Take a dive into our round-up of the best jigsaw puzzle boards, which are sure to keep you occupied and away from screens. An intricate puzzle can keep jigsaw puzzle lovers going for hours, days and sometimes even weeks! Much like puzzle books, jigsaw puzzles are a perfect pastime that calms the mind while getting us creatively thinking. What is a puzzle board, you ask? A jigsaw puzzle board will allow you to keep your puzzle, and all the pieces, in one place. It's a must-have for all of us who love to indulge in puzzles that are too good to be completed in one sitting.
It's so frustrating when you want to pause for a break and there's nowhere safe to put your incomplete puzzle. You don't want to leave it out where the cat could jump on it, or young children could grab at the pieces. So, having somewhere to safely store your jigsaw, or even take it with you on the go, is a great asset for any puzzle lover, just not well suited to 3D puzzles.
Many of our top picks below are ideal for transporting your masterpiece around, whilst not making a mess or jeopardising the progress you've made so far. Below, we have found the pick of the bunch, offering convenience and flexibility. Don't forget to take a peek at our FAQs, where we deep-dive into some helpful queries around what factors to consider when buying a puzzle board.
Best puzzle boards at a glance
• Best jigsaw puzzle board overall: Becko Puzzle Board and Bracket Set - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best budget puzzle board: LAVIEVERT Jigsaw Puzzle Roll Mat - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best 1000 piece puzzle board: Ravensburger Puzzle Storage for Up To 1000 Pieces - Buy now on Amazon UK
Best jigsaw puzzle boards
Best jigsaw puzzle board overall
AmazonThis Becko Puzzle Board and Bracket Set is made with premium flannelette to increase friction and prevent slipping or falling off, and medium density fibreboard (MDF) while the bracket is processed with fine pinewood. The neutral colour makes sure your jigsaw puzzles and its pieces stand out against it. It can hold up to 1000 pieces to make sure your puzzle-solving experience is organised. It also comes with two adjustable angles that can be set up according to your comfort to prevent any neck strain after playing for a long time.
Pros
- Covered with premium flannelette to increase friction and prevent pieces from slipping or falling off
- The neutral colour makes sure the jigsaw pieces stand out
- Can hold up to 1000 pieces
- Can be set to two adjustable angles to prevent any neck strain
Cons
- Some reviewers felt that it was a bit more expensive compared to similar products
Best budget puzzle board
amazonTechnically not a board, but a mat, this one-of-kind puzzle organiser allows you to simply roll the puzzle into the mat. It's great for space saving and also travelling with your puzzle if you're taking it on the go. It keeps unfinished puzzles safe and sound. Now, what are the reviewers saying?
From 19,000 customer reviews on Amazon UK, this LAVIEVERT mat has received an average 4.2/5 star rating. Customers praise how easy it is to use and it is perfect for a 500-piece puzzle. It is super functional and reviewers are happy with the inflatable tube, which helps the mat roll and keep the puzzle safe. That being said, some customers were unhappy with the amount of effort it takes to inflate it.
Pros
- Easy to use as you can just flatten it on a smooth surface
- Provides secure storage for unfinished puzzles
- Large capacity caters to large and challenging puzzles
Cons
- Some customers are unhappy with the amount of effort it takes to inflate it.
Best 1000 piece puzzle board
AmazonThis simple carrying organiser is super sturdy and will protect your puzzle pieces to prevent any damage. Measuring 30" x 22" x 1", this puzzle storage case with handles is big enough for a project piece, featuring a five-compartment sorting tray and a 27" x 20" removable assembly board.
On Amazon UK, the Ravensburger Puzzle Storage for Up To 1000 Pieces has a review average of 4.4/5 stars, with customers praising the storage space, quality and foldability. One customer adds that it's well-made, easy to use and move around, and keeps your puzzle protected. Plus, many find the appearance is smart. However, some customers have mixed opinions on its flatness and stability.
Pros
- Assembly is simple - just unfold and add the brackets
- Perfect for a 500 and 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle
- Smart appearance
Cons
- Some customers found their board wasn't flat enough to keep the puzzle stable
Best puzzle board for size
amazonThis little gem of a puzzle board could steal the show. Whatever your technique - finding the edges or grouping colours, the handy drawers of this Bits and Pieces - Jumbo Size Wooden Puzzle Plateau mean you can organise pieces however you like. It's every puzzle lover's dream.
From over 9,000 reviews on Amazon, this puzzle plateau has averaged 4.3/5 stars. Customers love the design and quality - with the four drawers for sorting pieces being a highlight. Reviewers added that they love how sturdy it is, although some found it to be a bit on the heavier side. So maybe it is more suited to a coffee or dining table for support.
Pros
- An handy place to keep your working puzzle
- Storage system with drawers ensures that loose pieces are not lost
Cons
- Some customers found it to be a bit on the heavier side
Best puzzle board for secure storage
amazonThis portable Tektalk Jigsaw Puzzle Board with Puzzle Dustproof Cover is lightweight and easy to move around, allowing you puzzlers to enjoy some puzzle fun from your sofa, bed, dining table or floor. The flannelette cover keeps your pieces in place while transporting.
With an impressive 4.5/5 star average, this Tektalk pick has been reviewed by over 2,500 customers, praising the quality, portability and value for money. Not only do the customers find it lightweight (and easy to move around), it can keep your 1000-piece puzzles protected from dust. However, some customers found it a little floppy - so you might need to be a bit careful when carrying it around.
Pros
- A protective cover protects the puzzle board
- Soft velvet top can hold pieces without sliding
- Lightweight and easy to move so you can play anywhere
Cons
- Some customers found it a little floppy
Verdict: Which is best?
Our favourite is the Becko Puzzle Board and Bracket Set. It's adjustable and offers so much freedom when you're doing puzzles. Plus, it helps relieve any neck or back pain. This is the perfect board for keeping your unfinished puzzles all in one place.
How to make your own jigsaw puzzle board?
If you feel you have mastered the skill of solving jigsaw puzzles, why not take the experience to the next level by trying to make your own puzzle board. It is sure to impress your family and friends, and it will keep your company engaged during get-togethers and house parties without the mess of losing or misplacing pieces. Learn how to make your own puzzle board here!
FAQs
How to make a jigsaw puzzle board
Puzzle boards aren't just for puzzles - but, can suit any game. You could make sure your ongoing Monopoly game can live on, even after everyone else has gone to bed.
Sugar Maple Farmhouse helps you make a DIY puzzle board at home, suggesting some handles for the board - for any easy, spill-free manoeuvre:
How do I choose a puzzle board?
You need take factors like convenience and where you usually solve puzzles into consideration when choosing a puzzle board. If stability is what you are looking for, we have listed several sturdy options. But if you are looking for a lightweight option, we have also included ones that are easy to move around. There are boards which can be adjusted to different angles for your comfort as well.
Which is better, puzzle mat or board?
If you are looking for a more compact, lightweight option that can be used anywhere, a mat might suit your needs more. But if sturdiness and stability is what you need, then you might find a puzzle board more useful.
Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Yours, an all-rounder who will write on anything from décor to wellness. When not scouring the net for the best home bargains, Piper is listening to a musical soundtrack and tending to her houseplants.