5 Quantum Stocks Set to Outpace IonQ by 2031

IonQ stands out as the leading quantum computing stock in terms of popularity among investors. However, it may not represent the optimal choice for those looking ahead to 2026 and beyond.

When considering investments in the quantum computing sector, IonQ often emerges as the immediate option for many. This company offers a pure-play opportunity in the field, maintains a public trading status, and enjoys significant market excitement. Moreover, it has achieved approximately $80 million in yearly revenue, positioning it more solidly as an operational business compared to other specialized players in quantum technology.

That said, is IonQ truly the smartest avenue for capitalizing on this revolutionary technology? In my assessment, it falls short. There are five alternative stocks that boast robust quantum computing initiatives, more resilient financial foundations, and broader business portfolios. Should their quantum endeavors fail to evolve into highly profitable ventures, these companies can rely on their established core operations for stability.

To summarize my outlook, I anticipate that each of these five stocks will surpass IonQ in market value within the next five years. For context, IonQ currently holds a market capitalization of $13.7 billion, as recorded on February 2, 2026.

At $144.8 billion, Honeywell transcends its thermostat reputation

Many investors fail to link Honeywell with pioneering quantum research, which is hardly surprising. The firm is primarily recognized for its contributions to aerospace parts and advanced building systems. For instance, a Honeywell thermostat graces many homes, including my own, installed by the builder.

Nevertheless, Honeywell has been methodically establishing a commanding presence in quantum computing via its subsidiary, Quantinuum. Established in 2021, this independent entity arose from the merger of Honeywell’s Quantum Solutions unit and Cambridge Quantum. The latter traces its roots to the prestigious University of Cambridge in the UK, with deep connections to that academic powerhouse. Cambridge Quantum was spearheaded by Ilyas Khan, a seasoned fellow at the university.

Quantinuum integrates Honeywell’s expertise in trapped-ion hardware with Cambridge Quantum’s advanced software capabilities, yielding remarkable achievements. It has secured top-tier results in quantum volume benchmarks and is already securing income from commercial clients. This setup allows Honeywell investors to tap into quantum growth potential without staking everything on its success alone.

The established core operations of Honeywell provide a stable foundation, while Quantinuum introduces high-upside potential. Plans are underway for Quantinuum to launch a public offering in 2026, yet Honeywell retains majority control with a 54% ownership stake, making it the more secure entry point to this quantum frontrunner.

Intel’s $243.6 billion valuation leaves space for a stealth quantum opportunity

Intel does not typically register on investors’ radars as a quantum computing innovator. Discussions around the company more often revolve around its central processing units, challenges in chip fabrication, and overlooked chances in artificial intelligence. Quantum efforts seldom surface in these talks.

In reality, Intel has been diligently advancing quantum hardware development for several years, employing a distinctive strategy that sets it apart from rivals. Rather than pursuing unconventional methods like superconducting circuits or trapped ions, Intel focuses on silicon spin qubits. Its Tunnel Falls processor, unveiled in 2023, incorporates 12 qubits for cryptographic processing on a chip produced using Intel’s familiar manufacturing techniques.

The rationale is straightforward: as quantum systems scale to require millions of qubits, the entity capable of mass-producing them at vast volumes will dominate. Intel’s unparalleled proficiency in semiconductor fabrication positions it to potentially rival industry giant Taiwan Semiconductor in the long term. This manufacturing prowess could prove pivotal over the coming five years.

IBM’s $293.7 billion powerhouse boasts the largest quantum array

IBM is no hidden gem in the quantum computing arena; it ranks among the most prominent contenders. Yet, the market continues to undervalue the extent of its lead.

Since the 2010s, IBM has been constructing quantum computers and presently manages the world’s most extensive publicly accessible collection of such systems. The Condor processor achieved over 1,000 qubits in 2023, complemented by a comprehensive roadmap projecting advancements through 2033.

Beyond hardware, IBM is monetizing quantum technology via the IBM Quantum Network, which grants enterprise users cloud-based access to its machines. Far from a mere experimental endeavor tucked away in a laboratory, this operates as a viable business segment with revenue-generating customers, accessible through cloud services.

While IonQ captures much of the spotlight, IBM possesses the foundational infrastructure.

Amazon’s $2.6 trillion market value encompasses a quantum venture

A surprising fact for many: Amazon maintains a dedicated quantum computing division. This often flies under the radar for investors.

Upon reflection, it aligns perfectly with Amazon’s ecosystem. Integrated into its dominant Amazon Web Services platform, Amazon Braket delivers a cloud service granting access to quantum hardware from multiple vendors, encompassing systems from IonQ and Rigetti Computing.

Additionally, Amazon is developing its proprietary quantum processors at a specialized research facility in California. Lacking fanfare in announcements, this embodies Amazon’s hallmark approach: construct the foundational infrastructure, foster ecosystem growth atop it, and reap ongoing benefits over time.

Should quantum computing achieve widespread adoption, Amazon is poised to serve as the primary infrastructure provider.

$4.5 trillion Nvidia targets a niche yet essential quantum niche

One might question Nvidia’s inclusion in a quantum computing discussion, given that it does not produce quantum hardware itself. This is a valid inquiry.

However, all quantum computers rely on conventional computing elements to operate effectively. Traditional digital processors and co-processors play indispensable roles in areas like system control, error mitigation, simulation, and data post-processing. Nvidia’s CUDA-Q platform is tailored precisely for these needs, and the company has forged collaborations with a wide array of quantum innovators.

Within this domain, Nvidia functions as a quintessential picks-and-shovels provider. It sidesteps the need to wager on specific technologies such as superconducting qubits, trapped ions, or silicon spins. Nvidia thrives regardless of which path prevails, as universal demand exists for the requisite control mechanisms and orchestration software.