SmarterDividends

CNMD vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of September 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.21%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and CNMD trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).

MetricCNMDMRK
Forward yield1.62%2.21%
Annual dividend$0.80$3.32
Payout ratio11%
Years of growth0 yr15 yr
5-yr dividend growth0.0%6.7%
5-yr total return-62%98%
Dividend safety score85 (A)88 (A)
Fair value estimate$48.94$134.93
Upside to fair value-2%-9%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$1.5B$375.8B
P/E ratio26.7121.9

Higher yield

MRK

2.21%

Safer dividend

MRK

Grade A

Faster growth

MRK

6.7%

Better value

CNMD

-2% upside

CNMD vs MRK — FAQ

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