With thousands of devices launching every year, our goal is simple: cut through the clutter and highlight the tech that genuinely improves how we work, live, play and stay connected.
From flagship smartphones and smart home devices to productivity tools and emerging tech, our editorial team evaluated countless nominees to select the best in performance, design, ingenuity, and reliability. For mobile gear, we also assessed battery life, while “aging in place” aids were judged by ease of use and value proposition.
The following products earned a USA TODAY Editor’s Pick award.
Computers, Laptops, and Tablets
Lenovo ThinkBook Plus G7 Auto Twist
You've got to hand it to Lenovo for testing out innovative designs, like rollable and foldable PCs, and now the industry’s first convertible notebook with dual-degree auto rotation.
This laptop has a motorized, AI-driven display hinge that rotates the 14-inch 2.8K OLED screen. It leverages its 10-megapixel “Big Eye” webcam and face tracking to swivel and tilt as you move during video chats and presentations, keeping you in frame. Fun fact: You can even knock on the lid for it to open.
Coming soon to Lenovo
SANDISK Extreme Portable SSD
With capacity up to 4TB, this small, lightweight external solid-state drive (SSD) is perfect for content creators and professionals who want convenient, offline, rugged storage. It doubles the speed of its predecessor and delivers transfer rates of up to 2,000 MB/s, allowing users to move 1,000 high-res photos in under a minute. It’s also built to handle heavy video editing and AI workflows – all in an upgraded 10-foot drop resistance alongside its reliable IP65 dust and water seal.
$253 at Amazon
MacBook Neo
Not surprisingly, the sub-$600 MacBook Neo proved to be a monstrous hit in 2026. Apple's first budget-friendly laptop is powered by the iPhone’s (quite capable) A18 Pro chip, a fanless processor that delivers snappy, M1-level performance for everyday workflows and even some AI tasks through Apple Intelligence. Available in fun colors like blush and citrus, you get a premium chassis (made from recycled aluminum), a sharp 13-inch Liquid Retina display, a large trackpad, and an impressive 16 hours of battery life.
$690 at Amazon
Asus Zenbook A16
The ASUS Zenbook A16 is an ultra-portable laptop that packs a massive 16-inch workspace into an impossibly light 1.2kg frame – making it lighter than most 14-inch laptops. Under the hood, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme processor delivers speedy performance, with 80 TOPS for advanced AI tasks. This lightweight, durable and powerful PC features a 21-hour battery life – so you can leave the charger at home. The 120Hz 3K OLED touchscreen display is a looker, too.
$2,100 at Amazon
Wacom MovinkPad 11
While Wacom is best-known for its stationary, computer-based drawing tablets that are tethered to a laptop or desktop via USB or Bluetooth, the MovinkPad 11 is a solution for artists on the go. No PC or Mac is needed as it’s a standalone, Android-powered digital sketchbook bundled with the Pro Pen 3, a battery-free stylus. The paper-like and anti-glare screen feels completely natural to draw on. Simply tap-and-hold to instantly launch your canvas. If desired, send your drawings to a computer later on over Wi-Fi, USB, or cloud sync.
$500 at Amazon
TCL Tab 8 NXTPAPER 5G
Should you buy an e-reader that’s conducive to reading outside, even in direct sunlight? Or maybe go with a color tablet ideal for watching TV shows, playing games, and accessing social media? You can have your cake and eat it, too, as the Tab 8 NXTPAPER 5G is an 8-inch Android slate that’s just as ideal for swiping through electronic books on a glare-free display as it is a device for web browsing, shopping, Candy Crush-ing, and watching video content. Simply press a button on the side to transform it between modes. Features include expandable storage (via microSD card), 5G cellular + Wi-Fi connectivity, and 6000mAh battery for up to 16 hours of mixed use. At $199, it's not super powerful (for high-end games) but a great buy nonetheless.
$200 at AT&T
ASUS ExpertBook Ultra
When an ordinary laptop just won’t do, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is a 14-inch flagship AI business computer engineered for executive productivity. Weighing just 0.99 kg and with a “Ceraluminum” exterior – combining a scratch-resistant nano-ceramic coating with an ultralight magnesium-alloy chassis – this premium PC houses Intel’s powerful “Panther Lake” Core Ultra Series 3 processors. Along with enterprise-grade hardware-level security, other features include a stunning 3K tandem OLED touchscreen, an intuitive haptic touchpad, up to 64GB of RAM, and an expansive 50 TOPS NPU for localized AI workloads.
$3,000 at Amazon
Dell XPS 13 (DX13260)
A “MacBook Neo” killer? At $699 to start (or $599 and up for students), this affordable and portable Windows 11 AI PC rocks a smooth-to-the-touch CNC-machined aluminum chassis, sharp 13.4-inch 2.5K InfinityEdge touchscreen (with 500 nits of brightness and fluid 120Hz refresh rate), and comfortable backlit keyboard with large trackpad. Powered by an efficient Intel Core 5 “Wildcat Lake” processor, this machine dishes up more than 17 hours of video playback and smooth multitasking. While 8GN of RAM (system memory) is in the base model, a 16GB option is available, too.
$700 at Best Buy
HP EliteBoard G1a
If you’re an on-the-go professional looking for something unique, the HP EliteBoard G1a is a screenless “computer-in-a-keyboard,” designed for clutter-free workspaces and “hot-desking” between, say, an office, home-based setup, hotel room and a weekend cabin. Simply connect it to a monitor, TV, or projector and start typing. It features an internal battery to switch desks without rebooting, connects to dual 4K monitors via a single USB-C cable, includes a Bluetooth mouse, and features premium HP Wolf Security protection. As the first and only AI keyboard PC in the world and HP’s smallest and lightest PC ever (at about half the weight of a laptop), it packs a ton of performance, thanks to its AMD Ryzen AI processor, 24GB RAM (system memory), and a 50 TOPS NPU for heavy local AI workloads.
$1,199 at HP
ROG Xbox Ally X20 Bundle
Game at home or on the go with this 20th-anniversary handheld gaming PC, which is paired with 240Hz ROG XREAL R1 AR Glasses and protective cases for both devices. Along with its translucent black-and-gold design, this Windows 11 PC (with an Xbox-esque interface) features a stunning 7.4-inch 120Hz OLED display and anti-drift joysticks for responsive controls. Slip on the glasses for when you want an even more immersive experience, as the bundled eyewear simulates a 171-inch screen. This ROG bundle is available in mid-November.
