MAIN vs ARCC: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MAIN (Main Street Capital Corporation) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARCC offers the higher yield at 9.73%, ARCC has the higher dividend-safety score, and ARCC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+14%).
| Metric | MAIN | ARCC |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 5.66% | 9.73% |
| Annual dividend | $3.18 | $1.92 |
| Payout ratio | 86% | 143% |
| Years of growth | 3 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 5.2% | 3.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 37% | -3% |
| Dividend safety score | 54 (C) | 57 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $32.76 | $22.49 |
| Upside to fair value | -42% | +14% |
| Frequency | monthly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $5.3B | $14.2B |
| P/E ratio | 11.3 | 14.7 |
Higher yield
ARCC
9.73%
Safer dividend
ARCC
Grade C
Faster growth
MAIN
5.2%
Better value
ARCC
+14% upside
MAIN vs ARCC — FAQ
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