MRK vs QGEN: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 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 2.62%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and QGEN trades at the larger discount to fair value (+25%).
| Metric | MRK | QGEN |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.62% | 0.87% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $0.35 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 13% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | — |
| 5-yr total return | 69% | -26% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 57 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $126.32 | $50.05 |
| Upside to fair value | -3% | +25% |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $320.0B | $8.3B |
| P/E ratio | 36.5 | 20.5 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.62%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
QGEN
+25% upside
MRK vs QGEN — FAQ
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