$2,500 at Best Buy
Headphones
AirPods Pro 3
The world’s best-selling earbuds are now even better. AirPods Pro 3 offer twice the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) as the previous model; they’re more comfortable (thanks, in part to foam inside the ear tips), and battery life has been extended to 8 hours from 6 (with ANC enabled) and up to 10 hours (compared to 6) on Transparent mode for those who want to hear the outside world. Powered by Apple Intelligence, a new Live Translation mode delivers near real-time translation when conversing with someone who speaks another language.
$199 at Amazon
Sony WH-1000XM6
Here’s some sound advice: The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones stand out from the pack for their incredible clarity, buttery-soft earcups, and the return of a fully foldable design for easy portability (along with their premium magnetic-clasp case). Now 25% smaller than their predecessor, these over-ear cans deliver well-balanced lows, mids and highs, powered by their QN3 processor that runs seven times quicker than previous iterations, says Sony. An upgraded array of 12 microphones helps deliver effective active noise cancellation that silences jet engines and ambient chatter. Battery life tops 30 hours.
$398 at Amazon
Puro Sound BT2200 Plus
Designed to protect kids’ hearing, these comfortable Bluetooth headphones have a volume cap at a safe 85dB while delivering clear audio. For added fun, they feature interchangeable ear cups, allowing kids (or their parents) to swap between on-ear and over-ear styles. In the backseat on a road trip? A daisy-chain feature allows two kids to listen together on one device. Battery life tops 20 hours between charges.
$99 at Puro Sound
Smart Home
Tapo C675D KIT
If you need an outdoor security system, look no further than the Tapo C675D KIT from TP-Link. It eliminates blind spots with a top lens that captures a 169-degree view. Its motorized bottom lens uses AI to identify people, vehicles, or pets (and can auto-track them with 5x optical zoom). Along with 4K resolution and colour night vision, this Wi-Fi camera kit includes a solar panel and a 10,000mAh battery to store excess power for when you need it. Because it supports local storage, the Tapo C675D KIT does not require a cloud subscription.
$207 at Amazon
Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights 2 Pro
Available in 100-, 150-, or even 200-feet, Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights 2 Pro are perfect for adorning your home in bright and colorful LED lights for holidays or everyday illumination. And no, you don't need to take them down. These IP67 weatherproof lights can be left up all year. Use the Govee Home app or your voice (via smart speakers) to control the color, zones, and patterns -- or enable one of the 100+ preset scenes and options like music syncing.
Coming soon to Govee
LG Ventless Washer/Dryer Combo LG WashCombo All-in-One
This space-saving (and money-saving) appliance functions as both a heavy-duty washer and dryer in a single 5.0 cu. ft stainless steel drum -- so you don’t need to transfer clothes between machines. It washes and dries a large load in under two hours, and since it uses a ventless inverter heat pump design, you simply plug it into a standard 120-volt outlet to save space and energy (up to 60% less energy than a traditional vented dryer). Other features include built-in smart features, a digital dial, and a steam cycle option.
$2,200 at Best Buy
BLUETTI FridgePower
From the same folks who created portable power stations and solar generators comes the BLUETTI FridgePower, an ultra-slim, 75mm emergency battery backup optimized to keep appliances running during power outages. Under the hood is a 2,016Wh LiFePO₄ battery and an 1,800-watt continuous pure sine wave inverter that mimics the electricity levels in your home’s wall outlets. It can power a standard full-size refrigerator for over 21 hours, saving food (or vital meds) during blackouts.
$1,500 at Amazon
ECOVACS DEEBOT X12 OmniCyclone Bagless Robot Vacuum & Mop
This is a premium robo-cleaner with powerful pre-spray nozzles to blast sticky stains before the active roller mop scrubs them away. It also has 22,000Pa suction power and “auto carpet shield” tech that lets the ‘bot vacuum carpets and mop hard floors in a single, continuous run (without getting your rugs wet). The multi-functional dock not only charges up the DEEBOT but automatically empties the robot's dustbin, washes and air dries the mop roller, refills the onboard water tank, and applies a pre-spray stain treatment.
$1,500 at Amazon
WINBOT W3 OMNI Window Cleaning Robot
You’ve heard of floor vacuum robots/mops, pool cleaning ‘bots, and perhaps autonomous lawn-cutting machines – but what about your windows? ECOVACS is the biggest name in this space and its latest is a premium solution with advanced navigation, triple-nozzle wide-angle spray, and edge-to-edge cleaning. Its multi-functional base station, which sits on the ground, is the industry’s first that can automatically clean the robot's mop pads with 16 high-pressure nozzles in just one minute. In case you were wondering, the gravity-defying WINBOT stays securely on the windows using a powerful internal suction fan that creates a continuous, high-pressure vacuum seal against the glass).
$700 at Amazon
Ring Smart Smoke + CO Alarm
If Kidde and Ring had a baby, it would look something like the Ring Smart Smoke + CO Alarm. It fuses Kidde’s fire and carbon monoxide detection with many smart features ideal for homeowners, remote caregivers and property managers alike. Fully supporting the Ring App, it can push instant mobile alerts to your smartphone and if desired, link to the Ring Alarm Base Station for automatic professional emergency dispatch.
$25 at QVC
Traeger Westwood Grills
A more affordable wood pellet smoker than many other grills in Traeger's lineup, the Westwood series focuses on value and simplicity -- yet still offering signature smart features like WiFIRE technology which allows you to adjust temperatures and monitor your meal from anywhere using an app. The series features a dual-tier rack design for maximum cooking space and a downward draft system that distributes smoke evenly across the grates for flawless, rich flavor. Try wings, ribs, and slow-cooked brisket, and even wood-fired pizza, pies, veggies, and more.
$700 at Traeger
MOVA V70 Ultra Complete Robot Vacuum
The MOVA V70 Ultra Complete Robot Vacuum stands out from the pack because it combines an industry-leading 42,000Pa suction with extending mechanical arms (extending its side brush by nearly 5 inches), and robotic legs that climb over 9cm-high obstacles like door thresholds, patio tracks, thick carpet edges and power cord protectors. When the MOVA M70 returns to its charging base station the circular ‘bot is greeted by a bagless EcoCyclone dustbin and 212°F hot-water washer.
$1,299 at Amazon
Aqara Smart Lock U400
This smart deadbolt stands out for its convenience as it’s one of the first to utilize Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, which automatically unlock your door as you approach -- eliminating the need to tap your phone, type in a PIN, or use a key. (The lock is wirelessly sensing an authorized phone or Apple Watch, down to the centimeter.) This UWB-capable lock integrates with Apple Home Key, Matter-over-Thread, and Samsung SmartThings.
