Key Takeaways:
- Machine Choice Matters: The size of your capsule filler affects your workflow, time investment, and long-term satisfaction.
- Mid-Size = Best of Both Worlds: 400-hole machines offer strong output without the bulk of high-capacity models, ideal for consistent DIYers.
- Small Details Add Up: Cleaning time, storage needs, and the learning curve are just as important as the machine’s output capacity.
Choosing the right capsule filler machine can make or break your DIY supplement routine. Whether you’re mixing nootropics, mushroom powders, kratom, or your own blend of herbs, how many capsules you can fill at once directly affects your time, efficiency, and consistency. A 100-hole machine might be perfect for someone making a small batch every few weeks. But for others, filling daily or at scale, upgrading to a 400 or 800-hole model can completely shift the experience. Knowing what each size actually means for real-world use is key to making the right decision.
We’ve tested every capsule machine on the market and rejected most of them. At Blated, we design our fillers from the ground up based on actual use, not factory templates. That’s why we’re the only capsule machine supplier in the U.S. offering a full range of fillers, made with safer materials, cleaner construction, and smarter design. Our machines are trusted by everyone from first-time DIYers to labs, clinics, and small businesses.
In this piece, we’ll compare 100-hole, 400-hole, and 800-hole capsule filler machines to help you decide which one best fits your needs, whether you're just getting started or leveling up your supplement workflow.
Why Capsule Filler Machine Size Matters
If you’ve ever sat down to fill your own capsules by hand, you already know how quickly a fun DIY project can turn into a tedious chore. The size of your capsule filler machine plays a huge role in whether your process feels manageable or maddening. From the amount of powder you're working with to the total time spent per batch, choosing the right machine size sets the tone for your entire supplement routine.
A smaller capsule machine might seem like the obvious choice when you're starting out, but volume matters more than most people realize. Making capsules by hand, especially with powders like mushroom blends, kratom, or greens, can be time-consuming if you're working with a low-capacity filler. For example, a 100-hole setup may take close to half an hour to complete a full batch. An 800-hole capsule machine filler, on the other hand, allows you to scale up significantly without adding much time or effort.
Understanding your production needs upfront helps you avoid buying twice. If you’re unsure where to begin, check out our piece on how a capsule filling machine works for a quick breakdown of the capsule-filling process. Knowing the basics makes it easier to decide which filler size best fits your lifestyle or business goals.
The 100-Hole Capsule Machine: Compact And Beginner-Friendly
The 100-hole capsule filler machine is where many DIY supplement makers begin. It’s small, simple, and gets the job done when you're working with small batches. Here’s what makes it a practical choice for beginners and casual users:
Portability And Space-Saving Design
If you're limited on kitchen or workspace, a 100-hole capsule machine fits easily into a drawer or cabinet. Its compact size makes it ideal for people who don’t want their supplement routine to take over the whole counter. It’s also lightweight and easy to pack up, which is helpful for those who travel on the go or share tools with friends or clients.
Ideal For Small Batches And Experimentation
Trying out new blends like nootropics, mushroom powders, or adaptogens? A smaller capsule machine filler gives you the flexibility to test different powders and dosages without wasting materials. It’s also less intimidating if you’re still learning how to tamp, fill, and cap effectively.
Lower Cost, Lower Commitment
A 100-hole filler is the most affordable way to start making your own capsules at home. It’s a smart choice if you're still deciding whether DIY supplementing is something you’ll stick with. For many users, it's the gateway tool that leads to a deeper understanding of what goes into their bodies, and eventually, a more advanced setup.
The 400-Hole Pill Capsule Filling Machine: The DIY Powerhouse
When you’re filling capsules more than just once in a while, stepping up to a 400-hole machine can completely change your workflow. It offers a major efficiency boost without being overwhelming in size or complexity. Here’s what sets this mid-sized capsule machine apart:
Balanced Efficiency For Serious Hobbyists
A 400-hole pill capsule filling machine is a solid upgrade for anyone who’s outgrown the slow pace of smaller fillers. It strikes a sweet spot between speed and control, allowing you to make larger batches without sacrificing precision. Most users find that it cuts their filling time in half, especially with consistent blends like greens, BCAAs, or mushroom powder.
