DGX vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, DGX (Quest Diagnostics Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.31%, DGX has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-8%).
| Metric | DGX | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 1.40% | 2.31% |
| Annual dividend | $3.44 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 26% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 14 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 7.3% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 68% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 94 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $187.65 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | -24% | -8% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $27.2B | $362.4B |
| P/E ratio | 26.2 | 117.5 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.31%
Safer dividend
DGX
Grade A
Faster growth
DGX
7.3%
Better value
MRK
-8% upside
DGX vs MRK — FAQ
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