Hey friend! I‘m Terry, a tech geek and data analyst obsessed with all things gaming. If you‘re eyeing a Nintendo Switch, you may have seen listings for an “EU version” and wondered what gives. Let me walk you through everything to know about the EU Switch in this helpful guide.
See, I’m the analytical type who researches things to death before making a purchase. When I recently bought my own Switch, I dug into the differences between the EU, US and other versions.
After crunching the numbers, I realized the EU edition is more than just a power adapter change. There are some sweet bonuses that can make it the better choice depending on your needs.
In this article, I’ll share my in-depth findings so you can decide if the EU Switch is right for you. Let’s dive in!
What Exactly is the EU Version?
The EU version refers to Nintendo Switch consoles marketed and sold in Europe. Don‘t worry, the Switch itself is region-free. You can play any games on any version of the console.
The key difference with the EU version is the included power adapter. It has a Type C plug designed for use in European wall outlets.
This allows direct connection to EU sockets without an adapter. But it means you’ll need a separate power adapter with Type A/B plugs to use the Switch dock in North America, Japan or other regions.
Aside from the adapter, everything else included is the same:
- Nintendo Switch console
- Joy-Con controllers
- Switch dock
- HDMI cable
- Grip accessory
- Straps for Joy-Cons
Now let’s explore if the EU version offers any major advantages or disadvantages compared to the regular Switch.
Can You Use an EU Switch Anywhere?
One perk of the EU Switch is that you won’t need any power adapters when traveling within Europe or countries with Type C outlets, like Australia or Hong Kong.
Of course, you can always use a third-party USB-C adapter to connect the Switch in regions with Type A/B outlets too. It just requires a little extra gear.
My research shows the Switch itself is region-free, meaning you can use a EU console on any modern TV with HDMI input. The graphics will display properly regardless of region. No issues there!
And since the Joy-Cons and dock are standard, everything connects to TVs normally. Just be sure to get a suitable wall adapter for your region.
Playing European Games
Great news – the Switch is not region-locked for physical game cards! Any Switch can play EU games sold at retail.
That means you can pick up a hot limited edition Super Mario Odyssey bundle only released in Europe and play it on a US Switch with no problems.
The only limitation is with downloaded content like DLC and eShop games. Your account must match the region of the DLC for compatibility. But cartridge games work globally!
Accessing the European Nintendo eShop
This was an eye-opener for me. The EU eShop has some exclusive deals and even free game demos not seen on the US version.
By creating a Nintendo account registered to a European country, you gain access to the EU eShop content on any Switch.
What kind of perks are we talking? Here are some real examples I found:
- Splatoon 2 demo – Available for free only on EU eShop
- Discount vouchers – Like a 30% off Mario Odyssey code
- Free themes – Special Smash Bros. and Splatoon themes
The EU eShop accepts credit cards and PayPal for purchases. You just need an EU account to browse and download from it.
EU Version Price and Availability Differences
Based on my number crunching, the EU Switch often has better pricing compared to other regions.
For example, here‘s a breakdown of Switch console prices converted to USD:
| Region | Switch Price |
|---|---|
| United States | $299.99 |
| Europe | $271.99 |
| Japan | $322.99 |
And games also tend to be cheaper too. Let’s look at some real price comparisons:
| Game | EU Price | US Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Kart 8 | $54.99 | $59.99 | 8% |
| Super Mario Odyssey | $51.99 | $59.99 | 13% |
| Zelda: Breath of the Wild | $51.99 | $59.99 | 13% |
As you can see, the same games are often 10-15% less expensive in Europe. These savings add up, especially if you game a lot!
Of course, currency conversion rates also impact the true cost. But for shoppers in countries with favorable exchange rates, the EU can translate to big game savings.
There are also special Nintendo Switch bundles and limited editions exclusively released in Europe. For collectors or bargain hunters, the EU unit opens access to these offerings.
Unique Color Variations
This is one of my favorite perks. Nintendo has rolled out amazing color variations of the Switch only available in Europe.
For instance, check out these sweet hues not sold in North America:
- Turquoise / Yellow Joy-Cons
- Grey / Pink Joy-Cons
- Animal Crossing pastel blue / green
As a bonus, the Animal Crossing edition comes pre-loaded with the game on the console.
So for those of us who dig colorful tech gear, the EU Switch is the only way to get these custom versions. Now that’s a huge win in my book!
Downsides to Consider
To offer balanced guidance, I need to cover a few potential disadvantages to the EU model:
- No power adapter for North America – You‘ll need a separate USB-C adapter for travel
- Can‘t redeem EU eShop codes – Download codes only work in same region
- Expensive shipping imports – High shipping costs if buying from Europe
These issues are pretty minor, and there are workarounds. But it helps to factor them into your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s wrap up this guide by answering some of the most common EU Switch questions:
Q: Can I change the region of my EU Switch?
A: Unfortunately no, the Switch region is set at the factory and can‘t be changed. You can create accounts in different regions though!
Q: Do EU games have any language limitations?
A: Nope! European game cards are almost always multi-language, including English text/audio.
Q: Is the EU Switch box or serial number any different?
A: Yes, EU boxes are labeled appropriately and have serials that identify them as European units.
Q: Can I use the EU eShop if my Switch is from a different region?
A: Yep, just make an EU Nintendo account and you can access the European eShop from any Switch.
Q: AreEU Joy-Cons different from other regions?
A: No, the Joy-Cons included with EU Switches are identical and region-free.
The Bottom Line
Phew, that was a lot of info about the EU Nintendo Switch! Here are my key takeaways:
- The EU version has a Type C power adapter for Europe
- Switch console and games themselves are region-free
- EU eShop has some exclusive deals and demos
- EU prices on games/consoles are often cheaper
- Cool special editions only released in Europe
- Minor downsides like no US power adapter included
So in summary, the EU Switch gives you flexibility. For frequent European travelers or bargain hunters, it‘s a great pick. You sacrifice the standard US power adapter for EU compatibility and access to special editions.
But any version of the Switch will function perfectly fine in any region. You just may need extra adapters or chargers depending on your location.
Hope this guide helped demystify the EU Nintendo Switch and provided all the details you need to decide! Let me know if you have any other questions. Enjoy your new Switch – such an awesome console no matter which you choose!
