MDT vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MDT (Medtronic plc) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MDT offers the higher yield at 3.06%, MDT has the higher dividend-safety score, and MDT trades at the larger discount to fair value (-1%).
| Metric | MDT | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 3.06% | 2.23% |
| Annual dividend | $2.88 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 70% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 25 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 4.4% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -25% | 100% |
| Dividend safety score | 89 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $93.49 | $133.00 |
| Upside to fair value | -1% | -12% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $120.5B | $370.9B |
| P/E ratio | 23.2 | 120.3 |
Higher yield
MDT
3.06%
Safer dividend
MDT
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MDT
-1% upside
MDT vs MRK — FAQ
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