Capsules vs. tablets: which form factor and when
By Greg Huang
Founder of multiple consumer brands in the dietary supplement and nutrition industry since 2009 · Reviewed by Dr. James Pendleton, ND, licensed primary care physician, 20+ years in naturopathic medicine
Last verified April 25, 2026Published April 25, 2026
Answer
Capsules win on cost, speed, and consumer preference for most emerging brands. Tablets win on dose density, shelf stability, and per-unit economics at scale (above 25,000 units). If your formulation is under 800mg total fill weight and you are launching with MOQ under 10,000, choose capsules. Otherwise consider tablets.
| Capsules | Tablets | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical MOQ floor | 1,000 units | 5,000 units |
| Per-unit cost (5K run) | $0.18 to $0.42 | $0.12 to $0.28 |
| Lead time | 6 to 10 weeks | 8 to 14 weeks |
| Max dose density | ~800mg | ~1,500mg |
| Stability (24 month) | Good | Excellent |
| Consumer preference | Most surveys favor capsules | Strong but secondary |
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45 capsule manufacturers · 38 tablet manufacturers
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