A recent video shared on BiliBili, viewed nearly 100,000 times, shows a Chinese gamer's new Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card catching fire during its first startup. The user, who regularly documents initial hardware boots, quickly shut down their system and extinguished the flames, preventing further damage.

According to reports, the gamer attributes the malfunction directly to the graphics card, noting that other components, like the power supply cables, remained intact. The issue was resolved after replacing the faulty 5090 with an RTX 5060, which operated without incident. Due to US export restrictions, the RTX 5090 is not officially available in China. The user acquired the card through a proxy, meaning it was purchased without a warranty, complicating any claims for compensation or repair. They plan to contact the proxy seller after the Lunar New Year holiday.

This incident is not the first reported issue with the RTX 5090; previous analyses suggested that the Founders Edition might be prone to melting power connectors, although these claims were not consistently replicated by other testers. Repair technicians have also expressed concerns about the Founders Edition's design, citing difficulties in sourcing replacement parts for its internal connectors and criticizing the layout of its twin circuit boards. Despite these challenges and the card's premium price, its performance gains have been described as incremental compared to previous generations, with rumors already circulating about a more powerful Nvidia GPU launching later this year, potentially overshadowing the current model.

This event serves as a critical reminder for consumers to prioritize safety and consider the risks associated with acquiring restricted or grey-market electronics. While the allure of cutting-edge technology is strong, understanding the implications of bypassing official distribution channels, particularly regarding warranties and product support, is essential. Responsible purchasing and adherence to safety guidelines are paramount for a positive and secure technological experience.