GamersNexus revealed that NZXT’s rental model, described as a subscription service, does not offer a rent-to-own option. Customers could end up paying over $15,000 for a PC they never own, an amount equating to a 103% interest rate over five years. Comparatively, a $3,000 gaming PC purchased through high-interest credit options would cost significantly less, even with annual rates exceeding 20%.

The video also criticized NZXT for inconsistencies in hardware specifications between rental and purchase options. For instance, the same model name, Player: Three PC, was listed with different graphics cards for purchase versus subscription. Despite these discrepancies, NZXT provided identical performance estimates for both configurations, misleading potential customers.

GamersNexus pointed out issues in NZXT’s advertising, including claims that customers could “own” PCs through the Flex program—claims echoed by influencer promotions. The channel also noted that misleading marketing targeted younger audiences, using examples like promises of winning gaming tournaments to justify rentals.

The terms of service were another point of concern. GamersNexus found provisions described as “unenforceable” and accused NZXT of altering hardware specifications frequently, obscuring the actual value of listed packages.

NZXT founder and CEO Johnny Hou addressed the controversy in a six-minute video, admitting the company had “messed up” in several areas. Hou announced changes to the program, including removing the “Player” branding from Flex PCs to avoid confusion and pulling all influencer-led advertisements. He also promised clearer terms and conditions regarding privacy, stating that returned PCs are wiped clean and customer data is not sold.

However, Hou’s response stopped short of apologizing or addressing the high rental costs, a major point of criticism in the GamersNexus report. Instead, he attributed hardware spec inconsistencies to supply chain fluctuations and dismissed some concerns as “misconceptions.”

The GamersNexus video, which features input from attorneys and financial experts, has generated backlash. Individuals from the gaming community are calling for greater transparency in subscription-based services. The channel announced it would no longer accept sponsorships from NZXT due to the company’s practices. Meanwhile, NZXT’s response has faced criticism for its brevity and heavily edited video.

Questions remain about whether NZXT’s Flex subscription service pricing and advertising practices will align with consumer expectations. For now, this remains a cautionary example for consumers considering rental options for gaming PCs.