10 Best Vitamin D3 Supplements (2026) — Softgels, Gummies & Liquid Reviewed
Vitamin D3—often called the “sunshine vitamin”—may be one of the most critical nutrients you’re not getting enough of. Research suggests that approximately 42% of American adults have insufficient vitamin D levels, with rates climbing even higher during winter months and for those who spend most of their time indoors.
Unlike most vitamins that you can easily obtain from food, vitamin D3 is primarily synthesized when your skin is exposed to UVB rays from sunlight. This makes supplementation essential for many people, particularly those living in northern latitudes, working indoors, or wearing sunscreen regularly. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the form your body naturally produces and is generally considered more effective than vitamin D2 at raising and maintaining blood levels.
We evaluated dozens of vitamin D3 supplements based on form (D3 vs. D2), third-party testing, absorption-enhancing ingredients, dosage options, and value. Our selections include products verified by ConsumerLab, recommended by registered dietitians at Healthline and Women’s Health, and highly rated on Amazon. Here are our top picks for 2026.
Table of Contents
- Quick Comparison Table
- Best by Form: Softgels vs. Gummies vs. Liquid
- Individual Product Reviews
- Buying Guide: What to Look For
- How to Take Vitamin D3
- Potential Benefits of Vitamin D3
- Safety Considerations
- FAQ
- Bottom Line
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Form | Serving Size | Key Differentiator | Best For | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NatureWise Vitamin D3 5000 IU | Softgel | 1 softgel | NSF Contents Certified, organic olive oil | Most people | 🏆 TOP PICK |
| Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 | Softgel | 1 softgel | Vegan D3 from lichen + K2 | D3 + K2 combo | 🥇 |
| Thorne Vitamin D-5000 | Capsule | 1 capsule | NSF Certified for Sport | Athletes | 🥇 |
| Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3 5000 IU | Capsule | 1 capsule | Hypoallergenic, pharmaceutical-grade | Premium/sensitive individuals | 🥇 |
| NOW Foods Vitamin D-3 5000 IU | Softgel | 1 softgel | Excellent value, olive oil base | Budget buyers | 🥇 |
| Nature Made Vitamin D3 5000 IU | Softgel | 1 softgel | USP Verified, pharmacist recommended | Quality assurance seekers | |
| Nordic Naturals Vitamin D3 Gummies | Gummy | 1 gummy | Third-party tested, great taste | Gummy preference | 🥇 |
| Vitafusion Vitamin D3 Gummies | Gummy | 2 gummies | ChefsBest Excellence Award | Budget gummies | |
| Thorne Vitamin D/K2 Liquid | Liquid | 2 drops | Customizable dosing, D3 + K2 | Liquid/flexible dosing | 🥇 |
| Nature Made Vitamin D3 K2 | Softgel | 1 softgel | USP Verified, D3 + K2 combo | Mainstream D3 + K2 |
Best by Form: Softgels vs. Gummies vs. Liquid
Softgels & Capsules
Pros: Generally more affordable per serving, no added sugars, often include oils that may enhance absorption, longer shelf life, and typically provide higher doses in a single serving.
Cons: May be difficult for some people to swallow, not suitable for children or those with swallowing difficulties.
Best for: Most adults who want an efficient, cost-effective way to supplement vitamin D3.
Gummies
Pros: Pleasant taste, easy to take, good option for those who dislike pills, may improve supplement compliance.
Cons: Often contain added sugars, typically lower doses requiring multiple gummies, shorter shelf life, and more expensive per IU.
Best for: Those who struggle with pills, children (with appropriate pediatric products), and anyone who needs a more enjoyable supplement experience.
Liquid Drops
Pros: Highly customizable dosing, easy to add to food or beverages, suitable for all ages including infants, fast absorption potential.
Cons: Requires careful measuring, may have a taste, shorter shelf life once opened.
Best for: Infants, children, those with swallowing difficulties, or anyone needing precise dose adjustments.
Individual Product Reviews
NatureWise Vitamin D3 5000 IU — Best Overall
This NSF Contents Certified supplement delivers premium quality at an exceptional value, making it our top pick for most people seeking a reliable vitamin D3 supplement.
NatureWise has earned its reputation as one of the most trusted names in vitamin D3 supplementation. Each mini softgel provides 5,000 IU of cholecalciferol suspended in organic cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, which may enhance absorption since vitamin D is fat-soluble. The NSF Contents Certification means this supplement has been independently tested to verify that what’s on the label matches what’s in the bottle.
