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

Applied Materials and Intel represent different plays in semiconductor growth. Applied Materials supplies essential chip manufacturing equipment with strong profitability (24.7% net margin, $5.7B free cash flow) and a modest dividend. Intel is undergoing a capital-intensive transformation into a foundry business, currently unprofitable with negative free cash flow of $4.9B. The article recommends Applied Materials as the safer choice due to its financial stability, consistent profitability over 10 years, and lower business risk compared to Intel's uncertain transition.