Compare Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT) vs IONQ Inc (IONQ) Price & Performance

Applied Materials (AMAT) trades at $522.12, down 3.16% on the day, amid a neutral technical signal with support at $510 and resistance at $546. The company has consistently beaten earnings estimates in recent quarters, with Q1 2026 EPS of $2.86 surpassing the $2.68 forecast. Strong profitability is evident with a net margin of 29.31% and ROE of 39.69%, though valuation ratios like a P/E of 49.45 are elevated. Recent news highlights robust AI-driven demand in semiconductor equipment, with CEO Gary Dickerson calling it the industry's strongest period ever (CNBC, 2026-05-28).

The outlook remains positive given analyst consensus with a $662.82 price target and 76.9% buy ratings, but risks include high valuation sensitivity and cyclical semiconductor capital spending. Revenue growth to $29.0B in 2026 with a projected 29.31% net margin supports upside, though investors should monitor competitive pressures and macroeconomic impacts on tech spending.

IONQ trades at $44.82, up 5.38% with a bullish technical signal supported by moving averages. The quantum computing company reported explosive 287% revenue growth in Q2 2026 to $80.1 million and raised its full-year outlook, though it remains deeply unprofitable with a -553% net margin. Recent catalysts include a $28 million DARPA contract extension and strong analyst sentiment with a $73.33 consensus price target representing 64% upside potential.

While IONQ demonstrates exceptional revenue momentum and technological leadership in quantum computing, investors face substantial risk from persistent losses, high cash burn, and valuation multiples exceeding 60x sales. The stock offers significant growth potential but requires tolerance for volatility and a long-term horizon given the nascent stage of quantum commercialization.