CES 2026: The Verge Gaming Awards Unveiled
Every January, the consumer electronics scene converges in Las Vegas for a week of showcasing, exploring, and marveling at the latest gadgets and tech at CES. This year, the event has once again unleashed a torrent of products, some groundbreaking and others more gimmicky, that are set to influence the industry in 2026.
The team has been tirelessly documenting the experience, encountering everything from jaw-dropping innovations to quirky oddities, which is all part of the CES charm. After a week of immersion, several standout gadgets have emerged, whether by enhancing existing products, reimagining categories, or simply being so entertaining or absurd that they deserve a spotlight. Here’s a look at the best of CES 2026.
**Best Monitor**
LG Display’s 27-inch 4K RGB-stripe OLED panel
Samsung has dominated the monitor scene at CES for the past four years, but LG Display is reclaiming its moment. Both companies have finally crafted stunning high-refresh-rate OLED panels that eliminate the frustrating color fringing seen in older models, making text much clearer. After comparing LG and Samsung’s displays, it was clear that LG had the edge. With a 4K resolution at 27 inches, both text and gaming visuals were incredibly sharp and easy on the eyes. This dual-mode panel supports either 4K at 240Hz or 1080p at 480Hz, allowing for an even higher refresh rate when needed. While it may not be the brightest or highest-resolution display at CES, it’s the one I’d choose for both work and play. Asus is set to feature it in the ROG Swift OLED PG27UCWM, which will include DisplayPort 2.1a, HDMI 2.1, and a 90W USB-C port for docking and charging laptops, though pricing and availability are still under wraps.
**Best Keyboard**
Corsair’s Galleon 100 SD
CES is always a treasure trove for keyboard enthusiasts, and this year Corsair’s $350 Galleon 100 SD stood out. This full-size wired mechanical keyboard cleverly integrates a Stream Deck, managing to look sleek rather than experimental. The Stream Deck’s appeal lies in its typical standalone design, but here it fits seamlessly into the keyboard. It features a screen, two rotary knobs, and 12 customizable buttons, all manageable through Elgato’s extensive marketplace. While the keyboard itself may not be groundbreaking compared to existing models, it boasts Corsair’s mechanical switches, a hot-swappable PCB, and a polling rate of up to 8,000Hz, all configurable via a browser utility. I’m currently using the Galleon, and it’s been a solid experience so far.
**Best TV**
TCL X11L SQD-Mini LED
TCL made a bold statement at CES 2026 by focusing on its new X11L SQD-Mini LED TV, which utilizes blue LEDs instead of the RGB approach favored by competitors. This model features two significant advancements: reformulated quantum dots for enhanced color accuracy and an UltraColor Filter that covers 100 percent of the BT.2020 color space. The X11L can achieve a peak brightness of 10,000 nits and boasts up to 20,000 dimming zones. While the starting price of $6,999.99 for the 75-inch model is steep, it’s expected to drop significantly by year’s end.
**Best Laptop**
Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo
Asus returns with its ROG Zephyrus Duo, a dual-screen gaming laptop that promises to be a game-changer. This iteration features two 16-inch OLED displays, up to RTX 5090 graphics, and an Intel Panther Lake processor, along with a removable wireless keyboard/trackpad deck. The laptop can function in various modes, including clamshell and tented configurations. While the price remains unknown, it’s anticipated to be on the higher end, especially given the dual OLED screens and current RAM shortages. I’m eager to see how it performs for both gaming and productivity.
**Best Smart Home Device**
Aqara Smart Lock U400
Smart locks took center stage again, showcasing features like palm and facial recognition. The standout was the Aqara Smart Lock U400, which, while not revolutionary in design, exemplifies how open standards and interoperability are enhancing smart home technology. It’s the first smart lock to support Apple’s hands-free Home Key unlocking via ultra-wideband technology, allowing for secure unlocking as you approach with your phone or Apple Watch. As a Matter-over-Thread device, it’s compatible with various smart home platforms. Although currently limited to Apple users, it’s ready for future compatibility with Android devices through the Aliro standard.
**Best Car**
Mercedes Drive Assist Pro
For best car, I had to go with Mercedes’ Drive Assist Pro, a Level 2 partially autonomous driving feature. This system utilizes five radar sensors, 10 cameras, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, all processed by an Nvidia supercomputer capable of 508 trillion operations per second. During a test ride in San Francisco, I was impressed by how well it navigated the bustling city environment. While it’s not fully autonomous yet, the technology shows promise for future advancements.
