MAIN vs ARCC: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MAIN (Main Street Capital Corporation) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARCC offers the higher yield at 10.32%, MAIN has the higher dividend-safety score, and ARCC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+26%).
| Metric | MAIN | ARCC |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 8.19% | 10.32% |
| Annual dividend | $4.38 | $1.92 |
| Payout ratio | 90% | 118% |
| Years of growth | 3 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 5.2% | 3.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 29% | -6% |
| Dividend safety score | 58 (C) | 55 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $37.95 | $23.64 |
| Upside to fair value | -29% | +26% |
| Frequency | monthly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $5.0B | $13.5B |
| P/E ratio | 11.3 | 11.5 |
Higher yield
ARCC
10.32%
Safer dividend
MAIN
Grade C
Faster growth
MAIN
5.2%
Better value
ARCC
+26% upside
MAIN vs ARCC — FAQ
Related comparisons
See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.