As anticipation builds for the next wave of gaming hardware, Nvidia is set to unveil its latest flagship GPUs: the GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 on January 30. According to our [RTX 5090 review], this powerhouse has earned the title of “the fastest graphics card on the consumer market,” fueling a surge of excitement across the tech and gaming communities.
Priced at $2,000 for the RTX 5090 and $1,000 for the RTX 5080, these cards sit firmly in the premium segment. Despite their steep price tags, demand remains sky-high. However, early reports suggest that supply will be extremely limited—particularly for the RTX 5090—with one UK retailer even stating they only have “single-digit” units available.
This scarcity has already sparked dramatic scenes outside Micro Center’s Tustin, California store, where eager buyers have begun camping days ahead of the release. Photos of tents and makeshift setups have surfaced on [Reddit] and the [Unofficial Micro Center Discord channel], igniting speculation about whether those waiting are genuine buyers or scalpers aiming to profit from the shortage.
Campers already appeared
byu/Temporary-Director46 in Microcenter
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The photos show multiple tents already occupied by people braving the cold. One large grey tent reportedly houses four individuals, with one camper chiming in on Reddit: “Hello everyone, I’m the guy that you guys are talking about in the second tent. And yes, we are buying it for our own use, no trades and no sells. We just don’t want to pay that extra $ for a gaming card, and yes, we do have some time on our hands because we run a business. Good luck to everyone trying to get one.”
In another comment, he added that the atmosphere among those waiting is positive, with everyone being “very nice and respectful.” As of now, up to ten tents have been pitched at the location, with approximately 24 people waiting in line, according to members of the Unofficial Micro Center Discord.
In preparation for the launch, Micro Center released a YouTube video addressing the situation and urging customers not to camp overnight. “We do discourage camping at our locations for the 5090 and 5080,” the company stated, clearly concerned about safety and comfort during the chilly January nights.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 – Product Images
Such scenes aren’t unusual—enthusiasts lined up for previous GPU launches as well. YouTuber Austin Evans famously captured similar footage at the same Tustin store during the RTX 3070 drop back in 2020.
For those hoping to secure a unit, purchases will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis using a voucher system. Buyers won’t be able to choose specific models, and only one GPU per customer will be allowed.
While Micro Center discourages camping, they still advise arriving early to improve your chances. If history repeats itself, competition will be fierce—and patience may be your most valuable asset.
