The Elite Trainer Box, or ETB, is the most popular Pokémon TCG product for good reason. It is a complete starter kit and a display piece in one. Here is exactly what you get and whether it is the right buy for you.
What is inside an ETB
A standard ETB includes booster packs from the set (usually 9), a full set of 65 card sleeves with set artwork, 45 energy cards, a player guide, six dice, a coin-flip die, two condition markers and a collector box with dividers to store your cards. Special edition ETBs, like anniversary or Pokémon Center versions, can include extra packs or promo cards.
Who should buy one
New players get everything they need to start playing except a deck. Collectors get set-themed sleeves and a promo card that is exclusive to the box. Gift-givers get a product that looks premium and needs no explanation. If you only want packs, a booster box is cheaper per pack, but the ETB is the better all-round purchase.
ETB vs booster box
A booster box gives you 36 packs and nothing else. An ETB gives you fewer packs but adds the accessories and the exclusive promo. Serious pack-openers should buy the booster box; everyone else usually gets more enjoyment from the ETB.
Tips for buying
Buy ETBs at release. Once a set is out of print, boxes for popular sets climb in price quickly, especially anniversary and special art sets. Check that the shrink wrap is intact and the box has no dents, as condition matters for resale. Every ETB we stock is factory sealed.
