DGT Centaur Chess Computer

Name: DGT Centaur Chess Computer
Brand: DGT
SKU: DGTCentaur
Price: 799.0 AUD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.85 (26 reviews)

by DGT

Save $41.00

$840.00

$799.00

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Description

DGT Centaur Chess Computer

The DGT Centaur is one of the most ambitious chess computers DGT has produced — a fully self-contained electronic chess system that combines a real touch-sensor board, weighted physical pieces, and an adaptive artificial intelligence into a single product. Unlike electronic chess boards that require a connected computer or tablet to function, the Centaur is a complete chess opponent in one device. Plug it in or charge it up, sit down, and start playing.

What sets the Centaur apart from every other chess computer DGT produces is its adaptive AI. From the very first move of your first game, the Centaur evaluates your playing strength and adjusts its play to match. As you improve, it improves with you. The result is a chess opponent that always gives you a fair, competitive game — never so weak that you steamroll through, never so strong that you feel hopeless. The right kind of challenge, every time you sit down.

For chess players at any skill level who want a real board, real pieces, and a serious opponent without the complexity of running chess engines on a separate computer, the Centaur is the most accessible high-quality chess computer on the market.

Key features

Self-contained chess computer with adaptive AI that matches your playing strength
Real wooden touch-sensor chess board with 40 x 40cm playing surface
Weighted physical chess pieces included for authentic over-the-board feel
Circular LED lights on each square indicate the AI's intended moves

e-Paper display shows game information, move history, and settings clearly
Internal rechargeable battery for portable play and clean cable-free use
Adapts automatically from your first move — no skill level selection needed
Suitable for beginners, club players, and serious chess enthusiasts alike

Adaptive AI: a chess opponent that grows with you

The Centaur's adaptive AI is what makes this chess computer fundamentally different to engines like Fritz 19 or Stockfish running on a connected device. Those engines play at whatever strength you select — pick too low and you win every game without effort; pick too high and you lose every game without learning. The Centaur removes that choice entirely. It plays at your level, automatically, and adjusts continuously.

From your very first move, the Centaur evaluates your playing strength. The early games may feel relatively gentle. As you win consistently, the Centaur adapts upwards. As you lose consistently, it adapts downwards. Over weeks and months of regular play, you and the Centaur reach a kind of dynamic equilibrium — you are always playing against a fair, beatable but challenging opponent. For chess improvement, this adaptive approach is far more effective than fixed-strength engines, because the Centaur is always playing at the level where learning is maximised: just above your current ability.

The touch-sensor board and weighted pieces

Unlike the DGT USB e-Boards (which require special electronic chess pieces with embedded sensors), the Centaur uses touch sensors built into the board itself. The pieces are weighted physical chess pieces with a real Staunton design and a confident feel in hand — the same kind of pieces you would expect on a quality home chess board, with the added function of registering on the touch sensors as you move them.

The board itself measures 40 x 40cm with a wooden construction and attractive design that sits naturally on any table. Circular LED lights around each square illuminate to show the Centaur's intended moves — when the Centaur is ready to play, the LED on the from-square lights up to show which piece it wants to move, and the LED on the to-square shows where it is moving. You then physically move the Centaur's piece on the board to register the move. The combination of touch sensors and clear LED indication makes the game intuitive and never confusing.

The e-paper display on the side of the board shows game information, move history, current settings, and configuration options in a clear, low-glare format that works in any lighting condition.

How the Centaur compares to the DGT Pi

The Centaur and the DGT Pi are both chess computers from DGT, but they serve different audiences and use cases.

The DGT Pi is an add-on chess computer designed to work with existing DGT e-Boards (Walnut, Rosewood, Wengé, Smart Board). It does not include a board or pieces of its own — it transforms a DGT e-Board you already own into a complete playing system. The Pi runs PicoChess software with multiple selectable chess engines, and also functions as a DGT3000 tournament clock. It suits experienced chess players who already own DGT equipment and want a powerful, configurable engine companion.

The DGT Centaur is a complete standalone system. The board, pieces, computer, and display are all included in one device. The adaptive AI does the work of matching your skill level automatically. There is no engine selection, no software configuration, no connected device required. It suits players of all levels who want a quality chess opponent on a real board without complexity.

If you already own a DGT e-Board, the Pi is the natural addition. If you are starting fresh and want a complete chess computer in one device, the Centaur is the answer.

Browse the full DGT collection at Sterling Chess for the complete electronic chess range.

Built for portable, cable-free play

The Centaur includes an internal rechargeable battery, which means the entire chess computer can be unplugged and moved around the house — from the dining table to the living room sofa to the study — without requiring a wall socket nearby. Battery life is more than sufficient for extended play sessions, and the device recharges via a standard USB-C connection between uses.

For households where the chess board moves around regularly, or for travel and holidays where you want a serious chess opponent in your luggage, the cable-free design is a meaningful practical advantage over chess computers that require permanent power connection.

Our expert take

The DGT Centaur Chess Computer is the chess computer we recommend most often at Sterling Chess for one simple reason: it works for everyone. Beginners get a fair opponent that does not crush them. Improving players get a partner that adapts as they get stronger. Serious players get a tactically capable opponent that challenges them at their level. The adaptive AI removes the problem of choosing engine strength, and the self-contained design removes the complexity of running chess software on a laptop or tablet. The board and pieces are quality enough for genuine over-the-board enjoyment, and the rechargeable battery means it sits naturally in any room of the house. For most chess players looking for a home chess computer, this is the right answer.

— Blake Sterling, CEO & Founder, Sterling Chess

Frequently asked questions

How does the adaptive AI work?