The company uses naturally-sourced vitamin D3 and manufactures all products in the USA following cGMP standards. With a full year’s supply in each bottle, the value proposition is hard to beat. Users consistently praise the tiny softgel size that’s easy to swallow.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 1 softgel (5,000 IU / 125 mcg)
- Count: 360 softgels (1-year supply)
- Certifications: NSF Contents Certified, Non-GMO
- Additional ingredients: Organic cold-pressed olive oil
Considerations: Softgels may clump together in warm temperatures, though this doesn’t affect efficacy. The 5,000 IU dose may be higher than needed for some individuals.
Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 — Best D3 + K2 Combination
This vegan-certified formula pairs plant-based D3 from lichen with vitamin K2, offering synergistic benefits for bone and cardiovascular health.
Sports Research stands out by combining 5,000 IU of vegan vitamin D3 (sourced from lichen rather than lanolin) with 100 mcg of vitamin K2 as MK-7. This pairing is significant because vitamin D3 helps your body absorb calcium, while K2 helps direct that calcium to your bones rather than your arteries. The formula uses coconut MCT oil to enhance absorption.
The company’s commitment to quality is evident in their certifications: Vegan Certified, Non-GMO Project Verified, and manufactured in a cGMP-compliant facility. Each batch undergoes third-party testing. The PlantGel capsules use turmeric-based coating to protect against light degradation.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 1 softgel (5,000 IU D3 + 100 mcg K2)
- Count: 60 softgels
- Certifications: Vegan Certified, Non-GMO Project Verified
- Additional ingredients: Coconut MCT oil, K2 from fermented chickpeas
Considerations: Those taking blood thinners (especially warfarin) should consult their healthcare provider before taking vitamin K2 supplements.
Thorne Vitamin D-5000 — Best for Athletes
NSF Certified for Sport and trusted by over 100 professional sports teams, this pharmaceutical-grade supplement meets the highest purity standards for competitive athletes.
Thorne has established itself as the gold standard for athletes who need supplements tested for banned substances. The NSF Certified for Sport designation means this vitamin D3 has been rigorously tested to ensure it contains what’s on the label and is free from nearly 300 substances prohibited by major athletic organizations.
As the number one recommended clinical brand by healthcare practitioners, Thorne’s vitamin D3 features a clean formula with minimal ingredients. The capsules are gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free, making them suitable for those with common allergen sensitivities.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 1 capsule (5,000 IU / 125 mcg)
- Count: 60 capsules
- Certifications: NSF Certified for Sport
- Additional ingredients: Vitamin E (d-Alpha Tocopheryl)
Considerations: Premium pricing reflects the extensive testing and quality control. Does not include oil for absorption enhancement, so take with a meal containing fat.
Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3 5000 IU — Best Premium/Hypoallergenic
This pharmaceutical-grade supplement is specifically formulated for those with sensitivities, featuring a hypoallergenic formula free from common allergens and unnecessary additives.
Pure Encapsulations has built its reputation on creating supplements that work for even the most sensitive individuals. Their vitamin D3 is manufactured without gluten, GMOs, artificial additives, or common allergens. The company uses only premium, research-backed ingredients and conducts rigorous third-party testing.
This makes it an excellent choice for those who have experienced reactions to other supplements or who need to avoid specific ingredients due to allergies or sensitivities. Healthcare practitioners frequently recommend Pure Encapsulations for patients with complex health needs.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 1 capsule (5,000 IU / 125 mcg)
- Count: 120 capsules
- Certifications: Third-party tested, Gluten-Free Certified
- Additional ingredients: Hypoallergenic plant fiber (cellulose)
Considerations: Higher price point than mainstream brands. Vegetarian capsules don’t include added fats, so take with food for better absorption.
NOW Foods Vitamin D-3 5000 IU — Best Budget
This family-owned brand delivers reliable quality at an unbeatable price, making high-dose vitamin D3 accessible to budget-conscious consumers.
NOW Foods has been a trusted name in supplements since 1968, and their vitamin D3 exemplifies their commitment to quality and value. Each softgel provides 5,000 IU suspended in extra virgin olive oil for enhanced absorption. The formula is manufactured in GMP-certified facilities and is Halal and Kosher certified.
With 240 softgels per bottle, this provides exceptional value for those who want a straightforward, effective vitamin D3 supplement without premium pricing. Reviewers consistently note the easy-to-swallow size and absence of aftertaste.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 1 softgel (5,000 IU / 125 mcg)
- Count: 240 softgels
- Certifications: GMP Quality Assured, Halal, Kosher
- Additional ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil, safflower oil
Considerations: Contains bovine gelatin (not suitable for vegetarians). Natural color variation may occur between batches.
