GILD vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Nov 2, 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 2.27%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK looks like the better value (its fair-value estimate is 20% below its share price).
Key facts: GILD vs MRK
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Nov 2, 2026, Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.27%, versus 1.92% for Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD).
- As of Nov 2, 2026, SmarterDividends grades GILD's dividend safety A (84/100) and MRK's A (88/100).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Nov 2, 2026, GILD has raised its dividend for 10 consecutive years and MRK for 15.
- As of Nov 2, 2026, GILD pays out 43% of its earnings as dividends and MRK pays out 267%.
- As of Nov 2, 2026, GILD's fair-value estimate is 26% below its share price and MRK's fair-value estimate is 20% below its share price, so MRK looks like the better value of the two on SmarterDividends' blended model.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "GILD vs MRK: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Nov 2, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/gild-vs-mrk
| Metric | GILD | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 1.92% | 2.27% |
| Annual dividend | $3.28 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 43% | 267% |
| Years of growth | 10 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 3.0% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 148% | 100% |
| Dividend safety score | 84 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $126.20 | $119.89 |
| Upside to fair value | -26% | -20% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $211.7B | $368.9B |
| P/E ratio | — | 151.0 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.27%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-20% upside
GILD vs MRK — FAQ
Is GILD or MRK a better dividend stock?
On the data, MRK wins more head-to-head categories (6 vs 2). MRK offers the higher yield (2.27%), while MRK has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.
Which has a higher dividend yield, GILD or MRK?
MRK has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.27%, versus 1.92% for GILD.
Is GILD or MRK safer?
MRK has the higher dividend-safety score (88/100 vs 84/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.
Is GILD or MRK better value right now?
As of Nov 2, 2026, MRK looks like the better value: its fair-value estimate is 20% below its share price (overvalued). For GILD, its fair-value estimate is 26% below its share price.
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See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.