MRK vs ZBH: 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. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.31%, ZBH has the higher dividend-safety score, and ZBH trades at the larger discount to fair value (+33%).
| Metric | MRK | ZBH |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.31% | 1.01% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $0.96 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 23% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 0.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 67% | -31% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $126.97 |
| Upside to fair value | -8% | +33% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $362.4B | $18.2B |
| P/E ratio | 117.5 | 23.1 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.31%
Safer dividend
ZBH
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
ZBH
+33% upside
MRK vs ZBH — FAQ
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