Nature Made Vitamin D3 5000 IU — Best USP Verified
As the number one pharmacist-recommended brand with USP verification, Nature Made offers mainstream reliability backed by independent quality testing.
Nature Made’s USP Verified seal means an independent organization has tested and confirmed that this supplement contains the ingredients listed on the label in the declared amounts, is free from harmful levels of contaminants, and will properly dissolve for absorption. This third-party verification provides peace of mind for quality-conscious consumers.
As the most recommended supplement brand by pharmacists, Nature Made has earned trust through decades of consistent quality. The softgels are gluten-free with no color added and no artificial flavors.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 1 softgel (5,000 IU / 125 mcg)
- Count: 180 softgels
- Certifications: USP Verified
- Additional ingredients: Soybean oil, corn oil
Considerations: Contains soy and corn derivatives, which may be a concern for those with allergies. This high-dose product is intended for those with higher vitamin D needs as determined by a healthcare professional.
Nordic Naturals Vitamin D3 Gummies — Best Gummies
Third-party tested with a delicious wild berry flavor, these vegetarian gummies make vitamin D supplementation enjoyable without compromising on quality.
Nordic Naturals brings their reputation for purity and quality to the gummy format. These vegetarian, gelatin-free gummies provide 1,000 IU per gummy—a moderate dose suitable for daily maintenance. The formula uses pectin rather than gelatin, making it suitable for vegetarians.
What sets Nordic Naturals apart is their commitment to third-party testing that surpasses international standards for purity and potency. The wild berry flavor is derived from natural sources, and the gummies contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 1 gummy (1,000 IU / 25 mcg)
- Count: 60 gummies
- Certifications: Third-party tested, Non-GMO
- Additional ingredients: Organic tapioca syrup, organic cane sugar
Considerations: Lower dose per serving may require multiple gummies for those needing higher intake. Contains 3g of sugar per serving.
Vitafusion Vitamin D3 Gummies — Best Budget Gummies
America’s number one gummy vitamin brand delivers award-winning taste with a solid 2,000 IU per serving at an accessible price point.
Vitafusion has earned the ChefsBest Excellence Award for taste, making them an excellent choice for those who find traditional supplements unpalatable. The peach, blackberry, and strawberry flavors make daily supplementation something to look forward to.
With 2,000 IU per two-gummy serving, these provide a meaningful dose without the high concentrations found in some supplements. The formula is gluten-free, contains no high-fructose corn syrup, and uses no synthetic FD&C dyes.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 2 gummies (2,000 IU / 50 mcg)
- Count: 150 gummies (75-day supply)
- Certifications: ChefsBest Excellence Award
- Additional ingredients: Glucose syrup, gelatin, natural flavors
Considerations: Contains gelatin (not suitable for vegetarians). Two gummies required per serving increases sugar intake compared to capsule alternatives.
Thorne Vitamin D/K2 Liquid — Best Liquid
This precision-dosed liquid formula combines D3 and K2 with a metered dispenser, offering unmatched flexibility for customized supplementation.
Thorne’s liquid vitamin D/K2 solves multiple supplementation challenges at once. The metered dispenser delivers precise doses, making it easy to customize intake based on individual needs or healthcare provider recommendations. Each two-drop serving provides vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 in bioavailable forms.
The liquid format is particularly valuable for those who have difficulty swallowing pills, for mixing into food or beverages, or for families who need different doses for different members. With 600 servings per bottle, it offers exceptional longevity.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 2 drops (varies by product version)
- Count: 30 ml (approximately 600 servings)
- Certifications: Third-party certified
- Additional ingredients: Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil
Considerations: Vitamin K2 may interact with blood thinners. Requires careful attention to drop counting for accurate dosing.
Nature Made Vitamin D3 K2 — Best Mainstream D3 + K2
Combining USP Verified quality with the synergistic D3 + K2 pairing, this supplement brings premium benefits to the mainstream market.
Nature Made extends their trusted quality to the D3 + K2 category. Each softgel provides 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 alongside 100 mcg of vitamin K2, supporting both calcium absorption and proper calcium utilization. The K2 helps direct calcium to bones where it’s needed while supporting healthy artery function.
As part of Nature Made’s lineup, this product benefits from their extensive quality control processes and wide retail availability. It’s an accessible option for those wanting the D3 + K2 combination without seeking out specialty brands.
