Quantum computing sounds like something straight out of a sci-fi or marvel movie. It’s an advanced technology continuously developing at a rapid pace with the potential power to revolutionise industries.
The power of this emerging technology has the investment world buzzing, with everyone looking for the best quantum computing stocks and the next big breakthrough tech stock.
No one can say with certainty what are the best quantum computing stocks to buy, so to compile this quantum computing stock list, we’ve used the largest holdings from some of the most popular quantum stock exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
| stock | Icon | 1-year performance (to Jan. '26) | 5-year performance (to Jan. '26) | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IONQ (IONQ) |  |
82.88% | 354.91% | Invest Capital at risk |
| D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) |  |
651.96% | 169.16% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Rigetti Computing (RGTI) |  |
321.98% | 2,675.00% (3 years – 2021 IPO) | Invest Capital at risk |
| Quantum Computing Inc (QUBT) |  |
85.74% | 14.25% | Invest Capital at risk |
| NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) |  |
38.81% | 250.26% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Infineon Technologies AG ADR (IFNNY) |  |
46.28% | 16.85% | Invest Capital at risk |
| International Business Machines (IBM) |  |
43.60% | 142.06% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Arqit Quantum (ARQQ) |  |
58.62% | -61.45% (3 years – 2021 IPO) | Invest Capital at risk |
| Alphabet Class A (GOOGL) |  |
73.74% | 283.45% | Invest Capital at risk |
Quantum computing is a new type of computing that uses the principles of quantum physics to solve problems far faster than today’s classical computers.
Essentially, instead of using bits (ones and zeroes), quantum computers use “qubits”, which can process multiple possibilities at once. It’s the next step in digital computers.
Sounds confusing, we know, but we did warn you this was high-tech stuff.
For investors, the key point is this: quantum computing isn’t about faster laptops for browsing Reddit or buying clothes online, it’s about unlocking breakthroughs in areas like drug discovery, financial modelling, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI).
Quantum computing is still an emerging and developing technology, and its potential is why many investors are paying attention. Much like AI, the technology could transform entire industries, and companies that succeed could be the major tech stocks of tomorrow.
For UK investors, quantum stocks offer exposure to cutting-edge innovation that goes beyond traditional tech, providing long-term growth potential rather than the income or steady growth you may get from more established companies.
Quantum computing stocks fall into the classic high-risk, high-reward bracket. Many companies are not yet profitable and rely heavily on research funding. Timelines are uncertain, competition is intense, and not all players will survive.
Share prices of quantum computing stocks can also be volatile, reacting strongly to news, hype or setbacks. Beginner investors should see quantum stocks as speculative investments rather than core portfolio holdings (and arguably avoid them).
"Most experts agree quantum computing is not a question of if, but when, which is partly why there’s such a buzz around this tech.
While mass adoption could still be years away, progress is accelerating as investment increases. For investors with patience, quantum computing represents a long-term bet on technological evolution rather than quick returns."
Quantum computing stocks offer plenty of growth potential but come with real risks. For UK investors, they work best as a small, speculative part of a diversified portfolio.
If you believe in the future of advanced technology and can tolerate volatility, quantum computing may be worth watching, or slowly building exposure to. However, like in any sector, finding the best quantum computing stocks is always going to be a challenge.
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