$270 at Amazon
Ultrabrite Hex Lights from Enbrighten
Ideal for garages, workshops, home gyms or man caves, these are a modular, customizable LED lighting system that’s you build eye-catching honeycomb or hexagonal layouts. The snap-together kit includes 24 light bars and connectors, plus you can add more, if desired. And they’re called “Ultrabrite” for a reason, as they can produce a total output up to 24,000 lumens. Included is a remote (or wall switch) for dimming or to adjust the intensity of light.
$160 at Amazon
The Google Home Speaker, with Gemini
While it didn’t make a huge splash, the new Google Home Speaker – which marks the company’s first new smart speaker in 6 years – features a more intelligent Google Gemini (for more natural conversations), a minimalist spherical design (wrapped in a unique 3D knit fabric and with dynamic bottom light ring) and 360-degree surround sound audio that pumps out 2.5 times stronger bass than the Nest Mini. Available colors are porcelain, hazel, jade, and (my favorite) berry.
$100 at Best Buy
TVs and Projectors
AWOL VISION Aetherion Max Projector
While it’s a brand you may not be too familiar with, the AWOLVISION Aetherion Max Projector is one of (if not the) world’s sharpest 4K triple-laser ultra short throw (UST) projection system. Delivering a crisp UltraHD picture up to 200 inches, this new projector is built on a proprietary precision engine dubbed PixelLock -- an integrated optical, mechanical and digital alignment system – resulting in exceptional color, high brightness (3,300 ISO lumens), and 6000:1 native contrast for super deep blacks. You can also expect low-latency gaming capabilities at just 1-millisecond, with a 240Hz refresh rate.
$4,000 at Amazon
XGIMI Elfin Flip 4K Portable Projector
Enjoy your favorite video and gaming content, in up to 150 inches, wherever life takes you. That’s the premise behind the XGIMI Elfin Flip 4K, a compact and ultraportable projector that features an RGB triple laser engine, up to 1,600 ISO lumens of brightness, and native Google TV platform. While it requires power from an AC outlet, this svelte Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled device folds flat with an integrated stand and offers automatic image adjustment, Harman Kardon sound, and low-latency (1-millisecond) gaming modes.
$999 at Amazon
TCL QM8L
Time to upgrade your television? TCL QM8L Series TVs are picture perfect. With four sizes ranging from 65- to a wall-devouring 98-inches, these stunning SQD Mini-LED 4K TVs feature “Super Quantum Dots” that fuses vibrant color with high brightness. At 6,000 nits of peak brightness (without glare), it’s one of (if not the) brightest televisions you can buy today. For gamers, this Google-enabled Smart TV rocks 144 Hertz native refresh rate for silky smooth action, plus elite sound from Audio by Bang & Olufsen (including twin subwoofers in the back).
$2,500 at Amazon
Amazon Ember Artline with Fire TV
Along with the fact it’s a great-looking 4K Smart TV with an integrated Alexa+ assistant, these Ember Artline TVs include one set of custom magnetic frames (and the option to purchase others), so the television looks like a picture frame when displaying images. Amazon says there are more than 2,000 free pieces of artwork in its downloadable collections (all for free), plus there’s a clever AI-powered "Match the Room" decor curation option (scan the room with your phone and it will generate something that compliments your decor and color preferences). With Amazon's proprietary “Omnisense” technology, the TV automatically wakes up when you walk in the room to display artwork or family photos.
$900 at Amazon
Tubi
This Fox-owned video service offers a massive library of thousands of movies and TV shows – all 100% free to watch. The ad-supported platform is a welcome alternative to high cable and streaming service fees and requires no subscription, credit card, or registration to start watching on your favorite device (phone, tablet, computer, or Smart TV). Along with he on-demand video content, Tubi also offers hundreds of live local news programming, sports and weather channels, classic TV shows, and more.
Free subscription at Tubi
Samsung S95H OLED TV
Samsung’s flagship OLED TV is a real stunner – an upgraded QD-OLED panel that fuses vibrant color with incredible contrast, glare-free matte technology, and a blistering 165Hz refresh rate for console gamers. It also runs an optional (and adaptive) AI Soccer Mode Pro to keep fast-paced sports looking sharp and blur-free. As a Smart TV, the S95H is powered by the impressive Tizen OS smart TV platform (and healthy app store). It’s available in 55-, 65-, 77-, and 83-inch sizes.
$2,800 at Samsung
Aging in Place
Joy for All Companion Cat
As the name suggests, the Joy for All Companion Cat was designed to look, feel and sound like a feline pet. This low-maintenance companion features synthetic fur and built-in touch sensors that trigger realistic meows, purrs, and movements when petted. It eliminates the stress of feeding and costly vet bills, yet provides emotional comfort, reducing loneliness, and calming anxiety for older adults, including those living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.
$160 at Amazon
Cherish
Designed for aging adults looking to live longer at home independently, Cherish Serenity monitors safety without cameras, wearables, or Wi-Fi. It uses radar to “see” through walls, detecting falls or medical emergencies while preserving total privacy. Best for independent seniors who dislike tracking pendants, it gives family caregivers instant alerts and peace of mind through a simple phone app. It’s effortless safety that respects a loved one's dignity.
See site for details
Memoryboard
Designed for senior memory care, the 10.1-inch Memoryboard is a large digital display with no buttons to press, menus to navigate, or passwords to remember. Use a smartphone app to update the Memoryboard with messages, daily schedules, medication reminders, and family photos -- from anywhere – to help keep your aging loved ones connected.
$175 at Memoryboard
Alarm.com Wellness
Have aging parents who want to stay at home as long as possible? Alarm.com Wellness helps older adults live independently using camera-free smart sensors. Motion detectors track room movement, while contact sensors monitor refrigerators, medicine cabinets, and doors. Bed pressure mats log sleep patterns and nighttime wakeups. The system uses AI to learn daily routines and then sends real-time smartphone alerts to remote caregivers if unusual behavior occurs, such as a loved one failing to wake up on time, skipping meals, or wandering outside at night.
Learn more at Alarm.com
Ome Kitchen
Ome smart knobs replace standard stove dials to prevent unattended cooking fires. For seniors living alone, an internal motor automatically shuts off the burner if left unattended or when custom timers expire. Built-in Wi-Fi sends real-time smartphone alerts and pairs with Alexa for hands-free voice control. Crucially, the app allows long-distance caregivers to monitor stove usage and remotely turn off burners, providing vital peace of mind.
