AT&T vs Verizon (T vs VZ)
AT&T (T) vs Verizon (VZ) in plain English: P/E, growth, margins, debt and dividend side by side, key differences and which fits each investor profile.
AT&T (T) and Verizon (VZ) compete in telecommunications. Here are AT&T and Verizon side by side with their real figures as of November 4, 2026: what sets them apart, which fits each kind of investor and the most common questions, without telling you whether to buy AT&T or Verizon.
AT&T vs Verizon: the figures
| Figure | AT&T | Verizon |
|---|---|---|
| Share price | $21.83 (November 4, 2026) | $46.17 (November 4, 2026) |
| Market cap | $147.1 billion | $191.4 billion |
| P/E (TTM) | 11.7x | 11.8x |
| Forward P/E | 8.4x | 8.7x |
| Revenue growth (quarter) | +5.3% | +1.5% |
| Net margin (TTM) | 10.2% | 11.8% |
| Net debt / EBITDA | 3.7x | 3.7x |
| Dividend yield | 5.19% | 6.26% |
| Beta | 0.49 | 0.26 |
AT&T and Verizon figures from Yahoo Finance, the same source the Fintols analysis uses, retrieved on November 4, 2026; N/A means that AT&T or Verizon figure is not available, and we never estimate it.
3 key differences between AT&T and Verizon
- Dividend: Verizon yields 6.26% at today's price and AT&T yields 5.19%.
- Growth: AT&T grew sales +5.3% year on year in its latest quarter, against +1.5% for Verizon.
- Volatility: AT&T stock moves more (beta 0.49) than Verizon (beta 0.26); the higher the beta, the more it amplifies market swings.
AT&T or Verizon: which fits your profile
- If you want growth: AT&T is growing faster today, so it fits better with investors who put business growth first, usually accepting a higher P/E and a bumpier ride.
- If you want income (dividends): Verizon pays the higher dividend relative to its price.
- If you prefer caution: Verizon has less debt relative to its profit, which usually gives more room in a bad year.
- If price is what matters most to you: AT&T trades on the lower P/E; check first whether that is an opportunity or a sign of a business that grows less.
Neither AT&T nor Verizon wins on everything, and owning both is also an option: spreading money across several companies or an index fund reduces what rides on each one.
How AT&T and Verizon make money
AT&T (T)
AT&T is a U.S. telecom operator. Communications is its main segment, where Mobility, its wireless business, generates most of the revenue, alongside AT&T Fiber home internet and wireline services for businesses. It also runs a wireless business in Mexico, reported as Latin America. Full AT&T analysis.
Verizon (VZ)
Verizon Communications is a U.S. carrier with two segments. Consumer, the larger, sells Verizon wireless plans and prepaid brands like Visible and Total Wireless, plus Fios fiber and fixed wireless home internet. Business provides wireless, networking and connectivity to enterprises, small businesses and government agencies. Full Verizon analysis.
Frequently asked questions: AT&T vs Verizon
Is AT&T or Verizon the better stock?
Choosing between AT&T and Verizon depends on what you are looking for. AT&T is growing faster right now, and AT&T trades on the lower P/E. Fintols does not tell you whether to buy AT&T or Verizon: it shows you the differences so you can decide.
Which pays a higher dividend, AT&T or Verizon?
As of November 4, 2026, Verizon yields 6.26% and AT&T yields 5.19%. Also check how much of their profit AT&T and Verizon pay out: if it is more than they earn, it cannot last.
Which is more expensive, AT&T or Verizon?
On P/E, Verizon (11.8x) is more expensive than AT&T (11.7x) as of November 4, 2026. A higher P/E can be justified if earnings grow faster, so compare it with each company's growth in the table.
Can I own both AT&T and Verizon?
Yes. Many people spread their money across several companies, such as AT&T and Verizon, or use index funds so they do not depend on just one. If you are starting out, decide how much you want to invest and for how long before buying AT&T or Verizon.
More comparisons with AT&T or Verizon
More companies like AT&T and Verizon: telecommunications stocks. Educational content about AT&T and Verizon, not investment advice.