CES 2026: 7 Gaming Tech Highlights We’d Buy Today

CES 2026: 7 Gaming Tech Highlights We’d Buy Today

Hook: If you’re tired of chasing compatibility headaches, slow delivery and vague reviews, CES 2026 delivered a shortlist of gaming gear that actually solves those everyday pain points — displays that make your GPU sing, peripherals that finally merge comfort with pro-grade performance, and comfort tech & lighting that keeps you in the game longer. Below are seven curated picks from Las Vegas we’d buy today, with clear buying links and retailer tips to get you playing fast and confident.

Why these seven?

CES is a sea of prototypes and PR — but the items below stood out because they combine immediate availability or concrete 2026 shipping windows, practical improvements (not gimmicks), and obvious compatibility with the latest consoles and PC stacks. I prioritised upgrades that directly reduce friction for UK gamers: lower input lag, better ergonomics, easier compatibility checks, and value-packed bundles.

These are not “concepts” you’ll wait months for — they’re the products we’d buy right now if we wanted the best balance of innovation and real-world usability.

Quick buying roadmap — what to buy first

• Priority #1: Display — The single biggest upgrade for visuals and responsiveness.
• Priority #2: Headset — Immersion + communications are critical for both single-player and esports.
• Priority #3: Mouse — Precision and latency changes gameplay immediately.
• Priority #4: Keyboard — Comfort and switch tech for long sessions.
• Priority #5: Controller — For console players or hybrid PC-console setups.
• Priority #6: Ergonomics — Chair or seat tech to avoid fatigue and injury.
• Priority #7: Comfort tech & lighting — Small improvements that extend sessions and reduce eye strain.

CES 2026 picks — what we’d buy today

1. 4K 240Hz OLED gaming monitor — the ultimate competitive single-screen upgrade

Why now: OLED panels have matured for gaming in 2024–25 and CES 2026 showcased multiple 4K OLED panels hitting 240Hz with improved longevity and anti-burn tech. That means true blacks, instant pixel response and high refresh rates in a single package — perfect for players who want console-level visuals and pro-level refresh.

What to look for:

• HDMI 2.1a + VRR for consoles and GPUs.
• 240Hz at native 4K or a clearly documented 4K/144–240Hz adaptive mode.
• Stellar input lag <8ms and reliable anti-burn features.

Retailer tip: Choose models with UK stock and manufacturer warranties. We recommend buying from retailers offering next-day dispatch or click-and-collect; that speeds up returns if the panel has any early defects.

Where to buy: Buy the 4K 240Hz OLED Pro (preorders open — stock arriving Q1 2026).

2. 65" mini-LED TV tuned for gaming — the living-room all-rounder

Why it made the list: TVs at CES 2026 leaned heavier into gaming modes: low-latency firmware shipped faster, manufacturers implemented Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) across the panel lineup, and HDMI 2.1a adoption increased. For couch gamers who want cinematic scale and competitive responsiveness on one screen, the new 65" mini-LED / quantum-layer TVs are the sweet spot.

What to look for:

• Native 4K @120Hz with low input lag measured in the spec sheet.
• ALLM + VRR + HDMI 2.1a to support consoles and next-gen GPUs.
• Local dimming zones and good HDR tone-mapping for contrast.

Retailer tip: Check whether the TV has a UK firmware release date. Some global models roll out firmware updates later in the UK — ensure the retailer offers aftercare and local firmware support; ask about return windows for burn-in testing in OLED-adjacent displays.

Where to buy: 65" Mini-LED Gaming TV — Shop now ( Bundles with wall mounts and HDMI 2.1 cables available).

3. Wireless esports headset with ultra-low latency and aptX Lossless-equivalent

Why it stands out: Wireless audio has finally closed the gap. CES 2026 highlighted headsets using new wireless protocols and on-board DSP that deliver near-Wire performance plus advanced spatial audio. If you stream or play multiplayer, cutting the cord without losing positional accuracy is a game-changer.

Must-have features:

• Pro-grade mic with flip-to-mute and clean voice processing.
• Sub-2ms wireless mode for competitive play (with a wired fallback).
• Long battery life and fast charging that gets you hours from a 15-minute top up.

Retailer tip: Buy a bundle that includes a transmitter dongle. Some headsets perform best with their dedicated dongles for low-latency and feature parity across PC and consoles.

Where to buy: Wireless Esports Headset — available now.

4. Ultra-light modular mouse with swappable sensors and grips

Why this matters: Scrolling through CES 2026, the mouse category focused on modularity and weight reduction without sacrificing sensor quality. Pro players benefit most from a mouse that matches their grip and hand size; modular options mean one mouse can be customised rather than replaced.

