Today marks the thunderous launch of the MSI GeForce RTX 5090 Lightning Z, a graphics card that many around the world will desire but only a fortunate 1,300 individuals will ever own. This exclusive release has set the tech community abuzz, and we delve into an unboxing and first look at this new super-powered card.
Priced at a staggering £4,999, the Lightning Z is not just a graphics card; it’s a statement piece. As we await our comprehensive review, which is still in the testing phase, here’s an initial glimpse into what makes this limited edition pixel pusher stand out.
The Unboxing Experience
As one should expect from a £5,000 graphics card, unboxing the Lightning Z is an event in itself. The enormity of the retail packaging is as impressive as it is daunting. Lugging the box up a staircase feels like a workout, a testament to its substantial weight and size.
MSI has not skimped on presentation. The box contains three smaller boxes, housing not just the graphics card but a plethora of accessories. Among these are a Graphics Card Holder, a vertical mount that supports PCIe Gen 5 risers, ensuring no performance is left untapped.
The mount, however, is not for the faint-hearted, occupying four expansion slots and requiring a maximum CPU cooler height of 70mm. Despite its size, it can fit into Micro ATX cases, catering to those planning a compact yet powerful build.
Accessories Galore
The accessories box offers a variety of items, from magnets and a thank you note from MSI’s general manager Jeremy Liaw to a mini version of the Lightning Z complete with a radiator. More functional are the NFC Portal Card and keyring, essential for accessing the Lightning Z’s software and switching BIOS modes.
Additional accessories include thermal probes, screws for radiator and mount installation, and a GPU support stand for horizontal installation. MSI also includes a 16-pin to 8-pin dongle, though it’s unlikely to see use given the card’s high-end nature.
The USB-A to Type-C cable, adorned with Lightning branding, is crucial for powering the Lightning Z’s screen. MSI advises against using any substitute cable.
Design and Specifications
Upon unveiling the MSI GeForce RTX 5090 Lightning Z, it feels like unveiling a mystical artifact. The card’s weight, nearly 3kg, speaks to its robust build quality. The carbon fibre backplate adds a touch of elegance, though it is prone to fingerprints.
The Lightning Z is equipped with the GB202-300-A1 GPU, similar to other GeForce RTX 5090 models, but it surpasses Nvidia’s reference design with a 323MHz overclock, boosting its frequency to 2,730MHz. This matches other flagship models like the Asus ROG Matrix Platinum.
Boasting an 800W TDP, the Lightning Z can handle an additional 225W compared to standard models, with an optional 1,000W BIOS for unprecedented power.
Powering this beast requires a high-end power supply, with MSI recommending a 1,500W unit. The Lightning Z uses two 16-pin cables, doubling the usual power input to meet its demands.
Cooling Innovations
To manage its power, MSI employs a full-cover copper cold plate for efficient thermal conductivity. The cooling system includes a 394mm radiator with a patented hybrid fin design, enhancing heat exchange.
Three 120mm Lightning fans, made from Liquid Crystal Polymer, offer a balance of acoustics, airflow, and pressure, completing the water cooling setup.
The Lightning Z features an 8-inch HD+ screen, controlled via the Lightning Hub app. This web-based application manages power, brightness, and RGB lighting.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
The MSI Lightning Z launches today, priced at £4,999. Its limited quantity and advanced features justify its premium price. For those eager to own this piece of technology, availability is limited, and demand is high.
As we await our performance analysis of the Lightning Z, anticipation builds for its impact on the gaming and tech world. Stay tuned for our in-depth review, which promises to reveal whether this graphics card lives up to its stormy reputation.
