Yes, at the end of the day, Cardano is a proof of stake, instead of a proof of work, like Bitcoin. Cardano currently uses Ouroboros, which is way more energy efficient than Bitcoin.
Cardano is being developed by IOHK in conjunction with the University of Edinburgh, the University of Athens and the University of Connecticut, and their system is based on actual research.
Their long term goal is to establish a decentralized banking system and related services, which means they are targeting the DEFI segment of Crypto. Currently, this is the segment with the most interest, fastest growing and probably will be the future of Crypto.
Just my opinion, but Cardano is still in its infancy. Its research and development is currently done by the right people.