**Best Health Tech**
Withings Body Smart 2
This year’s CES highlighted longevity tech, and the Withings Body Smart 2 stood out as a user-friendly scale that measures over 60 biomarkers, focusing on cardiovascular and metabolic health. It encourages users to view weight as just one aspect of overall health. However, the price tag of $600 is a bit steep, though hopefully, costs will decrease over time.
**Best Wearable**
L’Oréal LED Face Mask
L’Oréal’s LED face mask caught my attention this year, offering a more comfortable alternative to traditional LED masks. Made from flexible material, it fits snugly against the skin and uses specific wavelengths for treatment. The design is smart, and the company is pursuing FDA clearance, which adds credibility to its claims.
**Best Hair Dryer/Lamp**
Dreame Halo
While a hair dryer with LEDs may seem excessive, the Dreame Halo offers a unique twist by doubling as a lamp. At $700, it allows for multitasking while drying hair, making it a fun addition to any living space.
**Best Gaming**
8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox
8BitDo continues to impress with its Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox, set to launch in Q2 2026 for $149.99. This controller features advanced joysticks, Hall effect triggers, and extensive customization options through 8BitDo’s software. It’s a strong contender for anyone seeking a premium Xbox controller.
**Best Phone**
Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold
The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold is a folding phone that folds again, offering a unique design with a 6.5-inch outer screen and a 10-inch inner display. While it’s expected to be pricey, its versatility and functionality are impressive.
**Best Audio Product**
Fender Mix Headphones
The Fender Mix headphones stood out for their excellent audio quality and thoughtful design, including a replaceable battery and support for high-resolution audio. They were a highlight of my CES experience.
**Best Robot**
Roborock’s Saros Rover
Roborock’s Saros Rover is a groundbreaking robot vacuum that can climb and clean stairs, showcasing impressive mobility and functionality. While still a concept, it represents a significant leap in home cleaning technology.
**Best Surprise**
HP Eliteboard G1a
The HP Eliteboard G1a is a surprising office keyboard that doubles as a desktop computer, featuring an AMD Ryzen processor and Bluetooth connectivity. It’s a quirky yet functional device that stands out in the enterprise space.
**Best Promise**
Donut Lab’s Solid-State Battery
Donut Lab’s solid-state battery has the potential to revolutionize electric vehicles with its promise of increased energy density and safety. The company claims production is imminent, and we’ll be watching closely for developments.
**Best Backpedal**
Dell Bringing Back XPS
Dell’s decision to revive the XPS brand after a year of generic naming was a welcome change, restoring a beloved line of laptops.
**Best Use of E Ink**
SwitchBot Weather Station
The SwitchBot Weather Station utilizes E Ink technology to provide weather information and smart home control, showcasing a practical application of the tech.
**Best Thing We’d Actually Buy**
Ikea’s Kallsup Bluetooth Speakers
Ikea’s Kallsup Bluetooth speakers are affordable, colorful, and user-friendly, making them an impulse buy for anyone looking for a reliable audio solution.
**Best Concept**
Lenovo Legion Pro Rollable Gaming Laptop
Lenovo’s Legion Pro Rollable concept takes the rollable display idea and applies it to a gaming laptop, offering exciting potential for future gaming devices.
**Most “Of Course They Made That”**
Fraimic Smart Canvas
Fraimic’s digital E Ink picture frame for displaying AI-generated art is a clever concept that combines technology and creativity, allowing for unique home decor.
**Most Irrationally Loved Product**
LilMilo
LilMilo, a cute AI companion from Ecovacs, may not do much, but its adorable design and interactive features make it hard to resist.
**Most Fun**
MinVerse
Haply’s MinVerse haptic controller impressed me with its tactile feedback and potential for 3D modeling, reigniting my interest in the craft.
**Best Sequel**
Birdbuddy 2
The Birdbuddy 2 smart bird feeder enhances its predecessor with improved camera capabilities and solar charging, making it a worthy upgrade.
**Thing I Want to Try the Most**
Clicks Power Keyboard
The Clicks Power Keyboard’s magnetic design and dual functionality as a power bank make it an intriguing gadget I’m eager to test.
**Best in Show**
Lego Smart Brick
The Lego Smart Brick stole the show with its innovative use of NFC technology, allowing for interactive play and creativity, marking a significant leap for the brand.
