CES 2026 has once again proven that the future isn't just something we imagine—it’s rapidly becoming our present. This year’s showcase on the Las Vegas Strip was more than just a tech event; it was a vivid glimpse into what’s next, blending groundbreaking innovations with everyday practicality. As always, the spectacle offered a mix of jaw-dropping surprises and products that make you think, “Wow, that actually exists!” from smarter home gadgets to advanced AI and robotics. And here's where it gets controversial—you might wonder how many of these innovations will truly change our lives versus just impress us temporarily.
Partnering with the Consumer Technology Association, our team of around 40 experts from various PCMag sister publications—including CNET, ZDNET, Mashable, and others—carefully selected the standout products and innovations for the official Best of CES Awards. These winners span more than 20 categories, each marked with a ‘Best of CES’ badge throughout this story. But don’t think these are the only exciting highlights—our full round-up includes 24 winners, covering everything from desktops and monitors to innovative gadgets for everyday use.
So, let’s dive into the most captivating products and technologies from CES 2026 that have us buzzing. Over the coming months, we plan to get hands-on with many of these items, sharing our firsthand experiences and insights along the way.
Top Picks from CES 2026
Best Laptop: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition
Modular design is more than just a trend—it's a necessity for sustainable tech. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Aura Edition exemplifies this with its innovative 'Space Frame' structure, allowing users to access and swap out individual parts instead of replacing the entire laptop. This feature not only enhances repairability but also extends the device’s lifespan, setting a new standard for eco-friendly design.
Best Desktop Computer: HP EliteBoard G1a
This year’s most unconventional desktop design harks back to an era when PCs were built into keyboards. HP’s EliteBoard G1a cleverly packs a mini PC inside a portable keyboard, either wired or battery-powered. Equipped with AMD Ryzen AI 300-series processors, up to 64GB of RAM, and 2TB of storage, this setup could revolutionize how we think about workspace efficiency, portability, and functionality.
Best Gaming Innovation: Lenovo Legion Pro Rollable Concept
While rollable OLED screens have been seen primarily in enterprise laptops, Lenovo’s Legion Pro Rollable takes this technology into gaming. It transforms a standard laptop into an ultrawide gaming rig with a simple slide, promising an immersive experience on the move. Is this truly the future of portable gaming? Time will tell, but it’s a compelling peek at what’s possible.
Best Graphics Card: MSI GeForce RTX 5090 Lightning Z
Overkill might be an understatement for MSI’s RTX 5090 Lightning Z. Designed to handle 1,000 watts of power, this graphics powerhouse features a sophisticated liquid cooling system with a 360mm radiator and a copper water block, ensuring it stays cool even under intense overclocking. An integrated 8-inch display adds a customizable touch—perfect for enthusiasts who want maximum performance and flair.
Most Advanced Deep Computing Tech: Intel Core Ultra 300 (Panther Lake)
Intel’s new Core Ultra 300 Series significantly boosts integrated graphics, offering up to 12 Xe3 cores that deliver exceptional performance for everyday gaming and graphics tasks on laptops. This substantial leap means more powerful and capable portable devices, paving the way for a future where gaming on thin and light laptops becomes increasingly feasible.
Best Monitor: Dell UltraSharp 52 Thunderbolt Monitor
For multitaskers and creative professionals, the Dell UltraSharp 52