Better Workflow Without The Bulk
Despite doubling or quadrupling your output compared to a 100-hole unit, the 400-hole machine doesn’t take up much more space. It fits well on most countertops and can still be stored away between uses. This makes it ideal for DIYers who want volume but aren’t running a full-scale operation.
A Favorite For Regular Users And Small Brands
Whether you’re managing supplements for your own household or starting to sell capsules to others, this filler can keep up. Many of our Blated customers use the 400-hole capsule machine as their everyday workhorse. If you’re at this stage, make sure to check out the Essential Tips for Beginners and Pros to avoid common mistakes and improve your capsule consistency.
The 800-Hole Capsule Fillers: Built For Serious Volume
If you're filling capsules at scale, the 800-hole capsule filler machine is a different kind of tool. It’s not for dabblers, but for people who need high output and consistency without wasting time. Here's what makes this model the go-to choice for bulk users and small operations:
Designed For High-Volume Production
This capsule machine is ideal for serious users who regularly make large batches of supplements. It drastically reduces the time spent filling capsules, often producing hundreds in minutes when paired with the right workflow. This level of efficiency is especially valuable for small businesses, herbalists, or anyone managing daily capsule needs for multiple people.
Built To Withstand Repeated Use
With stronger materials, smoother mechanics, and tighter tolerances, high-capacity capsule fillers are designed to withstand frequent use. That durability matters when you're processing large quantities of powder every week. Machines like the Pro Series from Blated also include tool-less top plate removal, which speeds cleaning and makes it more thorough between batches.
Best For Teams, Clinics, And Established Routines
At this level, you’re not just making capsules for yourself. This size is commonly used by clinics, veterinarians, and even compounding pharmacies, which speaks to its reliability and speed. To see how different models stack up, check out this Core Series vs. Pro Series Comparison before deciding what best fits your workflow.
Which Capsule Machine Filler Is Right for You?
Choosing the right capsule machine filler isn’t just about how many capsules you can fill. It’s also about how often you’ll use it, how much space you have, and how much control you want over your supplement process. Here’s how to think through your decision based on your goals:
For The Occasional DIYer
If you’re just making capsules for yourself or testing out a few powders, the 100-hole machine is a great place to start. It’s easy to learn, low-commitment, and won’t take up much room in your kitchen or workspace. This option is especially popular among beginners experimenting with smaller amounts of mushroom blends, adaptogens, or kratom.
For The Committed Home User
If capsule-making is already a weekly routine and you’re working with multiple powders or larger volumes, the 400-hole machine offers the best mix of speed and simplicity. It lets you stay efficient without needing commercial space or tools. For many Blated users, it’s the machine they stick with long-term because it keeps up without being overwhelming.
For The High-Volume User Or Small Business
If you're making capsules to support multiple people, sell product, or keep up with high personal demand, the 800-hole machine is the clear choice. It’s built for speed, durability, and precision over the long haul. At this level, using tools like the Capsule Formulation Tool can help you prep your blends more accurately and streamline the entire filling process.
Other Factors To Consider: Time, Clean-Up, And Learning Curve
Choosing a capsule filler machine isn’t only about the hole count. Real-life details can make the process feel sustainable or like a chore. Here are a few often-overlooked factors that can make or break your capsule-making experience:
Time Investment Beyond Just Filling
It’s easy to look at machine size and assume bigger is always better. But larger machines don’t always mean less work if your routine isn’t dialed in. Sorting capsules, leveling powder, tamping, and capping all take time, and it’s worth considering how often you want to do this each week.
