# Who is the best chess player?

> Explore a captivating showdown among giants and innovators of the chess world, where the classics clash with the modern masters, and surprising underdogs vie for the title. Dive into this battle of skill, charisma, and legacy—who will secure your vote?

*By YPB Team · Published March 1, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/who-is-the-best-chess-player*

---

## Current results (0 votes)

1. **Garry Kasparov**
   World Champion from 1985 to 2000, known for his aggressive style
2. **Magnus Carlsen**
   Current World Champion, renowned for his deep understanding of the game
3. **Bobby Fischer**
   World Champion in 1972, famous for his contributions to chess theory
4. **Anatoly Karpov**
   World Champion from 1975 to 1985, known for his positional play
5. **Mikhail Tal**
   World Champion in 1960, celebrated for his imaginative tactics
6. **Emanuel Lasker**
   World Champion for 27 years, known for his psychological approach
7. **José Raúl Capablanca**
   World Champion from 1921 to 1927, famous for his endgame skills
8. **Alexander Alekhine**
   World Champion twice, known for his complex and creative play
9. **Mikhail Botvinnik**
   World Champion three times, influential in chess education and theory
10. **Boris Spassky**
   World Champion in 1969, known for his universal playing style
11. **Tigran Petrosian**
   World Champion from 1963 to 1969, recognized for his defensive skills
12. **Vasily Smyslov**
   World Champion in 1957, known for his strategic understanding
13. **Viswanathan Anand**
   World Champion five times, known for his speed and versatility
14. **Vladimir Kramnik**
   World Champion from 2000 to 2007, known for his solid openings
15. **Levon Aronian**
   Top player known for his creativity and tactical prowess
16. **Fabiano Caruana**
   Top contender known for his deep preparation and calculation

Tags: sports, chess