Vanguard’s VGT or BlackRock’s ARTY: Which Tech ETF is the Smarter AI Play in 2026?

Investors looking for growth often turn to technology ETFs. But with so many choices, picking the right one can make a big difference in your returns. Today, using the TipRanks’ ETF Comparison Tool, we compare the Vanguard Information Technology ETF VGT -0.86% ▼ and BlackRock’s BLK +0.13% ▲ iShares Future AI & Tech ETF ARTY +0.27% ▲ to see which is the better fit for your portfolio in 2026.

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While both funds focus on tech, they follow different paths. Vanguard’s VGT tracks a broad index of large U.S. technology companies and is popular with investors who want exposure to industry leaders at a low cost. In contrast, BlackRock’s ARTY takes a more AI-focused approach. The newer active fund invests across the AI value chain, including chipmakers and global tech firms that VGT often does not include.

**Vanguard Information Technology ETF VGT -0.86% ▼ **

The Vanguard Information Technology ETF (VGT) remains a go-to for tech investors because of its massive size and low costs. Its largest holdings include major companies such as Nvidia NVDA -1.58% ▼ , Apple AAPL -2.21% ▼ , and Microsoft MSFT -1.57% ▼ . Because the fund is heavily concentrated in technology, it can deliver strong growth when the sector performs well.

In total, VGT owns 323 stocks with assets worth $108.40 billion. Meanwhile, the fund charges an expense ratio of 0.09%. It is best suited for investors who want a core tech holding that is low-cost and focused on the biggest, most stable industry leaders.

According to TipRanks’ unique ETF analyst consensus, determined based on a weighted average of analyst ratings on its holdings, VGT is a Strong Buy. The Street’s average price target of $972.56 implies an upside of 36%.

**iShares Future AI & Tech ETF ARTY +0.27% ▲ **

The iShares Future AI & Tech ETF ARTY +0.27% ▲ is built for investors who want to hunt for the next wave of AI growth, not just hold the current winners. It invests in a wider range of players, including semiconductor companies like Micron MU +5.13% ▲ and global innovators like TSMC TSM +0.48% ▲ .

In total, ARTY owns 52 stocks with assets worth $2.20 billion. Meanwhile, the fund charges an expense ratio of 0.47%. It is best suited for investors who are comfortable with higher fees in exchange for a pure play on AI hardware, data centers, and global tech innovation.

According to TipRanks’ unique ETF analyst consensus, determined based on a weighted average of analyst ratings on its holdings, ARTY is a Hold. The Street’s average price target of $60.66 implies an upside of 25%.

Conclusion

VGT is the stronger choice for investors who want broad exposure to large tech leaders. Analysts see about 36% upside for the fund. On the other hand, ARTY may appeal to those looking for more direct exposure to the AI theme. Analysts expect about 25% upside from this fund.

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