Early adopters report forget the glittering lights of Las Vegas; this year's CES has unveiled a treasure trove of technology poised to redefine our daily lives. From TVs that seem to leap off the wall to innovative gadgets that enhance our health and wellness routines, this year's offerings go beyond mere flashy gimmicks.

As tech enthusiasts and everyday consumers converge on CES each January, they eagerly anticipate glimpsing the devices that will not only ignite interest but also transform the kinds of products we choose to invest in. Whether you're a homeowner looking to upgrade your smart home, a gamer pursuing high-performance specifications, or a music lover seeking the latest audio innovations, CES 2026 has something for everyone. Here are the standout gadgets worth noting, spanning home entertainment, automotive advancements, and practical applications for everyday life.

The TV That Stole the Show

TCL's X11L SQD-Mini LED TV is the crown jewel of the 2026 showcase. Priced at $6,999.99, its innovative quantum dot technology produces vibrant colors, boasting an impressive peak brightness of 10,000 nits.

What distinguishes it from competing displays is its ability to cover the entire BT.2020 color spectrum, surpassing claims made by other manufacturers. It’s not just about the pixels; TCL has implemented 20,000 dimming zones to create a breathtaking viewing experience, though potential buyers may need to wait for pricing adjustments in the future.

Revolutionizing In-Car Audio

Pioneer is set to democratize Dolby Atmos with its Sphera receiver, a system that can elevate even the most basic car speakers to an immersive listening experience. Starting at $1,300, this system is a significant investment, but it may prove more affordable than luxury car models equipped with similar technology.

Featuring a 10.1-inch capacitive screen and the capability to work with just four speakers, the Sphera elevates sound quality for music lovers on the go. Early demonstrations, including one in a 2017 Toyota Highlander, reveal its potential to fill the cabin with rich sound, though audiophiles might seek more for the price.

Gaming and Productivity in One Machine

Asus returns with the ROG Zephyrus Duo, which features dual 16-inch OLED screens and top-tier graphics processors. While pricing details remain under wraps, early assessments suggest that the device will be positioned at a premium, rivaling conventional laptops in features and usability. This dual-screen setup promises to enhance productivity for gamers and professionals alike.

Expect this gadget to hit the market by Q2 2026, with the potential to elevate the laptop gaming space. However, if dual screens aren't essential for you, there may be more affordable alternatives that meet your needs just as well. (The Verge Awards at CES 2026)

The Best of Wireless Earbuds

The earbuds market has never looked better, with Sony's WF-1000XM5 leading the charge at $290. These earbuds not only offer improved sound quality and noise cancellation but also deliver solid performance across a variety of devices, competing closely with other premium brands.

With a snug fit thanks to customizable ear tips and an IPX4 rating, these earbuds are equipped to handle both workouts and daily commutes, making them a versatile choice for anyone in the market for new audio gear. You can expect a robust sound experience without compromising usability.

Constraints and tradeoffs

• High price points for most new technologies

• Lengthy setup times for some smart devices

Verdict

CES 2026 is set to showcase some impressive contenders for your attention, but be ready to dig deeper into pricing and practicality before jumping in.

While CES 2026 showcases a plethora of must-see devices that promise to elevate our tech game, proceed with caution. Pricing and practicality should be at the forefront of any purchasing decision, and with many high-end gadgets entering the market, the allure may tempt even the most cautious consumer. Keep an eye on these innovations-your next tech upgrade could be just around the corner!

Key numbers

• 27 inches (mentioned in The Verge Awards at CES 2026)

• 90W (mentioned in The Verge Awards at CES 2026)