During CES 2026 last month, one of the most interesting reveals was MSI’s new Lightning Z RTX 5090 graphics card. The custom GPU offers a ridiculous amount of power and even broke 17 overclocking world records ahead of its release. The RTX 5090 features an already toasty 575W TDP, but the Lightning Z can push power requirements up to 1000W using a secondary 16-pin power connector. It has now been listed on Amazon in the US; exact release date and price details remain a mystery.

At the time of writing, this card is yet to be listed on MSI’s official US store. As such, we still don’t know the MSRP yet. The cheapest model listed there is the Ventus 3X variant, at $2,399.99 MSRP, though this card will actually set you back around $4,000 (at least for the OC version) on the current market – prices remain sky-high as a result of memory shortages and price hikes. We can expect the Lightning Z to be even pricier, given its premium design.

MSI’s Lightning Z RTX 5090 could soon be able to purchase

The Amazon listing claims the card uses DisplayPort 2.1a, though this is disputed by MSI’s official specs list on its website, therefore likely an error. Both HDMI and DP are listed with 2.1b certification. Regardless, this GPU is going to have a limited release, with a reported 1,300 units, so if you’re seriously interested in one, it makes sense to keep an eye out for launch.

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen GPU manufacturers pushing the RTX 5090 to new heights. ASUS announced an 800W model, the ROG Matrix Platinum RTX 5090, as part of its 30th anniversary celebrations. That specific model features a stylish four-fan design – a contrast to the dedicated liquid cooling block & AIO radiator paired with the more powerful Lightning Z from MSI.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.