IonQ vs. Rigetti Computing: Which Quantum Computing Stock Will Outperform in 2026?

Core Insights - Quantum computing stocks gained significant attention in 2025, with Rigetti Computing set to outperform IonQ, achieving a year-to-date gain of nearly 50% compared to IonQ's 15% [1] Company Analysis: IonQ - IonQ's potential advantage lies in its trapped-ion technology, utilizing actual ytterbium and barium atoms, which are more stable and can lead to fewer errors in quantum computing [4] - The company aims to build a comprehensive quantum computing ecosystem, similar to Nvidia's approach in AI infrastructure, by making aggressive acquisitions in quantum sensing, interconnect, satellite, and semiconductor technology [5] - IonQ has a strong financial position with a significant cash reserve to fund research and development, and its revenue grew over 200% in Q3, reaching nearly $40 million [6] Company Analysis: Rigetti Computing - Rigetti's technology is noted for being faster than IonQ's but is also more error-prone, indicating a trade-off between speed and reliability in their quantum computing solutions [7]