RTX 3060 for $5: User Found Video Card in a Thrift Store and Successfully Launched It

A Reddit user purchased a second-hand item from the Red White & Blue chain of stores. GeForce RTX 3060 all for $4,99. Despite its obviously used condition, the video card turned out to be fully functional and without any defects. Model - MSI GeForce RTX 3060 Ventus 2X 12G OC with factory overclocking and 12 GB of GDDR6 video memory.

GeForce RTX 3060 remains one of the most popular graphics cards among Steam users, second only to the new generation RTX 4060. Despite its age (released about 5 years ago), the model still capable of running modern games thanks to 12 GB of video memory, which allows you to avoid critical FPS drops at high texture settings.

The RTX 3060 originally retailed for $329, and today new units start at $256, which is only 22% cheaper than the launch price. Even on eBay used versions sell for $150-180, making the $5 purchase a truly unique find.

The serial number indicates that the device was manufactured in 2021, and the MSI warranty expired in August 2024. Despite this, the graphics card works without problems, although It is recommended to clean and replace the thermal paste, given the device's unknown past.

Reddit users have been actively commenting on the buyer's luck, comparing it to their own finds, from old DVD players to outdated monitors at inflated prices. Some note that Prices in consignment shops have increased significantly in recent years, and such profitable deals are rare.

GeForce RTX 3060 still offers optimal price-performance ratio, especially when it comes to games in Full HD with high settings. Finding it for $5 is the exception rather than the rule, but this case reminds me: at the right moment you can find working hardware for next to nothing.