Buying several ETBs from the same set can make sense, but only if your goal is clear and your budget is under control.
When it's a good idea
- You're chasing multiple cards from the same set
- The per-booster price is good
- You have a strategy for sorting/reselling duplicates
When it's better to diversify
If you're targeting a single specific card, diversifying or buying the card outright is often smarter.
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https://ratetcg.com/en/pokemon/articles/faut-il-acheter-plusieurs-etb-identiques
Reference ETBs
Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution—Perfect Order Elite Trainer Box
9 packs$91.88
Pokemon TCG: Sealed 3-Booster Pack Lot | 30 Cards, Random Rare, Holo, V, VMAX, VSTAR Odds
9 packs$27.80
Pokémon TCG: Trainer’s Toolkit
4 packs$39.99
Pokémon TCG: Mega Kangaskhan ex Box
9 packs$50.88
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Strategy: multiple identical ETBs
Strategy: multiple identical ETBs
| Scenario | Verdict | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Complete a set (all rarities) | ✓ Logical — predictable volume | 36-pack display if better €/pack |
| Chase 1 specific SIR (ME) | △ 2 ETBs = ~35% — not guaranteed | Buy single or Ultra Premium (18) |
| Per-pack on sale (-20%) | ✓ Good opportunity | Cap at 2–3 ETBs max |
| Tight budget (< $60) | ✗ 1 ETB is enough | 6-pack bundle + targeted single |
| Reselling duplicates | ✓ If you know Cardmarket | Sort hits before opening a 3rd ETB |
When stacking ETBs makes sense — and when to avoid it.
FAQ
Does buying 2 identical ETBs improve SIR odds?
Yes statistically: 18 packs ≈ ~35–40% of at least one SIR (ME) vs ~20–25% for 9. Still not guaranteed — variance is real.
When is buying multiple identical ETBs a good strategy?
When completing the full set, per-pack price is attractive (sale, clearance) and you have a plan for duplicates (resale, trades).
Is diversifying across sets better?
If chasing one specific card, diversifying or buying the single is smarter. Multiple identical ETBs = « complete the set » strategy, not « one chase card ».
How many ETBs before diminishing returns?
Beyond 3–4 ETBs of the same set (~27–36 packs), you approach display pricing with sometimes better €/pack. Compare both on rateTCG.
Calculate your pull rates
Search any Pokémon card on rateTCG to estimate pull rates per product and compare Amazon prices.
