Elon Musk vs Nikola Tesla

Who Was the Greater Genius? A Complete Comparison

Elon Musk
IQ155
Born1971
OriginPretoria, South Africa
Known ForElon Musk is known for founding Tesla Motors and SpaceX, which launched a landma
VS
Nikola Tesla
IQ195
Born1856
Died1943
OriginSmiljan, Austrian Empire (modern-day Croatia)
Known ForInventing the Tesla coil, alternating current machinery, and a transatlantic com

About Elon Musk

One in a lifetime entrepreneur, business giant, scientist & engineer. The man behind Tesla, Space-X and more.

Read full biography of Elon Musk → · In-Depth Article →

About Nikola Tesla

Was a Serbian-American inventor, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, and futurist.

THE FREE TEST
How high is yours?

Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.

Take the IQ test →

Read full biography of Nikola Tesla → · In-Depth Article →

The Verdict

Based on estimated IQ scores, Nikola Tesla (IQ 195) ranks higher than Elon Musk (IQ 155). However, both made extraordinary contributions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who had a higher IQ — Elon Musk or Nikola Tesla?

Elon Musk had an estimated IQ of 155 while Nikola Tesla had an estimated IQ of 195.

What is each genius known for?

Elon Musk is known for: Elon Musk is known for founding Tesla Motors and SpaceX, which launched a landmark commercial spacecraft in 2012.. Nikola Tesla is known for: Inventing the Tesla coil, alternating current machinery, and a transatlantic communications system. Is regarded as one o.

Are both considered geniuses?

Yes. Both Elon Musk and Nikola Tesla are universally regarded as among history's greatest intellects.

Full Profile: Elon MuskFull Profile: Nikola Tesla

← Browse all genius comparisons | IQ Rankings

01 · VS

Trending Comparisons

02 · TOP 100

Top IQ Rankings

03 · PRODIGIES

Child prodigies

Child prodigies →
04 · WORLD

Explore geniuses by country

Play & come back tomorrow

Daily Genius Challenge · Genius trivia
Who cracked the Enigma code and helped found computer science?
Tap your answer ↓
Which Genius Are You? Free IQ Test