SDY vs VYM: ETF Comparison
Compare SDY (SPDR S&P Dividend ETF) and VYM (Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF) side by side by average annual total return since inception — one fair number covering price and dividends.
Updated Sep 15, 2026
*For entertainment purposes ONLY! NOT financial advice! Data may be inaccurate.*
SDY vs VYM: The Verdict
On average annual total return since inception, VYM is virtually tied with SDY — +9.3% vs +8.9%. With a gap this small, the deciding factors are more likely to be yield, payout schedule, and how each strategy fits your goals than raw performance.
SDY vs VYM Side-by-Side Data
| Symbol | Name | Provider | Inception | Age | Total Return | Avg. Annual Return | Yield | Expense Ratio | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SDY | SPDR S&P Dividend ETF | State Street | 11/8/2005 | 20.9y | +492.0% | +8.9% | 2.6% | 0.35% | A |
| VYM | Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF | Vanguard | 11/10/2006 | 19.8y | +485.0% | +9.3% | 2.5% | 0.04% | A |
SDY vs VYM — Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, SDY or VYM?
By average annual total return since inception, VYM is virtually tied with SDY (+9.3% vs +8.9% per year). "Better" depends on your goals — yield, payout frequency, and strategy differ between the two funds.
What is the difference between SDY and VYM?
SDY (SPDR S&P Dividend ETF) is offered by State Street and currently yields 2.6%. VYM (Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF) is offered by Vanguard and yields 2.5%. Their average annual total returns since inception are +8.9% and +9.3% respectively.
Does VYM pay a higher dividend than SDY?
VYM currently yields 2.5% and SDY yields 2.6%. Remember that yield alone doesn't capture performance — total return (price + dividends) is the fairer comparison.