Cognex Corporation (CGNX)vsMKS Instruments Inc (MKSI)
CGNX
Cognex Corporation
$51.61
+1.18%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $8.52B
MKSI
MKS Instruments Inc
$243.68
+0.05%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $16.38B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
MKS Instruments Inc generates 295% more annual revenue ($3.93B vs $994.36M). CGNX leads profitability with a 11.5% profit margin vs 7.5%. MKSI appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.32. MKSI earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 55/100 (C-).
CGNX
Hold45
out of 100
Grade: D
MKSI
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-77.7%
Fair Value
$24.21
Current Price
$51.61
$27.40 premium
Margin of Safety
-64.0%
Fair Value
$158.01
Current Price
$243.68
$85.67 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
No standout strengths identified
Areas to Watch
ROE of 7.6% — below average capital efficiency
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
7.5% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CGNX
The strongest argument for CGNX centers on Debt/Equity, Altman Z-Score.
Bull Case : MKSI
Revenue growth of 10.6% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.32 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CGNX
The primary concerns for CGNX are Return on Equity, PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 75.0x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : MKSI
The primary concerns for MKSI are Profit Margin, Debt/Equity, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 55.9x leaves little room for execution misses. Debt-to-equity of 1.76 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
MKSI carries more volatility with a beta of 1.92 — expect wider price swings.
MKSI is growing revenue faster at 10.6% — sustainability is the question.
MKSI generates stronger free cash flow (91M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
MKSI scores higher overall (55/100 vs 45/100) and 10.6% revenue growth. Both earn "Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Cognex Corporation
TECHNOLOGY · SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTS · USA
Cognex Corporation offers machine vision products that capture and analyze visual information to automate manufacturing and distribution tasks globally. The company is headquartered in Natick, Massachusetts.
Visit Website →MKS Instruments Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTS · USA
MKS Instruments, Inc. provides instruments, systems, subsystems, and process control solutions that measure, monitor, deliver, analyze, power, and control critical parameters of manufacturing processes globally. The company is headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts.
Visit Website →Compare with Other SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTS Stocks
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