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 lauded it as the fastest consumer graphics card available, fueling intense demand.

Despite their premium pricing ($2,000 for the RTX 5090 and $1,000 for the RTX 5080), limited stock is expected. Reports suggest extremely low availability, with one UK retailer reporting "single-digit" stock 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, sparking debate about whether these are legitimate customers or scalpers aiming to profit from the low supply.

Reddit and the Unofficial Micro Center Discord server feature images of the encampment. One camper, identified in a Reddit thread, clarified that they are purchasing the card for personal use and not for resale. The number of campers has grown, with estimates ranging up to 24 individuals across multiple tents.

Micro Center, in a YouTube video, advised against camping, citing the inclement January weather. However, the company is employing a voucher system to manage purchases on a first-come, first-served basis. Customers will not be able to choose a specific model and are limited to one purchase per person. Despite discouraging camping, Micro Center recommends early arrival to secure a purchase.

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. The high demand and limited supply continue to create a competitive environment for acquiring the latest high-end graphics cards.