MRK vs PFE: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. PFE offers the higher yield at 6.81%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).
| Metric | MRK | PFE |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.58% | 6.81% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $1.72 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 131% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 3.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 72% | -47% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 76 (B) |
| Fair value estimate | $128.13 | $18.10 |
| Upside to fair value | -2% | -26% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $322.0B | $143.3B |
| P/E ratio | 37.1 | 19.2 |
Higher yield
PFE
6.81%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
MRK vs PFE — FAQ
Related comparisons
See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.