Nvidia RTX 5070 Launch: AIBs Available Now, Founders Edition Coming Later This Month

The highly anticipated Nvidia RTX 5070 graphics card is finally here, offering gamers a powerful midrange option in the Blackwell GPU lineup. As excitement builds for this new release, gamers across the US, UK, and beyond are eager to get their hands on one of the most anticipated cards in recent memory. However, while the AIB models (manufactured by third-party partners like Gigabyte, Zotac, MSI, and Asus) are officially available, Nvidia’s Founders Edition model is still a little ways off. Let’s dive into the details of the RTX 5070’s release and what we can expect in the coming days.

The Launch of the RTX 5070: AIB Models First

Nvidia’s RTX 5070 is the latest addition to the company’s midrange graphics card lineup, falling just below the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 in terms of raw power but still offering gamers impressive performance at a more affordable price point. However, as of launch day, the Founders Edition models from Nvidia are not yet available. For now, the market is seeing a release of AIB (Add-in-Board) variants, with companies like MSI, Gigabyte, Asus, and Zotac leading the way with their custom versions of the card.

While these AIB models typically offer excellent cooling solutions, factory overclocks, and additional features, they are often priced higher than the Founders Edition models that Nvidia traditionally produces. This leaves many consumers wondering why the RTX 5070 Founders Edition is missing in action.

Why Is the Founders Edition Delayed?

Nvidia confirmed that Founders Edition cards for the RTX 5070 will be released later in March, though an exact date has yet to be determined. According to Andreas Schilling, an insider source, Nvidia informed him of the delay in availability just two and a half hours before the official review embargo for the card lifted. This leaves RTX 5070 fans in a bit of a bind, as they now have to decide whether to opt for an AIB model or wait for Nvidia’s own Founders Edition to become available.

Historically, Founders Edition cards from Nvidia have often been more limited in stock than their third-party counterparts. Even with RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 Founders Edition models, the demand was so high that these Nvidia-branded cards quickly sold out, especially in the US and UK markets. As a result, many gamers found themselves opting for AIB models, which often provided more consistent availability.

AIB Models: What to Expect

The good news for those eager to get an RTX 5070 in their hands is that the AIB models are widely available now. Nvidia’s partner brands like Gigabyte, Zotac, Asus, MSI, and ASRock have all launched their custom RTX 5070 cards, which are available for purchase through major retailers and online shops. These AIB versions typically come with custom cooling solutions, factory overclocks, and enhanced features that Nvidia’s Founders Edition cards don’t always offer.

If you’re after a specific feature—like quieter cooling or better overclocking potential—the AIB models are likely the way to go. Additionally, these models tend to offer better availability, meaning you’re less likely to miss out on one when compared to the potential scarcity of the Founders Edition.

While the AIB models may come with a price premium over the standard Founders Edition, they also often provide better cooling performance and may even include special designs or features like RGB lighting, enhanced VRMs, and additional display ports. These added perks are especially beneficial for gamers who want something more than just the standard GPU offering.

Why the Founders Edition Matters

While the AIB models have already flooded the market, many Nvidia fans are still holding out for the RTX 5070 Founders Edition. Nvidia’s Founders Edition cards are often considered the gold standard for graphics cards, offering a more minimalist design and the assurance of quality control directly from Nvidia. These cards are typically more affordable than AIB models and feature reference cooling solutions that are quieter and less prone to overheating under normal conditions.

Moreover, Founders Edition cards are highly coveted by enthusiasts, and their release often garners much fanfare due to their association with Nvidia’s design and manufacturing excellence. This makes the wait for the RTX 5070 Founders Edition even more painful for gamers eager to get their hands on the card.

The delay in availability also raises questions about how scarce the Founders Edition cards will be once they do hit the market. Nvidia’s limited supply of Founders Edition models has always led to quick sell-outs, so it’s possible that those hoping to buy one could face similar struggles with stock shortages.

What Are Gamers Saying About the RTX 5070?

Early reviews and impressions of the RTX 5070 AIB models have been overwhelmingly positive, with the card impressing many gamers with its performance and features. Many have noted that the RTX 5070 offers excellent value for those looking to upgrade their gaming rigs without breaking the bank. It performs incredibly well in modern titles, offering solid ray tracing performance and DLSS support, making it a great option for gamers who want to experience next-gen gaming without paying a premium for the RTX 5090 or RTX 5080.

While some reviewers have pointed out that the RTX 5070 may not be as powerful as its more expensive counterparts, they’ve also noted that it’s one of the best midrange options available for gamers who want performance at a reasonable price. The card is especially compelling for gamers who play at 1080p and 1440p resolutions, providing excellent performance without the need for an extremely high-end GPU.

What’s Next for Nvidia?

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on the Founders Edition release of the RTX 5070, which Nvidia has confirmed will happen in March. However, considering the company’s history of quick sellouts with Founders Edition models, it’s likely that demand will be high, and availability will be limited.

For now, gamers who want the RTX 5070 can opt for one of the AIB variants, but those who have a preference for Nvidia’s own design may want to set an alert for when the Founders Edition becomes available. If history is any indicator, those waiting for the Founders Edition will need to act quickly once it drops.

Conclusion

The release of the RTX 5070 marks a major step in Nvidia’s Blackwell GPU lineup, offering a fantastic midrange option for gamers seeking solid performance at a reasonable price. While the Founders Edition cards are delayed and expected to drop later this month, the AIB models are already available and offering excellent performance and features.

Whether you choose to go with an AIB model or wait for the Founders Edition, the RTX 5070 promises to be one of the best value GPUs of 2025. As Nvidia continues to release more details about the Founders Edition launch, gamers everywhere are watching closely, eager to grab their next-generation graphics card.

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