Key Specifications:
- Serving: 1 softgel (5,000 IU D3 + 100 mcg K2)
- Count: 30 softgels
- Certifications: USP standards, Made in USA
- Additional ingredients: Soybean oil, corn oil
Considerations: Contains soy and corn derivatives. The high-dose vitamin D3 is designed for those with higher needs as determined by a healthcare professional. Consult your doctor if taking blood thinners.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
Key Quality Indicators
Third-party testing is perhaps the most important factor when selecting a vitamin D3 supplement. Look for certifications from NSF, USP, ConsumerLab, or other independent testing organizations. These verify that the product contains what’s listed on the label and is free from harmful contaminants.
Vitamin D3 over D2: Research consistently shows that vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is more effective than D2 (ergocalciferol) at raising and maintaining blood vitamin D levels. Always opt for D3 unless you specifically need a vegan source of D2.
Fat-soluble delivery: Vitamin D is fat-soluble, meaning it’s better absorbed when taken with dietary fat. Supplements that include oils (olive oil, MCT oil, coconut oil) may enhance absorption, though taking any vitamin D supplement with a fat-containing meal can achieve similar results.
Certifications That Matter
- USP Verified: Confirms potency, purity, and proper dissolution
- NSF Certified for Sport: Tested for banned substances (important for athletes)
- NSF Contents Certified: Verifies label accuracy
- Non-GMO Project Verified: Confirms non-GMO ingredients
- Vegan Certified: Ensures plant-based sourcing
Red Flags to Avoid
- Supplements without any third-party testing claims
- Proprietary blends that don’t disclose specific amounts
- Mega-doses significantly exceeding 10,000 IU without medical supervision
- Products stored improperly or past expiration dates
- Exaggerated health claims that sound too good to be true
Choosing Your Dose
The appropriate vitamin D3 dose varies based on individual factors including current blood levels, sun exposure, diet, age, and health conditions. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 600-800 IU for most adults, but research suggests many people may benefit from higher amounts. Common supplementation ranges include 1,000-2,000 IU for maintenance and 4,000-5,000 IU for those with deficiency or higher needs. The tolerable upper intake level is 4,000 IU daily for adults, though higher doses may be appropriate under medical supervision.
How to Take Vitamin D3
Recommended Dosage
Most vitamin D3 supplements range from 1,000 to 5,000 IU per serving. For general maintenance, 1,000-2,000 IU daily is often sufficient. Those with documented deficiency may need 4,000-5,000 IU or higher as directed by a healthcare provider. Blood testing (25-hydroxyvitamin D) is the most accurate way to determine your optimal dose.
Best Time to Take
Vitamin D3 can be taken at any time of day, but taking it with your largest meal (typically dinner or lunch) may enhance absorption due to the presence of dietary fats. Consistency matters more than timing—choose a time that helps you remember to take it daily.
Usage Instructions by Form
Softgels/Capsules: Take with a meal containing fat. Swallow whole with water.
Gummies: Chew thoroughly before swallowing. Can be taken with or without food.
Liquid: Use the dropper to measure your dose. Can be taken directly, mixed into food, or added to beverages. Shake well before use.
Duration and Cycling
Vitamin D3 supplementation is generally considered safe for long-term daily use. Unlike some supplements, vitamin D3 does not typically require cycling. However, periodic blood testing (every 6-12 months) helps ensure levels remain in the optimal range and allows for dosage adjustments as needed.
Potential Benefits of Vitamin D3
Research suggests vitamin D3 may support several aspects of health, though benefits can vary based on individual factors and baseline vitamin D status:
Bone Health: Vitamin D3 plays a critical role in calcium absorption and bone metabolism. Studies indicate that adequate vitamin D levels may help maintain bone density and reduce fracture risk, particularly when combined with sufficient calcium intake.
Immune Function: Research published in the British Medical Journal suggests that vitamin D supplementation may reduce the risk of acute respiratory infections, particularly in those with low baseline levels. The vitamin appears to support both innate and adaptive immune responses.
Muscle Function: Vitamin D receptors are present in muscle tissue, and studies suggest adequate levels may support muscle strength and function, particularly in older adults.
Mood Support: Some research has found associations between low vitamin D levels and depression. While supplementation studies have shown mixed results, maintaining adequate vitamin D may support overall mood and well-being.
