MRK vs TECH: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Oct 18, 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 7 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.33%, TECH has the higher dividend-safety score.
Key facts: MRK vs TECH
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Oct 18, 2026, Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.33%, versus 0.44% for Bio-Techne Corporation (TECH).
- As of Oct 18, 2026, SmarterDividends grades MRK's dividend safety A (88/100) and TECH's A (95/100).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Oct 18, 2026, MRK has raised its dividend for 15 consecutive years and TECH for 0.
- As of Oct 18, 2026, MRK pays out 267% of its earnings as dividends and TECH pays out 28%.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "MRK vs TECH: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Oct 18, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/mrk-vs-tech
| Metric | MRK | TECH |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.33% | 0.44% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $0.32 |
| Payout ratio | 267% | 28% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 0.0% |
| 5-yr total return | 95% | -39% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 95 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $120.53 | — |
| Upside to fair value | -17% | — |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $360.1B | $11.4B |
| P/E ratio | 115.8 | 62.6 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.33%
Safer dividend
TECH
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
MRK vs TECH — FAQ
Is MRK or TECH a better dividend stock?
On the data, MRK wins more head-to-head categories (5 vs 2). MRK offers the higher yield (2.33%), while TECH has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.
Which has a higher dividend yield, MRK or TECH?
MRK has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.33%, versus 0.44% for TECH.
Is MRK or TECH safer?
TECH has the higher dividend-safety score (95/100 vs 88/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.
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See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.