Whether you're new to the Pokémon TCG or have been around for a while, you'll quickly encounter one of the most recognizable and beloved products in the hobby: theElite Trainer Box , commonly abbreviated as ETB. This product is incredibly popular with both players and collectors and has become an important part of the Pokémon TCG world over the years.
In this article, we explain exactly what an ETB is, what's inside them, why some ETBs are worth more than others, and what the very first ETB ever looked like.
What is an Elite Trainer Box?
An Elite Trainer Box (ETB) is a luxury product designed to help you play, collect, and organize. You'll find this box with almost every set, especially since the XY era.
A typical modern ETB contains:
- 9 of 10 booster packs
- 1 promo card (not with older ETBs)
- card sleeves
- energy maps
- dice and markers
- a sturdy collector's box
It's a complete set of materials in one package. That's why ETBs are convenient for players and attractive for collectors.
Why is the abbreviation ETB used?
Elite Trainer Box is a long name, so fans and stores almost always use the abbreviation ETB .
When someone says “The new ETB is very good,” they simply mean the Elite Trainer Box from the latest set.
The Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box
In addition to the regular ETB, there is a more luxurious and exclusive version: the Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box .
You can only purchase these through the official Pokémon Center. Pokémon Center ETBs have several important extras:
What makes Pokémon Center ETB different?
- More booster packs than the normal ETB
- Additional accessories such as better sleeves or extra markers
- A special promo card with a Pokémon Center stamp
- Lower circulation , so sold out faster
- Higher long-term collection value
Especially the Pokémon Center stamp on the promo makes these boxes much more valuable than regular ETBs.
Collectors often prefer Pokémon Center ETBs because they are more exclusive and historically hold their value much better.
The very first ETB ever: Plasma Storm (2013)
The first Elite Trainer Box was released in 2013 for the Plasma Storm set from the Black & White era. This ETB was simple compared to modern versions, but it marked the beginning of what is now one of the most important product lines in the Pokémon TCG.
What was in the Plasma Storm ETB?
- 7 booster packs
- sleeves
- dice
- energies
- deck box
There was no promo card included yet , and many extras that we now consider standard did not exist back then.
The value today
Because Plasma Storm is such a rare and sought-after set, and because this ETB was the very first one ever , its value has increased dramatically.
A sealed Plasma Storm ETB is worth 10,000+ euros these days, depending on condition.
For collectors, this is one of the holy grails of modern Pokémon products.
Why are Elite Trainer Boxes so popular?
There are several reasons why ETBs are popular among both beginners and advanced users:
1. You get a lot of value for your money
An ETB combines booster packs with useful accessories and a sturdy box that you can put to good use, for example, for storing your cards.
2. Ideal for people who want a complete package in one go
You don't need to buy sleeves, dice, or energies separately.
3. Beautiful design
ETBs are consistent with the style and theme of the set and are popular for keeping sealed.
4. Promo cards (modern ETBs)
The promos of recent ETBs are often popular and sometimes even valuable.
5. Exclusivity at Pokémon Center ETBs
Due to low print runs and special stamps, these boxes have a lot of long-term value.
Are ETBs always the best choice?
That depends on what you're looking for.
ETBs are a good fit for:
- players who want a complete starter pack
- collectors who want a nice collector's box
- buyers who value promotions
- people who want to get to know a new set at an affordable price
Less suitable if:
- you want as many booster packs for your money as possible → booster box is better
- you're only after promotions → buying individual tickets is cheaper
Summary
An Elite Trainer Box (ETB) is one of the most popular and versatile products in the Pokémon TCG. You get boosters, sleeves, markers, energies, and a sturdy collector's box all in one package.
There are also Pokémon Center ETBs , an exclusive variant with extras and promotions featuring a Pokémon Center stamp. These boxes are much more sought after and often significantly more valuable than standard ETBs.
The first ever ETB, Plasma Storm (2013) , is today one of the most expensive modern Pokémon products you can find sealed.
Whether you play, collect, or just want to learn more about Pokémon products, ETBs are an important part of the hobby and a great way to discover a new set.
