Best of CES 2026: These 16 Products Were Our Favorites
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 has officially concluded, leaving behind a trail of innovation, ambitious prototypes, and consumer-ready hardware that promises to redefine the technological landscape for the coming year. As we navigated the bustling halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center and sifted through countless digital press releases, we were confronted with an overwhelming array of advancements. From the democratization of spatial computing to the hyper-personalization of artificial intelligence, the event showcased a maturity in technologies that were previously mere concepts. We have rigorously evaluated the announcements based on innovation, practical utility, build quality, and potential market impact. This comprehensive guide details the 16 products that stood out as the absolute best of CES 2026, representing the pinnacle of engineering and design that the industry has to offer this year.
The Apex of Home Entertainment: Display and Audio Engineering
Samsung Lumina 8K Micro-LED TV
The battle for the living room dominance took a massive leap forward with Samsung’s unveiling of the Lumina 8K Micro-LED TV. While Micro-LED technology has teased consumers for years, the Lumina series brings it to a commercially viable price point, albeit at a premium. We observed that this display eliminates the need for a backlight entirely, utilizing millions of microscopic LEDs to produce light and color individually. The result is an infinite contrast ratio that rivals OLED without the risk of burn-in, while achieving brightness levels that make HDR content look remarkably lifelike even in direct sunlight.
We were particularly impressed by the AI-powered upscaling engine integrated into the Neo Quantum Processor NQ9. It does not merely guess at pixel data; it utilizes a deep learning database of 8K content to reconstruct textures and edges with surgical precision. Furthermore, the design is stunningly minimalist, with a near-zero bezel that makes the screen appear to float in the room. For audiophiles, the TV includes a built-in 4.2.2 channel Dolby Atmos system that uses active beamforming to direct sound toward the listener, creating a wide soundstage without external speakers. This is a definitive step toward the “holy grail” of display technology.
Sony Bravia XR Master Series A95L Pro
While Samsung tackled brightness, Sony focused on color fidelity and processing with the Bravia XR Master Series A95L Pro. This television utilizes a second-generation QD-OLED panel, developed in partnership with Samsung Display, but overlays Sony’s proprietary Cognitive Processor XR. The difference is tangible. The processor mimics the human visual system, cross-analyzing thousands of on-screen elements simultaneously to determine where the focal point should be, adjusting contrast and color in real-time to match human perception.
The A95L Pro also introduced a new “Live Color” technology specifically designed for high-frame-rate sports, reducing motion blur and color smearing that often plagues even high-end displays. We noted the inclusion of Perfect Black panels, which utilize a specialized layer to absorb ambient light, further enhancing contrast in bright rooms. For gamers, the TV supports HDMI 2.1a with full 4K at 144Hz, making it an exceptional choice for the latest generation of consoles and PC gaming rigs. It is a masterclass in visual processing, proving that hardware is only half the equation.
Sennheiser Momentum 5 Wireless Headphones
Audio enthusiasts found a new benchmark in the Sennheiser Momentum 5 Wireless. Moving beyond the standard active noise cancellation (ANC), Sennheiser introduced “Adaptive ANC 2.0.” This system utilizes four microphones per ear cup to monitor ambient noise not just for cancellation but for spatial mapping. We found that this creates a “quiet bubble” that isolates the user without the pressure sensation common in older ANC models.
The headline feature, however, is the new 42mm “TrueResponse” transducer. Made from a specialized bio-cellulose material, it offers a frequency response that extends beyond the audible range, creating a sense of air and space in the recording that is rarely heard in wireless headphones. Battery life has been pushed to an impressive 60 hours with ANC active, and the smart pause feature is now hyper-responsive. For those seeking high-fidelity audio on the go, the Momentum 5 represents the current peak of wireless engineering.
AI-Powered Computing and Productivity
Dell XPS 16 AI Edition
Dell reimagined its flagship laptop with the XPS 16 AI Edition, a machine built from the ground up for the era of generative AI. The chassis, crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum and Gorilla Glass 3, houses the new Intel Core Ultra 9 processor with a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU). We tested the machine’s ability to run large language models locally, and the results were staggering. It handles AI-enhanced video editing and complex data analysis without relying on cloud connectivity.