$129 at Ome
Luffu Link
Created by Fitbit’s founders and available now for preorder, the Luffu Link is a unique, screenless health band tailored for family caregiving rather than individual fitness tracking. Its coolest feature is an AI voice-logging button that lets wearers verbally record medications, meals, or moods directly into a shared family hub. Independent LTE and GPS allow wearers to share locations and send distress alerts without a smartphone nearby. Instead of clunky graphs, it uses AI to track meaningful wellness patterns.
Preorder for $250
Health and Wellness
Dyson CameraJet
Dyson has entered the oral care space with its CameraJet, a smart toothbrush that automatically flosses while brushing using rapid fluid bursts, and as the name implies, it features a built-in 100k-pixel micro-camera that captures 28 frames per second. Yes, a camera in a toothbrush, and utilizes “AI Gap Optical Targeting” and an anti-gravity reservoir to deliver consistent fluid via high-velocity mouthrinse streams. At $499 this ain’t cheap, and you can place it beside your $499 Dyson hairdryer.
$500 at Dyson
Hydrow Rower
Need a home gym makeover? The Hydrow Rower uses computer-controlled electromagnetic resistance to mimic the fluid drag and feel of real water rowing. Its massive 22-inch touchscreen streams live and on-demand workouts filmed on scenic waterways worldwide, led by elite athletes. You get a full-body, low-impact workout alongside an immersive visual experience, and an astounding 6000+ exercises to choose from.
$2,195 at Hydrow
Therabody SmartGoggles
No doubt you’re familiar with Therabody percussive gun massagers for your sore muscles, but did you know there are also Therabody SmartGoggles? The heated eye mask and temple massager melts away stress and provides relief from headaches – with multiple modes to choose from via the app or on-device buttons. Choose between SmartRelax, Focus, and Sleep modes, with variations in vibration, heat and compression rhythms. A heartrate sensor measures your pulse against your cheekbone to dynamically adjust and lower the vibration frequency to promote relaxation.
$180 at Amazon
Withings Body Scan
The Withings Body Scan acts as your own at-home health station. It tracks over 60 metrics in as little as 90 seconds -- including weight, segmental body composition (fat and muscle breakdown for arms, legs, and torso), a 6-lead ECG for heart rhythm, vascular age, nerve activity in your feet, and more. Available in white or black, it works by sending safe, multi-frequency electrical signals through your hands and feet via electrodes on the glass platform and via its retractable handle.
$400 at Withings
Hypershell X Ultra
All I want for Christmas is a…bionic suit? The Hypershell X Ultra is a lightweight (1.8kg) “exoskeleton” that helps assist walkers, joggers, hikers and backpackers better tackle the Great Outdoors. Made from durable and weather-resistant carbon fiber and titanium, strap it around your waist like a belt and secure the straps to the front of your quads (above your knees). Then press the button on the side of the device, and its 1000-watt motor and motion engine act like an e-bike for your legs. It predicts your movement cadence in milliseconds to effortlessly match your stride. There are varying levels of support, too.
$2,000 at Hypershell
Larq Bottle PureVis 2
Are you one of those types who sip on a big tumbler all day? The LARQ Bottle PureVis 2 is billed as a “smart water bottle,” as it boasts an advanced two-stage purification system: its cap utilizes chemical-free UV-C LED technology to destroy 99% of bio-contaminants (including bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella), plus it automatically self-cleans the bottle every two hours, while a specialized straw captures and removes chlorine to minimize unpleasant odors and improve water taste. That, and built-in sensors automatically log every sip to track your hydration goals via the companion LARQ app (App Store, Google Play).
$129 at Amazon
Smart Wearables
Even Realities G2 Smart Glasses
Seen only by the wearer, projected green text is displayed inside the lenses of the G2 Display Smart Glasses, be it real-time language translation with whom you’re chatting with (supporting dozens of languages), turn-by-turn directions to a destination, or scrolling words in “teleprompter” mode while, say, delivering a speech or creating a video for social media. Using your voice or a tap on the side of the glasses, you can also summon the Even AI assistant. This lightweight and camera-free eyewear (36 grams) offers two-day battery life per charge.
$600 at Even Realities
Oura Smart Ring 5
Ideal for those who want a reliable wearable – but not a bulky and distracting smartwatch -- Oura Ring 5 is the very best smart ring you can buy today. Lined with sensors on the inside of this titanium or ceramic band, Oura’s sensing technology supports 18 signal pathways for more (and more accurate) continuous health, activity, and sleep data. Available in multiple colors, this comfortable ring boasts an impressive battery life of up to 8 days between charges.
$399 at Amazon
Google Fitbit Air
New for 2026, this is a super comfortable, screenless fitness band that passively tracks key health metrics -- like heart rate, sleep, and 40+ kinds of exercises – and sends all the data to the Google Health app on a smartphone (iOS, Android). Optional, but Google Health Premium (formerly Fitbit Premium) acts like a personal trainer, leveraging Gemini AI to deliver custom coaching and actionable insights. Available in multiple colors, the micro-adjustable band fits comfortably, with water resistance to more than 160 feet. Battery lasts up to a week, while a fast-charging feature yields one full day of battery life in just five minutes.
$99 at Amazon
Meta Glasses
The latest Meta Glasses fuse fashion with functionality. Powered by Meta’s new proprietary AI model out of its Superintelligence Labs, these voice-enabled glasses (and sunglasses) offer smarter live translation across 14 languages, turn-by-turn navigation, and real-time answers to your questions like “what’s the best coffee place near here?” after, say, landing in a new city. Across all three frame designs, an ultra-wide 12-megapixel camera shoots crisp photos and 3K video, on-demand – perfect for capturing life’s adventures, hands-free, from your POV. Or ask the AI to identify something you’re looking at, like a menu in another language, a rare dog breed, exotic car or historical building.
$299 at Meta
Garmin fenix 9 Pro Premium Multisport Smartwatch
While Apple and Samsung likely sell way more smartwatches, Garmin’s premium wearables are often the darling among sports and fitness types. With the new Garmin fēnix 9 Pro, it’s a rugged all-titanium case paired with built-in satellite and LTE connectivity, letting you handle off-grid messaging, live location tracking, and emergency SOS directly from your wrist without needing a phone. There’s more, too: a 3,000-nit AMOLED display, twice RAM than before, 64GB of storage (for offline maps and songs), and a multi-color built-in LED flashlight.
