MGK vs VTV: Head-to-Head Comparison
Last updated: March 2026 • Growth vs Value
Quick Verdict
VTV edges out MGK with a stronger Beginner Suitability Score (9 vs 8). It offers lower fees for new investors.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Key Differences Between MGK and VTV
MGK (Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF) is a mega-cap growth fund managed by Vanguard. MGK focuses on the largest and fastest-growing U.S. companies, concentrating on mega-cap stocks with strong revenue and earnings growth. These are the dominant tech and consumer companies that have driven most of the market's gains in recent years. The fund is a cost-effective way to bet on America's biggest growth engines continuing to outperform.
VTV (Vanguard Value ETF) is a us large-cap value fund managed by Vanguard. VTV tracks the CRSP US Large Cap Value Index, offering broad exposure to large U.S. companies that are considered undervalued relative to their fundamentals. It is a core holding for investors who believe value stocks will outperform over the long run. The fund spans established companies across financials, healthcare, and industrials at a rock-bottom cost.
The most notable differences are in fees (0.07% vs 0.04%), number of holdings (73 vs 340), and 5-year returns (19.00% vs 10.00%).
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Holdings Overlap Analysis
0%
Holdings Overlap
MGK and VTV share only 0% of their top holdings. These funds are quite different, making them complementary choices if you want broader market coverage.
Cost Comparison Over Time
If you invest $10,000 and hold for 20 years (assuming 8% annual returns):
MGK
Fee cost: $600
VTV
Fee cost: $344
Over 20 years, the fee difference amounts to $256 on a $10,000 investment. VTV saves you more in fees over time.
Which One Should a Beginner Choose?
Choose MGK if: You want growth-focused investors who want concentrated exposure to america's largest winners, those comfortable with higher volatility in exchange for stronger growth potential, investors who believe mega-cap tech dominance is a lasting structural trend. It's managed by Vanguard with an expense ratio of 0.07%.
Choose VTV if: You want long-term investors who favor a value investing philosophy, retirees seeking stable large-cap companies with reliable dividends, investors looking to balance a growth-heavy portfolio. It's managed by Vanguard with an expense ratio of 0.04%.
Can You Own Both MGK and VTV?
Absolutely! With only 0% overlap, MGK and VTV complement each other well. A simple portfolio might allocate 60% to one and 40% to the other, or you could pair them with a bond ETF like BND for a complete three-fund portfolio.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy MGK or VTV?▾
VTV edges out MGK with a stronger Beginner Suitability Score (9 vs 8). It offers lower fees for new investors. However, both are solid options. MGK is best for investors who want growth-focused investors who want concentrated exposure to america's largest winners, while VTV is better suited for long-term investors who favor a value investing philosophy.
What is the difference between MGK and VTV?▾
MGK (Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF) tracks mega-cap growth investments with 73 holdings and a 0.07% expense ratio. VTV (Vanguard Value ETF) focuses on us large-cap value with 340 holdings at 0.04%. Their top holdings overlap by 0%.
Can I own both MGK and VTV?▾
Yes! With only 0% holdings overlap, MGK and VTV complement each other well. Owning both gives you broader diversification.