The capacitance calculator finds equivalent capacitance for series and parallel combinations. Add up to 8 capacitors in any configuration. Supports pF, nF, and μF. In parallel: C_total = sum. In series: 1/C_total = sum of reciprocals.
Capacitance Calculator
How to Use the Capacitance Calculator
This calculator finds total capacitance for capacitors in series or parallel. Add capacitors using the + Add button; remove extras with - Remove.
Parallel Circuits
In parallel, all capacitors share the same voltage. C_total = C₁ + C₂ + C₃. Two 10 μF capacitors in parallel = 20 μF. Parallel connections increase capacitance.
Series Circuits
In series, all capacitors share the same charge. 1/C_total = 1/C₁ + 1/C₂. Two 10 μF in series = 5 μF. Series connections decrease capacitance.
Unit Conversion
1 μF = 1000 nF = 1,000,000 pF. Select the unit for each capacitor individually — the calculator handles mixed unit inputs automatically.
FAQ
How do capacitors combine in series vs parallel?
In parallel, capacitances add directly: C_total = C₁ + C₂ + C₃. In series, the reciprocals add: 1/C_total = 1/C₁ + 1/C₂ + 1/C₃. This is the opposite of resistors. Parallel capacitors store more charge; series capacitors share voltage.
What are typical capacitor values?
Small signal capacitors: pF (picofarads, 10⁻¹²) to nF (nanofarads, 10⁻⁹). Audio and power supply capacitors: μF (microfarads, 10⁻⁶). Supercapacitors/ultracapacitors: 1-3000 F. A typical smartphone battery is roughly equivalent to ~1000 F at 3.7V.
Is this calculator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required. All calculations run in your browser.
Is my data private?
Yes. All calculations run locally. Nothing is transmitted.
Why does series connection reduce capacitance?
In series, capacitors share the applied voltage, with smaller capacitors getting more voltage. The effective plate separation increases (as if you're stacking plates), which reduces overall capacitance. The formula 1/C_total = 1/C₁ + 1/C₂ always gives a result smaller than either individual capacitor.