VRT vs. APH: Which AI Infrastructure Stock Is the Smarter Buy Now?

Core Insights - Vertiv (VRT) and Amphenol (APH) are significant players in the AI Infrastructure market, with Vertiv focusing on power and cooling solutions for data centers, while Amphenol provides high-performance connectors and interconnect systems essential for AI hardware [1][2] Market Overview - The AI infrastructure market was valued at $87.6 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $197.64 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.71% [2] Vertiv (VRT) Analysis - Vertiv has a diverse product portfolio that includes thermal systems, liquid cooling, UPS, switchgear, busbars, and modular solutions, contributing to its growth [3] - In the trailing 12 months, Vertiv's organic orders increased by approximately 11%, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.2 for Q2 2025, indicating strong demand [3] - The company's backlog grew by 7% sequentially and 21% year-over-year, reaching $8.5 billion [3] - Vertiv's energy-efficient solutions are crucial for meeting the rising power demands of complex AI hardware and edge computing [4] - The launch of Vertiv OneCore, a scalable prefabricated data center solution, is expected to enhance deployment efficiency and reduce complexity [5] - Vertiv has established partnerships with notable companies such as NVIDIA and Intel, further solidifying its position in the AI infrastructure space [6] Amphenol (APH) Analysis - Amphenol benefits from a diversified business model and a strong portfolio of high-technology interconnect products [7] - The company launched the UQD and UQDB liquid cooling connector series in June 2025, aimed at improving thermal management in AI data centers and EV charging infrastructure [8] - Amphenol's acquisitions, including CIT and CommScope's Andrew business, are enhancing its technological capabilities and market reach [9] - The company's order growth surged by 36% year-over-year, reaching $5.523 billion, with a book-to-bill ratio of 0.98:1 in Q2 2025 [9] Performance Comparison - Year-to-date, Vertiv's shares have increased by 9.2%, while Amphenol's shares have appreciated by 59%, attributed to Amphenol's diversified market exposure and effective acquisition strategy [12] - Vertiv's shares are currently trading at a trailing 12-month Price/Book ratio of 15.15X, compared to Amphenol's 11.64X, indicating that both stocks are overvalued [15] - Earnings estimates for Vertiv in 2025 are projected at $3.82 per share, reflecting a 34.04% year-over-year increase, while Amphenol's estimates are at $3.02 per share, showing a 59.79% increase [17] Conclusion - Both Vertiv and Amphenol are positioned to benefit from the AI infrastructure boom, but Amphenol's stronger earnings momentum and diversified growth drivers suggest it may offer greater upside potential in the near term [20]