The tech world converged at CES 2026, and one clear trend emerged: laptops are getting easier to fix, upgrade, and even reimagine. While processor upgrades from AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm dominate headlines with promises of better performance and battery life, a quiet revolution in design is taking hold. Manufacturers are finally responding to consumer demand for longevity, serviceability, and sustainability.
The Shift Towards Modularity
For years, laptops have been intentionally difficult to repair, pushing consumers toward costly replacements. This year, Dell, HP, and Lenovo all unveiled new designs prioritizing easy access to internal components. The goal? Letting users replace keyboards, batteries, and more without replacing the entire system. This is a return to an older approach, but a necessary one as consumers push back against planned obsolescence.
Even gaming laptops, traditionally sealed tight, are getting in on the trend. MSI’s latest models now offer user-accessible RAM and SSD slots, demonstrating the shift is not limited to business or professional users.
Key New Releases
Several laptops stood out at CES 2026:
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14: This model showcases Lenovo’s “Space Frame” design, allowing easy access to nearly all internal components. The keyboard, battery, and even USB ports are replaceable.
- Dell XPS 14 and XPS 16: Dell has resurrected its popular XPS line after a branding overhaul that upset customers. The new models combine familiar design with the latest Intel processors and high-resolution displays.
- MSI Prestige 14 and Prestige 16: MSI revamped its business laptops with a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic. These models boast solid OLED displays and long battery life, with an emphasis on portability.
- Acer Swift Edge 14 AI and Swift Edge 16 AI: Acer continues to deliver value with its updated Swift Edge series. The new models incorporate stainless steel-magnesium alloy into the chassis for increased durability and reduced weight.
- MSI Raider 16 Max HX: MSI brings serviceability to the gaming world. The Raider 16 Max HX features a removable back panel for easy RAM and SSD upgrades, setting a potential new standard for gaming laptops.
- Asus ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition: Asus has partnered with GoPro to create a rugged, portable laptop designed for content creators. The device comes bundled with a one-year GoPro Cloud Plus subscription.
- HP EliteBoard G1a: HP is pushing boundaries with the EliteBoard G1a, a keyboard-integrated computer that plugs into external monitors. This hybrid concept redefines the portable computing experience.
Why This Matters
The push for repairability is not just about convenience. It’s a direct response to growing frustration with e-waste and unsustainable tech practices. Consumers are demanding products that last, and manufacturers are finally listening.
This shift also highlights the broader trend of modularity in tech. If laptops can be easily upgraded and repaired, it reduces the need for frequent replacements, lowering electronic waste and saving consumers money. The HP EliteBoard G1a, while unconventional, demonstrates the potential for entirely new computing form factors.
Ultimately, CES 2026 signaled a turning point. The industry is not just chasing faster processors and brighter screens anymore; it’s addressing the long-term sustainability and usability of its products.
