Why IonQ Could Be Among the Best Stocks to Buy for Quantum Computing Believers

If you’re considering a $1,000 speculative investment that you’re willing to hold for years, quantum computing represents one of the most compelling sectors to explore. While the industry remains decades away from mainstream commercialization—and winners are far from decided—one company has emerged with a clear technological edge worth watching: IonQ (NYSE: IONQ).

The quantum computing space isn’t for risk-averse investors. The underlying technology is still proving itself, and significant hurdles remain before real-world applications generate meaningful revenue. That said, if you’re hunting for best stocks to buy with genuine game-changing potential, understanding IonQ’s competitive positioning offers valuable insight into how quantum players are differentiating themselves.

The Accuracy Advantage: Why IonQ’s Technology Stands Out

The biggest challenge holding back quantum computing today is error rates. Unlike traditional computing bits—which exist as either 0 or 1—quantum systems use qubits that exist in superposition, meaning they can be simultaneously 0 and 1 until measured. This superposition is exactly what gives quantum computers their exponential speed advantage for certain calculations, but it also makes them fragile. Environmental interference like vibrations, temperature fluctuations, or electromagnetic noise can easily corrupt quantum states.

Here’s where IonQ separates itself from most competitors: rather than relying on artificial qubits, the company uses a trapped-ion approach built on actual atoms. Because atoms are naturally identical, they’re inherently more stable. This technical choice has delivered measurable results—IonQ has achieved a 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity rate, among the highest in the industry. While true fault tolerance still lies ahead, IonQ sits ahead of most rivals in that race and can now focus on software optimization to push error rates even lower.

Building a Quantum Empire: Strategic Acquisitions That Matter

Beyond raw accuracy metrics, IonQ’s M&A strategy reveals aggressive thinking about its competitive position. The company’s path to that 99.99% fidelity breakthrough included acquiring Oxford Ionics, which enabled a crucial technical shift: replacing bulky laser systems with integrated microwave electronics for chip stabilization. This innovation will also enable IonQ to shrink its machines—a critical step toward practical deployment.

Most recently, IonQ announced its acquisition of SkyWater Technology, a semiconductor foundry specializing in quantum chip manufacturing. This deal provides IonQ with priority access to cutting-edge fabrication processes and—critically—complete control over its supply chain. The strategic implication is striking: imagine if Nvidia owned Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. That level of vertical integration could fundamentally change the competitive landscape by eliminating supply chain bottlenecks and ensuring technology security.

Through these acquisitions, IonQ isn’t just improving its own chips—it’s attempting to dominate the entire quantum ecosystem, from hardware to manufacturing. That’s the kind of ambition you typically see in companies that could become market leaders.

Is IonQ Worth Your Investment Dollars?

Here’s the reality check: IonQ is fundamentally a bet on quantum computing’s eventual commercial success. If the technology fails to deliver practical applications within the next decade or two, the investment becomes essentially worthless. The risk is real and substantial.

However, for investors seeking best stocks to buy that could reward patient believers in quantum technology, IonQ presents a legitimate case. The company combines genuine technological leadership (99.99% accuracy), forward-thinking strategy (vertical integration through acquisition), and clear positioning as the accuracy leader in a field where precision is paramount.

To frame the stakes: history shows that riding the right emerging technology early can deliver remarkable returns. Consider that a $1,000 investment in Netflix when it was listed among analyst recommendations in December 2004 would have grown to $431,111 by early 2026. Similarly, $1,000 invested in Nvidia in April 2005 would have reached $1,105,521 over the same timeframe.

The quantum computing sector offers that type of long-term potential, though naturally with higher risk. Whether IonQ specifically becomes the Netflix or Nvidia of quantum computing—or whether another player emerges victorious—remains uncertain. What’s clear is that IonQ has positioned itself as one of the strongest contenders to watch.