The Motley Fool·2026-01-18 15:30Core Insights - Quantum computing stocks have significantly outperformed the market in 2025, with IonQ and Rigetti Computing being notable leaders in the industry [1] - IonQ has seen an 83% increase in stock value, while Rigetti has experienced a remarkable 325% growth over the past year [1] Company Approaches - IonQ and Rigetti employ different technologies for quantum computing; Rigetti uses superconducting techniques, while IonQ utilizes trapped-ion technology [2] - Rigetti's systems achieve gate speeds that are 10,000 times faster than IonQ's trapped-ion systems, but IonQ has superior accuracy with a fidelity of 99.99% compared to Rigetti's 99.5% [3] Industry Viability - In quantum computing, achieving near 100% fidelity is crucial for commercial viability, as even a 0.49% difference can lead to incorrect calculations [4] Financial Performance - IonQ has reported $80 million in revenue over the trailing 12 months, reflecting a 493% growth over the last three years, while Rigetti's revenue has declined by 43%, totaling $7 million [5] - IonQ's higher fidelity contributes to its significantly better earnings compared to Rigetti [5] Investment Outlook - For investors optimistic about quantum computing, acquiring shares in both companies is suggested, but IonQ is favored due to its greater accuracy and revenue growth [6]