Yes, European carry-on dimensions are smaller, and most airlines limit the carry-on weight to 7 kg or so. For that reason, I prefer soft convertible bags which offer max capacity for weight, and are easy to cram into overhead bins or under the seat if needed.
My combo:
carry-on eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible
checked Samsonite F-Lite
Previously, I used MEC Shuttle as carry-on, it is ok for short trips, but I wanted something bigger.