MRK vs RMD: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 4 of 7 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.31%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and RMD trades at the larger discount to fair value (+21%).
| Metric | MRK | RMD |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.31% | 1.17% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $2.64 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 23% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 13 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 7.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 67% | -14% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $271.87 |
| Upside to fair value | -8% | +21% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $362.4B | $32.5B |
| P/E ratio | 117.5 | 21.6 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.31%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
RMD
7.7%
Better value
RMD
+21% upside
MRK vs RMD — FAQ
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