How to learn quantum computing in 2026
There are too many quantum computing resources out there. I hope this guide helps narrow your choices.
Written by
Sohum Thakkar
CEO, Qolour
Published April 14, 2026
For kids
Two real options. One is a book. One is a toy.
Quantum Computing for Babies
Board book · Chris Ferrie
A sweet little board book. It's not really teaching your kid any quantum concepts, but the introduction to the terms helps.
Qubi
A physical toy that acts quantum
Qubi is a real model qubit you can hold. Spin it, watch it collapse, build intuition. It's how I wish I had learned.
Learn to quantum program
You want to write quantum algorithms and run them on a real machine. These are the best paths.
IBM Quantum Learning
Free courses · Run on real hardware
The deepest free curriculum out there. Notions, algorithms, error correction. John Watrous, who wrote half the foundational theory, teaches several of the courses. He is a legend in the space, and it shows.
Q-CTRL Black Opal
The Duolingo of quantum programming
A more structured, gamified path. Bite-sized lessons, exercises, instant feedback. Good if you want a curriculum and a streak, not a textbook.
qBraid
Browser-based coding environments
Want to skip the theory and start coding today? qBraid's environments are the easiest path from zero to running circuits. Cleanest dev experience in the field.
Get a degree in quantum
You're aiming at a master's, a PhD, or a research role. The canonical book and the open-source library where research actually happens.
When I was getting started, I asked a mentor if he could teach me quantum computing. He said no. We stared at each other awkwardly. Then I asked him how to learn it. He said: go through every single problem in Nielsen and Chuang. So that's what I did, over the next four years, alongside the classes I was taking, and honestly I don't think I would have gotten through it without those classes giving me context. But I did get through it, and if you're serious about going deep into quantum, that's the path.
Nielsen & Chuang
Quantum Computation and Quantum Information
The canonical text in the field for the last 15 years. Packed with exercises and math. If you want to do research-grade quantum, this is the path.
PennyLane
Open-source · Quantum + machine learning
Built by Xanadu. The go-to library for quantum machine learning and differentiable quantum circuits. Excellent docs, runs on real hardware from every major vendor.
Learn quantum computing technology
You're a professional who needs to understand the technology landscape. Hardware, error correction, algorithms, applications.
MIT xPRO Quantum Computing Fundamentals
Certification program · Online
The strongest certification program available right now. Broad coverage, strong professors, well-produced. A bit out of date against the cutting edge, and a bit in the weeds, and it isn't cheap. Still the best in its category.
Qolour Quantum Technology Certification
Coming soon
Our upcoming certification, taught by top educators in the field, designed to give you a clear, current view of the quantum technologies landscape. Sign up for early access on the Qolour homepage.
More resources
The full curated list lives at qolour.io/learning.
If your favorite isn't on the list, send it to us.
Up next
The quantum computing glossary →
Plain-language definitions for the terms you keep running into.