EXCELLENCE AWARD For the person, product or technology that advanced the PC more than any other in 2021. WINNER: Apple M1 Pro / Max (2021)

Apple’s M1 Pro and M1 Max processors were the most powerful laptop chips in 2021, beating many desktop processors while using only a fraction of the power. HIGHLY COMMENDED: Intel Alder Lake architecture FINALISTS: Intel Alder Lake architecture, DDR5, OLED laptop screens, Apple M1 Pro / Max (2021), Windows 11, AMD FidelityFX, AMD Smart Access Memory