Zoom vs HP
Video communications platform powering meetings and collaboration tools vs Global PC and printer giant with recurring revenue. Which is the better buy for your portfolio in July 2026? Plain-English answer below.
Zoom Video Communications sells cloud-based video conferencing and collaboration tools to enterprises and individuals after explosive pandemic-era growth gave way to slower expansion in a saturated market, while HP Inc. sells printers, PCs, and related supplies through a global hardware and services business that generates steady free cash flow. Both technology companies face competition from platform giants and must convince customers to pay for solutions that increasingly feel commoditized. The Zoom vs HP comparison breaks down how software subscription economics and hardware refresh cycles drive free cash flow, buyback capacity, and the long-term case for each stock.
Zoom Video Communications sells cloud-based video conferencing and collaboration tools to enterprises and individuals after explosive pandemic-era growth gave way to slower expansion in a saturated ma...
Why It’s Moving
Zoom’s stock case stays intact as analysts back steady upside despite tempered growth expectations
- Analysts remain constructive on Zoom, with recent consensus estimates clustering around the low- to mid-$100s, suggesting investors still see room for the company’s post-pandemic business mix to re-rate as growth stabilizes.
- The bullish case is being driven more by durable cash generation and enterprise software resilience than by top-line acceleration, which keeps the stock supported even as growth expectations stay modest.
- A wide spread between bullish and cautious analyst views points to uncertainty around how quickly Zoom can expand beyond core video communications, but the overall tone remains favorable.
HPQ is edging on cautious optimism as investors wait for proof that its 2026 rebound story can stick.
- Analysts remain divided on HPQ, with most recent commentary leaning neutral to mildly cautious as they weigh a stabilizing PC market against limited room for a big re-rating.
- The stock is being watched for its next earnings report in late August, which could clarify whether demand trends are improving enough to support the 2026 optimism.
- The broader message around HPQ is less about a near-term catalyst and more about expectations that cash flow, efficiency, and a steadier PC cycle could keep the business on firmer footing.
Zoom’s stock case stays intact as analysts back steady upside despite tempered growth expectations
- Analysts remain constructive on Zoom, with recent consensus estimates clustering around the low- to mid-$100s, suggesting investors still see room for the company’s post-pandemic business mix to re-rate as growth stabilizes.
- The bullish case is being driven more by durable cash generation and enterprise software resilience than by top-line acceleration, which keeps the stock supported even as growth expectations stay modest.
- A wide spread between bullish and cautious analyst views points to uncertainty around how quickly Zoom can expand beyond core video communications, but the overall tone remains favorable.
HPQ is edging on cautious optimism as investors wait for proof that its 2026 rebound story can stick.
- Analysts remain divided on HPQ, with most recent commentary leaning neutral to mildly cautious as they weigh a stabilizing PC market against limited room for a big re-rating.
- The stock is being watched for its next earnings report in late August, which could clarify whether demand trends are improving enough to support the 2026 optimism.
- The broader message around HPQ is less about a near-term catalyst and more about expectations that cash flow, efficiency, and a steadier PC cycle could keep the business on firmer footing.
Investment Analysis
Zoom
ZM
Pros
- Zoom has successfully transitioned to an AI-first platform, introducing agentic AI capabilities improving productivity for knowledge workers.
- Operating cash flow surged 21.7% to $1.95 billion in fiscal 2025 with a strong 41.7% cash flow margin, highlighting operational efficiency.
- The company maintains a robust balance sheet with approximately $7.8 billion in cash and marketable securities, enabling innovation and share repurchases.
Considerations
- Zoom's stock price exhibits volatility reflecting uncertainties in post-pandemic demand and evolving remote work trends.
- Despite growth, revenue increased modestly by only 3.1% year over year in fiscal 2025, indicating challenges in accelerating expansion.
- Intense competition in cloud communications and collaboration markets could pressure Zoom's long-term market share and profitability.
HP
HPQ
Pros
- HP Inc. benefits from a diverse product portfolio spanning printers, personal systems, and 3D printing technologies, reducing reliance on any single segment.
- Recent strategic focus on sustainable printing solutions and digital manufacturing positions HP well for future market needs.
- HP generates steady cash flow and has maintained investment-grade credit ratings, supporting operational stability and shareholder returns.
Considerations
- HP faces significant exposure to cyclical PC and printer markets, making revenues sensitive to macroeconomic downturns.
- The company encounters escalating raw material and component costs, which can compress profit margins amid competitive pricing pressures.
- Execution risks remain from ongoing shifts in customer preferences and rapid technology changes, requiring continual product innovation.
Zoom (ZM) Next Earnings Date
Zoom’s next earnings date is expected around August 20, 2026, with some calendars allowing a window into late August based on historical timing. The report should cover fiscal Q2 2027. Zoom has not formally confirmed the date yet, so this is the current market estimate rather than a company-announced schedule.
HP (HPQ) Next Earnings Date
HPQ’s next earnings date is estimated for August 26, 2026. The upcoming report will cover Q3 2026 fiscal results. This date is based on HP’s typical late-August reporting pattern, and the company has not yet formally confirmed the date.
Zoom (ZM) Next Earnings Date
Zoom’s next earnings date is expected around August 20, 2026, with some calendars allowing a window into late August based on historical timing. The report should cover fiscal Q2 2027. Zoom has not formally confirmed the date yet, so this is the current market estimate rather than a company-announced schedule.
HP (HPQ) Next Earnings Date
HPQ’s next earnings date is estimated for August 26, 2026. The upcoming report will cover Q3 2026 fiscal results. This date is based on HP’s typical late-August reporting pattern, and the company has not yet formally confirmed the date.
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