The highly anticipated Nvidia RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 GPUs are set to launch on January 30th, generating significant excitement among gamers. Our RTX 5090 review hailed it as the fastest consumer graphics card available, fueling intense demand.
While the $2,000 RTX 5090 and $1,000 RTX 5080 command premium prices, limited stock is expected. Reports suggest extremely low availability, with one UK retailer claiming only single-digit stock for the RTX 5090.
This scarcity has led to an unusual sight: people camping outside a Micro Center store in Tustin, California, days before the launch. Images circulating on Reddit and the Unofficial Micro Center Discord server show multiple tents, raising concerns about potential scalpers aiming to capitalize on the limited supply.
One camper, however, clarified on Reddit that their group intends to purchase the cards for personal use, dispelling some scalping speculation. They also reported a respectful atmosphere among those waiting. Estimates from the Discord channel indicate up to 10 tents and approximately 24 individuals are currently lined up.
Micro Center, in a YouTube video, advised against camping, citing the inclement January weather. Their launch strategy involves a first-come, first-served voucher system, offering no choice of specific GPU model. A one-card-per-customer limit is in place. Despite discouraging camping, Micro Center still recommends early arrival to secure a purchase.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 – Photos
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This isn't unprecedented; YouTuber Austin Evans documented similar scenes at the same Tustin location during the RTX 3070 launch in 2020. The anticipation for the RTX 50 series is clearly intense.