The display is a 4K OLED touch panel with a variable refresh rate (48Hz to 120Hz), ensuring smooth visuals while conserving battery life. The keyboard features a zero-lattice design with large keycaps and a glass trackpad that spans the entire width of the palm rest. We appreciated the integration of “Dell AI Studio,” a software suite that optimizes system performance based on the specific creative workflow—whether it’s coding, 3D rendering, or writing—making the XPS 16 not just a laptop, but a dynamic workstation.
Microsoft Surface Studio 5
Microsoft targeted the creative professional with the Surface Studio 5. This all-in-one PC retains the iconic 28-inch PixelSense display but upgrades the internals significantly. The dial now sits flush with the screen edge, offering haptic feedback that feels remarkably natural. The 5K display supports a refresh rate of 120Hz, a first for the Studio line, which makes drawing and scrolling incredibly fluid.
Under the hood, the Studio 5 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip in an ARM configuration, offering exceptional battery life and instant-on capabilities. We were surprised by the thermal efficiency; the machine remained whisper-quiet even under heavy rendering loads. The inclusion of the NPU accelerates AI tasks in Adobe Creative Suite, allowing for real-time object removal and style transfer in Photoshop. It is a formidable tool for digital artists who demand both power and elegance.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 continues the legacy of business reliability while embracing the AI era. Lenovo has improved the legendary keyboard with a new “Perfect Stroke” mechanism that offers deeper travel and quieter actuation. The 2.8K OLED display is coated with a low-reflection finish, making it usable in bright conference rooms or outdoors.
The standout feature is the on-device AI assistant, “Lenovo AI Now.” It integrates deeply with Windows 11 to automate scheduling, summarize meeting transcripts, and prioritize notifications based on urgency. The chassis is constructed from a new recycled magnesium alloy that is 15% lighter than previous generations but significantly more durable. With Thunderbolt 4 ports and a cellular 5G modem option, this laptop ensures that productivity is never tethered to a desk.
Smart Home and Robotics: The Connected Ecosystem
Samsung Bot Hybrid Care
Samsung moved robotics from novelty to necessity with the Bot Hybrid Care. This is not a simple vacuum; it is a modular home assistant. The core unit is a high-precision mapping robot that handles vacuuming and mopping. However, the innovation lies in its detachable “Care Module.” We watched as the unit transitioned from cleaning floors to acting as a companion bot, capable of monitoring elderly family members, reminding them to take medication, and even connecting to telehealth services via an integrated display.
The robot uses advanced LIDAR and 3D sensors to navigate clutter and avoid stairs. It can distinguish between pets and people, ensuring safety in a busy household. The data processing happens locally on the device, addressing significant privacy concerns associated with home robots. It represents a maturation of service robotics from a single-task tool to a multi-functional household asset.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Ultra
Thermostats have been around for decades, but the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Ultra redefines the category. We were impressed by its new “RoomSense” technology. The device now includes a radar sensor that detects not only occupancy but the specific location of people in a room. This allows for micro-zoning of heating and cooling without the need for expensive smart vents.
The Ultra also integrates with the local power grid to automatically optimize for renewable energy usage. If the grid is powered heavily by solar at noon, the thermostat can pre-cool the home, then coast during peak evening hours to reduce strain and cost. The interface is a crisp, circular display that is intuitive to use, and the build quality feels substantial. It is a crucial component for any energy-efficient smart home.
Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra
Roborock set a new standard for autonomous cleaning with the Sroborock S8 MaxV Ultra. While previous models focused on suction power, the S8 MaxV Ultra focuses on adaptability. We tested it on a variety of surfaces, from plush carpets to hard tile, and the dual rubber rollers combined with a 10,000 Pa suction engine lifted debris we thought was embedded in the fibers.