$1,150 at Amazon
Gaming
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Backlit Mechanical Full-Size Gaming Keyboard
Razer’s BlackWidow V4 Pro is a premium, full-size mechanical keyboard that’s ideal for competitive players and esports participants. Sound-dampening foam layers combine with an 8,000Hz polling rate for ultra-responsive typing without the loud clickety-clack found with many other mechanical boards, along with eight dedicated macro keys, a customizable Razer Command Dial, and a multi-function media roller. Aesthetically, this wired BlackWidow V4 Pro features immersive Razer Chroma RGB lighting and chassis under-glow that extends to a plush, magnetic faux leather palm rest.
$200 at Amazon
LG UltraGear Gaming Monitor (25G590B)
While a computer monitor that’s only 25 inches (measured diagonally) may seem puny by today’s standards, the LG UltraGear 25G590B gaming display offers a native 1,000Hz refresh rate at Full HD (1920x1080), making it an unbelievably fast monitor built for competitive esports types – especially in games like first-person shooters. On the back, you’ll find DisplayPort 2.1, two HDMI 2.1, USB-C, and a headphone jack that can double as an external microphone port.
$1,000 at Amazon
MCON
Meet the ohsnap! MCON -- the pocket-sized mobile controller that snaps instantly onto any MagSafe iPhone. With a single button slide, your phone springs into an ideal angle for mobile gaming, with console-esque controls equipped with anti-drift joysticks and triggers. Pivot between landscape for modern AAA titles and portrait mode for retro emulation. Ready to go hands-free? Pop into Kickback mode to detach the controller and use the magnetic base as a standalone tabletop stand.
$150 at Oh Snap
Nex Playground
The Nex Playground is an active, camera-based gaming console designed for family entertainment. For kids, it turns screen time into physical exercise by replacing controllers with natural body movements, featuring engaging titles like Peppa Pig and Fruit Ninja. For parents, it offers safe entertainment through a privacy-focused camera, ensures an easy setup via any TV HDMI port, and provides a great opportunity for shared family bonding through multiplayer games.
$299 at Amazon
Grand Theft Auto VI
Easily the biggest entertainment event in 2026 – yes, rivaling even Marvel’s Avengers: Doomsday movie coming out in December -- Grand Theft Auto VI will offers several dozen hours of play to both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X. It brings back vibrant Vice City in a massive, living open world, featuring a fresh dual-protagonist story with Lucia and Jason. Rockstar Games has upgraded the physics, stunning graphics, and smart NPC artificial intelligence. These groundbreaking features will create a deeply immersive experience and set a high standard for future video games – but only for those 18 and older.
$80 at Amazon
PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition Console
While not new for 2026, the PS5 is a smart buy due to its advanced hardware, high-performance SSD, immersive DualSense controller, and massive library of exclusive games. Major blockbuster titles launching later in 2026 include Grand Theft Auto VI from Rockstar Games, Resident Evil 9 from Capcom, Marvel's Wolverine from Insomniac Games, Borderlands 4 from Gearbox Software, and The Witcher Remake from CD Projekt Red. These upcoming releases provide exceptional long-term entertainment value, cementing the console as a premier gaming investment.
$599 at Amazon
Xbox Series X
A powerhouse console, Xbox Series X delivers native 4K gaming, ultra-fast load times, and fluid 120Hz speeds that satisfy demanding players. Despite retail price hikes, its physical disc drive unlocks massive savings through cheap used games and backwards compatibility. Paired with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, it grants instant access to a massive library of blockbuster titles. What’s more, Microsoft officially announced a new “Disc-to-Digital” program, allowing you to permanently convert your physical Xbox Series X (and older Xbox One) game discs into digital licenses at no extra cost.
$798 at Amazon
Nintendo Switch 2
Rare for video game systems, the Nintendo Switch 2 bridges generations. Its hybrid design lets kids play on the go while adults enjoy TV gaming after work. Backward compatibility ensures families retain their existing game libraries instantly. Upgraded hardware delivers smoother visuals and faster loading, satisfying performance-focused older gamers. Meanwhile, Nintendo’s signature focus on intuitive, couch-co-op multiplayer keeps gaming accessible for younger children. It blends modern power with timeless, family-friendly fun, making it the ultimate console for every age group.
$500 at Best Buy
Mobile Tech
The Brick
While it may seem ironic to include a product like The Brick Smartphone Access Blocker in a “Best Tech” round-up – after all, it’s meant to help curb excessive screen time on your smartphone – no doubt this device fulfils a need. Paired with a mobile app, it’s a small battery-free NFC accessory that first lets you select distracting apps or websites to restrict, and then going forward you need to physically tap the Brick against your smartphone to unlock them. For example, if Instagram scrolling is getting in the way of your work, leave the Brick at home when at the office.
$71 at Amazon
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8
Shaped like a passport when closed, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 is a unique-looking Android phone that opens like a book to reveal a 7.6-inch tablet, of sorts. The lightest Galaxy Fold to date at just 201 grams, this versatile device was designed for consuming content, aided by its anti-reflective glass coating and up to 3000 nits of brightness for viewing outside (even in direct sunshine). It’s also ideal for multitasking since you can snap multiple apps int place to view simultaneously.
$2,100 at Samsung
Tello Mobile
Is it possible to pay a low monthly fee for your mobile phone plan, yet still have reliable, high-quality and national coverage? Tello is a 5G MVNO service that runs on T-Mobile towers, which gives you unlimited calls and texts, and affordable data plans: $10/month for 2GB, $15/month for 10GB, or unlimited data for $25/month – and with no long-term contracts, activation fees, or cancellation penalties. Bring your own unlocked device or buy one from Tello and they’ll ship it for free. Other features include free calls to 60+ countries (including Canada and Mexico), free roaming in Europe, eSIM support, Wi-Fi calling, mobile hotspot tethering, and perhaps best of all, real human customer support, should you need it.
Varies at Tello
Google Pixel 11 Pro
As one of the most popular Android brands in the country, Google is back with its Pixel 11 family – including its Pro model – which features a refined design, edge-to-edge camera bar and an innovative “HiLight” LED notification system on the back of the phone that pulses with customizable colorful light alerts for important calls (and visually indicating when Gemini AI is processing a command). The Pixel 11 Pro’s upgraded telephoto lens now captures 30% more light, and offering up to 120x zoom. The ultra-bright 3,600-nit Super Actua display makes it easy to see the phone – even in super bright environments.
