MKS Instruments vs Norfolk Southern Corporation — how do they compare? MKS Instruments trades at $268.04 (market cap $17.95B), while Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $323.3 (market cap $73.65B). The key difference: Norfolk Southern Corporation is far larger — about 4.1× MKS Instruments's market cap, and Norfolk Southern Corporation pays the higher dividend (1.65%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| MKSI | NSC | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $17.95B | $73.65B |
Sector | Technology | Technology |
52-Week High | $444.80 | $352.98 |
52-Week Low | $110.60 | $272.36 |
Enterprise Value | $21.53B | $89.20B |
Dividend Yield | 0.38% | 1.65% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
No Aura AI signal available yet.
Norfolk Southern (NSC) trades at $327.92, down 0.47% on the day, amid a bearish technical signal. The stock has consistently beaten earnings estimates in recent quarters, with Q3 2026 results pending. Key fundamentals show strong profitability with a 21.02% net income margin and 16.97% ROE, though valuation multiples like the P/E of 27.98 appear elevated. Recent news highlights ongoing institutional accumulation and progress in the proposed merger with Union Pacific, which remains under regulatory review.
The outlook is balanced; the merger potential offers upside, but regulatory hurdles and a premium valuation pose risks. Analyst consensus is mixed with a Hold rating predominating, though the $369.67 price target implies modest upside. Earnings sustainability and merger approval are critical for near-term direction.
Trailing returns across standard periods
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 →Norfolk Southern Corporation is a major North American railroad company operating one of the largest freight rail networks in the eastern United States. The company transports a diverse range of commodities, including coal, intermodal containers, and various industrial products. NSC is a critical link in the nation's supply chain, providing efficient, long-haul transportation services to and from ports and industrial centers.
Read more on NSC →