ILMN vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Nov 1, 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 3 of 4 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.26%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score.
Key facts: ILMN vs MRK
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Nov 1, 2026, Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.26%, versus 0.00% for Illumina, Inc. (ILMN).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Nov 1, 2026, ILMN has raised its dividend for 0 consecutive years and MRK for 15.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "ILMN vs MRK: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Nov 1, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/ilmn-vs-mrk
| Metric | ILMN | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.00% | 2.26% |
| Annual dividend | $0.00 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 0% | 343% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | — | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | — | 100% |
| Dividend safety score | — | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | — | $119.89 |
| Upside to fair value | — | -20% |
| Frequency | — | quarterly |
| Market cap | $35.6B | $371.0B |
| P/E ratio | 44.0 | 151.9 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.26%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
ILMN vs MRK — FAQ
Is ILMN or MRK a better dividend stock?
On the data, MRK wins more head-to-head categories (3 vs 1). MRK offers the higher yield (2.26%), 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, ILMN or MRK?
MRK has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.26%, versus 0.00% for ILMN.
Is ILMN or MRK safer?
Compare each stock's payout ratio, growth streak and cut history on its detail page to judge safety.
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