$1,100 at Google
DJI Mic Mini 2S
Calling all content creators, the DJI Mic Mini 2S packs pro-grade (32-bit) internal recording with several gigs of built-in storage, and adaptive AI noise cancellation to isolate your voice – all packed into a teeny, 12-gram clip-on design. Conducting multi-person interviews or cohosted podcast recordings? The receiver supports a 4-channel output, letting you sync up to four transmitters at once.
$79 at Amazon
DJI Osmo Pocket 4P
The latest 3-axis handheld gimbal from DJI, the Osmo Pocket 4P is the company’s first with a dual-lens system. The sought-after vlogging camera shoots incredibly smooth video via its built-in stabilizer, with one lens capturing wide cinematic views and the other zooming in for crisp close-ups. Along with up to 240 frames-per-second video, this DJI Osmo also shoots in 4K slow-motion, keeps the focus locked on moving subjects, and in portrait mode adds a professional-looking background bokeh effect.
$600 at Amazon
Anker Nano 45W Charger
Compact, powerful and versatile, this clever travel accessory is a small wall adapter with innovative 90° and 180° dual-foldable prongs --allowing the device to lay completely flat against walls, fitting easily behind tight spaces like beds or couches. It includes a built-in smart display that rotates around to show real-time charging status, speed, and temp. This Anker plug also supports “Care Mode,” an overnight setting that’s better for your phone's long-term battery health.
$26 at Amazon
Anker Prime Laptop Power Bank
Juice up your laptop even when there isn't a wall plug nearby. That’s the premise behind the Anker Prime Laptop Power Bank, an airline-friendly travel companion that houses a massive 25,000mAh battery. Naturally, it can effortlessly charge up smaller devices, too, like a phone, tablet, and headphones – even simultaneously. This power bank includes two built-in USB-C cables: one extendable 2.3-foot retractable cable and a shorter loop cable that doubles as a carrying strap.
$120 at Amazon
INIU Power Bank
Isn’t it the worst when your tech conks out before you do? Portable power banks let you juice up your mobile gear when the battery is running low – without needing to find a wall outlet. Small in size and low in price, the INIU Power Bank Ultra Mini is billed as the world’s smallest 10,000mAh battery (45W), capable of charging up your smartphone, tablet, ereader, action camera, wireless earbuds, smartwatch, and more. Along with its USB-C and legacy USB-A port, the INIU Power Bank cleverly includes a removable nylon-braided lanyard that doubles as a USB-C cable. It’s available in six colors.
$22 at Amazon
Audio
Brane X
Balancing performance and portability, the Brane X speaker seems to break the laws of physics as it delivers incredible sound (with thundering subwoofer bass) in a small package. The waterproof (IP57) Bluetooth- and Wi-Fi-enabled speaker features Repel-Attract Driver (RAD) technology to deliver massive sound that fills outdoor spaces without needing a large, bulky system. Along with an integrated Alexa personal assistant for hands-free music requests, the Brane X supports a companion app (iPhone, Android) to fine-tune your preferred sound profile.
$549 at Brane
Ruka Studio’s TD-1 Vertical Turntable
Created by former Apple engineers and designers, Ruka Studio’s TD-1 Vertical Turntable is a high-end belt-drive record player that can be mounted to a wall with the included rubber-coated mount with built-in level (and magnetically clicks into place). Its minimalist look is complimented by an aluminum-milled body and features mechanical knobs and switches for playback and electronic speed controls. While the TD-1 offers wired inputs to connect to a traditional sound system, built-in Bluetooth means it can wirelessly beam music to compatible speakers or soundbars.
$1,399 at Ruka Studio
Soundcore Sleep A30 Special
How do you design the perfect earbuds for sleeping? The Sleep A30 Special features active noise cancellation and adaptive snore-masking that blocks disruptive nighttime sounds without creating uncomfortable ear pressure. Weighing only about 3 grams each, these ultra-comfortable earbuds sit completely flush so side sleepers can wear them pain-free all night with their head on a pillow, while enjoying built-in sleep stories, white noise and nature sounds via Calm.
$200 at Amazon
Kitchen Technology
Ninja SLUSHi Twist Smart Frozen Drink Maker
Craving a frozen treat? Instead of hitting the convenience store, the Ninja SLUSHi Twist Slushie Machine makes two distinct frozen drinks simultaneously at home. Its smart “Dual SlushAssist” tech automatically adjusts temperatures without guesswork. Best of all, a rotating base lets you swirl and twist both flavors into one fun, multi-colored icy treat with zero ice required.
$400 at Amazon
Breville the Oracle Dual Boiler
Take your coffee seriously? The Oracle Dual Boiler from Breville fuses prosumer hardware with smart automation. This kitchen countertop appliance features a triple-heating system with dual boilers (and a heated group head) for simultaneous brewing and steaming (compared to the Barista Touch Impress model which doesn’t make coffees as piping hot, and you need to wait to froth your milk). An Auto Dial-In system adjusts grind size automatically, while Auto MilQ froths dairy (or plant milks) hands-free. Use the app or the color 5.7-inch touchscreen to brew your favorite up of Joe.
$2,920 at Amazon
Ooni Koda 2 Max Rotating Stone Bundle
Pizza ovens are as fun to prepare and cook as they are to eat (well, it’s close). Depending on the fuel source – gas, electric or wood/charcoal – you can use them indoors or outdoors, and with varying sizes and features to suit your taste and budget. The latest is the Ooni Koda 2 Max Rotating Stone Bundle which combines a gas oven with a massive 24-inch cooking area (allowing you to cook multiple pies simultaneously or a single behemoth) with the Ooni Rotating Stone that automatically rotates your pizza 360 degrees for consistently even cooking.
$1,698 at Ooni
Pet Technology
SpotOn Fence Nova Edition
A wireless GPS dog fence and tracking system packed into a dog collar, the SpotOn Fence Nova Edition helps keep your canine within a preset boundary – at home, in a park, at the beach, or anywhere life takes you -- as you can create an invisible fence outline with your fingertip on the app. If your furry friend approaches the perimeter, the collar emits an audible warning beep, notifying the dog to turn around, followed by tactile vibration and optional mild static correction if they continue to move closer. Should your pet breach the wireless fence, the app can be used to locate your pet. Nova Edition adds a dual-band, dual-feed active GPS antenna and receiver, to pull in more satellites and higher-quality signals for greater location accuracy.
$999 at Spot On
Litter-Robot 5
Noone’s a fan of cleaning out a cat’s litter box – especially as they’re visibly unappreciative of the nasty chore! However, the Litter-Robot 5 eliminates manual scooping, thanks to “Smart WasteID” that separates liquid and solid waste for targeted odor control and a re-engineered waste drawer (that holds up to 10 days of waste). Through the Whisker app, it even tracks the weight and habits of up to five cats and gives you reports on when they’re used and by whom.
