The highly anticipated launch of Nvidia's RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 GPUs on January 30th has ignited a frenzy among gamers. Our RTX 5090 review hailed it as the fastest consumer graphics card available, fueling intense anticipation. While the $2,000 RTX 5090 and $1,000 RTX 5080 command premium prices, demand is exceptionally high, with reports suggesting extremely limited stock. One UK retailer even claims to have only single-digit RTX 5090 units.
This scarcity has led to an unusual sight: days before the launch, individuals began camping outside a Micro Center in Tustin, California. Images circulating on Reddit and the Unofficial Micro Center Discord server show tents erected, sparking speculation about potential scalpers aiming to profit from the low stock.
One camper, identified in a Reddit thread, clarified that they are purchasing the card for personal use and not for resale. They explained their presence by citing business schedules and a desire to avoid inflated prices. They also reported a positive and respectful atmosphere among those waiting. Currently, up to 10 tents and approximately 24 people are reportedly waiting at the location.
Micro Center, in a YouTube video, advised against camping outside their stores due to the January weather, emphasizing their first-come, first-served voucher system for purchasing the RTX 5090 and 5080. Customers will not be able to choose a specific model, and only one card per customer will be allowed. Despite discouraging camping, Micro Center still recommends arriving early to secure a purchase.
This isn't the first time gamers have camped out for new GPUs at Micro Center. YouTuber Austin Evans documented a similar event at the same Tustin location during the RTX 3070 launch in 2020.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 – Photos
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