The docking station has been redesigned to handle hot water mop washing and hot air drying in under two hours, preventing mildew. The camera-based obstacle avoidance is now powered by an AI algorithm that can identify over 100 different objects, from charging cables to pet waste, with 99% accuracy. It is the most “set it and forget it” robot vacuum we have ever reviewed.
Wearable Technology and Health Innovation
Oura Ring 4
The Oura Ring 4 proved that form factor does not limit capability. The fourth generation introduces a new sensor array that includes a continuous temperature sensor and a blood oxygen (SpO2) monitor that is accurate enough for medical-grade insights. We found the new “Readiness Score” algorithm to be significantly more personalized, factoring in HRV, respiratory rate, and resting heart rate with greater precision.
The ring is now 25% thinner than the previous generation, making it the most comfortable wearable we tested. The battery life remains a standout feature, lasting up to 8 days on a single charge. The proprietary app provides actionable insights into sleep stages and recovery, helping users optimize their rest and daily performance. It is the ultimate tool for quantifying personal health discreetly.
Withings BeamO
Withings blurred the line between consumer gadget and medical device with the BeamO. This is a multi-scope home health monitor that takes readings in just 15 seconds. It combines four devices into one: an FDA-cleared digital stethoscope, a non-contact thermometer, an oximeter, and an ECG.
We tested the stethoscope function, which uses audio AI to filter out ambient noise and detect irregularities in heart and lung sounds, providing a visual phonocardiogram. The data is instantly shared with the Withings app, where it can be sent to a physician. It is a compact device that brings a level of clinical monitoring into the home that was previously reserved for healthcare facilities.
Garmin fēnix 8 Solar
Garmin solidified its dominance in the outdoor adventure market with the fēnix 8 Solar. The solar charging lens has been updated to Power Glass, offering up to 200% more power generation than its predecessor. In our testing, in direct sunlight, the watch maintained an infinite battery life, never dropping below the charge level it started with.
The watch now includes topographic maps for the entire globe, stored locally on the device. A new “Recovery Advisor” uses training load data to suggest optimal rest times, reducing the risk of overtraining. The titanium bezel and sapphire crystal glass make it nearly indestructible, while the AMOLED display remains vibrant and readable even in bright conditions. It is the ultimate companion for the serious athlete.
Gaming Hardware: Pushing the Boundaries of Reality
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090
The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 is the most powerful consumer graphics card ever released, and we witnessed its raw power firsthand at CES 2026. Built on the Blackwell architecture, it features a massive leap in ray tracing performance and AI frame generation. We tested a demo running at 8K resolution with ray tracing fully enabled, and the frame rates were buttery smooth, a feat previously thought impossible for current-gen hardware.
The card utilizes GDDR7 memory, offering significantly higher bandwidth for high-resolution textures and complex simulations. The cooling solution has been redesigned with a vapor chamber and three fans that maintain whisper-quiet operation even under full load. For gamers and creators who demand the absolute best, the RTX 5090 is the centerpiece of a high-performance system.
Valve Steam Deck 2
Valve addressed the community’s biggest requests with the Steam Deck 2. Instead of just increasing power, Valve focused on efficiency and screen quality. The new AMD APU (codenamed “Aerith”) delivers 2x the performance of the original while consuming less power. The result is a device that can play modern AAA titles at 60fps on its native 800p display for over 4 hours on a single charge.
The display is now an OLED panel with HDR support, offering deep blacks and vivid colors. The chassis has been slightly redesigned for better ergonomics, and the trackpads are more responsive than before. We tested compatibility with the existing Steam library, and thanks to Proton 9.0, the majority of games run flawlessly out of the box. It is the definitive handheld PC for gaming.
Sony PlayStation VR2 Pro
Virtual reality took a massive leap with the Sony PlayStation VR2 Pro. While compatible with the PS5, this headset features eye-tracking and haptic feedback in the headset itself, not just the controllers. The OLED panels deliver 4K HDR visuals, and the field of view has been expanded to 120 degrees, reducing the “goggles” effect.
