Considering the continuing rise in the popularity of mobile devices, one might have expected the realm of computers to stagnate, but the 2016 computer trends show that's far from the case. And as our FREE 2017 Trend Report shows, the computer industry isn't likely to take pause in the coming months, either.
Since computers are freed from the constrictions of size that hamper mobile devices like tablets and smartphones, they have more space to flex their hardware. Though mobile devices might be able to keep up with desktop and laptop computers for many simple online tasks, computers are without peers where immense processing power is a necessity.
Video games are one area in which computers still reign supreme. This is evident not only due to the power of computers themselves, but also upon seeing the wealth of computer peripherals (like mouses and keyboards) designed specifically for hardcore gaming.
Top 100 Computer Trends of 2016
100
Luxury Car PC Peripherals
The Audi Layer Combines the Functionality of Four Devices into One
99
User-Friendly Programming Kits
This 'Starter Kit' Offers an Introduction to Raspberry Pi
98
DIY Crafting Machines
The 'Mr Beam II' Laser Cutter and Engraver Offers Superb Crafting Uses
97
Powerful Mini PCs
This Ubuntu PC Stick Makes Miniature Computing a Razor-Sharp Affair
96
Glasses-Free 3D Technology
KDX Announces K3DX 3D Technology at CES 2016
95
Home Automation Assistants
The 'Lola' Home Automation System Helps Streamline the IOT Experience
94
Creative Professional Laptop Protectors
The Mujjo Leather MacBook Folio Sleeve is Meeting-Ready
93
Pocket-Sized Touchscreen Computers
The 'Ockel Sirius' Packs Windows 10 and a 6-Inch Touchscreen
92
Designer Desktop PCs
The HP Pavilion Wave is a New Desktop PC that's Meant to be Displayed
91
Portable Handheld PC Consoles
The 'SMACH Z' Handheld Gaming PC Runs Windows Games
90
Laptop-Cooling Stands
This Aluminum Laptop Stand Ensures the Health of the Devices
89
Wearable VR Computers
The MSI VR One Virtual Reality Backpack System Provides 90-Minutes of Use
88
Portable VR Desktop Computers
This Lenovo Computer's Hardware is Stuffed Into a 2K Monitor
87
Cooled Computer Cases
The Ola PC Case Keeps Gaming Computers Cool and Slickly Styled
86
Shape-Shifting Laptop Tablets
The Lenovo Yoga Book Tablet Computer Combines Multiple Devices
85
Touchscreen Mini PC Cases
This New Display Case Brings Touchscreen Packaging To the Raspberry Pi
84
Handmade Wooden Laptop Covers
The 'Bambooti' Wooden Cover for MacBook is Crafted from Real Wood
83
Inexpensive Upgradeable Laptops
The HackBook Elite is an Affordable Laptop that Runs Mac OS X
82
Powerful Miniature Computers
Shuttle's Mini PC Systems Offer Astounding Power In Minute Packages
81
Port-Expanding USB Keys
The Satechi USB Type-C Adapter Expands Computer Port Functionality
80
Vibrant Computer Cases
This Computer Chassis is Fitted With Colorful LED Lights
79
Smart Gaming Mouses
The SteelSeries Rival 700 is Unveiled as the First Smart Mouse at CES 2016
78
Arched Wireless Monitors
The U Surfing Computer Screen Opts for a Curved Shape and Cord-Free Use
77
Desktop Computer Carrying Cases
The Lavolta Carrying Case Fits a 27-Inch iMac Computer
76
Carbon-Fiber Laptops
The Lenovo Yoga 900S is Sheathed In a Carbon Fiber Shell
75
Powerful Mini PCs
The Beebox-S Offers Surprising Processing Power From a Compact Package
74
Multi-Screen Monitors
The Dell 43 Multi-Client Monitor Can be Configured into Four Screens
73
Smartphone-Sized PCs
The Hercules 'PalmTop' Mobile PC is Packed with Impressive Components
72
PC-Packed Folding Keyboards
The Pipo KB2 Compact PC is a Folding Keyboard with a Computer Inside
