Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 and 5080: Limited Availability Despite Lottery System Chaos
Launch Day Challenges
The long-awaited launch of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 and 5080 has faced supply constraints and chaotic lottery systems. Japanese hardware chain PC Koubou implemented a lottery to manage demand but encountered significant disruptions at its Akihabara store. Customers formed long queues, with reports of individuals climbing the fence of a nearby elementary school.
Scaled-Back Lottery Plans
In response to the chaos, PC Koubou stores in Nagoya Osu and Osaka Nihonbashi have shifted lottery applications online. These changes highlight the extremely limited stock of 50-series cards, with only 15 units of the 5090 and 113 units of the 5080 available for purchase through the online lottery.
Global Supply Issues
Similar supply constraints have been reported by retailers worldwide. Overclockers UK confirmed a "single digit" amount of 5090 cards prior to launch, while MSI received a limited number of GPUs from Nvidia. These shortages have led to camping outside Micro Center stores in the US and scalpers selling non-existent cards for inflated prices.
Ongoing Supply Concerns
Experts predict that supply issues may persist into February and beyond. US-based PC gamers may face additional challenges due to potential tariffs on the 50-series cards. The limited availability and high demand make it difficult for consumers to secure a 5090 or 5080 card in the near future.
Check Stockists
For those seeking to purchase a 50-series card, consider checking curated lists of stockists to monitor availability and updates on the situation.