Key specs to prioritise:

• Swappable high-accuracy sensor (up to 30,000 CPI selectable) and low smoothing.
• Interchangeable shells and grip modules to tune weight and ergonomics.
• Reliable 2.4GHz dongle with 1ms or lower latency in pro mode.

Retailer tip: Get a mouse that ships with extra grip pads or modular parts included; otherwise these accessories are often separate SKUs. Also check return policies — comfort is subjective and a quick return policy lets you test for a week. The focus on modularity and serviceability at CES mirrors wider slow-craft trends: build to last, and replace parts rather than the whole peripheral.

Where to buy: Modular Pro Mouse — in stock.

5. Low-profile mechanical keyboard (hot-swap, optical switches, gasket mount)

Why we’d buy it: The new generation of low-profile, hot-swappable keyboards demonstrated at CES 2026 combine travel and speed with the durability of optical switches. They’re ideal for FPS and MOBA players who want quick actuation, quieter typing and the ability to customise switches without soldering.

What to check:

• Hot-swap PCB so you can try different switches later.
• Optical-switch options for near-instant actuation and longevity.
• Gasket mount or flexible plate for improved typing feel and noise control.

Retailer tip: If you want to swap keycaps, confirm the keyboard’s layout compatibility (ANSI vs ISO UK). Buy from a retailer that lists exact keycap profiles and includes ISO UK keys or offers ISO conversion kits.

Where to buy: Low-profile Hot-swap Keyboard — order now.

6. Modular pro controller with Hall-effect triggers and advanced haptics

Why it’s a priority: CES 2026 controllers focused on longevity and precision: Hall-effect triggers for consistent dead-zone free input and modular rear paddles that are remappable. For hybrid players and pro console competitors, these controllers reduce maintenance and increase consistency across sessions.

Features to prioritize:

• Hall-effect sticks & triggers for drift-free play.
• Swappable back paddles and profile switching on the fly.
• Advanced haptics that support both local and platform-level effects.

Retailer tip: Make sure the controller has clear platform compatibility (PS, Xbox, Switch, PC) and that remapping is available via a desktop app or onboard profiles. Look for bundled carrying cases or thumbstick caps in UK bundles — bundled deals often save time hunting accessories (bargain seller toolkits and packouts are common early on).

Where to buy: Modular Pro Controller — available.

7. Ergonomic gaming chair with active cooling and posture tracking

Why we’d buy: Comfort sells — and CES 2026 pushed active comfort tech beyond simple foam. New chairs integrate active cooling channels, adjustable lumbar support with micro-adjustments, and optional posture tracking that syncs with your phone to remind you to stand or stretch.

What to prioritise:

• Real mechanical lumbar adjustment rather than just foam pads.
• Active cooling (vented lumbar and seat) for long sessions.
• Trusted frame warranty (2–5 years) and replaceable covers.

Retailer tip: Test fit locally if possible. Many fit issues — width, armrest height, base ergonomics — are obvious in-person. If buying online, choose retailers with a 30–60 day home trial and clear return labels.

Where to buy: Ergonomic Cooling Chair — buy now (Free UK returns within 60 days).

2026 trends that shaped these picks

Several industry-wide shifts that matured in late 2025 and early 2026 drove the choices above:

• AI upscaling and real-time enhancement are now standard across GPUs and some TVs — reducing the need to buy the absolute fastest hardware to get crisp visuals.
• Wireless protocols improved (lower latency, better codec support), letting headsets and mice go cordless without meaningful compromises.
• Modularity and serviceability became mainstream — vendors shipped swappable modules and offered longer parts support in response to sustainability and enthusiast demand (repairable and slow-craft thinking).
• Ergonomics + health tech moved into the gaming mainstream: posture, cooling, and active comfort are now features rather than add-ons.
• Better UK retail support — more CES-announced products have UK stock and region-specific firmware at launch, reducing risk for buyers. Prefer retailers that operate local warehouses and edge-distribution to enable next-day dispatch.

