The main places to order capacitors are electronics retailers, online marketplaces, and specialty distributors
You can buy capacitors from three types of sources: large online retailers that stock thousands of parts, specialty electronics distributors that focus on components, and local electronics shops if you need them same-day. Each has different strengths depending on whether you need one capacitor for a repair, a bulk order for a project, or something hard to find. The choice usually comes down to how soon you need the part, how many you're ordering, and whether you know the exact specifications.
Most people start with one of the big online retailers because they have wide selection and competitive prices. Specialty distributors are better if you need technical support or have questions about which capacitor will work for your circuit. Local shops are fastest if you're in a hurry, though their prices tend to be higher and selection smaller.
Key Takeaways
- Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress stock capacitors in nearly every size and voltage rating, with delivery times ranging from two days to several weeks depending on the seller's location.
- Digi-Key, Mouser Electronics, and Newark are specialty distributors that cater to engineers and hobbyists, with detailed datasheets and technical support included.
- Local electronics repair shops and RadioShack-style retailers can sell you a capacitor the same day, but usually at a higher per-unit price than online sources.
- You need to know the capacitance value (measured in microfarads or farads), the voltage rating, and the physical size or package type before you order, or you risk buying the wrong part.
Large online marketplaces: Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress
Amazon carries capacitors from multiple sellers, usually with two-day or next-day delivery if you have Prime. The selection is broad — electrolytic, ceramic, film, and specialty types are all available. Prices are moderate, and you can read reviews from other buyers. The downside is that Amazon's search can be confusing if you don't know the exact part number, and some sellers ship from overseas, which means longer wait times and potential customs delays.
eBay has a large inventory of both new and used capacitors, often at lower prices than Amazon. Many sellers are electronics hobbyists or small shops clearing inventory. Shipping times vary widely depending on the seller's location — domestic sellers often ship within a few days, while international sellers may take two to four weeks. Check the seller's feedback rating before ordering, especially for used parts.
AliExpress is a Chinese marketplace with very low prices on capacitors, but shipping typically takes two to four weeks or longer. It's useful if you're ordering in bulk for a long-term project and don't need the parts when ready. Quality control is less consistent than Western retailers, so buy from sellers with high ratings and read the reviews carefully.
Specialty electronics distributors: Digi-Key, Mouser, and Newark
Digi-Key, Mouser Electronics, and Newark are the three largest specialty distributors in North America. They stock millions of capacitors from every major manufacturer and can usually ship within one to three business days. Their websites have detailed search filters — you can narrow by capacitance, voltage, package type, and manufacturer — and every part comes with a link to the official datasheet. Prices are competitive with Amazon for single units, and they offer volume discounts if you're ordering dozens or hundreds.
These distributors cater to engineers, repair technicians, and serious hobbyists. Their customer service teams can answer technical questions about which capacitor will work in your circuit. They also have stock indicators that tell you when ready whether a part is in stock or on backorder, which saves time. The trade-off is that their websites are more technical and harder to navigate if you're new to electronics.
Digi-Key and Mouser both have physical locations in the United States, so domestic orders are fast and reliable. Newark is owned by ScanSource and serves North America as well. All three offer educational discounts if you're a student.
Local electronics shops and repair stores
Independent electronics repair shops, computer repair stores, and older RadioShack locations (now operated by franchisees) keep capacitors in stock for same-day pickup. This is your fastest option if you need a capacitor today and don't want to wait for shipping. You can also ask the shop staff which capacitor you need if you're unsure — they can often identify the right part from a photo of your broken device.
The downside is cost. Local shops typically charge two to five times more per capacitor than online retailers because they have higher overhead and smaller order volumes. They also may not stock specialty or hard-to-find capacitors. Call ahead to confirm they have the part you need before you make the trip.
To find a local shop, search "electronics repair near me" or "computer repair near me" in Google Maps. Ask whether they sell individual components or only repair devices. Some shops will only sell to customers who bring in a device for repair.
Manufacturer direct sales and bulk ordering
If you need a large quantity of capacitors — hundreds or thousands — you can order directly from manufacturers like Vishay, Murata, or Kemet. Minimum orders are usually high (often 1,000 units or more), and lead times can be weeks or months. This route is only practical for manufacturing or large-scale projects.
For smaller bulk orders (10 to 100 units), the specialty distributors Digi-Key and Mouser offer better pricing than single-unit purchases. You can also contact a local distributor's sales team to negotiate pricing on larger orders.
How to find the right capacitor before you order
Before you search for a capacitor, you need to know four things: the capacitance value (in microfarads, nanofarads, or farads), the voltage rating, the package type (through-hole or surface-mount), and ideally the original manufacturer and part number. If you're replacing a capacitor that failed, look at the markings printed on the old part or check the circuit board's schematic or parts list.
If you don't have the original part number, search by the three main specifications instead. For example, "10 microfarad 50 volt electrolytic capacitor" will narrow the results significantly. Specialty distributors' search tools let you filter by these exact parameters, which is much faster than scrolling through thousands of results on Amazon.
If you're still unsure, post a photo of the failed capacitor or the circuit board on an electronics forum like r/electronics or Electronics Stack Exchange. Other hobbyists can often identify the correct replacement in minutes.
Comparing cost, speed, and reliability across sources
| Source | Typical Price (per unit) | Shipping Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | $0.50–$3.00 | 1–2 days (Prime) | Quick orders, common capacitors |
| eBay | $0.25–$2.00 | 3–21 days | Budget orders, used parts |
| AliExpress | $0.10–$1.00 | 14–30 days | Bulk orders, long-term projects |
| Digi-Key | $0.30–$2.50 | 1–3 days | Technical support, exact specs |
| Mouser | $0.30–$2.50 | 1–3 days | Technical support, exact specs |
| Local shop | $2.00–$10.00 | Same day | Emergency repairs, when ready need |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any capacitor as a replacement, or does it have to be the exact same one?
The voltage rating and capacitance value must match or exceed the original. You can use a higher voltage rating (for example, a 50V capacitor instead of 25V), but never lower. The package type and physical size should match to fit in the space, though sometimes a slightly larger capacitor will work if there's room. When in doubt, ask in an electronics forum with a photo of your circuit.
Why are capacitors so cheap on AliExpress compared to other sites?
AliExpress prices are lower because sellers have lower overhead, longer shipping times reduce their costs, and quality control is less strict. Many capacitors sold there are genuine, but counterfeits and out-of-spec parts do circulate. If you're ordering critical components for a repair, buy from Digi-Key or Mouser instead. For hobby projects where failure isn't costly, AliExpress is acceptable.
What if the capacitor I need is out of stock everywhere?
Check the specialty distributors' backorder lists — they often have estimated restock dates. You can also search for equivalent capacitors with the same capacitance and voltage rating from a different manufacturer. Electronics forums can help you identify substitutes. In rare cases, you may need to wait weeks for a restock or find a used part on eBay.
Do I need to worry about counterfeit capacitors?
Counterfeits are rare from Digi-Key, Mouser, and Amazon, but more common on eBay and AliExpress, especially for high-end brands like Nichicon or Panasonic. If you're buying from a smaller seller, check their feedback and reviews. For critical applications like power supplies, buy from authorized distributors only. For hobby projects, the risk is low.
Can I order capacitors internationally if I'm outside the United States?
Yes. Digi-Key and Mouser ship to most countries. eBay and AliExpress also ship internationally, though customs delays are common. Search for local electronics distributors in your country first — they'll have faster shipping and may not charge import fees. In Europe, Farnell and RS Components are the equivalents of Digi-Key and Mouser.