Capacitors in series and parallel combine differently from resistors. Parallel capacitances add directly (more charge storage). Series capacitances reduce (lower total, higher voltage rating). This calculator handles up to 6 capacitors in either configuration and displays the total equivalent capacitance.
Capacitor Configuration
Total Capacitance
Quick Reference Formulas
C_total = C1 + C2 + C3 + ...
1/C_total = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + ...
How to Use the Capacitor Series/Parallel Calculator
This capacitor combination calculator computes total equivalent capacitance for series or parallel configurations. Enter up to 6 capacitor values in pF, nF, or μF. Switch between series and parallel modes to compare configurations.
Series Capacitor Formula
1/C_total = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + 1/C3. For two identical capacitors C in series: C_total = C/2. For three: C_total = C/3. The voltage rating of a series combination adds up — two 50V/100nF caps in series = 100V rating at 50nF. Use this for voltage rating extension.
Parallel Capacitor Formula
C_total = C1 + C2 + C3. Two 100nF in parallel = 200nF. Parallel combinations increase capacitance and improve high-frequency performance. Multiple small capacitors in parallel often outperform a single large electrolytic because SMD ceramic caps have lower ESL (equivalent series inductance) — important for power supply decoupling.
Standard Capacitor Values (E12 Series)
1.0, 1.2, 1.5, 1.8, 2.2, 2.7, 3.3, 3.9, 4.7, 5.6, 6.8, 8.2 (and ×10, ×100 multiples). If you need 15pF, combine a 10pF and 5.6pF in parallel for 15.6pF. For crystal oscillators, exact values matter — use the closest available C0G ceramic.
FAQ
Is this capacitor calculator free?
Yes, completely free. Calculate total capacitance for any configuration without any account or payment.
Is my data private?
All calculations run in your browser. No data is sent to any server.
What is the formula for capacitors in parallel?
Parallel: C_total = C1 + C2 + C3 + ... Capacitances add directly. Two 100nF capacitors in parallel = 200nF. Parallel capacitors share the same voltage and their charge capacities add together.
What is the formula for capacitors in series?
Series: 1/C_total = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + 1/C3 + ... For two capacitors: C_total = (C1 × C2) / (C1 + C2). Two 100nF capacitors in series = 50nF. Series capacitors divide voltage and total capacitance is always less than the smallest capacitor.
Why would I put capacitors in series?
Series configuration reduces capacitance but increases voltage rating. If you need a 100V capacitor but only have 50V units, two in series can handle 100V (with balanced voltage division). Also used in voltage multiplier circuits and specific filter designs.
Why would I put capacitors in parallel?
Parallel increases capacitance and current handling ability. Common for power supply bypass/decoupling: multiple small capacitors in parallel often outperform a single large one due to lower parasitic inductance. Also used to achieve exact capacitance values not available in standard series.
What units are used and how do they relate?
1 Farad (F) = 1,000 millifarads (mF) = 1,000,000 microfarads (μF) = 1,000,000,000 nanofarads (nF) = 1,000,000,000,000 picofarads (pF). Most common values: electrolytic capacitors in μF (1–10,000μF), ceramic in pF or nF (1pF–100nF), film in nF to μF.