KLA vs Lam Research (KLAC vs LRCX)
KLA (KLAC) vs Lam Research (LRCX) in plain English: P/E, growth, margins, debt and dividend side by side, key differences and which fits each investor profile.
KLA (KLAC) and Lam Research (LRCX) compete in semiconductors. Here are KLA and Lam Research side by side with their real figures as of November 4, 2026: what sets them apart, which fits each kind of investor and the most common questions, without telling you whether to buy KLA or Lam Research.
KLA vs Lam Research: the figures
| Figure | KLA | Lam Research |
|---|---|---|
| Share price | $149.79 (November 4, 2026) | $221.43 (November 4, 2026) |
| Market cap | $195.2 billion | $277.1 billion |
| P/E (TTM) | 37.5x | 33.0x |
| Forward P/E | 21.1x | 18.1x |
| Revenue growth (quarter) | +28.9% | +54.4% |
| Net margin (TTM) | 36.3% | 32.3% |
| Net debt / EBITDA | 0.2x | Net cash |
| Dividend yield | 0.59% | 0.57% |
| Beta | 1.50 | 2.01 |
KLA and Lam Research figures from Yahoo Finance, the same source the Fintols analysis uses, retrieved on November 4, 2026; N/A means that KLA or Lam Research figure is not available, and we never estimate it.
3 key differences between KLA and Lam Research
- Growth: Lam Research grew sales +54.4% year on year in its latest quarter, against +28.9% for KLA.
- Volatility: Lam Research stock moves more (beta 2.01) than KLA (beta 1.50); the higher the beta, the more it amplifies market swings.
- Profitability: for every 100 of sales, KLA keeps 36.3 as net profit and Lam Research keeps 32.3.
KLA or Lam Research: which fits your profile
- If you want growth: Lam Research is growing faster today, so it fits better with investors who put business growth first, usually accepting a higher P/E and a bumpier ride.
- If you want income (dividends): KLA pays the higher dividend relative to its price.
- If you prefer caution: Lam Research has less debt relative to its profit, which usually gives more room in a bad year.
- If price is what matters most to you: Lam Research trades on the lower P/E; check first whether that is an opportunity or a sign of a business that grows less.
Neither KLA nor Lam Research wins on everything, and owning both is also an option: spreading money across several companies or an index fund reduces what rides on each one.
How KLA and Lam Research make money
KLA (KLAC)
KLA specializes in inspection and metrology tools that catch defects as chips are being made. Semiconductor Process Control is by far its main segment, alongside Specialty Semiconductor Process and PCB and Component Inspection. It sells to chip fabs worldwide, mostly in Asia, and also earns recurring service revenue on installed tools. Full KLA analysis.
Lam Research (LRCX)
Lam Research sells etch and deposition tools that memory and logic chipmakers use on their production lines. Revenue splits between new systems and its Customer Support Business Group, which earns money from spare parts, upgrades and field service on the installed base. China, Taiwan and South Korea are its biggest regions. Full Lam Research analysis.
Frequently asked questions: KLA vs Lam Research
Is KLA or Lam Research the better stock?
Choosing between KLA and Lam Research depends on what you are looking for. Lam Research is growing faster right now, and Lam Research trades on the lower P/E. Fintols does not tell you whether to buy KLA or Lam Research: it shows you the differences so you can decide.
Which pays a higher dividend, KLA or Lam Research?
As of November 4, 2026, KLA yields 0.59% and Lam Research yields 0.57%. Also check how much of their profit KLA and Lam Research pay out: if it is more than they earn, it cannot last.
Which is more expensive, KLA or Lam Research?
On P/E, KLA (37.5x) is more expensive than Lam Research (33.0x) as of November 4, 2026. A higher P/E can be justified if earnings grow faster, so compare it with each company's growth in the table.
Can I own both KLA and Lam Research?
Yes. Many people spread their money across several companies, such as KLA and Lam Research, or use index funds so they do not depend on just one. If you are starting out, decide how much you want to invest and for how long before buying KLA or Lam Research.
More comparisons with KLA or Lam Research
More companies like KLA and Lam Research: semiconductors stocks. Educational content about KLA and Lam Research, not investment advice.