Apple vs Microsoft
Apple (AAPL) and Microsoft (MSFT) are among the largest tech stocks and are often compared by investors. This page compares historical performance using normalized returns (100 at start), total return, and CAGR. Data updates daily.
Compare Apple, Microsoft: normalized performance (100 at start), total return and CAGR. Same data as our investment calculators.
About Apple vs Microsoft
Apple (AAPL) and Microsoft (MSFT) are two of the world's largest technology companies, often compared by investors for growth, dividends, and valuation. Both have broad product and service portfolios with different strengths.
This page compares historical performance using normalized returns (100 at start), total return, and CAGR based on daily closing prices. Use the time-range buttons (1M, 3M, 6M, 1Y, 5Y, All) to explore different horizons.
What to look for
- Long-term trend vs volatility — Steeper lines mean higher growth; wider swings mean more volatility.
- Drawdowns and risk — Periods where a line dips show drawdowns; compare how far each stock fell in stress periods.
- Relative strength — The chart shows how the two stocks have performed relative to each other over time.
Historical Performance
The chart above uses normalized performance: each stock starts at 100 on the first common date. You can switch time ranges (1M, 3M, 6M, 1Y, 5Y, or All) to see how performance varied. The table shows total return and CAGR for the selected range.
Comparison at a glance
| Metric | Apple | Microsoft |
|---|---|---|
| Asset Type | Stock | Stock |
| Sector | Technology | Technology |
| Volatility | Medium | Medium |
| Typical Use | Growth / Income | Growth / Income |
| Liquidity | High | High |
Key takeaways
- Use the table above to see which stock had the higher total return and CAGR for your selected period (change the period with 1M, 3M, 1Y, 5Y, or All).
- Higher CAGR over a period means that stock grew faster annually; compare the CAGR column in the performance table.
- Past performance does not guarantee future results; use the chart and table for research only.
Example Investment
If $1,000 had been invested in Apple and Microsoft at the start of the period, this tool shows how their value would have changed over time. Use the chart and period buttons to explore different horizons.
FAQ
What does "normalized to 100" mean?
Each stock's performance is rescaled so that it starts at 100 on the first common date. That way you can compare percentage growth on a level playing field.
Is Apple better than Microsoft as an investment?
Performance depends on the time period and your goals. The chart above lets you compare Apple and Microsoft over different horizons. Use the period buttons and table to see what has held over 1 year, 5 years, or the full history.
Why do investors compare Apple and Microsoft?
Investors compare these tech giants to understand relative performance and valuation. The normalized chart and total return/CAGR table make it easy to see which has delivered better returns over different periods.
Which stock has historically performed better?
Historical results vary by period. Use the interactive chart and time-range buttons (1M, 3M, 6M, 1Y, 5Y, All) on this page to compare total return and CAGR.
Is it possible to hold both stocks?
Yes. Holding both can provide exposure to large-cap tech with diversification between two industry leaders. Use the chart to assess relative strength and correlation over time.
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