PCWorld January 2026 | PCWorld

The January 2026 issue of PCWorld opens with the stories shaping the PC world right now. From Valve’s renewed push into living-room gaming to a candid critique of Windows from a developer who helped build Task Manager, this issue balances breaking news with the kind of practical insight PCWorld readers expect.

Top Stories in the January 2026 Issue 💻

Valve’s Steam Machine returns in a form that straddles the line between console and PC. Senior editor Alaina Yee explains why this second attempt might finally pull console gamers toward PC gaming—and what that could mean for the hardware you already own. In a separate feature, Hans-Christian Dirscherl covers former Microsoft programmer Dave Plummer’s pointed YouTube video about what still needs fixing in Windows.

The Best PC Hardware and Software of 2025/2026 ⚙️

The issue’s annual roundup names the standout components, peripherals, and applications of the past year. It’s a useful reference point if you’re planning an upgrade, building a new system, or simply want to know which tools and devices earned PCWorld’s attention. The picks span the categories that matter most to enthusiasts and everyday users alike.

Set Up a New Laptop the Right Way

A new laptop rarely feels complete straight out of the box. The feature “10 steps every new laptop owner should take” walks through the setup decisions that can improve performance, security, and day-to-day usability. The advice is aimed at anyone who wants to start off on the right foot without unnecessary hassle.

Reviews, How-To, and Tech Spotlight

Regular sections include Reviews & Ratings, where PCWorld evaluates current products; Here’s How, with step-by-step guidance for common tech tasks; and Tech Spotlight, a closer look at a subject worth your attention. The January issue also includes the cover review of Microsoft’s Windows XP Crocs, a playful item that adds a lighter note to the lineup.

Who This Issue Is For

PCWorld January 2026 suits PC enthusiasts, DIY builders, upgraders, IT professionals, and general readers who want clear reporting on hardware, software, Windows, and gaming. If you follow the pace of consumer technology and prefer practical context over hype, this digital issue delivers a month’s worth of news, reviews, and guidance in one place.

Available as a digital edition from Digital Delights, this issue is ready to read on your preferred device. Whether you’re troubleshooting a laptop, comparing components, or keeping up with the latest platform shifts, the January 2026 issue offers a focused snapshot of where PCs are heading.