Quick verdict: FTV vs IONQ in 2026

In this ftv vs ionq stock comparison 2026, IonQ (IONQ) holds an overall edge, winning 6 out of 11 comparable metrics in our scorecard. IONQ emerges as the clear growth leader with its triple-digit revenue expansion and impressive analyst upside, while FTV (Fortive Corporation) showcases superior profitability and a positive free cash flow yield. IONQ is considered the value leader based on P/B ratio and its technically lower (negative) P/E, and is also the analyst favourite with significantly higher consensus target upside. Not investment advice.

FTV vs IONQ: key metrics side by side

Full side-by-side comparison of FTV and IONQ across valuation, profitability, growth and analyst sentiment. Data updated 2026-04-09.

FTV vs IONQ valuation comparison

When considering the ftv vs ionq valuation, we observe distinct profiles. Fortive (FTV) trades at a P/E ratio of 32.44x, which suggests a premium for its established profitability and market position. Its P/B ratio stands at 2.91x, indicating that investors are paying nearly three times the company’s book value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis for FTV points to a positive upside of +8.4%, suggesting that the stock might be slightly undervalued or fairly priced based on its future cash flow projections. This indicates a relatively stable and mature valuation.

In contrast, IonQ (IONQ) presents a more speculative valuation picture. Its P/E ratio is -17.88x, a negative value reflecting its current unprofitability as it invests heavily in future growth within the quantum computing sector. While a negative P/E doesn’t offer a traditional comparative metric for value, its P/B ratio of 2.64x is slightly lower than FTV’s, indicating a marginally “cheaper” valuation on a book value basis. However, the DCF analysis for IONQ projects a significant downside of -341.9%, implying that based on current estimates of future cash flows, the stock is considerably overvalued. Therefore, while IONQ appears cheaper on P/B, its deep unprofitability and negative DCF make FTV appear fundamentally more sound from a conventional valuation perspective, even with a higher P/E.

FTV vs IONQ growth comparison

In terms of growth, IonQ (IONQ) clearly demonstrates stronger momentum. The company reported a remarkable year-over-year revenue growth of 201.9%, signaling robust expansion as it continues to capitalize on the nascent but rapidly evolving quantum computing market. This explosive growth profile, while typical for an early-stage technology company, is paired with significantly negative net and EBITDA margins (-431.12% and -365.1% respectively), indicating that current efforts are focused on market penetration and scaling rather than immediate profitability. This aggressive investment suggests strong expectations for future revenue streams and market leadership.

Fortive (FTV), a more established industrial technology company, shows a different growth trajectory. Its revenue declined by -17.5% year-over-year. While this negative growth figure for the trailing twelve months indicates challenges or strategic shifts, FTV maintains strong positive net and EBITDA margins (11.26% and 22.73%, respectively). This suggests that despite a recent dip in top-line growth, FTV operates with significant efficiency and profitability from its existing business segments. When evaluating ftv vs ionq earnings growth comparison and overall momentum, IONQ’s triple-digit revenue expansion positions it as the high-growth contender, whereas FTV prioritizes stability and cash generation.

FTV vs IONQ profitability

When comparing the ftv vs ionq profitability, Fortive (FTV) stands out as a highly profitable enterprise. The company boasts a healthy net margin of 11.26% and a robust EBITDA margin of 22.73%. These figures underscore FTV’s ability to convert revenue into significant earnings and operational cash flow, reflecting efficient cost management and a strong market position within its diversified industrial technology segments. Furthermore, FTV generates substantial free cash flow, evidenced by its FCF yield of 5.19%, indicating a strong capacity to fund operations, pay down debt, and potentially return capital to shareholders. Its ROE is N/A%, limiting direct comparison on this specific metric.

IonQ (IONQ), on the other hand, is currently deeply unprofitable, as is typical for many high-growth, early-stage technology companies. Its net margin stands at an alarming -431.12%, and its EBITDA margin is -365.1%. These figures highlight significant operating losses as IONQ invests heavily in research and development, infrastructure, and market expansion to establish itself in the quantum computing industry. The company also exhibits a negative free cash flow yield of -2.84%, meaning it consumes cash rather than generates it. Therefore, regarding which company generates more cash and is fundamentally profitable, FTV is the clear leader, while IONQ is in a heavy investment phase. Both companies have an ROE of N/A%, so this metric cannot be used for comparison.

Analyst ratings: FTV vs IONQ

Turning to analyst sentiment, there’s a notable difference in how market professionals view these two companies in an ftv vs ionq analyst ratings and recommendations assessment. Fortive (FTV) currently garners a “Hold” consensus rating from 30 analysts, with 33.3% recommending a “Buy.” The average analyst target price for FTV is $61, representing a modest upside of +2.7% from its current price of $59.38. This indicates that while analysts see some potential, they largely consider FTV to be fairly valued at its current levels, reflecting its mature business model and more predictable performance.

IonQ (IONQ) enjoys a stronger “Buy” consensus rating from a smaller group of 6 analysts, with an impressive 50.0% recommending a “Buy.” The analyst community projects a significantly higher upside for IONQ, with a consensus target price of $68.14, implying a substantial +135.0% increase from its current price of $28.99. This overwhelming optimism for IONQ suggests that analysts are betting on the company’s long-term potential in quantum computing, despite its current unprofitability. Therefore, in terms of which do analysts prefer and see greater future appreciation, IonQ clearly stands out.

Should I buy FTV or IONQ stock in 2026?

Deciding whether should I buy ftv or ionq stock in 2026 depends heavily on an investor’s risk tolerance and investment objectives. For growth-oriented investors with a high tolerance for risk, IonQ (IONQ) presents a compelling, albeit speculative, opportunity. Its exceptional year-over-year revenue growth of 201.9% and the substantial analyst target upside of +135.0% signal strong potential in the nascent quantum computing sector. However, this growth comes with significant unprofitability (net margin of -431.12%) and a negative DCF upside, indicating a long path to profitability and high valuation risk.

For value-conscious investors or those prioritizing stability and established profitability, Fortive (FTV) appears to be a more suitable choice. While its revenue growth has been negative at -17.5% for the TTM, it operates with healthy net margins of 11.26% and generates positive free cash flow, reflected in its 5.19% FCF yield. The FTV vs IONQ fundamentals and valuation comparison highlights FTV’s positive DCF upside of +8.4% and a more conventional P/E ratio of 32.44x, appealing to those seeking predictable earnings and a proven business model, even if its immediate upside is limited according to current analyst targets.

Neither FTV nor IONQ are suitable for income investors, as both companies currently have a 0.0% dividend yield. Your choice between FTV and IONQ boils down to a classic growth versus value and risk versus reward proposition. IONQ offers explosive growth potential but substantial risk due to unprofitability and high cash burn, while FTV provides stability, strong profitability, and positive cash flow but with limited growth prospects. This is not investment advice; always conduct your own thorough due diligence.

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FAQ: FTV vs IONQ