QUBT vs. RGTI: Which Quantum Stock Is the Better Pick Now?

Quantum Computing QUBT or QCi and Rigetti RGTI are widely followed pure-play quantum computing companies focused on developing quantum hardware and driving commercial adoption. QCi is focused on integrated photonics, quantum optics and advanced semiconductor manufacturing. Its products are designed to operate at room temperature with relatively low power requirements, targeting applications in optimization, AI, sensing, imaging and cybersecurity. Key offerings include the Dirac Entropy Quantum Computer, NeuraWave photonic reservoir computing platform, photonic sensing systems and quantum-secured communication solutions, alongside photonic-chip foundry and advanced packaging services.

Rigetti develops and operates superconducting quantum computers, using a vertically integrated approach that spans chip design, fabrication, systems and cloud delivery. Its products include the Novera QPU, the 84-qubit Ankaa-3 system and the newer 36-qubit Cepheus-1-36Q, which uses its proprietary multi-chip architecture. The company also provides cloud access through Rigetti Quantum Cloud Services (“QCS”) and offers foundry and professional services.

Per a Fortune Business Insights report, the global quantum computing market size was valued at $1.39 billion in 2025. The market is projected to grow from $1.82 billion in 2026 to $17.89 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 33.0% during the period. 

Over the past month, shares of QUBT and RGTI have gained 8.1% and 9.7%, respectively. 

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Recent Developments Supporting QCi’s Growth

QCi expanded customer traction across its quantum optimization and photonic computing platforms, including the sale and installation of a Dirac-3 system for enterprise applications, such as portfolio optimization. 

NeuraWave reached deployment readiness, supported by a framework agreement with Planck Dynamics representing more than $10 million in potential value. The company also acquired NHanced Semiconductors to accelerate Fab 2 and expand advanced packaging and photonic integration capabilities.

QUBT Stock’s Drawbacks 

In the second quarter, operating expenses totaled $21.8 million, more than 3.5X revenues. Operating expenses also increased 114% year over year. This large gap between revenues and spending is the fundamental reason behind the company remaining unprofitable. QUBT attributed the increase in operating expenses partly to higher personnel/payroll costs associated with R&D.

Estimates: QUBT vs. RGTI

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for QUBT’s 2026 bottom line is pegged at a loss of 18 cents per share, implying a 63.6% decline from the prior-year reported loss.

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For the full year, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for RGTI’s bottom line is pegged at a loss of 19 cents per share, implying a 70.3% improvement from the 2025 reported figure.

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Rigetti’s Technology Roadmap Supports Growth

Rigetti signed a letter of intent with the U.S. Department of Commerce for up to $100 million in funding to accelerate superconducting quantum R&D. The company is also fulfilling on-premises system orders, including Novera-based systems and a 108-qubit system for C-DAC in India, while advancing a planned investment of up to $100 million in the U.K. Rigetti continues to target systems with roughly 1,000 qubits, 99.9% two-qubit gate fidelity and sub-50-nanosecond gate speeds over the next three years.

Headwinds Facing RGTI 

Rigetti continues to face technical, financial and commercialization headwinds. Cepheus-1-108Q operated at approximately 99.1% median two-qubit gate fidelity, while its 25-30 microsecond coherence times highlight the need for further improvement. 

Second-quarter operating expenses amounted to $30.3 million, up 48.5% year over year, widening the operating loss to $28.1 million from $19.9 million. Revenues remain lumpy, as the timing of system deliveries and government-funded projects affects quarterly performance, while commercial adoption remains largely focused on research applications.

Bullish Price Target for QUBT Over RGTI

Based on short-term price targets, the average price target for QCi is $18.33. The average price target represents an increase of 116.67% from the last closing price. 

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Based on short-term price targets, the average price target for Rigetti is $29.55. The average price target represents an increase of 74.44% from the last closing price.

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Final Take: QUBT or RGTI?

Both QCi and Rigetti benefit from the exposure to the rapidly expanding quantum computing market, but their investment cases differ. QCi offers commercialization potential through its photonic technology, customer traction and foundry expansion, but high spending and losses remain concerns. Rigetti’s hardware roadmap and government support are encouraging, though technical hurdles, rising costs and uneven revenues pose risks.

QUBT carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), while RGTI has a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). Given the stronger Zacks Rank and a more favorable price target, investors may prefer QUBT over RGTI despite both stocks posting similar recent gains. Despite RGTI’s improving loss estimate, its weaker rank signals greater near-term risk. Therefore, investors may consider retaining QUBT while exiting RGTI.

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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

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