Where to buy Nvidia RTX 5090: these are the retailers I'd check

The Curious Case of the RTX 5090 Launch

The much-anticipated launch of the Nvidia RTX 5090 graphics card has turned into quite the spectacle. In true British form, let’s explore the ongoing chaos with a touch of dry humour and keen observation.

Trouble Brewing Across The Globe

A Chaotic Start

On January 30, 2025, excited PC gaming enthusiasts worldwide sought to lay their hands on the RTX 5090. However, it quickly turned into an exercise akin to finding a needle in a haystack. The launch wasn’t without its quirks, as demonstrated by Overclockers UK, initially listing their RTX 5090 cards at a whimsical price of £25,000. This, as expected, was a mere placeholder, ready to be updated at the stroke of 2PM GMT.

Meanwhile, in Australia, the situation mirrored that of previous GPU launches. Stock remained scarce, with major retailers like JB Hi-Fi and Dick Smith showing no signs of the coveted RTX series. Shoppers hopeful for a pre-built system were better off keeping an eye on EvaTech’s RTX 5000 custom PC page, albeit with a foreboding suggestion of limited initial stock.

An Amusing Antidote to Scalpers

In the midst of this technological flurry, a peculiar and rather crafty solution emerged. Some ingenious individuals on eBay took it upon themselves to thwart the dreaded scalper bots. Their weapon of choice? Photographs of the RTX 5090 itself, listed at tempting prices. The catch? Buyers were merely acquiring a snapshot, a clear deterrent to those using automated systems to scoop up all available stock.

All Hope Isn’t Lost

Signs of Life

Despite the dry outlook, not all was doom and gloom. Certain UK retailers, like CCL, maintained an air of optimism with their "coming soon" banners for the RTX 5090 stock. This provided a glimmer of hope for eager shoppers committed to staking out restocks. Across the pond, US shoppers were encouraged to sign up for lengthy waiting lists or notifications from shops like B&H and Newegg, ever hopeful for when the stock might miraculously appear.

A Tip For Britons

In the UK, a few clever individuals discovered that some RTX 5080 models were still available. If the RTX 5090 seems elusive, the 5080 might be a reliable alternative. Given that it shares many features with its bigger sibling, it might just save your day.

The Ray of Sunshine: RTX 5080

Throughout this drama, the RTX 5080 stood steadfastly in the shadows of its more storied counterpart. Its availability was more generous, and its capabilities robust enough to attract gamers seeking high-end performance without the hassle (review).

Additional Considerations

For those still on the fence, the RTX 5080 offers compatibility with Nvidia’s Small Form Factor Ready. Such developments are delightful news for individuals keen on building sleek, compact PCs.

Farewell for Now!

In closing, this tumultuous launch of the RTX 5090 has clearly highlighted the continued strain between supply and demand in technology markets. While the search for the elusive GPU seems perilous, one can still find joy in the proceedings. After all, what’s life without a little challenge and an occasional comedic twist? As D.L. Mencken once said, "The chief function of the city is to convert power into civilisation," or in our case, a GPU into a gaming masterpiece. Godspeed in your quest, dear reader!