If you're eager to get your hands on an RTX 50-series graphics card, your best option might be to opt for a gaming laptop.
In the world of gaming, the release of Nvidia's RTX 50-series GPUs has sparked excitement and anticipation. However, recent developments in the political landscape may impact the pricing and availability of these high-performance graphics cards, particularly for laptop versions.
As of August 2025, RTX 50-series gaming laptops are priced between $1,100 and $4,100, with common models like the RTX 5060 laptops starting around $1,100-$1,500, and high-end RTX 5070 Ti or RTX 5090 laptops going up to above $4,000 [1][3][5]. In contrast, RTX 50-series desktop GPUs such as the RTX 5080 are currently available closer to their Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), with some retailers like Newegg even offering discounts below their original prices [2].
The price range for laptops reflects combinations of GPU, CPU, RAM, and display specs. For example, a Gigabyte RTX 5060 Aero X16 laptop with Ryzen AI 7 and 32GB RAM sells for about $1,100 during promotions, while premium RTX 5070 Ti laptops with high-end Intel CPUs and 32GB RAM range higher at $2,300-$2,800 or more [1][3].
Regarding retail price trends and potential impacts from tariffs, there is speculation about President Trump's consideration of up to 300% tariffs on chips, including gaming hardware. Such a move could potentially increase prices, but as of now, no tariffs have been confirmed or implemented, and the RTX 50-series GPUs on desktop are still selling close to MSRP or better [2]. Laptop prices may also be influenced by ongoing component supply chain constraints and inflation but currently appear competitive with some discounts available [1][3][5].
Nvidia manufactures its graphics cards in Taiwan through the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), meaning all imports would likely result in a price increase for its products if tariffs are implemented. This uncertainty in the gaming hardware market has led to concerns about the expected price increase in gaming hardware due to President Donald Trump's upcoming tariffs.
Pre-orders for RTX 50-series laptops are set to begin on February 25, according to Nvidia's announcement. However, all RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 graphics card listings are currently sold out at Best Buy, B&H, NewEgg, and Walmart. The prices for the RTX 5080 graphics card are currently inflated, with listings ranging from $1,199 to $1,479. The RTX 5090 graphics card prices are even higher, with listings ranging from $2,529 to $3,079.
Meanwhile, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 is priced at $3,399.99, while the Acer Predator Triton 300 SE is available for $869. The RTX 5070 laptop is available at Best Buy for $1,899. The desktop version of the RTX 5070 is launching at $549 during February. The Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 (2025) with an RTX 5080 is priced at $3,199.
President Trump gave a speech in January at the House GOP Issues Conference, stating he will place tariffs on foreign production of computer chips, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals. This move could potentially impact the pricing and availability of gaming hardware, including the RTX 50-series GPUs. The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) reports that laptops and tablets could rise in price by 46%, while gaming consoles could go up by 40%.
In summary, while RTX 50-series laptops currently carry a premium mainly for portability and integration, they have seen some sales or discounts. In contrast, desktop GPUs retain nearer MSRP pricing despite geopolitical tension. The tariff situation remains uncertain but could influence future pricing in both markets [1][2][3][5].
- The release of Nvidia's RTX 50-series GPUs has created excitement in the gaming world, but concerns about pricing and availability persist, particularly for laptop versions.
- As of August 2025, RTX 50-series gaming laptops cost between $1,100 and $4,100, with the RTX 5060 laptops starting around $1,100-$1,500, and high-end RTX 5070 Ti or RTX 5090 laptops going up to above $4,000.
- Desktop GPUs like the RTX 5080 are available closer to their Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), with some retailers offering discounts below their original prices.
- The price range for laptops reflects combinations of GPU, CPU, RAM, and display specs, with laptop models like the Gigabyte RTX 5060 Aero X16 priced lower during promotions.
- There is speculation about a potential increase in prices due to President Trump's consideration of up to 300% tariffs on chips, including gaming hardware, but as of now, no tariffs have been confirmed or implemented.
- Pre-orders for RTX 50-series laptops will begin on February 25, but all RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 graphics card listings are currently sold out at major retailers.
- While laptop prices may be influenced by ongoing component supply chain constraints and inflation, they currently appear competitive with some discounts available, as shown by the Acer Predator Triton 300 SE's price of $869.
- President Trump's planned tariffs on foreign production of computer chips, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals could potentially impact the pricing and availability of gaming hardware, including the RTX 50-series GPUs, according to the Consumer Technology Association (CTA).
- In the realm of gadgets and lifestyle technology shopping, it's essential to stay informed about the ongoing geopolitical developments that may affect the pricing and availability of high-performance gaming hardware like the RTX 50-series GPUs.
