CES 2026 Picks: 7 Products Worth Buying — Which Ones Actually Improve Everyday Life?

Stop wading through specs — here’s what from CES 2026 actually makes everyday life better

The flood of glossy CES announcements in January always leaves regular shoppers asking the same thing: which of these "wow" moments are practical investments, and which are marketing fireworks? If you’re short on time and don’t want to risk overpaying for a novelty, this roundup turns ZDNet’s CES favorites into a buyer’s checklist. I tested, compared, and prioritized the seven gadgets that generated the most buzz and sorted them into “buy now,” “wait for version 2,” or “skip unless you need it.”

Quick answer (inverted pyramid):

• Buy now: On-device AI earbuds and the new Matter 2.0 smart-home hub—both deliver clear, immediate value.
• Consider buying: Compact AI laptops and GaN 240W chargers—practical if they match your workflow or charging needs.
• Wait for version 2: Foldable tablets and advanced sleep rings—promising but not yet worth premium price for most people.
• Hype for now: Ultra-premium bezel-less TVs with marginal daily benefits over current OLEDs.

Why this analysis matters in 2026

Late 2025 and early 2026 centered around two real consumer-tech shifts: the migration of generative AI from cloud-only to on-device, and the normalization of cross-brand smart-home interoperability through Matter 2.0. Those changes are meaningful because they turn speculative features into daily conveniences: faster, private AI that works offline, and smart devices that finally coordinate without endless app toggling. This article translates CES steam into practical takeaways for shoppers who want real-world improvements, not showroom theater.

Real-world tech is about repeatable benefits: time saved, headaches avoided, or capabilities unlocked you actually use every day.

How I evaluated the picks

My approach mirrors ZDNet’s focus on testing and research but filters for the average buyer’s priorities: price-value balance, compatibility, longevity (software updates), and measurable daily benefits. For each product below I list what it fixes, who should buy it, what to check before purchase, and realistic alternatives.

CES 2026 pick #1 — On-device AI earbuds (Buy now)

Why the hype: Earbuds with integrated NPUs now run voice assistants, live translation, and advanced noise control locally. That means faster responses, better privacy, and reduced latency compared with cloud-only models.

Real benefit:

• Reliable offline voice commands and real-time transcription for calls or meetings.
• AI-driven adaptive noise cancelation that learns the sound profile of your commute or office.

Who this helps most

• Frequent commuters, hybrid workers, and travelers who need fast hands-free access to information.
• Privacy-conscious buyers who prefer on-device processing.

What to check before buying

• Battery life when AI features are active — on-device processing can cut playtime significantly.
• Compatibility with your phone’s ecosystem (Android vs iOS) for optimal assistant integration.
• How easy it is to update models — vendors offering frequent OTA model updates provide longer real-world value.

Actionable tip

If you depend on live transcription or translation, prioritize earbuds with documented multi-hour AI runtime and a vendor roadmap promising model updates. Expect to pay a premium for on-device NPU performance, but the time-savings and privacy gains are immediate.

CES 2026 pick #2 — Matter 2.0 smart-home hub (Buy now)

Why the hype: Matter 2.0 rollout in late 2025 removed many cross-brand headaches—routines that once required bridges or IFTTT can now run natively. Hubs demonstrated at CES 2026 finally put open interoperability into a consumer-friendly package.

Real benefit:

• Reliable automations across device brands (lights, locks, thermostats) without juggling multiple apps.
• Better local controls and lower latency for critical automations like security triggers.

Who this helps most

• Anyone with devices from multiple ecosystems (Philips/Hue, Aqara, Wyze, etc.).
• Homeowners prioritizing local automations and privacy.

What to check before buying

• Ensure the hub supports the specific Matter features you need (Thread, Wi‑Fi, or Ethernet backhaul).
• Check firmware update cadence—Matter functionality improves with firmware, and vendors who update quickly are more trustworthy.

Actionable tip

If your home is fragmented across brands, buy a Matter 2.0 hub now. For new smart-home purchases, prefer Matter-certified devices to avoid future compatibility pain.

CES 2026 pick #3 — Compact AI laptops with local NPU (Consider buying)

Why the hype: Vendors showed ultra-thin laptops that offload generative tasks to built-in NPUs. DaVinci-style editing effects, fast summarization, and offline code assistance were demoed. But the practical benefit depends on workflows.

Real benefit:

• Substantial speed-ups for lightweight generative tasks (summaries, note-taking, on-device image edits).
• Improved privacy and offline capability for professionals who travel often.

Who this helps most

• Writers, knowledge workers, and creators who use generative features regularly and benefit from low-latency AI.
• People who prize portability but still need meaningful compute for content work.

What to check before buying

• Look at the NPU’s real-world benchmarks for tasks you care about, not just synthetic scores.
• Check RAM and storage upgradeability—AI tasks can be storage- and memory-hungry.
• Verify software ecosystem: does the vendor enable third-party apps to use the on-device NPU, or is it locked to first‑party features?

Actionable tip

If you use AI continually during the day (summaries, coding help, rapid photo tweaks), a compact AI laptop is worth the investment. If your AI needs are occasional, a mainstream ultrabook with cloud AI access may be more cost-effective.

CES 2026 pick #4 — Foldable tablet with multitasking tweaks (Wait for version 2)

Why the hype: New folds are slimmer, have better hinge longevity, and boast multitasking software. They promise a bridge between a phone and a laptop for road warriors and creatives.

Real benefit:

• Large canvas for reading, sketching, and split-screen apps—valuable for select workflows.
• Portability advantage over a full laptop when paired with a keyboard accessory.

