# JNJ vs MRK stock comparison

Canonical page: https://synoptiv.com/compare/jnj-vs-mrk
Last analyzed: JNJ Jul 15, 2026; MRK Jul 30, 2026

Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) and Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) compared on valuation, profitability, price performance and market sentiment. JNJ sentiment is positive; MRK is positive. Last analyzed Jul 15, 2026 and Jul 30, 2026.

## Side-by-side metrics

| Metric | JNJ | MRK |
| --- | ---: | ---: |
| Last close | $257.77 | $130.36 |
| Market capitalization | $611.07B | $321.97B |
| Trailing P/E | 29.9 | 37.1 |
| Forward P/E | 19.9 | 13.5 |
| Net margin | 21.83% | 13.59% |

## Company context

- [JNJ](https://synoptiv.com/stock/JNJ): Johnson & Johnson — Healthcare, Drug Manufacturers - General.
- [MRK](https://synoptiv.com/stock/MRK): Merck & Co., Inc. — Healthcare, Drug Manufacturers - General.

## Frequently asked questions

### Which has the higher market cap, JNJ or MRK?

JNJ has the higher market capitalization. JNJ is about $611.07B, compared with about $321.97B for MRK.

### Which has the lower trailing P/E, JNJ or MRK?

JNJ has the lower trailing P/E. JNJ trades at 29.9 times trailing earnings, versus 37.1 for MRK.

### Which has stronger market sentiment, JNJ or MRK?

JNJ has the stronger composite sentiment score. JNJ scores 34 and MRK scores 34 on a −100 to +100 scale.

### Which pays the higher dividend yield, JNJ or MRK?

MRK has the higher indicated dividend yield. JNJ yields 2.08%, compared with 2.61% for MRK.

## Important information

Market data can be delayed, incomplete, or wrong. This comparison is research and analysis, not financial advice.

- [Methodology](https://synoptiv.com/methodology)
- [Disclosures](https://synoptiv.com/disclosures)