A Capsule Filling Machine helps you fill empty capsules fast.
It is used in the pharma, supplement, and herbal industries.
Different businesses need different machines.
In this guide, we explain all the types.
We cover features, benefits, and who should use each.
This will help you choose the best machine for your work.
Why Use a Capsule Filling Machine?
Manual filling takes time.
It is not precise.
A Capsule Filling Machine improves speed.
It also makes each capsule the same.
This helps build trust.
It also cuts labor.
And that saves money.
A good Automatic Filling Machine can even run by itself.
You just check it now and then.
Main Types of Capsule Filling Machines
There are three main types:
- Manual
- Semi-Automatic
- Automatic Filling Machine
Each fits a different need.
Let’s look at each in detail.
1. Manual Capsule Filling Machine
This is the simplest type.
It works without power.
You place capsules by hand.
You fill them with powder.
Then you close them by hand.
You can fill 100–500 capsules per batch.
It’s slow.
But it’s cheap and easy.
Best for:
- Labs
- Startups
- Low volume use
- Home businesses
Pros:
- Low price
- No electricity needed
- Easy to carry
- Great for learning
Cons:
- Slow
- Needs handwork
- Not for large batches
2. Semi-Automatic Capsule Filling Machine
This type is part machine, part manual.
You fill powder and load capsules.
Then the machine aligns and fills them.
You control it with buttons or switches.
Some models can fill 20,000+ capsules/hour.
Best for:
- Medium-sized companies
- Herbal producers
- Small supplement factories
Pros:
- Faster than manual
- Accurate
- Easy to operate
- Less labor needed
Cons:
- More costly than manual
- Needs power
- Still needs human input
3. Automatic Filling Machine
This is the top-level machine.
It does almost everything.
You load the capsules and powder.
The machine opens, fills, closes, and ejects.
Some models do polishing too.
It can fill 40,000 to 120,000 capsules per hour.
Best for:
- Pharma companies
- High-volume supplement brands
- Large factories
Pros:
- High speed
- Very accurate
- Low labor cost
- Consistent quality
Cons:
- High cost
- Needs space
- Requires training
Special Capsule Filling Machines
There are also machines made for special tasks.
These include:
Liquid Capsule Filling Machines
They fill capsules with oils or liquids.
Used in CBD, fish oil, and vitamin softgels.
Gelatin Capsule Machines
These work only with gelatin capsules.
Great for common supplement types.
Vegetarian Capsule Machines
Designed to handle veggie capsules.
Veggie shells need careful handling.
Many Automatic Filling Machines now support both types.
Key Features to Look For
No matter the type, some features make a big difference.
- Capsule size options (00, 0, 1, 2, etc.)
- Speed per hour
- Powder hopper size
- Touchscreen or manual control
- Dust collector
- Cleaning system
- Safety features
- Steel grade (304 or 316)
An Automatic Filling Machine often comes with more features.
How to Choose the Right Type
Here’s a quick guide:
Choose Manual if:
- You are just starting
- Your budget is small
- You don’t need speed
Choose Semi-Automatic if:
- You want speed
- But still want to save on cost
- You can manage some labor
Choose Automatic if:
- You want the best output
- You produce full-time
- You aim for clean, fast, and big batches
Cost Comparison
Prices vary a lot.
Here’s what you might pay:
- Manual: $200–$800
- Semi-Automatic: $3,000–$8,000
- Automatic Filling Machine: $10,000–$50,000+
The price goes up with speed and features.
Advantages of Using a Capsule Filling Machine
All machines give you some great benefits:
- Fast capsule filling
- Consistent weight
- Less labor
- Lower cost over time
- Clean and safe filling
An Automatic Filling Machine gives all these—plus high capacity.
Common Questions
Q: Can I fill all capsule sizes?
A: Yes, if your machine supports multiple sizes.
Q: Are veggie capsules safe in machines?
A: Yes. Use a model that handles delicate shells.
Q: What if I change capsule sizes often?
A: Choose a machine with changeable molds.
Q: Is training needed?
A: For Automatic Filling Machines, yes. Most sellers offer help.
A Capsule Filling Machine is a must for any capsule-based business.
You have many types to choose from.
Manual, semi-auto, or fully Automatic Filling Machine.
Each has pros and cons.
Think about your needs.
Think about your budget.
Think long-term.
Choosing the right machine helps you grow faster.
It keeps your product clean and trusted.
A good machine is not just a tool.
It’s your business partner.