Capsule Capacity Chart – How Many mg Fit in Each Capsule Size?
Understanding capsule capacity is important when choosing the correct empty capsule size for powders, herbs, vitamins and supplements. This capsule capacity chart provides approximate fill weights for common capsule sizes based on powder density.
Because different powders have different densities, the actual amount of powder that fits inside a capsule can vary significantly.
This guide helps estimate:
- Approximate mg capacity
- Capsule volume
- Best capsule size for your dosage
- Powder density differences
Capsule Capacity Chart
| Capsule Size | Approximate Volume | Light Powder | Medium Powder | Dense Powder |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size 000 | 1.37 ml | ~550 mg | ~820 mg | ~1100 mg |
| Size 00 | 0.95 ml | ~380 mg | ~570 mg | ~760 mg |
| Size 0 | 0.68 ml | ~270 mg | ~410 mg | ~540 mg |
| Size 1 | 0.50 ml | ~200 mg | ~300 mg | ~400 mg |
| Size 2 | 0.37 ml | ~150 mg | ~220 mg | ~300 mg |
| Size 3 | 0.30 ml | ~120 mg | ~180 mg | ~240 mg |
| Size 4 | 0.21 ml | ~85 mg | ~125 mg | ~170 mg |
These values are estimates only. Actual fill weights depend on powder density, particle size, moisture content and packing method.
How Capsule Capacity Works
Capsule capacity depends mainly on:
- Capsule volume
- Powder density
- Packing method
A dense powder may fit much more weight into the same capsule compared to a light fluffy powder.
For example:
- fine mineral powders are usually dense
- herbal powders are often lighter
- mushroom powders may vary significantly
What Is Powder Density?
Powder density refers to how heavy a powder is relative to its volume.
Light Powders
Examples:
- fluffy herbs
- some mushroom powders
- fibre powders
These fit less weight into capsules.
Medium Density Powders
Examples:
- many supplement blends
- standard herbal powders
These are commonly used for general capsule filling.
Dense Powders
Examples:
- minerals
- some amino acids
- compact fine powders
These fit more weight into the same capsule size.
Most Popular Capsule Sizes
Size 00 Capsule Capacity
Size 00 is one of the most popular capsule sizes for supplements.
Approximate capacity:
- 380–760 mg depending on powder density
Common uses:
- vitamins
- herbs
- mushroom powders
- sports supplements
Size 0 Capsule Capacity
Size 0 capsules are slightly smaller and easier for some people to swallow.
Approximate capacity:
- 270–540 mg
Common uses:
- medium-dose supplements
- herbal powders
- daily vitamins
Size 000 Capsule Capacity
Size 000 is the largest common empty capsule size.
Approximate capacity:
- 550–1100 mg
Common uses:
- large powder servings
- fewer capsules per dose
- bulk supplement filling
Which Capsule Size Should You Choose?
The best capsule size depends on:
- desired dosage
- powder density
- swallowing preference
- number of capsules per serving
Larger capsule sizes reduce the number of capsules required per serving, while smaller capsules may be easier to swallow.
Capsule Capacity Calculator
Use our interactive capsule size calculator to estimate:
- best capsule size
- approximate fill weight
- capsules required per serving
Gelatin vs HPMC Capsule Capacity
Both gelatin and HPMC vegetarian capsules are available in multiple sizes and similar capacities.
However, HPMC capsules are often preferred for:
- vegetarian supplements
- vegan supplements
- moisture-sensitive ingredients
Gelatin capsules remain a popular traditional option for general supplement use.
Capsule Filling Tips
- Use a capsule filling machine for faster filling
- Tamp powder evenly for consistent weights
- Store capsules in a cool, dry environment
- Test fill weights before large production runs
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mg fit in a size 00 capsule?
A size 00 capsule typically holds around 380–760 mg depending on powder density.
Which capsule size holds the most powder?
Size 000 is the largest common capsule size and holds the highest volume.
Why do capsule fill weights vary?
Fill weights vary because different powders have different densities and packing characteristics.
Which capsule size is most popular?
Size 00 is one of the most commonly used capsule sizes for supplements and herbs.
Are capsule capacities exact?
No. Capsule capacities are estimates and actual fill weights may vary depending on the powder and filling method.
Need Empty Capsules?
Browse our range of:
- HPMC vegetarian capsules
- gelatin capsules
- bulk empty capsules
- wholesale capsule quantities
- multiple capsule sizes
Available in:
- Size 000
- Size 00
- Size 0
- Size 1
- Size 2
- Size 3
- Size 4
Important Note
All capsule capacities shown are approximate values only. Actual fill weights depend on powder density, particle size, moisture content, formulation and packing method.