What are the characteristics of a good chess board? I just read the question: What are some good quality magnetic chess sets? and I was left with a few more general questions:


What is a comfortable board size for home vs travel?
What height of chess pieces are most common?
What type of wood indicates a quality board?
What board companies are most reputable?
Are magnetic boards good to have for home tables?
Any other important things to consider when purchasing a board?
home - 3.75" king on 2.25" squares. Travel - no opinion. But the USCF used to sell a chess board 'wallet' that would fold up (with the pieces) and go in your pocket. Perhaps they still do.
3.75" King for me. No more, no less.
Any hardwood.  I like maple and walnut.
House of Staunton, but you'll pay top dollar. While you are there, check out their Reykjavic II chess set.  Ah, the board and set combo (with a box!) is on sale. I prefer boxwood and ebony, but boxwood and ebonized boxwood works for me too.
It is unnecessary.
A vinyl board just rolls up - easy to store, easy to take to the club. Another option is to make your own. Here's one I made.  And here's another, with the steps I took.