MSFT vs VRSN: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MSFT (Microsoft Corporation) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 6 head-to-head metrics. VRSN offers the higher yield at 1.10%, MSFT has the higher dividend-safety score, and MSFT trades at the larger discount to fair value (-20%).
| Metric | MSFT | VRSN |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.78% | 1.10% |
| Annual dividend | $3.92 | $3.24 |
| Payout ratio | 20% | 34% |
| Years of growth | 20 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 10.2% | — |
| 5-yr total return | 49% | 36% |
| Dividend safety score | 97 (A) | — |
| Fair value estimate | $395.71 | $217.31 |
| Upside to fair value | -20% | -28% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $3.7T | $26.6B |
| P/E ratio | 27.8 | 32.0 |
Higher yield
VRSN
1.10%
Safer dividend
MSFT
Grade A
Faster growth
MSFT
10.2%
Better value
MSFT
-20% upside
MSFT vs VRSN — FAQ
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