DHR vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 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 2.27%, DHR has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-8%).
| Metric | DHR | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.74% | 2.27% |
| Annual dividend | $1.60 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 26% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 12 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 14.9% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -23% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $150.50 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | -29% | -8% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $155.4B | $372.3B |
| P/E ratio | 39.4 | 120.7 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.27%
Safer dividend
DHR
Grade A
Faster growth
DHR
14.9%
Better value
MRK
-8% upside
DHR vs MRK — FAQ
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