MRK vs SYK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, SYK (Stryker Corporation) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.31%, SYK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-8%).
| Metric | MRK | SYK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.31% | 1.28% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $3.52 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 36% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 7.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 67% | 3% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 91 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $195.20 |
| Upside to fair value | -8% | -29% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $362.4B | $105.5B |
| P/E ratio | 117.5 | 28.5 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.31%
Safer dividend
SYK
Grade A
Faster growth
SYK
7.6%
Better value
MRK
-8% upside
MRK vs SYK — FAQ
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