71
Online Account Erasers
'Deseat.me' Automatically Pulls Up the Deletion Links for Users' Accounts
70
Plush Computer Wrist Rests
The PC Character Cushions are an Adorable Ergonomic Typing Aid
69
Ergonomic Computer Mounts
The Loctek Swivel Monitor Mount Enables Better Posture Through Design
68
Comfortable Wearable Computers
The Handsfree Toshiba Wearvue TG-1 Glasses Reduce Eye Strain
67
Professional Laptop Folios
The Carry-On Macbook Sleeve by Mujjo Offers Style for the Office
66
DIY Wireless Speakers
This DIY Project Lets Makers Create Custom AirPlay Speakers
65
Smartphone-Powered Laptops
The HP Elite x3 Lap Dock Brings the Smartphone to a Computer Interface
64
Retro Mechanical Keyboard Peripherals
The Nanoxia Ncore Retro Keyboard Performs Modern Keystrokes
63
Universal Network Extenders
The ZeusPro Maximizes WiFi Range and Quality for a Low-Cost Price
62
Touchscreen Computer Projectors
The 'PaperLight' Computer Projector Turns a PC into a Smart Board
61
USB-Analyzing Gadgets
The 'qooMeter' USB Charger Tester Relays the Quality of Charing Equipment
60
Wearable VR Computer Packs
The Alienware VR Backpack Computer Frees Users from Stationary PCs
59
Liquid Cooling Computer Cases
The ThermalTake CORE P5 Liquid Cooling Computer Case is Efficient
58
Portable Hybrid Laptops
The Huawei MateBook Is Designed For One-the-Go Working
57
Processor Manufacturer Computers
The Intel Core M Compute Stick is Unveiled at CES 2016
56
LEGO Laptop Covers
'BrikBook' Allows People to Customize Their MacBooks With Legos
55
Ultra-Flexible Convertible Laptops
The New Yoga 910 is Equipped With Supremely Flexible Hinges
54
Professional Workstation Mini PCs
The HP Z2 Mini Computer System Does CAD Modeling and More
53
Touchscreen Keyboard Peripherals
This Conceptual Apple Magic Keyboard Features an OLED Display
52
Supercharged Internet Systems
The Portal WiFi System is a Revolutionary Router at CES 2016
51
DIY Security Cameras
This Microsoft Project Lets You Build Your Own Security Camera
50
Device-Holding Laptop Clips
The Ten One Design Mobile Mount Clip Enables Dual-Device Viewing
49
Customizable Maker PCs
The Cooler Master Maker Series Design Computers Can be Personalized
48
Fitness-Inspired Peripherals
The Logitech Yoga Mouse was Unveiled During a Press Event at CES 2016
47
Portable Backpack Workstations
The DTC Box is an Anti-Theft Mobile Office For Freelancers
46
Powerfully Compact PCs
The 'GOSTICK' Stick PC Offers Advanced Functionality in a Small Design
45
Laptop Screen Privacy Protectors
The STARK Inc. Magnetic Privacy Screen Protector Deters Onlookers
44
Apple-Inspired PC Cases
The DUNE Circular Aluminum PC Case Allows Users to DIY Their Own PC
43
Lightweight Chinese Laptops
The Xiaomi Laptop 'Mi Notebook Air' Can Rival the Macbook Air
42
3D Model Search Engines
The 'Yobi3D' Web Search Engine Makes it Easy to Find 3D Printing Files
41
Compact Keyboard Peripherals
The Jorno Mobile Keyboard is Redesigned to be Impossibly Thin
40
Space-Worthy Computer Cases
The Astro Pi Raspberry Pi Case is Now Available to be 3D-Printed
39
Magnetic Charger Adapters
The 'Snapnator' Brings Back the Mag Charger Design to the MacBook
38
Art Deco Computers
This SkyVue PC Casing Looks Like a Miniature Skyscraper from the 1930s
37
Self-Cooling Computers
The Compulab Airtop Mini Desktop PC is High-Performance without a Fan
36
Portable Gaming Consoles
This Portable Console Makes the Xbox One Experience Slimmer
35
NFC-Enabled Routers
The 'Lylo' Home WiFi Router Blocks Ads and Makes Connecting Easier Than Ever
34
Upgradeable Mini PCs
The MSI 'Cubi 2' Windows Mini PC Can be Upgraded Easily by Users
33
Pocket-Sized Computer Servers
