The highly anticipated Nvidia RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 are set to launch on January 30th, generating significant excitement among gamers. Our RTX 5090 review hailed it as the fastest consumer-grade graphics card, fueling the hype surrounding this new generation.
Despite their premium prices – $2,000 for the RTX 5090 and $1,000 for the RTX 5080 – demand is exceptionally high. Reports suggest extremely limited stock, with one UK retailer reporting only single-digit quantities of the RTX 5090.
This scarcity has led to an unusual scene outside a Micro Center store in Tustin, California. Days before the launch, individuals have set up tents, sparking debate on whether these are genuine buyers or scalpers aiming to profit from the low stock.
Campers already appeared
by u/Temporary-Director46 in Microcenter
Images circulating on Reddit and the Unofficial Micro Center Discord show multiple tents occupied by individuals awaiting the launch. One camper, in a Reddit thread, clarified their intention to purchase for personal use, dismissing any speculation of reselling.
Currently, estimates from the Unofficial Micro Center Discord suggest up to 10 tents and approximately 24 people are waiting. Micro Center, in a YouTube video, advised against camping, citing the inclement January weather.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 – Photos
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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.
Micro Center will utilize a voucher system for purchases on a first-come, first-served basis. Customers will not be able to choose specific models, with a one-card-per-customer limit in place. While discouraging camping, Micro Center still recommends early arrival to secure a purchase.
