ScanChess

About ScanChess

ScanChess turns photos of handwritten chess scoresheets into rule-checked, editable PGN files, and board images into positions you can analyze. Upload a board image or scoresheet pages, and the system reads each move, checks it against chess rules, and flags anything uncertain for you to verify. After scanning, analyze games with Stockfish for free, get AI coach explanations, practice from your mistakes, and export to Lichess, Chess.com or ChessBase. The service includes 23 free tools in your browser, a browser extension for reading boards on web pages, and features for coaches and clubs to manage rosters and events.

• handwriting recognition
• scoresheet
• pgn
• fen
• chess
• ocr
• analysis

FAQ

Is ScanChess free?

New accounts get 10 free credits with no card required. A board image costs 1 credit and a scoresheet scan costs 2 credits. The 23 free tools and basic features like editing, replay, and PGN export cost nothing. One AI explanation per day is free, then 1 credit each. Daily practice is also free for all accounts.

Can it read a handwritten scoresheet?

Yes. Upload the pages of one game in order and the system reads the moves, checks them against chess rules, and shows them beside the original photo so you can verify and fix any doubtful moves before exporting. It reads Standard Algebraic Notation but does not convert descriptive notation.

Which board images can I use?

Screenshots of online games, diagrams from books, and clear top-down photos of real boards can all be scanned. You get an editable FEN and can choose which side to move. Angled photos and carved 3D pieces may need a correction of a square or two.

What do I get after scanning?

The game is saved to your games library with its photo. Stockfish analysis is free and shows accuracy and turning points. The AI coach explains one game per day free, then 1 credit each. Missed tactics become daily practice with 15 free per day. Pro unlocks full insights, opening repertoires, opponent scouting and event reports. Pro+ lifts club roster limits.

How accurate is the recognition?

Recognition quality depends on handwriting, lighting, camera angle, and notation style, so a fixed accuracy rate is not guaranteed. The system flags low-confidence or illegal moves for you to check. In published tests, 141 of 143 moves were read correctly on standard algebraic scoresheets, and 43 of 45 on a real German scoresheet.