The objective of this research was to determine the content of some bioactive compounds and the antioxidant potential of xocotuna (Opuntia chiangiana) compared to that of cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) and xoconostle (Opuntia spp.). Fruits at physiological maturity were harvested in the months of June, August and October of 2013 in El Orito, Zacatecas, Mexico. The variables evaluated were: antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, vitamin C, betalain content, and total chlorophyll and carotene contents. Statistical differences were observed in 'Coral' xocotuna after 3, 6, 9 and 12 days of storage, reaching the highest levels of antioxidant capacity (between 0.92 and 1.04 mg VCEAC g(-1)). 'Cuaresmeno' recorded the highest total phenolic content with initial values of 44.61 mg GAE 100 g(-1), while 'Amarilla Platano' recorded the lowest value of 6.27 mg GAE 100 g(-1). Significant differences were also found in the content of vitamin C; xoconostle cultivars showed the highest levels during the evaluated period, with values ranging between 41.80 and 125.98 mg 100 g(-1). Regarding the content of betalain, and total chlorophyll and carotene contents, a high variability was found because of the characteristic color of each cultivar. The cultivars analyzed, mainly those of xoconostle and xocotuna, could be considered as an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants to be included in the diet or as natural ingredients to prepare other products.