I do not play games as much as I used to. Mortal Kombat still gets my time though, and that series has a way of making hardware flaws obvious very quickly. Inputs need to land exactly when expected, and comfort starts to matter fast.
That perspective shows up in real life. Whenever my little brother wants to upgrade his setup, he comes to me first. He knows what to ask for his gaming gear, and I tend to focus on what actually feels good to use and what stays relevant past the first few weeks.
CES 2026 happened to land right in the middle of those conversations. The lineup this year offered plenty to talk about, and the products below stood out for the right reasons.
Gaming Laptops and Desktops
Dell XPS 14″/16″ (2026)
Dell XPS 14
A compact 14-inch gaming-capable laptop built around portability and premium design.
What it does
The XPS 14 runs Intel Core Ultra processors with Intel Arc graphics inside a slim aluminum chassis. Display options include a sharp OLED panel that works equally well for games and everyday use. Battery life stretches comfortably through a full day away from a charger.
Why I would choose it
Because it fits gaming into everyday use without feeling intrusive. It stays easy to carry, comfortable to use, and capable when games come into the picture.
MSI Stealth 16 AI+
MSI Stealth 16 AI+
A slim 16-inch gaming laptop that blends serious performance with a low-profile design.
What it does
The Stealth 16 AI+ packs high-end Intel Core Ultra processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50-series graphics into a thin aluminum chassis. A 16-inch QHD+ OLED display with a 240 Hz refresh rate delivers smooth motion and rich visuals. Upgraded cooling keeps performance steady during longer sessions, while Thunderbolt, HDMI 2.1, and full-size ports make it easy to plug into a proper setup.
Why I would choose it
Because it delivers strong gaming performance in a form that fits daily life. The design stays clean, the screen feels great for fast games, and the hardware has enough headroom to stay relevant well beyond launch.
Handheld Gaming Devices
Lenovo Legion Go 2 SteamOS Edition
Lenovo Legion Go 2 SteamOS
A high-end handheld gaming PC with a console-style interface.
What it does
Powered by AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme hardware, the Legion Go 2 delivers smooth performance across modern PC games. SteamOS provides a controller-first experience that feels natural on a handheld. The OLED display and detachable controllers add flexibility across genres.
Why I would choose it
Because it feels natural to pick up and start playing. The controls make sense, the screen holds attention, and the experience stays focused on games rather than setup.
VR and AR Headsets
ASUS ROG XREAL R1 AR Glasses
High-refresh AR gaming glasses built for large virtual displays.
What it does
A 240 Hz micro-OLED panel projects a massive virtual screen with very low latency. Anchor Mode keeps the display fixed in space, while built-in audio and dimming lenses support focused play sessions.
Why I would choose it
Because it changes where gaming can happen without adding friction. The large virtual screen feels convincing, and the setup stays simple enough to use often.
Xreal 1S Smart Glasses
Xreal 1S Smart Glasses
Lightweight AR glasses for gaming, media, and portable use.
What it does
The Xreal 1S offers a wide field of view with sharp resolution and real-time 2D to 3D conversion. The Neo Hub expands compatibility with handheld consoles and mobile devices.
Why I would choose it
Because it makes AR gaming easy to fit into everyday routines. The visuals feel solid, and the flexibility across devices adds real value.
Gaming Peripherals
Corsair Galleon 100 SD
Corsair Galleon 100 SD
A mechanical keyboard with built-in Stream Deck controls.
What it does
The Galleon 100 SD combines mechanical switches, customizable LCD macro keys, control dials, and a built-in display. High polling rates support fast inputs, while the macro system simplifies streaming and multitasking.
Why I would choose it
Because it keeps everything within reach during play. The added controls feel genuinely useful, and the desk stays cleaner as a result.
LG UltraGear 27GX790B-B
LG UltraGear 27GX790B-B
A 27-inch OLED gaming monitor focused on speed and clarity.
What it does
This WOLED panel reaches extremely high refresh rates, delivering smooth motion and fast response times. OLED contrast enhances visibility in dark scenes, especially in competitive games.
Why I would choose it
Because fast motion looks noticeably smoother during gameplay. Once experienced, slower displays start to feel limiting.
Keychron Q Ultra Series
Keychron Q Ultra Series (Not Available for Purchase Yet)
Wireless mechanical keyboards built for long battery life and solid construction.
What it does
The Q Ultra series uses ZMK firmware to achieve extended battery life while maintaining high polling rates. Aluminum frames, gasket mounting, and PBT keycaps provide a refined typing and gaming feel across multiple layouts.
Why I would choose it
Because it feels dependable day after day. The build quality holds up, the wireless performance stays consistent, and charging becomes an afterthought.
Audeze Maxwell 2
Audeze Maxwell 2
A premium wireless gaming headset with planar magnetic drivers.
What it does
The Maxwell 2 delivers detailed audio with strong positional awareness and long battery life. Modern wireless standards support gaming across consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
Why I would choose it
Because sound detail adds depth to every session. Comfort and battery life make it easy to stay immersed for longer stretches.
8BitDo FlipPad
A foldable USB-C controller designed for smartphone gaming.
What it does
The FlipPad attaches directly to a phone and folds flat when stored. The retro-inspired layout supports emulation, cloud gaming, and mobile titles without adding bulk.
Why I would choose it
Because physical buttons instantly improve mobile gaming. It stays small enough to carry without becoming a hassle.
Gaming Consoles
My Arcade Gamestation Retro Go
My Arcade Gamestation Retro Go
A handheld retro console loaded with classic arcade and Atari games.
What it does
The Retro Go includes hundreds of built-in games with updated controls and a refreshed design. The focus stays on simple pick-up-and-play sessions.
Why I would choose it
Because it makes casual gaming easy to return to. The simplicity invites short sessions without any setup fatigue.
Closing Thoughts
CES 2026 delivered gaming hardware that feels considered rather than rushed. Each product here brings a clear purpose and fits naturally into how people actually play. These are the devices I would point to when someone asks what makes sense right now, especially when that someone happens to be my little brother planning his next upgrade.