The highly anticipated Nvidia RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 GPUs are set to launch on January 30th, generating significant excitement and, predictably, limited stock. Our RTX 5090 review hailed it as the fastest consumer graphics card available, fueling the frenzy.
Despite the hefty price tags—$2,000 for the RTX 5090 and $1,000 for the RTX 5080—demand is exceptionally high. Reports suggest extremely limited availability, with one UK retailer claiming single-digit stock for the RTX 5090.
This scarcity has led to an unusual scene outside a Micro Center store in Tustin, California. Images circulating on Reddit and the Unofficial Micro Center Discord server show numerous tents erected days before the launch. While some claim to be legitimate customers, concerns have arisen about potential scalpers aiming to profit from the low stock.
One camper, identified in a Reddit thread, clarified their intentions, stating they are purchasing for personal use and not for resale. They acknowledged the time commitment but explained it's manageable due to their business. Reports indicate a growing number of campers, with up to 10 tents and approximately 24 individuals present.
Micro Center, in a YouTube video, advised against camping, citing the inclement January weather. The company will utilize a voucher system to allocate purchases on a first-come, first-served basis, with no choice of specific GPU model allowed. A one-card-per-customer limit is in place. Despite discouraging camping, Micro Center recommends early arrival to secure a purchase.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 – Images
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This isn't unprecedented; YouTuber Austin Evans documented a similar scene at the same Tustin location during the RTX 3070 launch in 2020. The anticipation and potential for disappointment highlight the intense demand for the latest generation of Nvidia graphics cards.