The 'Ocean' Wireless Server is Focused on Portable Usage
32
Noiseless Mini PCs
The 'ChimpBox' Desktop Fanless PC is Designed to Efficiently Run on Low Voltage
31
Wooden Peripheral Desk Trays
The Grovemade Walnut Trackpad Tray Hides Items Beneath the Device
30
Anti-Tracking WiFi Adapters
The Anonabox PRO WiFi Tor & VPN Router Keeps Users Anonymous Online
29
QR Code Data Devices
The QR Code Smart Seal Enables Users to Distribute Data Easily
28
Next-Generation Hard Drives
The LaCie Porsche Design Desktop USB-C Drive is Observed at CES 2016
27
Open-Source Microcomputers
This New Linux Machine Offers Boosted WiFi Connectivity
26
Maker Prototyping Gadgets
The tinylab Prototyping System Enables Customized Technology Products
25
Pint-Sized Premium Tablets
The Compact New iPad Pro Offers Improved Processing and Photography
24
DIY Arcade Machines
This Arcade Machine is Made Using a Raspberry Pi 2 Computer
23
Dextrous Gaming Mice
The ROCCAT Kiro Computer Mouse Design is Ambidextrous for Both Hands
22
Stripped-Down Gaming Keyboards
The Black Widow X Keyboard Features a Unique Naked Aesthetic
21
Futuristic Gaming Laptops
The New Razer Blade Laptop Offers Next-Level Gaming Perforance
20
Spherical Mini Computers
The 'Endless Mini' Launched at CES 2016 Introduces Accessible Computing
19
Easily Upgraded Mini Computers
The ASRock DeskMini Features a Design that's Focused on Upgrading
18
Compact Mini Computers
The Giada i80 Mini Computer is Ridiculously Small Yet Powerful
17
Coding Virtual Reality Apps
The Loop Platform Lets Consumers Code Their Own VR Experiences
16
Hidden Computer Shelving Units
The 'FLOAT' Desk Shelf Attaches onto the Rear of iMacs and Displays
15
Functional Hybrid PCs
The Samsung Galaxy TabPro S12 Tablet Laptop is a Dual-Use Device
14
Multi-Drive Computer Systems
The Synology 'DiskStation' Hard Drive Bay Enables Affordable Backups
13
Inexpensive Entertainment PCs
The Unuiga S905 is Purported as One of the Cheapest PCs in the World
12
Curved Gaming Laptops
The Acer Predator 21 X Game Laptop Features a Sculpted Screen Design
11
Computer Stand Peripherals
The 'ExoHub' USB Port Hub Works with iMacs to Place Ports within Reach
10
OLED Touch Button Laptops
The New Apple MacBook Pro Laptop Lineup Highlights the Touch Bar
9
Eco-Friendly Computer Peripherals
The 'Rogue Router' File Server System Features a Solar Panel
8
Laptop Screen Expanders
'Packed Pixels' USB Monitors Clip onto Existing Equipment
7
Powerful Retro-Inspired Computers
The Colorware Retro iMac Mimics the Aesthetic of the Apple IIe
6
Slim Formfactor PCs
The Cryorig 'Taku' Slim Desktop PC Features Ample Space for Components
5
Memory Card Hard Drives
This Brando Adapter Turns Ten microSD Cards into a SATA SSD
4
Gilded Desktop Designs
Goldgenie is Now Coating iMacs and Macbooks in 24 Carat Gold
3
Curved 3D-Printed Keyboards
This Ergonomic Keyboard Design is a Functional DIY Model
2
Accessibility Computer Peripherals
The CEBA 'GlassOuse' Mouse Redesigns the Mouse for the Disabled
1
Ergonomically Separated Keyboards
The 'ErgoDox EZ' Ergonomic Keyboard is Totally Programmable
Related Ideas
Game-Saving Helper Drones
The 'Pokedrone' Goes Where Pokemon Go Users Can't to Catch Pokemon
Keyless Smart Locks
The AMADAS Smart Lock Syncs with an App and Uses a PIN to Let Consumers In
360-Degree Recording Glasses
'ORBI Prime' Lets Its Wearer Record HD 360-Degree Videos
Shape-Shifting Laptop Tablets
The Lenovo Yoga Book Tablet Computer Combines Multiple Devices
Touchscreen Mini PC Cases
This New Display Case Brings Touchscreen Packaging To the Raspberry Pi
Inexpensive Upgradeable Laptops
The HackBook Elite is an Affordable Laptop that Runs Mac OS X
