CES 2026: The Top Laptops Debuted in Las Vegas
As the tech world converges in Las Vegas for CES 2026, we encounter an exciting showcase of innovative technology. While flashy robots and automotive advancements grab headlines, the laptop sector remains robust, featuring a plethora of stunning releases this year. We’ve sifted through the show floors to bring you a roundup of the standout laptops that emerged from the event. These eight top contenders offer a range of capabilities, from business productivity to gaming prowess and everything in between.
Best Laptop Overall
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
The standout of the show, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition, showcases Lenovo’s remarkable commitment to upgradability and user-friendly technology. This flagship model is equipped with Intel Core Ultra Series 3 Panther Lake processors, but the real highlight is its innovative “Space Frame” design. This allows users or IT managers to easily access the laptop’s internals for repairs or upgrades—be it the battery, ports, or fans—simply by lifting the keyboard. This thoughtful design not only enhances the laptop’s longevity but also positions it as a top choice in today’s tech landscape.
Best Ultraportable Laptop
Asus Zenbook A16
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
Following the success of last year’s 14-inch Zenbook, Asus has upped the ante with the 16-inch Zenbook A16. Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme processor, this ultraportable laptop strikes an excellent balance of size, power, and battery life. Measuring just 0.65 inches thick and weighing only 2.65 pounds, it offers significant capabilities while remaining easy to transport. This makes it a top contender for those seeking a larger display in an ultraportable format without sacrificing portability.
Best Content Creation Laptop
MSI Stealth 16 AI+
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
The MSI Stealth 16 AI+ emerges as a remarkable alternative for creators and gamers alike. This ultra-thin device boasts a design reminiscent of the MacBook Pro while providing cutting-edge power through Intel’s Ultra Series 3 processors. Designed specifically for high-demand tasks, it can be configured with a top-end GeForce RTX 5090 graphics chip. Additionally, a new cooling system enhances performance without compromising portability, making it an excellent choice for content creators on the go.
Best Business Laptop
Asus ExpertBook Ultra
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
Targeted at the business professional, the Asus ExpertBook Ultra impresses with its 14-inch display while remaining lightweight at just 2.18 pounds. Powered by Intel Core Ultra X9 processing, this laptop promises impressive battery performance, lasting up to 24 hours on a single charge. Its remarkable port selection, including multiple Thunderbolt ports, alongside a stunning 1800p OLED display, makes this device a serious contender as the ideal work laptop.
Best Gaming Laptop
Alienware 16 Area-51 (OLED, 2026)
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
This year, Dell’s Alienware 16 Area-51 made waves with the reintroduction of OLED displays. Featuring a refreshed look and the latest Intel Core Ultra 200HX-series chips, this gaming powerhouse enhances the gaming experience with vivid colors and fast refresh rates. The integration of a 240Hz OLED panel positions it as one of the premier gaming laptops for enthusiasts in 2026.
Best 2-in-1 Detachable Laptop
Asus ProArt PZ14
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
Asus is making serious strides in the detachable 2-in-1 market with the ProArt PZ14. Featuring a Snapdragon X2 Elite processor, this laptop is designed for pros looking for versatility without sacrificing performance. The impressive 14-inch 1800p OLED touch screen and included keyboard make it a compelling alternative to Microsoft’s Surface Pro, with capabilities that make it perfect for creatives seeking a flexible workstation.
Best Dual-Screen Laptop
Asus Zenbook Duo (2026)
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
The Asus Zenbook Duo continues to revolutionize the dual-screen experience. This year’s model enhances the usability of its second screen, now positioned prominently in place of a traditional keyboard. This innovation, along with improved design aesthetics and functionality, allows users to toggle between modes seamlessly. The Zenbook Duo is aimed at multitaskers and creative professionals seeking enhanced productivity through dual displays.
Best Laptop Prototype
Lenovo ThinkPad Rollable XD
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
The Lenovo ThinkPad Rollable XD captures attention with its prototype design featuring a unique rolling display. This innovative feature allows users to extend the screen size from 14 inches to 17 inches on demand, conveniently folding away when not in use. The ability to display notifications or system diagnostics on a secondary screen adds to its appeal. As a promising concept in the growing rollable tech market, this prototype stands as a testament to Lenovo’s forward-thinking design.
These laptops represent just a sliver of the innovation present at CES 2026, reflecting trends in portability, performance, and user-friendly designs that cater to various user needs and preferences. With each manufacturer bringing their unique spin to the market, the landscape of laptops continues to evolve in exciting ways.