$799 at Whisker
Petcube Bites 2 Lite
Keep an eye on your pet while away from home, and even dispense treats on-demand. After you connect the Petcube Bites 2 Lite to your Wi-Fi network and install the app on your smartphone or tablet, place this high-definition and wide-angle camera on a table or against a wall, and go about your daily business. Now, wherever life takes you, open the app to see and talk to your pet, share a pic or short video clip with friends on social media, and if they’re a “very good boy” (or girl), why not launch a small dog treat or cat snack from the treat launcher. Other features include two-way talk, night vision (up to 30 feet), and support for Alexa-powered smart speakers (to use your voice to dispense treats when you’re at home).
$80 at Amazon
PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder
How many times have you been enjoying yourself with friends, but must leave to get home to a hungry pet? This PetSafe product holds up to 24 cups of dog or cat food, and then you can schedule, monitor and adjust your pet’s feeding schedule remotely with a free smartphone app. PetSafe says the food conveyor dispenses most shapes and sizes of dry and semi-moist food. Use this Wi-Fi-enabled feeder in one of three ways: schedule times for it to dispense food when you want, up to 12 times a day; opt for the “Slow Feed” setting that dispenses meals in small amounts over 15 minutes (ideal for pets who tend to eat too quickly); and a “Feed Now” option lets you serve a meal on demand any time with the push of a (pet-proof!) button on the feeder, via the app, or even with a compatible smart speaker (example: “Alexa, feed the dog”).
$121 at Amazon
Bird Buddy 2
Tweet about this: The second-gen Bird Buddy is smart bird feeder designed to elevate backyard birdwatching. It features a redesigned circular camera housing that allows users to seamlessly switch between portrait and landscape orientations to capture the perfect view, via the Bird Buddy app, with an upgraded camera that boasts 2K HDR video, slow-motion recording, and a wider 135-degree field of view. Powered by a robust battery and built-in twin solar panels, it utilizes dual-band Wi-Fi and advanced AI to instantly recognize species by both sight and birdsong.
$240 at Amazon
NiteDog Rechargeable LED Leash
Be seen while walking your dog at night. That’s the premise behind the NiteDog Rechargeable LED Leash from Nite Ize. Available in several colors, these 5-foot leashes have two embedded ultra-bright LEDs, which send light through an integrated optical fiber, for up to 6.5 hours between charges. When it’s time to juice up the leash, simply insert a micro-USB cable (not included) and plug the leash into a computer, AC wall socket or power strip. This eye-catching and water-resistant leash has a soft grip, durable cable, and can be used in either constant glow or flash mode.
$35 at Nite Ize
Photography
Polaroid Go Gen3 Mini Instant Camera - Pokémon Pikachu Edition
Falling in the “shut up and take my money” category, the bright yellow camera blends the nostalgia of the franchise's 30th anniversary with the ultra-portable hardware of Polaroid's third-generation mini instant camera. In fact, Polaroid says this is the world’s smallest instant camera (4.2” x 3.3” x 2.54”) and weighing just 8.9 ounces (without film). Pokémon fans will love the Poké Ball shutter button, and a signature lightning-bolt tail lanyard. As for features, this upgraded Gen 3 model boasts a sharper, glare-reduced selfie lens, an enhanced flash, double exposure modes, and custom Pikachu-framed mini film.
$100 at Polaroid
Insta360 X6
The latest in Insta360’s X series is a greatly improved 360-degree action camera. Compared to its predecessors, this pocket-sized device features a larger 1.1-inch equivalent dual Sony sensor (that’s lets in more light), 4-nanometer Triple AI chip system, and 8K 50 frames-per-second capture – making it an essential for capturing your adventures in the wild. Insta360’s “triple AI chip” system even edits video automatically overnight while charging.
$700 at Insta 360
Nikon Z6III Mirrorless Camera
As new mirrorless cameras go, there’s a reason why the Nikon Z6III is garnered a ton of praise – largely due to its partially-stacked 24.5MP sensor (that places high-speed processing circuits on the edges of the sensor pixel layer, rather than directly underneath it), 6K video shooting capabilities, fast AI autofocus system, and a super bright 4000-nit electronic viewfinder. The Nikon Z6III is built for serious hybrid creators, action photographers, and event videographers who need top-tier performance without paying flagship prices.
$2,200 at Nikon
Camp Snap 2
Once you see it you’ll get it – and even more so after you’ve played around with it. The Camp Snap 2 camera delivers a nostalgic, screen-free digital detox. The minimalist point-and-shoot forces users to stay present rather than constantly reviewing photos. Upgraded from the original, it features a 15% slimmer design, six built-in film-like filters, and a faster shutter response. It provides a kid-proof “CampLock” mode, integrated 2,000-photo storage, and an 8MP vintage aesthetic -- all without the high cost or hassle of developing actual film.
$75 at Camp Snap
Mixbook
As one of the biggest names (and highest rated) platforms for transforming your photographs into stunning keepsakes, Mixbook may be best-known for its hardcover books, constructed with hand-stitched bindings and handling up to 400 pages of photo memories. But the company also offers wall art, be they hand-stretched canvases, high-gloss metal panels, or floating acrylic prints. Other options include personalized calendars and stationery – allowing you to design custom holiday cards and more, all printed on premium paper.
Price varies at Mixbook
Aura Walden Smart Digital Picture Frame
How to better appreciate the thousands of digital photos you have? Free them from the confines of your smartphone and consider the Aura Walden, a premium wall-mountable digital photo frame that features a large 15-inch anti-glare display and paper-textured border. It boasts crisp HD resolution (1600 x 1200 pixels) and a 4:3 aspect ratio tailored perfectly for smartphone photos. Controlled via the free Aura app, it offers free, unlimited cloud storage for photos and videos, and also includes built-in speakers for audio playback.
$299 at Amazon
ScanMyPhotos.com
Now that 2027 is around the corner, isn’t it about time you finally convert all your aging paper photos into digital copies? The good news is you don’t have to do all that painstaking work yourself. Instead, ScanMyPhotos.com delivers reliable work through professional archivists and high-resolution scanning. Their affordable prices feature bulk scanning options for as low as 9 cents per photo or flat-rate prepaid boxes (and can also do slides, negatives, 8mm/16mm, and VHS tapes). Customers benefit from quick turnaround times, secure GPS tracking, and excellent service.
