Interestingly, price competition which appears absent from food, clothing, magazines, cosmetics and toy products (which are all very expensive in Switzerland compared to the EU) is alive and well for electronic products, which are generally cheaper in Switzerland, due to far lower VAT in Switzerland versus the EU.

While Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world, there are a few notable items and services that are surprisingly "cheaper" than in neighboring European nations. Most significantly, electronics such as laptops, smartphones, and cameras are often priced lower in Switzerland because the country has a lower Value Added Tax (VAT) rate (currently 8.1% in 2026) compared to the 19%–21% typical in France or Germany. Additionally, public education is exceptionally affordable; tuition for world-class universities like ETH Zurich is remarkably low compared to American or British equivalents because it is heavily subsidized by the state. For the savvy shopper, luxury watches can sometimes be a better "value" when factoring in the VAT refund for tourists, though the sticker price remains high. Another "bargain" is the high-quality tap water, which is free from the thousands of public fountains and often tastes better than expensive bottled water. While groceries and dining are notoriously pricey, many travelers find that "mountain transport" passes provide better inclusive value for the number of cable cars and trains they cover compared to buying individual tickets in the French or Italian Alps.