Retro Racing Mobile Games
The Super Mario Run Rebrands the Nintendo Universe for Smartphones
Powerful Miniature Computers
Shuttle's Mini PC Systems Offer Astounding Power In Minute Packages
DIY Home Spy Cameras
This DIY Raspberry Pi SpyCam Can be Remotely Controlled via Smartphone
Desktop Computer Carrying Cases
The Lavolta Carrying Case Fits a 27-Inch iMac Computer
High-End Wireless Earbuds
These Prototype 'AirPods' Offer a Sleek Cord-Free Update to Headphones
Powerful Mini PCs
The Beebox-S Offers Surprising Processing Power From a Compact Package
Retro Mechanical Keyboard Peripherals
The Nanoxia Ncore Retro Keyboard Performs Modern Keystrokes
Car Part Office Decor
The LGM Office in Vancouver Was Designed to Look Like a High-End Garage
Designer Smartwatch Straps
Hermès Will Be Releasing Straps That Will Fit the Apple Watch Series 2
Ultra-Flexible Convertible Laptops
The New Yoga 910 is Equipped With Supremely Flexible Hinges
Gaming-Themed Rental Rooms
This Video Game-Themed Room on Airbnb Appeals to Super Mario Fans
Immersive Gaming Headphones
The SteelSeries Arctis Headphones Promise Boosted In-Game Performance
Stylish Aluminum Laptop Handles
The ZENLET 'LIFT' Laptop Carrier is Designed for the MacBook Pro
Lightweight Chinese Laptops
The Xiaomi Laptop 'Mi Notebook Air' Can Rival the Macbook Air
Location-Masking Internet Devices
The 'Cutu' VPN Device Maintains Online Security and Privacy
Graphics-Boosting Laptop Docks
The iBow External Graphics Docking Station Boosts Mac Performance
Quantum Particle-Infused Monitors
Samsung's New Gaming Monitors Feature Quantum Dot Displays
Lightweight Gaming Computers
This Asus Computer Offers Blindingly Fast Gaming Performance
Portable Gaming Consoles
The Nintendo Switch Combines the Best Of Console and Handheld Gaming
Projector-Packed PCs
The Onenuts T1 Mini PC Projector Packs an OS in a Compact Unit
VR-Ready Gaming Computers
This Lenovo Computer Offers Unbeatable Compactness and Tech Specs
UFO-Shaped Security Cameras
This Security Camera Prevents Blind Spots in Its Coverage
Healthy Strain-Free Keyboards
The Microsoft Surface Ergonomic PC Keyboard is Organically Designed
Cooling Soda-Branded Bags
These Herschel Bags Feature Coca-Cola Prints and an Insulated Liner
AR Spider Robots
'MekaMon' is a Smartphone-Controlled Robot That Fights AR Enemies
Photography Manipulation Keyboards
The Loupedeck Lightroom Editing Console Streamlines the Process
Heart-Tracking Mouses
The Mionix Naos QG Biometric PC Gaming Mouse Tracks Users' Health
Smart Electric Toothbrushes
The Soocare X3 Has Bluetooth Connectivity a Battery That Lasts 25 Days
Device-Based Security Systems
The Z-Tech iPad Docking Station Turns Devices into Security Cameras
Stacking Computer Storage Systems
The OWC 'miniStack' External Storage System is for Macs and PCs
Powerful Micro-Thin Laptops
The HP Spectre x360 is a New Laptop with Convertible Features
Spill-Proof Wooden Peripherals
The CaseStudi 'Libre' Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard is Naturalistic
Supercharged Miniature PCs
The Panther Alpha Super Mini PC Cuts Energy Needs for Computing
Small-Scale Synthesizers
The Tiny TS Synthesizer is the Size of a Credit Card
Inexpensive USB Hacking Devices
PoisonTap Uses a Raspberry Pi to Hack Computers in Just 30 Seconds
Affordable Miniature Computers
This New Ubuntu Mini PC Offers Spectacular Value At Only $90
Curved Gaming Laptops
The Acer Predator 21 X Game Laptop Features a Sculpted Screen Design
OLED Touch Button Laptops
The New Apple MacBook Pro Laptop Lineup Highlights the Touch Bar
Modernized Retro Game Consoles
The Atari Flashback 7 Recreates the Classic Atari 2600 Console