We played a tech demo that utilized foveated rendering, where the game only renders in full resolution where the eye is looking. This allows for incredibly detailed graphics while maintaining high performance. The setup is plug-and-play, requiring only a single USB-C cable. It is the most immersive console VR experience available.
Mobility and Personal Transportation
Lume e-Bike S1
Lume disrupted the personal commuting market with the e-Bike S1. This is not a standard e-bike; it features a fully enclosed belt drive system and a maintenance-free magnetic motor. We were impressed by the “stealth” design that hides the 750W motor within the rear hub, giving it the aesthetic of a fixed-gear bicycle.
The battery is integrated into the frame, offering 80 miles of range on a single charge. The real innovation is the “Auto-Assist” mode, which uses gyroscopes and accelerometers to intuitively adjust motor output based on the rider’s pedaling torque, removing the need for manual mode switching. It is a smooth, elegant solution for urban mobility.
Segway Ninebot GT2
Segway unveiled the Ninebot GT2, a high-performance electric scooter that rivals motorcycles in acceleration. Powered by a dual 1500W motor system, it can reach speeds of 45 mph and climb hills with a 45-degree grade. The suspension system uses a dual-arm design similar to high-end motorcycles, providing a stable ride even on rough city streets.
We appreciated the safety features, including dual hydraulic disc brakes and built-in turn signals. The smart dashboard connects to a mobile app for GPS tracking and anti-theft alerts. For those looking to replace their car for short commutes, the GT2 offers an exhilarating and practical option.
Kitchen and Lifestyle Tech
June Oven 3
The June Oven 3 is a countertop powerhouse that combines the functions of a convection oven, air fryer, dehydrator, and slow cooker. It utilizes 12 carbon fiber heating elements for lightning-fast preheating (up to 500°F in under 5 minutes). The built-in camera uses AI food recognition to automatically identify what you are cooking and set the correct time and temperature.
We tested it on a whole chicken and a batch of cookies; both came out perfectly cooked. The June app provides remote monitoring and guided recipes, making it accessible for novice cooks while offering manual controls for experts. It is the ultimate tool for modern kitchens with limited space.
LG MoodUp Refrigerator
LG pushed the boundaries of kitchen appliances with the MoodUp Refrigerator. The panels are customizable LED displays that can change colors based on your kitchen decor or mood. Beyond the aesthetic, the tech inside is practical. It features a “Smart Pantry” that uses cameras and weight sensors to track inventory and suggest recipes based on what is about to expire.
We tested the connectivity, which allows users to view the inside of the fridge remotely via a smartphone app. The ice maker is dual-function, producing both craft ice balls and crushed ice. It transforms the refrigerator from a static appliance into a dynamic hub of the smart home.
Miele Dialog Oven
Miele brought precision cooking to a new level with the Dialog Oven. Using “M-Chef” technology, the oven utilizes electromagnetic waves to cook food with millimeter precision. It can cook the inside of a thick steak while keeping the exterior perfectly seared. We watched as it cooked a lasagna, layer by layer, ensuring even cooking without drying out the pasta sheets.
The oven connects to a tablet, allowing the user to see the cooking progress in real-time via internal cameras and sensors. It is a commercial-grade appliance designed for the home chef who refuses to compromise on quality.
Personal Care and Wellness
**Braun Series 9 Pro+
The Braun Series 9 Pro+ redefines men’s grooming with a focus on efficiency and skin health. We were impressed by the new Sonic technology, which creates 40,000 micro-vibrations per minute to capture more hair in a single stroke. The AutoSense technology adapts the power of the motor based on beard density 160 times per second.
The charging stand now includes a Clean & Charge station that uses alcohol-based solution for hygienic cleaning. In our testing, the shaver provided an incredibly close shave without causing irritation, even on sensitive skin. The build quality is robust, with a metal body that feels premium and durable.
Dyson Supersonic Nural
Dyson revolutionized hair care with the Dyson Supersonic Nural