My 26" tire experiences in the past couple of years:

I was most impressed with Ritchey Tom Slicks. They made my old Trek 930 super zippy for riding around town. They come in folding and wirebead versions, the latter being super affordable. I have the 1.5" version, but a 1.0" exists as well. Although they are light, I never had a flat with them.

My GT Karakoram city bike currently has Schwalbe Kojak in the 2.0" wirebead version. I can't complain about those either. They feel a little wooden in terms of zippiness and suppleness compared to high end XC tires of similar volume, but performance is good for the price.

Continental Race King in the version with BlackChili compound (they change the name every fortnight) in 2.0 on my XC racer roll seriously fast. The only drawback is limited puncture protection. I've had flats just riding next to a blackberry patch. They're probably best, when they're ridden tubeless. I haven't comitted to that, yet.

I really, really want to try the new Gravelking SK that just got released in 26". I wish Panaracer gave us the slick version as well, but I'm sure they're currently testing the waters for the 26" market. I currently see them on every other recent dropbar conversion, just like the Maxxis DTH which the obligatory 26" dropbar tire last year. I've also set sights on the new Schwalbe Billy Bonkers. It may be an affordable alternative to the Gravelkings, at least on my continent.

Good rollin'!