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VUG vs XLK: Performance & Backtest Comparison
XLK delivered the higher return - 14.59% CAGR vs 11.86% - over 2004-02-29 → 2026-07-31.
Growth comparison
Drawdown
Annual returns
| VUG | XLK | |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Vanguard Growth ETF | State Street Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF |
| CAGR | 11.86% | 14.59% |
| Total return | 1144.81% | 2042.82% |
| Volatility | 16.60% | 18.74% |
| Max drawdown | -47.18%Feb 2009 | -49.46%Feb 2009 |
| Sharpe | 0.66 | 0.73 |
| Sortino | 0.95 | 1.20 |
| Best year | 46.83% | 56.02% |
| Worst year | -38.02% | -41.51% |
| Final balance | $124,481 | $214,282 |
Correlation of monthly returns: 0.94. Wondering if you need both? Check their fund overlap →
All figures are total returns: every dividend and distribution is reinvested on its ex-date, and prices are split-adjusted. See the methodology.
Frequently asked questions
Which has performed better, VUG or XLK?
Over 2004-02-29 to 2026-07-31, XLK performed better: 14.59% annualized versus 11.86% for VUG, with dividends reinvested. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
How similar are VUG and XLK?
Their monthly returns have a correlation of 0.94 over the common period. VUG is Vanguard Growth ETF; XLK is State Street Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF.
Which is riskier, VUG or XLK?
Over the common period VUG had 16.60% annualized volatility and a -47.18% max drawdown, versus 18.74% and -49.46% for XLK.