Stealthy Gaming Laptops
The Upgraded Razer Blade Stealth Offers Increased Storage and Battery Life
Standalone VR Headsets
The Project Alloy Headset Offers Holographic and Mixed Reality Experiences
Designer Graphic Tablet Cases
The 'Tabletcase' Graphic Tablet Protector is Stylishly Bespoke
Tiny Arcade Consoles
Adafruit Built the World's Smallest Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator
Frightening VR Attractions
The Universal Orlando Resort's 'Repository' is a New Horror Simulator
Computer-Disabling USB Sticks
The 'USB Killer' Computer Stick Surges Devices to Damage Them
Slender Gaming Consoles
The Xbox One S Features a Newly Compact Design
Encrypted Browsing Apps
Tenta Ensures That Your Browsing History Remains Private
Powerfully Backlit Laptops
This New Asus Chromebook's Display is Perfect For Both Work and Play
Built-In Keyboard PCs
The Vensmile K8 Portable Mini PC Features a Flexible Keyboard Attached
Wearable Cloud Computing Systems
This Leather Jacket is Equipped With 10 Raspberry Pi Computers
Multiplayer VR Consoles
The Modal VR Can Simultaneously Process Ten Players' Gestures and Actions
Stylish Sushi Knapsacks
These Sushi Backpacks Resemble the Iconic Seafood Dish
VR-Ready Computer Sets
The HTC Vive Ready HP Computer Bundle Packs Everything for VR
Powerful Convertible Laptops
These New Dell Laptops Offer Top-Notch Processing Power
High-End Smartphone Cameras
The New iPhone 7 Camera Boasts Several High-Tech Features
Graphics-Upgrading Peripherals
The PowerColor 'DEVIL BOX' External Graphics System is Powerful
Data-Driven Marketing Platforms
Oracle Data Cloud Allows For Targeted B2B Marketing Operations
VR-Ready Custom PCs
The CUK Trion Custom Gaming PC is Liquid-Cooled and Ready for Immersive Games
External Gaming Graphics Cards
'The Wolfe' Turns MacBooks into Gaming Computers
POV Camera Backpacks
The GoPro Seeker Knapsack is Made to Hold Five GoPros for on-the-Go Filming
Tactile Conceptual Screen PCs
The iMac Flow Adds a Variety of Much-Needed Features to the Computer
Transformative Ergonomic Laptop Stands
The A/Stand Offers a Custom Workstation Safe for Daily Use
Action-Selecting Security Software
Nest's 'Sightline' Automatically Recognizes Important Events
Bee-Based Routing Apps
The Routific Software System Plans Routes for Delivery Fleets
Smartphone-Sized Photo Printers
The HP Sprocket Pocket Photo Printer Makes Sharing Photos Simple
Presidential Pet Video Games
'Socks the Cat Rocks the Hill' Will Be Re-released After the Election
Sporty Smartphone Earphones
The New Beats Headphone Headsets Feature Apple's W1 Audio Chip
VR-Ready Gaming Laptops
The ASUS ROG G701VI Game Notebook is Prepared for Immersive Experiences
Internet Privacy Documentaries
'User Profiled' is a Collaboration Between VICE and Ubisoft
Compartmentalized Device Sleeves
OURAI's Felt Carrying Sleeve Organizes Tech Gadgets With Slots
Palm-Sized Retro Consoles
This DIY SNES Console was Created by YouTuber lyberty5
Virtual Reality Gamepads
The SteelSeries Stratus XL is One of the First VR-Compatible Gamepads
Reactionary Gaming Headsets
The Sennheiser GSP 350 Game Headset Performs Well During Intense Games
Private App Store Platforms
'dapploy' Lets Users Deploy Apps on their Own Private Network
Diamond-Encrusted Smartphones
The Gresso Black Diamond iPhone 7 Retails for $500,000
Eye-Tracking Gaming Laptops
The Alienware 17 Notebook Computer is Prepared for Intensive Gaming
Document-Scanning Lamps
The 'DigitEYE' Desktop Scanner Lamp is a Versatile Office Peripheral
VR Ballet Performances
'Night Fall' is the World's First 360-Degree VR Ballet
Pocket-Sized Projector Computers
