Forget IonQ: Alphabet is a Much Better Bet on Quantum Computing.

Artificial intelligence has been a key investing theme in recent years, but this technology isn't the only promising one to grab investors' attention. Another area that also could create explosive growth in the coming years is quantum computing. And companies that have been working in this area -- especially pure players that focus uniquely on this technology -- have seen their shares take off.

IonQ is a great example, as its stock has soared 800% over the past three years. The company uses a trapped-ion computing method that offers advantages such as the ability to function longer than other systems and higher accuracy. IonQ's revenue has soared, as we can see in the 222% gain in the most recent quarter -- but IonQ and other pure play quantum companies aren't yet profitable, and the usefulness of the technology in the real world may take some time.

That's why I say that, for many investors, the best idea may be to forget IonQ and instead bet on Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG) (NASDAQ: GOOGL), a company that could win in the quantum computing race but already is delivering major growth to investors through its core businesses. Let's find out more.

Image source: Getty Images.

Why invest in quantum computing?

First, why is everyone talking about quantum computing? That's because quantum computers, once fully up and running, could offer us the ability to solve problems that are impossible today. The technology relies on the principles of quantum mechanics, with qubits -- instead of the bits we're used to in classical computing systems -- able to store a zero, a one, or a combination of the two. When put together, qubits can massively scale and conquer the toughest of problems.

Quantum computing still faces many challenges as the technology is extremely complex, and that's why full use of these systems isn't something we can count on in the very near future. But when this technology reaches that stage, it could result in explosive gains for companies involved in its development and use.

The advantages of Alphabet

Though IonQ is a promising company, it's also high-risk since it focuses on this space and relies on it for revenue. But Alphabet has an established revenue stream thanks to advertising across its Google platforms and the strengths of its Google Cloud business. These units are delivering growth and billion-dollar revenue -- and the company is highly profitable.

Meanwhile, Alphabet also is working on quantum computing. Late last year, it announced its quantum chip, Willow, and said it reached important milestones in error reduction and speed of computation. The company said Willow chips may be the ones to bring quantum computing to the stage of real-world usefulness.

So, when you invest in Alphabet, you gain the potential to benefit from quantum computing growth and the security of a well-established company. And that means you might want to forget IonQ and instead opt for Alphabet shares.

Adria Cimino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet and IonQ. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.