Cardiovascular Health: Observational studies have linked low vitamin D levels to increased cardiovascular risk. However, intervention studies have not consistently shown that supplementation reduces cardiovascular events, so this remains an area of ongoing research.
Safety Considerations
Potential Side Effects
Vitamin D3 is generally well-tolerated at recommended doses. However, excessive intake can lead to toxicity (hypervitaminosis D), which may cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, frequent urination, and potentially serious complications like kidney damage and hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium).
Who Should Exercise Caution
- Those with kidney disease or a history of kidney stones
- Individuals with hypercalcemia or hyperparathyroidism
- Those taking thiazide diuretics (may increase calcium levels)
- People with sarcoidosis or other granulomatous diseases
- Those taking vitamin K2 alongside blood thinners (especially warfarin)
Drug Interactions
Vitamin D may interact with certain medications including steroids (which can reduce vitamin D absorption), weight-loss drugs like orlistat, cholesterol-lowering medications, and some seizure medications. If taking K2-containing supplements, be aware of interactions with anticoagulants.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Speak with your doctor before starting vitamin D3 supplementation if you have any chronic health conditions, are taking medications, are pregnant or nursing, or if you’re considering doses above 4,000 IU daily. Blood testing can help determine your current vitamin D status and appropriate supplementation strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between vitamin D2 and D3?
A: Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) comes from plant sources like mushrooms, while D3 (cholecalciferol) is the form your body produces from sunlight and is found in animal-derived foods. Research consistently shows D3 is more effective at raising and maintaining blood vitamin D levels, making it the preferred form for supplementation.
Q: Can I get enough vitamin D from food alone?
A: It’s challenging for most people. Few foods naturally contain significant vitamin D—fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified products are the main dietary sources. Most adults would struggle to meet their vitamin D needs through diet alone, which is why supplementation is often recommended.
Q: How do I know if I’m vitamin D deficient?
A: A blood test measuring 25-hydroxyvitamin D is the most accurate way to assess your status. Levels below 20 ng/mL are generally considered deficient, while 20-29 ng/mL is insufficient. Optimal levels are typically considered 30-50 ng/mL, though recommendations can vary.
Q: Should I take vitamin D3 with K2?
A: There’s growing interest in combining D3 with K2 because they work synergistically for bone health. D3 helps your body absorb calcium, while K2 helps direct calcium to bones rather than soft tissues like arteries. This combination may be particularly beneficial for bone and cardiovascular health, though more research is needed.
Q: Can I take too much vitamin D?
A: Yes. While vitamin D toxicity is rare, it can occur with very high doses (typically above 10,000 IU daily for extended periods). Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, and potentially serious complications. Stick to recommended doses and work with your healthcare provider if considering higher amounts.
Q: Does vitamin D3 help with COVID-19?
A: Some studies have found associations between low vitamin D levels and more severe COVID-19 outcomes, and vitamin D does play a role in immune function. However, the evidence is not conclusive enough to make specific COVID-19 prevention claims. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is generally supportive of overall immune health.
Q: Is it better to take vitamin D in the morning or at night?
A: There’s no definitive evidence that timing significantly impacts absorption. The most important factor is consistency. Some people prefer morning with breakfast, while others find evening with dinner more convenient. Taking it with a meal containing fat may enhance absorption.
Q: How long does it take for vitamin D supplements to work?
A: Blood levels typically begin to rise within a few weeks of starting supplementation. However, it may take 2-3 months of consistent supplementation to reach optimal levels, particularly if starting from a deficient state. Individual response varies based on factors like baseline levels, dose, and absorption.
Bottom Line
For most people: NatureWise Vitamin D3 5000 IU offers the best combination of quality (NSF Contents Certified), value (1-year supply), and absorption (organic olive oil base). It’s our top overall pick.
For budget buyers: NOW Foods Vitamin D-3 5000 IU delivers reliable quality from a trusted 50+ year-old brand at an exceptional price point.
For D3 + K2 combination: Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 provides synergistic bone support with a vegan-certified formula that’s extensively third-party tested.
For athletes: Thorne Vitamin D-5000 with its NSF Certified for Sport designation ensures competitive athletes can supplement confidently.
For sensitive individuals: Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3 5000 IU offers pharmaceutical-grade purity with a hypoallergenic formula.
For gummy preference: Nordic Naturals Vitamin D3 Gummies combines great taste with third-party tested quality in a vegetarian format.
For flexible liquid dosing: Thorne Vitamin D/K2 Liquid provides precision dosing with D3 + K2 benefits in an easy-to-customize format.
