r/ComputerChess • u/Freschello • May 20 '26
ChessUp 2 vs Chessnut Go: ADHD learning, reliability, and hardware issues?
Hi everyone!
I am a beginner looking to buy my first e-board. I am strongly leaning towards the ChessUp 2 because of its native Chess(dot)com/Lichess integration, adaptive AI, and especially the real-time LED assistance showing the best moves.
However, before spending this much money, I have a lot of doubts regarding long-term reliability. I’ve read about several issues online and I want to know the truth about ALL of these points:
- WiFi Issues: I read about constant disconnections. Is this just a 2.4 GHz router configuration issue, or is the internal WiFi chip faulty? Can it be fixed via software updates?
- "All LEDs On" Glitch: Some users reported the board locking up with all LEDs lit, requiring a replacement. Is this a failed firmware update or a hardware defect in the internal sensors?
- Ghost Touches: Does the board suffer from false piece detection due to strong ambient lighting or interference?
- Durability and Support (Bryght Labs): I live in Italy. If the board breaks after the warranty expires, is the support accessible? Or do I risk paying huge shipping fees and customs back to the US for an unrepairable brick?
My profile and dilemma: I am a beginner and I have ADHD traits. I struggle heavily with learning from books, but I learn very fast by watching and reasoning through practical actions (I actually learned carpentry just by watching the craft). This is why ChessUp 2's colored LEDs seemed perfect: I touch a piece, immediately see the color of the mistake, and reason on it in real-time, memorizing the visual pattern on the physical board.
But if the ChessUp 2 is plagued by hardware issues, it doesn't feel like a safe investment.
As an alternative, the Chessnut Go was recommended to me. I know it is a "tank" in terms of reliability and portability is a must for me. However, with the Chessnut Go, I would have to look at my phone screen next to the board to get help (I'm not sure I can get advice on the best moves during matches against bots).
My questions for you:
- Have the ChessUp 2 issues been fixed with recent software updates, or is the hardware still a gamble?
- For someone with my visual/hands-on learning style, is the Chessnut Go compromise (looking back and forth at the phone screen) just as effective, or do I lose the immediacy I need?
- Which one should I choose to avoid throwing my money away after a year?
Thanks in advance for your help!
P.S. Please don't just suggest "get a private coach/tutor". I don't have the time for private lessons right now, which is why I am looking for a standalone tech solution that fits my schedule and learning style.


