MRK vs SNN: 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. SNN offers the higher yield at 2.96%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and SNN trades at the larger discount to fair value (+16%).
| Metric | MRK | SNN |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.30% | 2.96% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $0.79 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 53% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 1 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 0.3% |
| 5-yr total return | 67% | -21% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $31.96 |
| Upside to fair value | -8% | +16% |
| Frequency | quarterly | semiannual |
| Market cap | $368.3B | $11.2B |
| P/E ratio | 119.4 | 18.2 |
Higher yield
SNN
2.96%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
SNN
+16% upside
MRK vs SNN — FAQ
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