AI ETFs and robotics ETFs often show up in the same headlines, and they often hold some of the same stocks. But they are built around different ideas.
The simple difference
AI ETFs focus on intelligence: chips, cloud platforms and software that train and run AI models. Robotics ETFs focus on machines that move: robot arms, humanoids, motion parts, sensors and the automation systems that put AI to work in the physical world.
The overlap is the chips. Robots need AI processors, so the biggest AI chip makers tend to appear in both kinds of funds.
The big names side by side
$AIQ is the giant of the group with $10.0B in assets. It is a broad AI and technology fund. $BOTZ, with $3.10B, is the largest fund focused on robotics and automation. $ROBO and its sister fund $THNQ split the same way: ROBO for robotics, THNQ for AI.
See the full matchups: AIQ vs BOTZ, ROBO vs THNQ and BOTZ vs ROBO.
Which way to lean
If you want exposure to the AI build-out broadly, an AI fund covers more of it. If you specifically want the companies building and supplying robots, a robotics or humanoid fund is more direct. Either way, check fees, size and top holdings before you buy. This is not a recommendation.
AI and robotics funds on our list
| ETF | Provider | Category | AUM | Expense | Yield | Launched |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $AIQ Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF | Global X | AI & robotics | $10.0B | 0.68% | 0.07% | May 11, 2018 |
| $ROBT First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF | First Trust | AI & robotics | $735M | 0.65% | 0.02% | Feb 21, 2018 |
| $THNQ ROBO Global Artificial Intelligence ETF | Exchange Traded Concepts (ROBO Global) | AI & robotics | $484M | 0.68% | 0.15% | May 11, 2020 |
| $LOUP Innovator Deepwater Frontier Tech ETF | Innovator | AI & robotics | $160M | 0.70% | 0.00% | Jul 24, 2018 |
| $IQM Franklin Intelligent Machines ETF | Franklin Templeton | AI & robotics | $74M | 0.50% | 0.00% | Feb 25, 2020 |
| $PBOT Pictet AI & Automation ETF | Pictet | AI & robotics | $14M | 0.70% | 0.07% | Oct 15, 2025 |
Frequently asked questions
Is BOTZ an AI ETF?
BOTZ is a robotics and AI fund. It owns robot and automation makers plus AI chip companies, so it overlaps with AI funds but is more focused on machines.
Which is bigger, AIQ or BOTZ?
AIQ is larger. Check the live numbers on each fund's page.
Should I own both a robotics ETF and an AI ETF?
That depends on your goals. Many large AI chip makers appear in both, so check overlap before combining them. Nothing here is a recommendation.
RobotETFs.com is published by Dividend Empire LLC for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, tax or legal advice. Nothing here is a buy or sell signal. Fund data comes from our own data sheet and issuer materials, is refreshed daily and can be delayed, incomplete or incorrect. Always verify against the issuer's website and prospectus, do your own research and consult a licensed financial professional. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Leveraged ETFs reset daily and are not suitable for most long-term investors. Price charts are provided by TradingView and may be delayed.