Is 700 a Good Chess Rating (ELO)? Here's What It Really Means
Quick Answer
A 700 chess rating is below average but perfectly normal for someone still learning. On Chess.com, you're around the 20th percentile. You've moved past the absolute beginner phase and understand basic tactics. With focused practice on simple patterns, reaching 1000 is realistic within 2-3 months.
Your Rating in Context
A 700 rating doesn't mean the same thing everywhere. Chess.com, Lichess, and FIDE all use different rating pools, so your percentile varies depending on the platform. Here's how 700 stacks up on each:
Percentiles are approximate and based on Rapid ratings. Blitz and Bullet distributions differ slightly.
Where 700 Sits on the Rating Scale
What 700-Rated Players Look Like
Similar to a casual player who's been playing for a few weeks and understands the basics. A typical 700-rated player has been playing for about 1-3 months of casual play for most beginners. Here's what they can do and where they tend to struggle:
✅ Typical Skills
- Know basic opening principles (develop pieces, control center)
- Can spot simple one-move captures and threats
- Understand the relative value of pieces (queen > rook > bishop/knight > pawn)
- Can deliver checkmate with major pieces
- Starting to think one move ahead
Common Struggles
- Still hanging pieces regularly, especially in the middlegame
- Bringing the queen out too early and losing time
- Neglecting king safety - forgetting to castle
- Trading pieces without considering whether the trade helps or hurts your position
- Playing hope chess - making a move and hoping the opponent doesn't see the threat
700 Rating Across Platforms
If you're 700 on Chess.com Rapid, here's roughly what that translates to on other platforms:
| Rating System | Estimated Rating |
|---|---|
| FIDE | ~463 |
| USCF | ~613 |
| Chess.com Rapid(base) | ~700 |
| Chess.com Blitz | ~605 |
| Lichess Rapid | ~763 |
| Lichess Blitz | ~663 |
Rating conversions are approximate. Individual results vary based on playing style, time control, and player pool. Try our full ELO converter for more detailed conversions.
How to Improve from 700 to 1000
Getting from 700 to 1000 is achievable with the right focus. Here are the most effective ways to make that jump:
Make 'hanging piece checks' automatic: scan the board after every move for undefended pieces
Learn the first 3-5 moves of two openings (one for white, one for black) and stick with them
Castle early in every game, ideally before move 10
Practice basic endgames: King + Pawn vs King, Rook endgames
Do 15-20 tactics puzzles daily, focusing on forks, pins, and skewers
Ready to Improve Your Rating?
The best way to improve is to play regularly and study your mistakes. Chess.com offers free puzzles, lessons, and game analysis to help you reach 1000 and beyond.
Start Improving on Chess.comRecommended Courses on Chessable
These courses are popular picks for players around 700 rating. Chessable uses spaced repetition to help you actually retain what you study.