The DGT Centaur evaluates your playing strength from your very first move and adjusts its play continuously based on your performance. As you win consistently, it plays stronger. As you lose consistently, it plays weaker. Over time, you and the Centaur settle into a competitive equilibrium where every game is challenging but winnable.

Do I need a computer or tablet to use the Centaur?

No. The Centaur is a complete self-contained chess computer. The board, pieces, processor, display, and AI are all included in one device. No laptop, tablet, smartphone, or external software is required.

How does the Centaur differ from the DGT Pi?

The DGT Pi is an add-on that works with existing DGT e-Boards — it requires a separate DGT e-Board to function and uses configurable PicoChess software with selectable engines. The Centaur is a standalone product with its own board, pieces, computer, and adaptive AI. The Pi suits experienced players who already own DGT equipment; the Centaur suits players who want a complete chess computer in one device.

Can I use the Centaur with DGT e-Boards or pieces from other sets?

The Centaur is its own self-contained system with its own touch-sensor board and weighted pieces. It is not compatible with separate DGT e-Boards or DGT electronic chess pieces — those products use different detection technology.

What skill level is the Centaur suitable for?

All skill levels, from absolute beginner to advanced club player. The adaptive AI is the key feature — it automatically adjusts to your level, so the Centaur is genuinely suitable for any chess player at any stage of their development.

How does the battery work?

The Centaur includes an internal rechargeable battery that allows the chess computer to be used without a permanent power connection. The device recharges via USB-C between sessions. Battery life supports extended play sessions away from a wall socket.

What is the e-paper display used for?

The e-paper display shows game information, move history, current settings, and configuration options. The low-glare, paper-like quality of the display works in any lighting condition and consumes very little power, contributing to the Centaur's long battery life.

Specifications

Spec	Detail
Type	Self-contained adaptive chess computer
Board size	40 x 40cm touch-sensor board
Pieces	Weighted physical Staunton chess pieces (included)
Display	e-Paper (low-glare, low-power)
Move indication	Circular LED lights around each square
AI	Adaptive — matches and adjusts to player skill automatically
Power	Internal rechargeable battery (USB-C recharge)
Connectivity	Self-contained — no external device required
Brand	DGT

What's In The Box?

DGT Centaur chess computer with integrated 40 x 40cm touch-sensor board
Full set of weighted Staunton chess pieces
USB-C charging cable
User manual

Warranty

All DGT products sold by Sterling Chess are backed by a 2-year limited manufacturer warranty. This covers manufacturing defects and ensures every product is 100% genuine, sourced directly from DGT. If you need assistance, our team is only a call or email away.

FREE Shipping

Is shipping really free?
Yes — we offer free standard shipping on all orders across Australia, with no minimum spend. The price you see at checkout is the price you pay.

Are there any exceptions to free shipping?
No exceptions. Every order ships free, regardless of size, weight, or order value.

How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders are typically dispatched within 1–2 business days, with delivery times depending on your location. You'll receive tracking details by email once your order is on its way.

Do you ship to all areas of Australia?
Yes, we deliver Australia-wide, including regional and remote areas — all at no shipping cost to you.

Can I track my order?
Absolutely. As soon as your order ships, we'll email you a tracking number so you can follow its journey to your door.

What if I need my order quickly?
Get in touch before ordering and we'll do our best to help. Standard shipping is free, and we'll advise on the fastest available option for your area. To contact us, simply email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au, call (03) 7037 0931 or open the live chat.

100 Day FREE Returns

Changed your mind? You can return unused, unopened items within 100 days of your order date, provided they’re in original packaging and resaleable condition. Sterling Chess will cover the cost of shipping return items under our 100-day free returns policy.

All Sterling Chess products are backed by Australian Consumer Law and include a minimum 12-month Australian warranty. If there’s an issue with your product, our team is here to help and will work to make it right.

Click here to view our full returns policy.

Why Buy From Us?

If you're shopping for a new chess set, you're in the right place—and here's why.

1. We know chess inside and out

At Sterling Chess, we're not just another online store. We’re chess lovers, players, collectors, and game night fanatics.

That means we care about quality, balance, and feel—and we only stock sets we’d use ourselves. From tournament-grade boards to handcrafted wooden pieces, we’ve got what real players want.

2. Unmatched variety for every player

Whether you're just learning or a lifelong grandmaster, we have something for you.

Looking for a folding set for travel? A stunning showpiece for your home? A kid-friendly set for your budding chess champion? We’ve got it all—and more.

3. Fast and FREE shipping on all orders

Shipping is FREE on all Sterling Chess orders.

We ship quickly from local and international warehouses, so you’re not waiting weeks to get your game on.

Most orders are packed and sent within 24–48 hours. Plus, you’ll get tracking updates every step of the way.

4. Customer support that actually helps

Have a question? Need help choosing a set? Our friendly team is ready to help—no scripts, no bots, just real people who care about your experience.

You can call our team anytime between business hours on (03) 7037 0931 or email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au. Alternatively, you can use our live chat during business hours to contact our helpful support team.

5. Thousands of happy customers

Don't just take our word for it—our reviews speak for themselves. Sterling Chess is trusted by thousands of players who keep coming back for more. Great products. Great service. No hassle.

6. Classic games, too

We're all about chess—but we also carry backgammon, checkers, poker and other timeless strategy games. If you love the classics, you’ll feel right at home.

Ready to make your move?

Choose a chess set that fits your style, skill level, and space—and enjoy the Sterling Chess difference. You’ll love how it looks. You’ll love how it plays. And you’ll love buying from a team that loves the game just as much as you do.

DGT Centaur Chess Computer

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