1 Quantum Computing Stock to Buy Hand Over Fist in February
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By Keithen Drury – Feb 16, 2026 at 4:15PM ESTKey PointsIn the realm of quantum computing, IonQ stands as the leader in accuracy.The quantum computing market could become huge over the next decade. We’re bullish on these 10 stocks ›NYSE: IONQIonQMarket Cap$12BToday's Changeangle-down(8.98%) $2.81Current Price$34.11Price as of February 13, 2026 at 4:00 PM ETIonQ is my top quantum computing pick.Quantum computing is the next big thing in the tech realm. While artificial intelligence (AI) investing is undoubtedly the king, quantum computing appears to be the next technology in line, barring another technology emerging that is unknown to most. By getting into the best quantum computing stocks before this tech becomes mainstream, you can maximize your returns, but the key is buying the right one. My top quantum computing stock to buy in February is IonQ (IONQ +8.98%), although it's far from a surefire bet to work out. Image source: Getty Images. Quantum computing still needs to prove its relevance IonQ and its peers are still working on proving quantum computing's viability in the commercial sector. If quantum computing had already been proven out, it would have been implemented in areas like AI a long time ago. However, everyone involved in the space is still chasing one key metric: accuracy. Right now, quantum computers aren't nearly as accurate as their traditional computing counterparts. The reason I'm recommending IonQ over everyone else is that it's the global leader in quantum computing accuracy. Back in October, IonQ achieved 99.99% 2-qubit gate fidelity -- an accuracy measure that has become the standard-bearer for the industry. A 99.99% score indicates IonQ's platform makes 1 error out of every 10,000 tries, which is great, but it's a long way away from where it needs to be. Most other competitors haven't even achieved 99.9% accuracy. While that's only a 0.09% improvement, that jump indicates going from 1 error in every 1,000 to 1 in every 10,000. IonQ's lead over the competition is massive and cannot be understated. ExpandNYSE: IONQIonQToday's Change(8.98%) $2.81Current Price$34.11Key Data PointsMarket Cap$12BDay's Range$30.85 - $34.6552wk Range$17.88 - $84.64Volume22MAvg Vol20MGross Margin-747.41% The key for IonQ over the next few years is to maintain that lead and improve its technology to the point where it's far more accurate than anyone else's product. If it can do that, then it will become a winner in a space that is projected to have a huge market opportunity. McKinsey & Company projects that the quantum computing market could be worth $28 billion to $72 billion by 2035. If IonQ can capture a large chunk of this market due to its technology being far more accurate, it could be a huge winner. That's why IonQ is my top quantum computing stock pick in February, but it's far from a surefire bet. Any one of the numerous competitors could slowly improve and surpass IonQ, but there's no guarantee of that either. Investing in quantum computing is similar to investing in an early-stage biotech company. Many will fail, but the few that work out will make investors a lot of money. I believe IonQ will work out, but I have no assurance it will.Read NextFeb 16, 2026 •By Sean WilliamsAmazon Now Owns Shares of Wall Street's Hottest Quantum Computing StockFeb 13, 2026 •By Jon QuastWant to Invest in Quantum Computing? 3 Stocks That Are Great Buys Right Now.Feb 13, 2026 •By Harsh Chauhan2 Tech Stocks That Could Go ParabolicFeb 13, 2026 •By Sean WilliamsThe Quantum Computing Stock Risk Everyone (Even Wall Street Analysts) Is MissingFeb 12, 2026 •By Geoffrey SeilerCould Buying IonQ Today Set You Up for Life?Feb 12, 2026 •By Leo Sun2 Reasons IonQ Is the Top Quantum Computing Stock to Buy Right NowAbout the AuthorKeithen Drury is a contributing Motley Fool technology analyst covering AI, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and SaaS stocks. In addition to The Motley Fool, Keithen is a mechanical engineer and has held roles at Honeywell and smaller industrial companies like Brand Hydraulics and Lincoln Industries. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Dordt University.TMFTripleOptionStocks MentionedIonQNYSE: IONQ$34.11 (+8.98%) $+2.81*Average returns of all recommendations since inception. Cost basis and return based on previous market day close.