How to prioritise purchases — practical, step-by-step advice

1. Match the display to your platform. If you game on console and PC, choose a TV or monitor with verified HDMI 2.1a performance. For PC-only, prioritise native refresh and GPU feature support.
2. Test wireless gear on your setup. Use the retailer’s return window to verify wireless dongles, Bluetooth profiles and mic quality with your headset. Bring the USB dongle, and test on your console if you can.
3. Measure your desk and hand size. For mice and keyboards, compare dimensions with your current gear. Many returns happen because sizes don’t match expectations.
4. Look for bundles. CES bundles gave better value — HDMI cables, carrying cases and extra paddles. Compact capture kits and curated bundles reduce accessory hunting and compatibility mismatches.
5. Check UK warranties and firmware update policy. Manufacturers that promise regional firmware support and extended warranties simplify long-term ownership.
6. Buy from retailers with next-day dispatch or local warehouses. That lowers shipping costs and speeds troubleshooting if you need a replacement. Look for sellers with edge logistics and micro-fulfillment networks (edge registries).

Compatibility checklist before checkout

• Does the display support the resolution and Hz your console or GPU can output?
• For wireless devices — is a proprietary dongle included and is it necessary for low-latency mode?
• Does the keyboard have ISO UK keycaps or a kit available?
• Does the controller support remapping across platforms or require a desktop app only available on Windows?
• Is the chair compatible with your desk height and floor surface (casters vs soft floors)?

Budget tiers — where to spend and where to save

To make buying decisions practical, here’s how we’d allocate a £1,000 upgrade budget:

• Spend most on the display (40–50%) — it affects visuals across all games.
• Next biggest on headset or mouse (20–25% each) depending on whether you prioritise audio or aim.
• Save on keyboard and chair if you already have decent ones — you can often get tactile upgrades for less. Save by buying a mid-range hot-swap keyboard and plan switch upgrades later.

Post-purchase checklist — first week with new hardware

1. Run firmware updates the day you unbox.
2. Test wired vs wireless modes for audio and input latency.
3. Calibrate monitor brightness, colour profile and HDR mode with in-built presets and, if available, auto-calibration tools.
4. Map controller paddles and keyboard macros while checking for drift or debounce issues.
5. Test the chair for a full session; use the return window if it’s not a fit.

Final takeaways — what to prioritise in 2026

CES 2026 showed that gaming tech is moving from spec chasing to practical upgrades that reduce friction. Buy a display first — it transforms everything else. Next, invest in a low-latency headset and a modular mouse: these offer the biggest performance uplift per pound in multiplayer. Finally, don’t ignore ergonomics — a good chair and comfort tech keep you playing at your best for longer.

Actionable tip: If you’re upgrading from equipment older than 2019, prioritise displays and mice — you’ll notice the biggest immediate difference in input response and clarity. If your setup includes multiple displays, consolidate to one high-quality monitor or TV for the clearest visual upgrade.

Where to buy — retailer tips from the floor

• Prefer retailers with local UK stock and confirmed Q1 2026 shipping dates — you’ll avoid long backorders.
• Look for bundles that include cables, cases or extra modules — CES-ready bundles often launch in the first wave.
• Choose extended warranty plans for high-cost items like large OLEDs and chairs; they’re often cheaper through the retailer at point-of-sale than added later.
• Use loyalty programs — points and first-access stock can save you money on limited-run CES releases.

Want our hands-on notes?

We tested many of these devices at CES and in the days after — if you want our shortlists grouped by budget or genre (FPS, sim, console), tell us which platform you prioritise and we’ll send tailored picks and quick trade-in suggestions.

Call-to-action: Ready to upgrade? Browse our CES 2026 curated collection and grab launch bundles with UK stock and free next-day dispatch: CES 2026: Shop curated picks. Join our loyalty programme for early access to limited stock, detailed compatibility guides and 60-day returns on major purchases.

If you want personalised advice — tell us your platform (PC/PS/Xbox/Switch), budget, and whether you prioritise competitive play or single-player immersion, and we’ll recommend the exact model and bundle to buy today.

Related Reading

• Smart Lamp vs Standard Lamp: Is Govee's RGBIC Lighting Worth the Discount?
• Smart Heating Accessories from CES 2026: The Tech That Will Warm Your Home This Winter
• Field Review: Bidirectional Compact Power Banks for Mobile Creators
• Mobile Creator Kits 2026: Building a Lightweight, Live-First Workflow
• Compact Capture & Live Shopping Kits for Pop‑Ups in 2026
• The Best MagSafe Wallets to Match Every Outfit (Tested Picks from Moft, ESR & Ekster)
• Are Custom 3D-Scanned Pet Beds Worth the Hype? A Critical Look
• How to Host High-Engagement Live Swim Classes: Lessons from Bluesky and Twitch
• Prefab, modular and ‘manufactured’ hotel rooms: what modern travelers should expect
• Hosting a Safe Winter Surf Competition in 2026 — Fan Safety, Cold‑Weather Protocols, and Event Design