MKS Instruments Inc (MKSI)vsMesa Laboratories Inc (MLAB)
MKSI
MKS Instruments Inc
$267.31
+2.09%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $17.95B
MLAB
Mesa Laboratories Inc
$120.87
-0.03%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $719.24M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
MKS Instruments Inc generates 1641% more annual revenue ($4.35B vs $249.72M). MKSI leads profitability with a 10.1% profit margin vs 1.9%. MKSI trades at a lower P/E of 42.3x. MKSI earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 69/100 (B-).
MKSI
Strong Buy69
out of 100
Grade: B-
MLAB
Avoid33
out of 100
Grade: F
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-59.8%
Fair Value
$162.14
Current Price
$267.31
$105.17 premium
Margin of Safety
+62.6%
Fair Value
$244.26
Current Price
$120.87
$123.39 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 162.0% YoY
Strong operational efficiency at 20.6%
Revenue surging 28.3% year-over-year
No standout strengths identified
Areas to Watch
Elevated debt levels
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
1.0% revenue growth
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of 2.5% — below average capital efficiency
1.9% margin — thin
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : MKSI
The strongest argument for MKSI centers on EPS Growth, Operating Margin, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 28.3% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.32 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : MLAB
MLAB has a balanced fundamental profile.
Bear Case : MKSI
The primary concerns for MKSI are Debt/Equity, P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score. A P/E of 42.3x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : MLAB
The primary concerns for MLAB are Revenue Growth, Market Cap, Return on Equity. A P/E of 154.9x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 1.9% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
MKSI profiles as a growth stock while MLAB is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
MKSI carries more volatility with a beta of 1.97 — expect wider price swings.
MKSI is growing revenue faster at 28.3% — sustainability is the question.
MKSI generates stronger free cash flow (189M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MKSI scores higher overall (69/100 vs 33/100) and 28.3% revenue growth. MLAB offers better value entry with a 62.6% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Avoid" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
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 →Mesa Laboratories Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTS · USA
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets quality control instruments and disposable products in the United States, Europe, Asia, North America, and internationally. The company is headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado.
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