Nvidia RTX 5090 Campers Brave Frigid Temps for Next-Gen GPU

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 their premium pricing—$2000 for the RTX 5090 and $1000 for the RTX 5080—enthusiasm remains high. However, reports suggest extremely limited stock, with one UK retailer claiming only single-digit RTX 5090 units.

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 erected, raising concerns about potential scalpers aiming to capitalize on the low supply.

One camper, responding to online discussions, clarified that their group intends to purchase the cards for personal use, not resale. They emphasized the group's respectful behavior and explained their early arrival as a way to avoid inflated prices. Reports indicate as many as 10 tents and 24 individuals are currently waiting.

Micro Center, in a YouTube video, advised against camping, citing the inclement January weather. The company will utilize a voucher system, distributing cards on a first-come, first-served basis with no model selection available. Only one card per customer will be sold. While discouraging camping, Micro Center recommends early arrival to increase chances of securing 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.