SmarterDividends

CAT vs KNX: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of Nov 8, 2026, CAT (Caterpillar Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 7 head-to-head metrics. KNX offers the higher yield at 1.37%, CAT has the higher dividend-safety score, and CAT looks like the better value (its fair-value estimate is 28% below its share price).

Key facts: CAT vs KNX

Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data

  • As of Nov 8, 2026, Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. (KNX) has the higher forward dividend yield at 1.37%, versus 1.17% for Caterpillar Inc. (CAT).
  • As of Nov 8, 2026, SmarterDividends grades CAT's dividend safety A (90/100) and KNX's A (90/100).
  • By SmarterDividends' count as of Nov 8, 2026, CAT has raised its dividend for 32 consecutive years and KNX for 6.
  • As of Nov 8, 2026, CAT pays out 24% of its earnings as dividends and KNX pays out 83%.
  • As of Nov 8, 2026, CAT's fair-value estimate is 28% below its share price and KNX's fair-value estimate is 42% below its share price, so CAT looks like the better value of the two on SmarterDividends' blended model.
Cite this page

SmarterDividends, "CAT vs KNX: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Nov 8, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/cat-vs-knx

MetricCATKNX
Forward yield1.17%1.37%
Annual dividend$6.52$0.80
Payout ratio24%83%
Years of growth32 yr6 yr
5-yr dividend growth7.2%17.6%
5-yr total return189%2%
Dividend safety score90 (A)90 (A)
Fair value estimate$400.75$33.73
Upside to fair value-28%-42%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$255.6B$9.5B
P/E ratio21.962.1

Higher yield

KNX

1.37%

Safer dividend

CAT

Grade A

Faster growth

KNX

17.6%

Better value

CAT

-28% upside

CAT vs KNX — FAQ

Is CAT or KNX a better dividend stock?

On the data, CAT wins more head-to-head categories (5 vs 2). KNX offers the higher yield (1.37%), while CAT has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.

Which has a higher dividend yield, CAT or KNX?

KNX has the higher forward dividend yield at 1.37%, versus 1.17% for CAT.

Is CAT or KNX safer?

CAT has the higher dividend-safety score (90/100 vs 90/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.

Is CAT or KNX better value right now?

As of Nov 8, 2026, CAT looks like the better value: its fair-value estimate is 28% below its share price (overvalued). For KNX, its fair-value estimate is 42% below its share price.

See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.