Quick verdict: ADSK vs MSI in 2026

Autodesk (ADSK) holds an overall edge based on the number of winning metrics in our direct comparison, particularly driven by its superior revenue growth and higher analyst target upside. Motorola Solutions (MSI) stands out as the value leader, with a more attractive P/E ratio and positive DCF upside, while also demonstrating stronger profitability margins. ADSK is the clear growth leader with analysts favoring its future potential, whereas MSI currently boasts better margin performance. Not investment advice.

ADSK vs MSI: key metrics side by side

Full side-by-side comparison of ADSK and MSI across valuation, profitability, growth and analyst sentiment. Data updated 2026-05-07.

ADSK vs MSI valuation comparison

When considering ADSK vs MSI valuation metrics, Motorola Solutions (MSI) appears to offer a more attractive entry point based on several key indicators. MSI trades at a P/E ratio of 33.46x, which is significantly lower than Autodesk’s (ADSK) P/E of 45.85x. This suggests that investors are paying less for each dollar of MSI’s earnings compared to ADSK. Furthermore, a discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis indicates a positive upside of +6.2% for MSI, implying it might be slightly undervalued relative to its intrinsic value.

In contrast, ADSK’s DCF analysis points to a substantial downside of -46.7%, suggesting it could be considerably overvalued at its current price of $243.08. While ADSK’s P/B ratio of 16.92x is lower than MSI’s 29.91x, for technology companies, earnings and cash flow multiples like P/E and DCF often provide a more holistic view of valuation. Therefore, for investors prioritizing valuation, MSI presents a more compelling case in the ADSK vs MSI valuation comparison in 2026.

ADSK vs MSI growth comparison

Autodesk (ADSK) demonstrates notably stronger top-line momentum when evaluating the ADSK vs MSI growth comparison. ADSK posted an impressive year-over-year revenue growth of +17.5%, significantly outpacing Motorola Solutions (MSI), which reported revenue growth of +8.0%. This substantial difference highlights ADSK’s capacity for expanding its market share and driving higher sales from its software solutions for architecture, engineering, and entertainment industries.

Despite MSI’s larger revenue base of $11.68B compared to ADSK’s $7.21B, Autodesk’s higher growth rate suggests stronger forward momentum and potential for accelerated expansion in the near term. This robust growth is a critical factor for investors focused on high-growth technology companies seeking significant capital appreciation. While both companies operate within the broader technology sector, ADSK’s double-digit revenue increase positions it as the growth leader between the two.

ADSK vs MSI profitability

In terms of pure profitability margins, Motorola Solutions (MSI) edges out Autodesk (ADSK). MSI recorded a net margin of 18.44% and an EBITDA margin of 30.17%, indicating efficient operations and strong earnings power from its public safety and enterprise security solutions. ADSK, while highly profitable, posted a net margin of 15.6% and an EBITDA margin of 24.23%. These figures highlight MSI’s ability to convert a higher percentage of its revenue into profit before and after taxes.

However, when it comes to generating free cash flow, ADSK takes the lead. Autodesk boasts a Free Cash Flow (FCF) yield of 4.68%, which is superior to MSI’s FCF yield of 3.57%. This higher FCF yield suggests that ADSK generates more cash flow relative to its market capitalization, which can be crucial for reinvestment, debt reduction, or potential shareholder returns in the future. Both companies currently report N/A% for Return on Equity (ROE). Therefore, while MSI demonstrates better raw profit margins, ADSK generates more cash relative to its value.

Analyst ratings: ADSK vs MSI

Analyst sentiment clearly leans towards Autodesk (ADSK) when comparing the two companies. Out of 51 analysts covering ADSK, a substantial 74.5% have issued a “Buy” rating. The consensus price target for ADSK is an optimistic $338, representing a significant potential upside of +39.0% from its current price of $243.08. This strong endorsement from the analyst community suggests high confidence in ADSK’s future performance and growth trajectory.

Motorola Solutions (MSI) also receives favorable ratings, but to a lesser extent. Of the 33 analysts tracking MSI, 69.7% recommend it as a “Buy.” The consensus price target for MSI stands at $481.25, indicating an expected upside of +11.0% from its current price of $433.66. While still positive, the projected upside for MSI is considerably lower than that for ADSK. Therefore, based on both the percentage of “Buy” ratings and the magnitude of the target price upside, analysts express a stronger preference for ADSK as of 2026-05-07.

Should I buy ADSK or MSI stock in 2026?

For growth-oriented investors asking “should I buy ADSK or MSI stock in 2026?”, Autodesk (ADSK) presents a compelling argument. Its robust revenue growth of 17.5% year-over-year significantly outpaces MSI’s 8.0%. Furthermore, ADSK enjoys a higher analyst buy rating percentage (74.5% vs 69.7%) and a substantially larger projected price target upside of +39.0% compared to MSI’s +11.0%. This suggests that analysts anticipate stronger future appreciation for ADSK, making it potentially more suitable for investors prioritizing capital growth.

Conversely, value investors weighing the ADSK vs MSI fundamentals and valuation might find Motorola Solutions (MSI) more appealing. MSI trades at a more modest P/E ratio of 33.46x versus ADSK’s 45.85x, indicating a more attractive valuation relative to its earnings. Moreover, MSI’s discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis suggests a positive upside of +6.2%, while ADSK shows a negative DCF upside of -46.7%, signaling potential overvaluation. For those seeking a stock with a more conservative valuation and strong current profitability margins, MSI could be the preferred choice.

Regarding income, neither ADSK nor MSI are significant dividend payers, but MSI does offer a token yield. ADSK has a 0% dividend yield, meaning it currently pays no dividends to shareholders. MSI, on the other hand, provides a minimal dividend yield of 0.01%, offering a slight edge for investors seeking any form of income, however small. Therefore, for investors primarily focused on dividends, MSI offers a negligible advantage over ADSK. This is not investment advice; always conduct your own thorough research.

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FAQ: ADSK vs MSI