NVT vs. SMCI: Which Data Center Infrastructure Stock is a Better Buy?

The article compares nVent Electric and Super Micro Computer as beneficiaries of AI-driven data center spending. It argues nVent has the stronger near-term investment case because demand for its data center infrastructure products is accelerating, with 2026 data center sales expected to exceed $2 billion, more than double 2025 levels, and a $2.5 billion backlog supporting growth. nVent is also expanding liquid-cooling capacity and plans about $130 million in 2026 capex. By contrast, Super Micro is benefiting from liquid cooling and AI rack-scale systems, but its heavy GPU mix is pressuring margins, with fiscal 2027 Q1 gross margin guided at 10.4%-10.8%. The piece favors nVent on stronger earnings momentum, better margin visibility, and a stronger Zacks Rank.