Dell vs. Microsoft: Which Cloud Stock Is the Better Buy Now?

Core Viewpoint - Dell Technologies and Microsoft are significant players in the cloud computing market, with both companies poised to benefit from the expected growth in this sector, which is projected to reach a market size of $752.44 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 20.4% from 2025 to 2030 [2][17]. Dell Technologies - Dell is expanding its cloud services through the APEX platform, focusing on multi-cloud solutions and AI infrastructure [3]. - In Q4 of fiscal 2025, Dell's Infrastructure Solutions Group revenues, which include cloud offerings, increased by 22% year over year to $11.35 billion, driven by a 37% year-over-year growth in servers and networking revenues, totaling $6.63 billion [3][4]. - The demand for AI servers is strong, fueled by digital transformation and interest in generative AI applications, with Dell's PowerEdge XE9680L AI-optimized server experiencing high demand [4]. - Dell partnered with Singapore's Institute of Technical Education in March 2025 to launch a hybrid cloud VDI Centre, aimed at enhancing digital learning and addressing the AI skills gap [5]. Microsoft - Microsoft is experiencing robust demand for its cloud and AI offerings, with Microsoft Cloud revenues reaching $42.4 billion, a 21% year-over-year increase, and Azure revenues growing by 33% [6][8]. - Major customers, including Abercrombie & Fitch and Coca-Cola, are expanding their use of Azure, which has become the preferred cloud for mission-critical workloads [7]. - Microsoft has enhanced its cloud offerings by scaling data centers and optimizing hardware, contributing to increased customer adoption of key AI capabilities [8]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Microsoft's fiscal 2025 earnings is $13.30 per share, reflecting a 12.71% year-over-year increase [15]. Stock Performance and Valuation - Year to date, Dell Technologies shares have declined by 11.4%, while Microsoft shares have gained 6.5% [9]. - Dell's shares are trading at a forward Price/Sales ratio of 0.7X, significantly lower than Microsoft's 10.82X, indicating that both companies are currently overvalued [13]. - Dell's fiscal 2026 earnings estimate is $8.90 per share, showing a 9.34% year-over-year increase, while Microsoft's earnings estimate reflects a stronger growth trajectory [15][16]. Conclusion - Both Dell Technologies and Microsoft are well-positioned to capitalize on the growth of the cloud computing market, but Microsoft is identified as the stronger investment opportunity due to its superior AI-driven growth, consistent earnings momentum, and expanding enterprise adoption [17][18].