Knights can jump over obstacles.
2. What is "The Exchange"?
"Winning the Exchange" means you captured a Rook (5) while only losing a minor piece like a Knight or Bishop (3). This gives you a significant +2 point advantage.
3. Do Points Determine the Winner?
No! Points are just a mental tool for making decisions. You do not win by reaching 20 points. You win by Checkmate. It is possible to be "down in material" but still deliver a checkmate.
Next Steps
- Chess Tactics – How to win material for free.
- How to Checkmate – How to use your pieces to win the game.
- Pawn Structure – Why pawns are more important than they look.
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