DGX vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, DGX and MRK are closely matched. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.61%, DGX has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).
| Metric | DGX | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 1.64% | 2.61% |
| Annual dividend | $3.44 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 36% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 14 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 7.3% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 49% | 72% |
| Dividend safety score | 94 (A) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $184.09 | $128.13 |
| Upside to fair value | -19% | -2% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $25.1B | $323.7B |
| P/E ratio | 24.2 | 36.9 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.61%
Safer dividend
DGX
Grade A
Faster growth
DGX
7.3%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
DGX vs MRK — FAQ
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