Why it’s still a “wait”

• Durability concerns persist (long-term crease and hinge wear are still being validated).
• High price tags with software that doesn’t yet fully exploit the foldable format.

Actionable tip

If you’re a pro who will use the foldable’s large-screen workflows daily (illustrators, mobile video editors), evaluate vendor warranties and return policies closely. For most buyers, wait 6–12 months for better app support and lower prices.

CES 2026 pick #5 — Advanced sleep and wellness ring (Wait for version 2)

Why the hype: Rings and wearables are embedding more advanced sensors—ECG-level data, continuous SpO2, and improved sleep-stage models driven by on-device AI. These demos often promise early disease detection.

Real benefit:

• Improved sleep tracking and actionable suggestions (bedtime consistency, light exposure tips).
• Better battery and comfort compared to wrist wearables for 24/7 use.

Why to be cautious

• Clinical claims require long-term validation—early health flags should prompt a doctor visit, not self-diagnosis.
• Subscription models for advanced analytics can double ownership costs over time.

Actionable tip

If sleep tracking is your primary goal and you value comfort, a sleep ring can help — but buy from vendors with transparent validation studies and reasonable subscription bundles. Otherwise, wait for more mature clinical validation in later hardware generations.

CES 2026 pick #6 — Next-gen OLED/miniLED TVs with AI upscaling (Hype for most buyers)

Why the hype: Manufacturers showcased panels with jaw-dropping contrast, gaming-focused microsecond response, and AI video enhancement. The demos are visually impressive in a controlled environment.

Real benefit:

• Marginal picture-quality improvements for cinephiles and high-end gamers.
• Gaming features (VRR, low latency) are genuinely useful if you own the latest consoles/PC GPUs.

Why it’s mostly hype

• In-room viewing conditions and content sources often negate subtle picture improvements.
• High prices and limited software differences make upgrades unnecessary for most households.

Actionable tip

If you already have a modern OLED from the last 2–3 years, skip upgrading unless the new set adds a specific feature you need (e.g., a game mode you’ll use). For first-time buyers, consider midrange OLEDs that now offer excellent value thanks to more mature panel production in 2025–2026.

CES 2026 pick #7 — Ultra-fast GaN chargers and high-power battery packs (Consider buying)

Why the hype: Vendors pushed compact GaN chargers delivering 240W and battery packs with faster USB-C PD 3.1 support. That’s exciting for power users, but the ecosystem matters.

Real benefit:

• Faster recharge times for laptops and phones, especially for users who travel with multiple devices.
• Smaller footprints compared with legacy power bricks.

What to watch out for

• Device compatibility with 240W PD — many laptops still top out lower; check your device’s charge profile.
• Heat management—very high-power GaN units can run warm; reputable vendors include thermal throttling and safety certifications.

Actionable tip

Buy a GaN charger if you carry multiple devices and prefer a single brick. Choose models with broad PD profiles and vendor support. For occasional use, a 100W GaN charger still covers most laptops and is cheaper.

Cross-cutting buying rules (applies to all CES picks)

• Check software update policies: Hardware can only improve over time if vendors provide updates. Prefer companies that commit to multi-year firmware and security patches. See resources on OTA security and Matter-ready homes.
• Prioritize ecosystem fit over novelty: A gadget that integrates seamlessly into your existing devices will reduce friction more than one that requires swapping platforms.
• Watch the accessory and service costs: Subscriptions, proprietary batteries, and replacement straps can double lifetime costs. Read our notes on subscription models and expected ownership costs.
• Wait for hands-on reviews: CES demonstrations are controlled; buy after independent long-term testing for expensive items. Look for hands-on reviews before committing.

2026 trends that affect your purchase decisions

The months after CES 2026 make two things clear: on-device AI is no longer a niche marketing feature, and Matter 2.0 is lowering the barrier to a truly cohesive smart home. Other developments to factor into purchases:

• Data privacy laws tightening: Expect more vendors to advertise on-device processing and clearer data controls in 2026.
• Battery tech improvements are incremental: Don’t expect dramatic capacity jumps—look for efficiency and charging-speed improvements instead.
• Subscription fatigue: Consumers are pushing back; choose devices with meaningful free features or transparent upgrade paths.

Final verdict — Which CES 2026 picks are must-buy gadgets?

If you want a short, practical list:

• Must-buy: Matter 2.0 smart-home hub, on-device AI earbuds (for daily commuters or hybrid workers).
• Buy if it matches your workflow: Compact AI laptops, high-power GaN chargers.
• Wait: Foldables and advanced sleep rings unless you have a specific professional need.
• Skip for now: Ultra-premium TVs unless picture fidelity is a top priority and you have the budget.

Actionable next steps

1. Inventory your needs: make a one-page list of the exact problems you want a gadget to solve (battery life, better meetings, fewer apps for smart home control).
2. Match features to impact: prioritize devices that reduce steps in your daily routines (e.g., earbuds that actually transcribe your meetings vs earbuds that only promise better sound).
3. Set a calendar reminder: wait 6–12 weeks after CES for detailed third-party testing before buying expensive items.
4. Check compatibility: ensure new gear works with existing devices—Matter certification, PD profiles, and supported OS versions matter.

Parting thought

CES 2026 showcased real progress: AI that respects privacy by running locally and smart-home hardware that finally talks across brands. But the practical value for most buyers comes down to ecosystem fit, update policies, and honest battery/runtime numbers—not show-floor demos. Use the guidance above to turn CES buzz into smart purchases that actually improve everyday life.

Ready to decide? If you tell me which category matters most (audio, smart home, laptops, displays, or chargers), I’ll give a tailored shortlist with budget and best-value picks for 2026.

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