RTX 5090 Lightning incoming? – MSI forecasts the return of Lightning at CES 2026

MSI teases the return of Lightning series products

MSI has started teasing new “Lightning” series products, releasing a “MSI Weather Forecast” that predicts Lightning on January 5th. This is a clear teaser for the return of MSI Lightning series products in 2026. That said, it remains unknown what MSI plans to unveil at CES 2026.

Last year, MSI showcased “Special Edition” RTX 5090 graphics cards with Lightning-like colour schemes. It is likely MSI plans to officially unveil a Lightning-series RTX 5090 at CES 2026, as ultra-high-end products like ASUS’ ROG Matrix RTX 5090 have already proven popular with ultra-wealthy PC enthusiasts. It is also possible that MSI may unveil new Lightning series motherboards and other products.

(MSI Forecasts Lightning on January 5th)

If I were to guess, MSI plans to turn its “Special Edition” RTX 5090 concept GPUs into official Lightning series products at CES 2026. Since these GPUs are ultra-high-end RTX 5090 models, they will carry insanely high prices. That said, the fact that ASUS’ ROG Matrix RTX 5090 GPUs are sold out is a good sign that MSI’s planned Lightning GPUs will also sell well. If nothing else, products like this prove that the rich have deep pockets.

You can join the discussion on MSI’s Lightning teaser on the OC3D Forums.