Price varies
Fraimic Smart AI Digital Canvas Display and Frame
Now this is wild. Fraimic offers a cordless smart canvas that doesn’t just display your personal photos but creates AI art by you simply walking up to it and verbalizing what you’d like to see. The 13.3-inch wall-mounted frame features a full-color Spectra 6 E-Ink matte screen with automatic portrait or landscape orientation. It runs for years on a single battery charge and supports Wi-Fi image transfers without needing any apps, subscriptions, or cloud services.
$400 at Target
Productivity
reMarkable Paper Pure
Write, sketch, and read in color on this powerful writing tablet. It’s ultra-slim and portable, with a full-size 11.8” color display, adjustable reading light, and an unmatched paper-like writing experience. Perhaps my favorite feature of this distraction-free digital notebook is its AI-powered transcription feature, which can convert your handwritten notes into clean, typed digital text with a single tap. You can also annotate PDFs, organize your thoughts on the canvas, sync files across your devices, search through your handwriting, and share notes directly to apps (like Slack, Google Calendar, OneDrive, and Microsoft Office, etc.).
$399 at Amazon
Plaud Note Pro
The traditional voice recorder has long been a static tool, but the Plaud Note Pro transforms raw audio into an automated pipeline for digital productivity. Measuring just 0.12 inches thick, this credit-card-sized device snaps directly to your phone via MagSafe; a single physical switch bypasses smartphone apps entirely, letting you instantly (and securely) record meetings or capture phone calls through internal vibration conduction. Once recorded, Plaud can translate languages, summarize swaths of text, and provide actionable insights.
$189 at Amazon
UPLIFT L-Shaped Standing Desk
Maximize your corner workspace and swap between a sitting and standing desk. You can have both with this L-shaped UPLIFT desk that can convert from nearly 23 inches to almost 49 inches with the press of a button. It features a heavy-duty steel frame and three synchronized precision motors (one in each leg), with whisper-quiet operation (under 48 dB). It’s available in one of eight colors and includes integrated cable management.
$1,149 at Uplift
Logitech Signature Comfort Plus MK880 Keyboard and Mouse Combo
Don’t underestimate the importance of a comfortable keyboard and mouse setup. The Logitech Signature Comfort Plus MK880 is a wireless ergonomic combination designed to minimize forearm and wrist strain during extended use. The setup features supportive palm rests, multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for up to three devices (supporting Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, Linux, iPadOS, and Android) and customizable controls through the Logi Options+ software. Non-rechargeable batteries are included, lasting up to 24 months (mouse) and up to 36 months (keyboard), says Logitech.
$100 at Amazon
Software
Incogni
Protecting your privacy online can feel impossible, but Incogni makes it remarkably simple. This automated data removal service works on your behalf to contact data brokers and people-search websites, requesting the deletion of your personal information from their databases. Instead of manually opting out of dozens (or even hundreds) of sites, Incogni continuously monitors for your data, sends removal requests, and helps reduce spam calls, unwanted emails, scam attempts, and privacy risks. With a hands-off setup and ongoing protection, it's an easy way to take back control of your personal information and shrink your digital footprint.
Shop Incogni
Norton 360 Deluxe
This comprehensive cybersecurity suite protects up to five cross-platform devices (Windows Mac, iOS, and Android), combining standard antivirus with an unlimited VPN (to browse the web anonymously), a password manager, 50GB cloud backup, a smart firewall, and dark web alerts. Just as critical, Norton 360 Deluxe features advanced AI scam protection (to flag suspicious content and/or activity) and robust parental controls (to manage children's screen time and web safety).
Shop Norton
QuickBooks Online
While there are several competitors, QuickBooks Online is an all-in-one cloud accounting platform designed to simplify business finance management. What makes it great is its anytime, anywhere cloud access (via an app or web) and effortless collaboration with your bookkeeper and/or accountant. It automates time-consuming admin tasks by allowing you to take photos of receipts, linking directly to your bank and credit cards to track income and categorize expenses in real-time. Plus, the platform easily creates custom professional invoices, tracks unpaid bills, manages payroll, and generates instant financial reports to make tax season completely stress-free.
Shop QuickBooks
Google Gemini
While there are some outstanding genAI platforms, like Anthropic’s Claude and OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google Gemini's free version of Google Gemini stands out because it gives you access to Gemini 1.5 Flash, a highly advanced AI model, already integrated into Google Search and always up to date. Upload massive documents, long videos, or hours of audio all at once -- something competitors block behind paywalls. Plus, Google Gemini seamlessly integrates with free apps you already use, like Docs, Gmail, Maps, and YouTube, making your daily workflow incredibly smooth.
Check out Gemini
Splashtop Personal
“Remote desktop” software is an excellent tool – as it allows you to log into one device from another, anywhere in the world, and access/see/hear content as if you were in front of it. With Splashtop Personal, it’s completely free, too, for personal use. It delivers exceptional performance with real-time video and audio streaming, achieving up to 30 frames per second with minimal latency. Setting it up takes just a couple of minutes, allowing you to control your PC or Mac from any smartphone, tablet, or computer. The platform protects your data using robust bank-level encryption.
Shop SplashTop
How did USA TODAY choose the 2026 Tech Awards?
By Kate Ellsworth, Director of Commerce Content at USA TODAY
Marc Saltzman has been working as a tech journalist for over 30 years, and personally, he's an author I've been working with for the past seven years. Marc is my go-to for all things tech, whether I need someone who's on the ground at CES every January or someone to help me pick a TV that's just as good at showing Blippi as it is handling my husband's world-building PC games.
When we conceptualized our inaugural Tech Awards list, my co-editor and I had no question — Marc was the man for the job. He did an excellent job covering our CES awards this year, so we knew he'd bring the perfect mix of tech expertise and a discerning eye to all of the year's new tech releases.
Marc spent weeks compiling his recommendations, then submitted them to me and our rankings editor, David Brinkerhoff. We went through all products, then decided which were truly badge-worthy.
We also offered brands the opportunity to submit themselves for consideration. Those nominations went straight to Marc, who combed through each product and decided which ones were worthy of inclusion. The following brands who asked to be considered were awarded: Govee, Puro Sound Labs, Wacom, Tello Mobile, Oh Snap and Incogni.
If you think we missed a product or have feedback about our list, reach out and let us know.
This story will receive a major update in October (or "Techtober") when we expect dozens of new tech releases to be announced.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The best tech products of 2026, according to USA TODAY
Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.
