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, fueling intense excitement. 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 reportedly has only single-digit RTX 5090 units.
This scarcity has led to an unusual sight: campers outside a Micro Center store in Tustin, California, days before the launch. Images circulating on Reddit and the Unofficial Micro Center Discord show tents erected, sparking speculation about potential scalpers. However, at least one camper has publicly stated their intention to purchase the card for personal use. Reports indicate a growing number of tents and individuals waiting, currently estimated at around 24 people.
Micro Center, in a YouTube video, discouraged this camping, advising against braving the cold January weather. The company outlines a first-come, first-served voucher system for purchases, with no choice of specific GPU model and a one-card-per-customer limit. Despite discouraging camping, Micro Center still recommends early arrival to secure a purchase.
This isn't the first time such scenes have unfolded at Micro Center; YouTuber Austin Evans documented a similar event during the RTX 3070 launch in 2020 at the same Tustin location.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 – Photos
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