Applied Materials vs. Broadcom: Which Tech Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

The article compares two AI infrastructure leaders: Applied Materials, which manufactures semiconductor equipment with steady 4.4% revenue growth and a 24.7% net margin, and Broadcom, which designs specialized chips and software with impressive 23.9% revenue growth and 36.2% net margin. While Broadcom has outperformed significantly over the past decade, the author favors Applied Materials for 2026, citing its more reasonable valuation and greater growth potential given Broadcom's larger market cap and proximity to a growth ceiling.