MRK vs PFE: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. PFE offers the higher yield at 6.20%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-6%).
| Metric | MRK | PFE |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.36% | 6.20% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $1.72 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 226% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 3.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 92% | -36% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 78 (B) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $20.72 |
| Upside to fair value | -6% | -25% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $355.1B | $158.0B |
| P/E ratio | 115.1 | 36.5 |
Higher yield
PFE
6.20%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-6% upside
MRK vs PFE — FAQ
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