So thinking about buying a Wii U to get the kids into gaming.

The best deals in the UK seem to be on the Basic Console, are there any downsides to this version over the premium, besides the lack of space, as i already have an external USB HDD so i dont think thats an issue. 

Just wanted to check if there was any other issues with the smaller internal Memory i should know about?

It only has 8GB wich is more than enough for updates and saving games. At some point, you're going to want to buy an external HDD (for digital games. Not much else to use it for.). I have an external HDD for my Wii U and the 32GB built into the Wii U (Only about 29GB usable) haven't even been touched. Everything saves to the external now. I don't even think I selected that as a default.

if you have an external HDD, there is no problem. I like the white one better since it leaves virtually no fingerprints.

Nope, if you have a solution to the space problem, then go for it. Basic Pack is good in my opinion

I have the 8 GB one and it works fine. If you want to buy digital games it is recommended that you have an external drive. As you already have one I say you go for that one!

Get NSMBU or DKTF! They are great co-op fun!

- no Network Premium cashback for digital purchases, but that program ends at the end of 2014
- no GamePad stand and charging cradle
- no vertical stand for the console
I don't use them, my console is placed horizontally and I charge the GamePad directly with the charging cable

And don't forget to play yourself

EDIT: and no Wii sensor bar in Europe, only the Basic bundles with a Wii Remote have one

Yeah there isnt much differance except the harddrive size and a few.extra stands thats it

I just have to compliment you on that post.  Very good with a lot of info that I simply forgot.

This post says it all, even all the nitty gritty bits.

Like episteme I dont use the stand or the cradle since I play longer gaming sessions than the battery life can hold.

HDD space isnt a problem unless you intend to buy lots of your games digital.

Youll need more controllers though (unless you have some Wiimotes left over from last gen), I suggest the pro controllers, really nicely built with great battery life.

This.

The Black system and Gamepad look positively disgusting after a short while, with all the smudge and dust and fingerprints. The white ones don't show any of that at all.