People Are Already Camping Out for an Nvidia RTX 5090, Despite Retailer Warning About the January Cold

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.

Despite the hefty price tags—$2,000 for the RTX 5090 and $1,000 for the RTX 5080—enthusiasm remains sky-high. However, reports suggest extremely limited stock, with one UK retailer claiming single-digit availability for 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, prompting speculation about potential scalpers aiming to capitalize on the low stock. Reddit and the Unofficial Micro Center Discord channel feature images of these campers.

One camper, responding to online discussion, clarified that their group intends to purchase the cards for personal use, not resale. They acknowledged the time commitment but emphasized their business allows for it. They also described a respectful atmosphere among those waiting. Reports indicate up to 10 tents and approximately 24 people are currently waiting.

Micro Center, in a YouTube video, advised against camping, citing the cold January weather. The company will utilize a voucher system for 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. While discouraging camping, Micro Center still recommends early arrival to secure a purchase.

Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 – Images

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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.