Online chess isn’t what it used to be. It’s faster, funnier, and more exciting than ever.
A lot of that is thanks to a handful of creators who’ve changed the game. These are streamers, YouTubers, and personalities who teach, entertain, and compete, often all at once.
If you’ve been trying to learn chess, enjoy watching games, or just want to stay plugged into chess culture, this list is for you. These are the top chess creators to follow right now.
1. GothamChess
Real name: Levy Rozman
Title: International Master
Platforms: YouTube, Twitch, Twitter, Chess.com
GothamChess is the most popular chess YouTuber in the world. His videos are easy to understand.
His teaching style is relaxed, funny, and highly effective. If you’ve searched “how to get better at chess,” you’ve probably watched one of his videos.
Levy built a massive following during the pandemic. His content exploded when new players started learning the game.
He launched series like “Guess the Elo,” where he analyzes subscriber games and tries to guess their ratings.
It’s part learning, part comedy, and always entertaining.
He also creates opening guides, meme reviews, tournament coverage, and commentary on big events.
GothamChess doesn’t just explain the game; he builds confidence in new players.
His real strength is making chess accessible. Beginners stick around because Levy teaches with patience and humor.
But even experienced players can learn from how he breaks down complicated ideas.
He’s the internet’s chess coach, and he’s not slowing down anytime soon.
2. Hikaru Nakamura
Title: Grandmaster
Achievements: 5-time U.S. Champion
Platforms: Twitch, YouTube, Twitter, Chess.com
Hikaru is a chess legend. He’s been at the top of the game for years, but he’s also been key to the rise of chess streaming.
He was one of the first elite players to start streaming on Twitch. Now, he’s one of the biggest chess streamers in the world.
His content is packed with speed runs, puzzle rushes, bullet games, and tournament analysis.
He plays fast and talks faster, but he always gives sharp insight.
Hikaru’s streams are full of energy. He explains his thoughts as he plays and often plays at crazy speeds.
You’ll learn a lot just from watching how he reacts under pressure.
He’s not only entertaining, he’s also consistent. He competes at the highest levels and dominates online blitz.
He’s also helped bring chess to new audiences by collaborating with content creators across the internet.
When you follow Hikaru, you get a front-row seat to high-level chess with personality.
3. Agadmator
Real name: Antonio Radić
Platform: YouTube
Agadmator runs one of the most-watched chess channels on YouTube.
However, what makes his content stand out is his focus on chess history and classic games.
He covers matches from the 1800s to today, always with clear explanations and a bit of humor.
Antonio isn’t a titled player, but that’s part of his charm. He’s a fan of the game and explains it in simple terms.
His commentary is relaxed, and his storytelling keeps you hooked from the first move to checkmate.
What sets Agadmator apart is how he brings legendary games back to life.
Whether it’s Fischer, Kasparov, Tal, or Carlsen, he breaks down every moment with enthusiasm.
He also covers recent tournaments, keeping his channel both nostalgic and current.
If you want to enjoy chess without feeling overwhelmed, Agadmator is perfect.
His videos are bite-sized, educational, and always entertaining.
4. BotezLive
Hosts: Alexandra and Andrea Botez
Titles: Alexandra Woman FIDE Master
Platforms: Twitch, YouTube, Twitter
The Botez sisters are entertainers first, but don’t underestimate their skills.
They mix chess with streaming in a way that feels fun and fresh. They joke around, talk to chat, and still manage to win games.
Their content includes everything from speed chess to real-life matches and travel vlogs.
They’ve played chess in public parks and numerous places. The sisters don’t shy away from crazy ideas, but their chess is real.
They also compete in tournaments and create educational content.
Andrea plays aggressive blitz games, while Alexandra leans into analysis and breakdowns. Both bring different styles that make their channel unique.
Their ability to bring non-chess fans into the game is unmatched. If you’re looking for fun and energy, BotezLive is the channel to watch.
5. ChessBrah
Founders: Eric Hansen, Aman Hambleton
Title: Grandmasters (Eric and Aman)
Platforms: Twitch, YouTube
ChessBrah is a blend of high-level chess and laid-back humor. Based in Canada, this group of friends made chess cool.
They stream classical games, blitz matches, and educational breakdowns with music and banter in the background.
Eric Hansen is the main face of the channel. His fast-paced style and expressive reactions make the games exciting.
Aman often adds calm commentary and deep analysis.
They also cover major tournaments and play viewer games. Their streams feel more like hanging out in a basement with friends, except those friends are grandmasters.
If you want chess with attitude and skill, check out ChessBrah.
6. Anna Cramling
Title: Woman FIDE Master
Platforms: YouTube, Twitch
Anna is one of the most wholesome and fun creators in the chess space.
Her videos often show her playing on sites like Lichess and Chess.com while sharing stories or reacting to moves.
She grew up in a chess family. Her mother is Grandmaster Pia Cramling, and she combines her strong background with a relaxed, friendly style.
Anna’s videos are perfect for casual players who want to improve without stress.
She also makes fun “chess in real life” videos, such as playing chess against strangers or taking on challenges.
Her content is light, positive, and great for all ages.
7. Daniel Naroditsky
Title: Grandmaster
Roles: Chess commentator, author, teacher
Platforms: YouTube, Twitch, Chess.com
Danya, as he’s often called, is one of the best chess teachers online. His YouTube videos explore deep ideas in a calm, thoughtful tone.
He focuses on logic, patterns, and thinking like a strong player.
He’s also a speed chess machine. His bullet and blitz sessions are incredible.
But what really sets him apart is how he talks through every move. He makes tough decisions seem easy and never rushes the explanation.
Whether you’re a 900-rated beginner or an advanced club player, you’ll learn from Naroditsky.
Final Thoughts: Who Should You Follow?.
The chess world is bigger than ever, and these creators are leading the way.
Whether you’re new to the game or returning after years away, you’ll find something to enjoy with every one of them.
So subscribe, follow, and play some chess. The board is open.
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