Clean-Up and Storage Space
A 100-hole machine takes less time to clean and can usually be rinsed and dried quickly. Larger machines, like the 800-hole filler, are faster at production but take longer to clean and need more space to store properly. That’s where quality design really matters. Blated’s capsule machines are built with clean ingredients in mind and avoid colored plastics that can leave residue or leach dyes into your supplements.
Learning Curve and Ease of Use
All capsule fillers require some practice, but higher-capacity machines can be harder to get the hang of if you’re brand new. Some people prefer to start small and upgrade later once they’ve developed a rhythm. If you're feeling unsure, this Essential Tips for Beginners and Pros guide walks you through each step and helps avoid the most common mistakes.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Fit In The World of Capsule Machines
Filling your own capsules isn’t just about saving money or avoiding additives. It’s about taking ownership of your health routine and making sure every ingredient in your blend actually belongs there. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up a small operation, the right capsule machine can make that process smoother, faster, and more consistent.
Blated exists because we were frustrated by the lack of clean, customizable options in the supplement world. We’ve seen firsthand how hard it can be to trust what’s on store shelves, and that’s why we’ve built tools that make DIY supplementing easier, without sacrificing quality. If you’re not sure where to begin, our Capsule Formulation Tool can help you prep your blends with better accuracy and confidence.
From compact capsule machines for beginners to high-volume fillers for pros, the most important thing is finding a setup that supports your goals, without overwhelming your life. Capsule-making should feel empowering, not stressful. And once you find your rhythm, it becomes a sustainable part of your wellness routine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Capsule Filler Machines
What size capsules work best with different capsule filler machines?
Most capsule filler machines come in multiple different capsule sizes, allowing you to choose the size that works best for your needs. However, each machine can only fill one specific size. Size 00 is the most commonly chosen because it can hold around 750mg (or 3/4th a gram) of powder while still being fairly easy to swallow. It’s important to check machine size options before purchasing to ensure you choose the size that best suits the capsules you’re filling.
Can I fill capsules with oily or sticky substances using a capsule filler machine?
Yes, you can, but it requires specific changes to the capsule-filling process and the selection of specially made capsules for holding oils. We have a video showing you how to fill capsules with oil using a capsule filling machine on our How to page.
Is it possible to encapsulate multiple powders at once?
Yes, many users mix multiple powders to create custom blends before filling. It’s important to mix thoroughly for consistency and consider whether the powders have similar densities. For more precise mixing, geometric dilution techniques may be helpful. You can learn how to do this in our article guide, The Ultimate Guide to Making Your Own Supplements.
We also have a tool we’ve created called our Capsule Formulation Calculator that will tell you exactly how much of each powder to mix together so that your capsules hold the exact dosage you want them to.
How long does it take to fill capsules with a manual machine?
A 100-hole capsule filler may take about 10 minutes for one batch once you get the hang of it. Larger machines, like 400- or 800-hole models, can drastically reduce that time per capsule, taking anywhere from 15-30 minutes depending on the user. The learning curve also plays a role, as efficiency improves with experience.
What’s the difference between gelatin and vegan capsules in these machines?
Both types work well with manual capsule machines, so long as they’re made to the proper tolerances. Storage and handling can affect how smoothly either one works with your machine as well.
Can capsule fillers be used for non-supplement purposes?
Yes, some users use capsule machines to fill spices, herbal blends, or even small pet medications. However, if you plan to switch between uses, it's important to clean the machine thoroughly between batches to avoid cross-contamination. Always keep edible and non-edible applications separate.
How do I store a capsule filler machine when not in use?
Store your capsule filler in a dry, cool space away from direct sunlight. Keeping it in a sealed container or storage bag can prevent dust buildup and protect plastic components. Make sure it’s fully dry after cleaning to keep it in pristine condition.
Sources:
1. Patil, Y. G., Badgujar, A. N., Chavan, S. U., Pinjari, K. B., & Pardeshi, M. S. (2025). Exploring the evaluation of capsule dosage forms: A comprehensive review. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Development, 7(1), 89–99. https://doi.org/10.33545/26646862.2025.v7.i1b.97
