ABT vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.61%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).
| Metric | ABT | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.45% | 2.61% |
| Annual dividend | $2.52 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 79% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 12 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 10.4% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -18% | 72% |
| Dividend safety score | 77 (B) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $86.75 | $128.13 |
| Upside to fair value | -16% | -2% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $179.5B | $323.7B |
| P/E ratio | 33.4 | 36.9 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.61%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
ABT
10.4%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
ABT vs MRK — FAQ
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