Dell vs. HPE: Which AI Infrastructure Stock Is the Better Buy Now?

Core Insights - Dell Technologies and Hewlett-Packard Enterprise are significant players in the AI infrastructure market, with Dell focusing on AI-optimized infrastructure and edge computing, while HPE emphasizes hybrid cloud and edge computing platforms like GreenLake [1][2] Dell Technologies - Dell is experiencing strong demand for AI servers, driven by digital transformation and interest in generative AI applications [3] - In Q2 of fiscal 2026, Dell shipped $8.2 billion in AI servers, with a $5.6 billion increase in orders and an AI backlog of $11.7 billion [4][11] - The company delivered $10 billion worth of AI-optimized servers in the first half of fiscal 2026 and projects $20 billion in shipments for the entire fiscal year [5][11] - Dell introduced the PowerEdge XR8720t, the first single-server solution for Open RAN and Cloud RAN, enhancing performance and reducing costs for telecom and edge deployments [6] Hewlett-Packard Enterprise - HPE's server segment sales increased by 16% year over year to $4.94 billion in Q3 of fiscal 2025, driven by strong demand for AI servers [7][11] - The company launched advanced servers equipped with NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell and NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra platforms tailored for AI workloads [8] - HPE's GreenLake platform benefits from a robust demand environment as customers undergo digital transformation [9] Market Performance - Year-to-date, Dell's shares have increased by 30.7%, while HPE's shares have risen by 14.3%, with Dell outperforming due to strong AI server demand [12] - Dell's shares are trading at a forward Price/Sales ratio of 0.90X, compared to HPE's 0.81X, indicating a more favorable valuation for Dell [15] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Dell's fiscal 2026 earnings is $9.54 per share, reflecting a 17.20% year-over-year increase [17] - In contrast, HPE's fiscal 2025 earnings estimate is $1.90 per share, indicating a 4.52% decline year over year [17] Conclusion - Both companies benefit from the expanding AI infrastructure market, but Dell's robust portfolio and expanding partner base position it as a more attractive option for long-term investors [18]