Reddit User’s GPU Nightmare Ends With Refund and Replacement
A Reddit user who made headlines after receiving rocks instead of an RTX 5080 graphics card has finally received a resolution after nearly a month of investigation. The buyer, known as u/GnarDead on Reddit, originally shared the incident on the r/pcmasterrace subreddit after opening a Best Buy shipment expecting an Asus TUF Gaming RTX 5080, only to find the box filled with stones.
The graphics card, valued at around $1,200, was eventually refunded and replaced, bringing an end to a frustrating ordeal that sparked widespread discussion among PC enthusiasts.
Tampered Packaging Raised Early Red Flags
According to the user, the box arrived with a tampered seal, and instead of the GPU, it contained a pile of rocks. Initial attempts to resolve the issue through Best Buy’s customer support proved unsuccessful. GnarDead claimed the retailer conducted a brief internal review—lasting only minutes—before denying a refund or replacement.
Escalation Through Multiple Channels
After hitting a dead end, the buyer escalated the issue through several channels. These included:
Visiting a Best Buy store in person
Filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Initiating a credit card chargeback
Submitting a police report
Despite these efforts, progress remained slow—until a crucial discovery emerged.
Shipping Weight Change Becomes Key Evidence
The turning point came from FedEx tracking data, which showed the package’s weight increased by nearly three pounds during transit. This discrepancy strongly suggested tampering occurred after the product left the retailer.
Following the revelation—and additional pressure through the BBB—Best Buy reversed its decision and issued a full refund. As a goodwill gesture, the company also price-matched the original purchase, despite the RTX 5080’s price increasing later in December.
Tattoo Marks the End of the Ordeal
To put a memorable stamp on the experience, GnarDead got a tattoo of the Asus TUF logo sitting on a pile of rocks, humorously commemorating the incident. The tattoo was described as a creative “gap-filler” suggested by the user’s girlfriend.
A Cautionary Tale for Online Buyers
While the story ended positively, many similar cases do not. The Reddit user offered practical advice for others making expensive tech purchases:
Record unboxing videos for proof
Opt for in-store pickup when possible
Open packages inside the store to confirm contents
The incident highlights ongoing concerns around package tampering during transit and serves as a reminder for buyers to take extra precautions when ordering high-value electronics online.
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