Illumina, Inc. vs MKS Instruments — how do they compare? Illumina, Inc. trades at $278.17 (market cap $39.95B), while MKS Instruments trades at $264.5 (market cap $17.61B). The key difference: Illumina, Inc. is far larger — about 2.3× MKS Instruments's market cap, and MKS Instruments pays a 0.38% dividend while Illumina, Inc. pays none. Which is the better fit depends on your goals — on Pluang, investors hold Illumina, Inc. for 83 Days and MKS Instruments for 7 Days on average.
| ILMN | MKSI | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $39.95B | $17.61B |
Volume | 3,169,503 | 1,275,355 |
Sector | Health | Technology |
52-Week High | $293.69 | $444.80 |
52-Week Low | $91.00 | $121.26 |
Typical Hold Time | 83 Days | 7 Days |
Enterprise Value | $41.31B | $21.18B |
Dividend Yield | — | 0.38% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
ILMN trades at $264.40, down 1.25% on the day, but remains near its recent 52-week high of $278.99 (Defense World, 2026-10-01). The stock has surged 94.9% year-to-date (Zacks Investment Research, 2026-09-24), supported by strong earnings beats in recent quarters and a bullish technical trend. Fundamentals show a significant turnaround, with 2025 net income reaching $850 million after prior losses, though valuation ratios like a P/E of 49.36 are elevated. The pending inclusion in the S&P 500 (PRNewsWire, 2026-09-04) adds a positive catalyst.
The outlook is positive, driven by sequencing growth, AI integration in genomics, and improved profitability. However, risks include high valuation sensitivity, cost volatility, and competitive pressures in the life sciences sector. Analyst consensus is bullish with a 54% buy rating, but the average price target of $241 suggests limited near-term upside from current levels.
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Latest headlines on both assets
Illumina provides tools and services to analyze genetic material with life science and clinical lab applications. The company generates over 90% of its revenue from sequencing instruments, consumables, and services. Illumina's high-throughput technology enables whole genome sequencing in humans and other large organisms. Its lower throughput tools enable applications that require smaller data outputs, such as viral and cancer tumor screening. Illumina also sells microarrays (less than 10% of sales) that enable lower-cost, focused genetic screening with primarily consumer and agricultural applications.
Read more on ILMN →MKS develops instruments, systems, and process control solutions for advanced manufacturing. Its technologies serve semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging, photonics, and specialty industrial applications.
Read more on MKSI →