This Windows 10 Mini PC Offers An Integrated Projector
Gamified Messaging Apps
Telegram Puts Fun Minigames Directly into Its Chat Interface
TV Gaming Console Hybrids
The Upcoming Nintendo NX System Will Have Detachable Controllers
Self-Driving Racer Robots
Formula Pi Invites Coders to Program and Race Self-Driving Bots
Spatial Audio Headphones
These Headphones Were Designed to Work for a Variety of Settings
Digitizing DSLR Camera Cases
This Camera Case Can Transform DSLR Cameras Into Digital Machines
Carbon Fiber Backpacks
These Lightweight Backpacks' Frames are Stronger Than Steel
Liquid-Cooled Gaming Laptops
The GX800 Laptop is Designed For Competitive and Professional Gamers
Multi-Room Audio Systems
The SonosPi Audio System is Powered By a Raspberry Pi Mini PC
Diamond-Studded Phone Cases
Brikk Made an Ultra-Luxury Diamond-Studded iPhone 7 Cases
Noiseless Computer Peripherals
The Logitech M330 Silent Plus Mouse is Powerful Yet Quiet
Signal-Blocking Smartphone Cases
The Silent Pocket Privacy Protection Cases Ensures Total Privacy
Promotional Smart Home Hacks
DedSec Hacked HAUM's Smart Home to Promote Ubisoft's 'Watch Dogs 2'
GIF Spy Kits
The 'I See U' Project Collects Secret Footage and Turn It Into Animated Video
Tech Support Subscriptions
Techmate Offers a Subscription Model for Unlimited Tech Repairs
Girls-Only Gamer Parties
Microsoft Japan Threw an Xbox Party Exclusively for Girl Gamers
Technological Democratic Platforms
The D-CENT Platform for Democracy Engages European Citizens
Manipulable Computer Monitors
This G-SYNC Monitor Can Be Twisted and Rotated For Maximal Comfort
Chainsaw-Simulating Games
This VR Game Lets You Play the Role Of Branch-Cutting Lumberjack
Fingerprint-Sensing Laptops
This Acer Laptops is Perfect For Business Travelers On the Go
Runner-Targeted Smartwatches
The Apple Watch Nike+ Sport Smartwatch Reminds Wearers to Run
Pocket-Sized Personal Seismographs
The 'Raspberry Shake' Measures Seismic Activity at Home
Office-Quality Mobile Printers
The HP OfficeJet 200 Enables Full Printing When Out of the Office
Gym-Simulating Video Games
SymGym's Physical Video Games Combine Gaming and Strength Training
High-End Swimmer Smartwatches
The Apple Watch Series 2 Features Exceptional Tracking in Water
Contoured Peripheral Device Mounts
The 'Clique2' Apple Keyboard and Trackpad Attachment is Stylish
Nostalgic Media Systems
The 'indieGO!' Allows Users to Play Games from Retro Game Consoles
Smart Fabric Keyboards
The 'K-Board Pro 4' Uses Smart Technology to Respond Like a Real Instrument
Crowdfunded Convertible Tablets
The 'Eve V' Packs Powerful Components without the Associated Cost
Wheelchair Gaming Avatars
The Xbox Avatars are Expanding with Better Disability Representation
Transformative Smartphone Accessories
The Superbook Converts Your Android Phone Into a Laptop
Computer User-Monitoring Devices
The 'Cyndr Sentry' Intruder Detection System Monitors for Spies
Health Insurance Smartwatch Plans
Health Insurance Provider Aetna will Subsidize the Apple Watch
Leather Cable Organizers
The Hula Wrap Keeps MacBook Cables Organized and Tangle-Free
Integrated Gaming Tournament Systems
ESL and Microsoft Have Collaborated For Xbox Live
Collegiate Computer Campaigns
Windows 10's 'College Students' Ad Depicts Two Regular Students
Smart Karaoke Games
The 'Just Sing' Game Turns Phones Into a Mic and a Camera
Audio-Focused Virtual Reality Sets
This Immersive Virtual Reality Set Provides Visuals and Audio
Intelligent Gaming Consoles
The OTON X Console Can Generate New Game Levels
Empowering Open-Source Laptops
The EOMA68 Laptop Encourages Users to Carry Out Upgrades & Repairs