For players and content creators, NVIDIA’s RTX series of graphics cards is the crème de la crème. With real-time ray tracing and AI-powered DLSS, among others, these graphics cards provide the highest visual quality and performance. But come on, buying a new RTX GPU, and particularly the latest ones, typically means a high cost and cutthroat competition.
But there’s a less publicized but special avenue where these hot graphics cards can be bought at really discounted prices: the Navy Exchange (NEX). If you or someone you know happens to be part of the military, be amazed.
What is the Navy Exchange (NEX)?
The Navy Exchange is a chain of stores owned and operated by the U.S. Navy, serving primarily active duty, reserve, and retired members of the military and their families. Their motto, “You Serve, You Save,” speaks for itself: providing quality merchandising and services at reasonable prices, tax-free in most locations.
The RTX Goldmine: Unbeatable Prices
The latest craze among technology enthusiasts is a testament to how exclusive NEX pricing can be for NVIDIA RTX graphics cards. There have been whispers of the new RTX 50-series graphics cards, particularly the flagship RTX 5090, being retailed at their MSRP – a phenomenon unheard of in the current market, where prices skyrocket and scalping is rampant.
For instance, a fortunate Reddit user recently managed to buy an RTX 5090 Founders Edition for an eye-watering $1,900 from a NEX. This was accomplished by pairing the already reasonable MSRP with multiple store rebates and credit card rewards, leaving them with huge savings in comparison with typical retail prices, which can climb well above MSRP.
Why are NEX prices so low?
MSRP Compliance: Retailers will likely add markups, but NEX stores are likely to remain very close to manufacturers’ MSRP. Military exchanges’ honest pricing is an inherent advantage.
Tax-Free Shopping: With the only exceptions being a few instances, purchases made at the Navy Exchange are tax-free. This equates to huge savings, especially for expensive items like graphics cards.
Special Offers and Discounts: In addition to the regular price, NEX usually has other store-level promotions, credit card incentives, and loyalty programs that can be stacked on top to reduce the final cost even further. These may be Military Star Card discounts or other promotions.
Who Can Utilize These Deals?
Navy Exchange access is limited. You must be an active duty military, a reservist, a retired military, or a dependent family member to qualify to shop at NEX stores, both in-store and online. This is exactly what enables them to have their good pricing model.
How to Possibly Get an RTX GPU at NEX
Although it is a treasure hunt to locate these bargains since the stock keeps changing, here is what you can do to maximize your chances:
Visit In Person: If you do have NEX access, frequent visits to your neighborhood store’s electronics department is a good idea. Inventory can be spotty, so it’s worth being a regular visitor. Check Online: Online, the My Navy Exchange website (https://www.google.com/search?q=mynavyexchange.com) also has products. Check out their “Graphics & Video Cards” category. Though stock is usually empty too frequently, shipments arrive randomly. Be Prepared: Know the MSRP of the RTX card you’re looking for. Have your military ID or dependent ID handy. Use promotions: Ask if there are any shop promotions or credit points that will further lower the price. The Bottom Line: A Military Family’s Best-Kept Secret For those fortunate enough to have NEX privileges, the ability to purchase the new NVIDIA RTX GPUs at or even below MSRP is a great bonus perk. It demonstrates the “You Serve, You Save” philosophy and a great way of acquiring high-end PC hardware without sacrificing an arm and a leg. So, if you’re eligible and you’re in the market for a new RTX card, the Navy Exchange may be your best bet
NAVY EXCHANGE
web ; https://www.mynavyexchange.com