Thorne multivitamins hit all the high points for a high-quality daily supplement. (Thorne)
Fitting all your nutrient needs into three meals a day? Easier said than done. Even with the best intentions, life happens, so a multivitamin can be a convenient way to fill nutritional gaps. "I like to look at a multivitamin as a safety net — it ensures you are getting all of the nutrients you need, even if you are eating a balanced diet," says Bridget Isaacs, registered dietitian of Nutrition by Bridget, who also points out that its possible to eat a balanced diet but to still come up short on some nutrients.
That said, choosing the right multivitamin is no small task. A trip to the pharmacy or supplement aisle reveals hundreds of brands and options, each with different formulations, quality and price points. There are multivitamins tailored to every lifestyle, dietary preference, health concern and age or gender-specific need. The choices can feel overwhelming.
To help you make an informed decision, we consulted three registered dietitians to break down what to look for in a multivitamin and the key differences between various types. Using their feedback and my own decade of experience as a registered dietitian, we researched products from over 15 brands and put 16 different multivitamins to the test to find the best multivitamins for 2025.
A note on supplements
The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
Form: Capsules | Dose: 2 capsules | Key Nutrients: Zinc, calcium, iodine, magnesium, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, B vitamins and vitamins A, C, D, E and K | Missing Nutrients: Iron, choline and omega-3 DHA and EPA
Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/Day easily took the crown as the best overall multivitamin due to its comprehensive formula and commitment to quality. A two-capsule serving delivers 21 essential vitamins and minerals, including 250% of the daily value (DV) for vitamin D — a nutrient many adults don't get enough of. It also provides all eight B vitamins, critical for energy production, brain health and new blood cell formation.
Thorne’s reputation for rigorous ingredient and product testing sets it apart in the supplement industry. Its Basic Nutrients 2/Day is NSF Certified for Sport, ensuring purity, potency and adherence to safe manufacturing practices.
Our tester was impressed with the multivitamin, appreciating its well-rounded formulation and experiencing no digestive issues. While the capsules are slightly larger, they were still easy to swallow. The tester described the cost of these vitamins as a "good middle-of-the-road price," highlighting it as a solid balance between quality and value.
While this multivitamin excels in many areas, it's worth noting that it does not include iron, which may make it less suitable for menstruating people. It also contains high doses of certain nutrients that might not be necessary for individuals who already eat a well-balanced diet.
Oh, and beware of the smell! Many Amazon reviews commented on the strong, lingering smell, with one 5-star review saying, "Very high quality - but… probably the worst smelling/tasting vitamin I’ve ever witnessed. The benefits out-weigh the stench though!" You've been warned!
Form: Tablet | Dose: 1 tablet per day | Key Nutrients: Calcium, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, iron (women's only), all eight B vitamins and vitamins A, C, D, E and K | Missing Nutrients: Iron (men's only), choline and omega-3 DHA and EPA
Our best value choice costs less than $25 for a 300-day supply! Nature Made's gender-specific multivitamins are hard to beat if you're looking for an affordable daily vitamin. Nature Made Multi for Her and for Him include more than 22 key nutrients to support health. For example, the women's formulation includes 100% of the daily value (DV) for iron and more than 100% of the DV for folic acid and vitamin B6. Meanwhile, the men's product is iron-free and is an excellent source of zinc, selenium and vitamin D.
Our testers rated Nature Made multivitamins highly, praising the one-a-day formulations, ease of swallowing (despite a larger pill size) and lack of aftertaste. As one tester noted, there isn't anything "groundbreaking" or unique about these vitamins. Instead, the multivitamins are good, basic options at a budget-friendly price.
Amazon reviewers appreciate them, too. One said they are the best option to help with your everyday function, continuing, "Have been using this vitamin for many years. Helps me with enough energy to complete my everyday chores. It's a stamina enhancer."
In addition to comprehensive formulations, both Nature Made Multi for Her and Multi for Him are verified by the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), an organization that ensures the purity and potency of supplements. The main downside is that some of the nutrients are present in less readily absorbable forms.
Form: Tablet | Dose: 1 tablet per day | Key Nutrients: Iron (women's only), zinc, selenium, manganese, chromium, all eight B vitamins and vitamins A, C, D, E and K | Missing Nutrients: Choline, iron (men's only), magnesium, copper and omega-3 DHA and EPA
Garden of Life Organics Women's and Men's Once Daily Tablets are third-party tested, certified by the USDA and contain more than 17 essential nutrients sourced from whole foods, making them our pick as the best organic multivitamin. In addition to these formulations, the company's Organics line includes multivitamins for adults over 40 and gummy formulations, making it easy to find a product that best fits your needs and preferences.
We particularly like that these multivitamins are comprehensive and include nutrients sourced from whole foods, rather than ones synthetically made in a lab. The one-a-day formula is also a bonus. Our testers admitted to being intimidated by the large capsule size, but thankfully, they found the tablets easy to swallow. And while the tablets had a noticeable herbal taste, neither tester found it to be a dealbreaker.
With almost 10,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, they're a popular product. One vitamin-fueled customer calls them "An Absolute Lifesaver in a Bottle," adding, "I've been a total fan of this product. The whole food nutrition it provides is simply amazing. It makes me feel more energetic and healthier overall. I love that it's vegan and contains essential nutrients like iron and biotin. Great for maintaining my hair, skin, and nails too! It's like an all-in-one health and beauty supplement. Surely, this is a product I'd recommend to everyone."
However, keep in mind that because the whole food nutrient blend doesn't list the exact amount of each ingredient present, these multivitamins aren't appropriate if you have certain food allergies or are taking medications with potential food interactions.
Form: Softgels | Dose: 2 softgels per day | Key Nutrients: Vitamin D, vitamin B12 and omega-3 DHA and EPA | Missing Nutrients: Choline, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, zinc, iron, selenium, copper, manganese chromium, potassium, seven B vitamins and vitamins A, C, E and K
Future Kind is a supplement company with products formulated for people following a vegan lifestyle. Its Essential Vegan Multi is our favorite for vegans who eat a mostly balanced diet and need help filling common nutrient gaps. Specifically, the product contains vitamin B12, vitamin D and omega-3 DHA and EPA, all of which are commonly lacking in plant-based diets. In addition to being vegan-friendly, Future Kind Essential Vegan Multi is cruelty-free and packaged using eco-friendly materials.
Our tester was thoroughly impressed with the brand and product. "Vitamins in pill form make me very nauseated but not these softgels. I also love that the company supports animal sanctuaries and uses eco-friendly packaging. I would like to see more companies doing this."
These vitamins are also effective. "The proof is in the pudding," says one Amazon reviewer. They continue, "Optimal vegan diet with and this = blood work results that would be the envy of anyone. No deficiencies, B12 in the upper range, and the picture of perfect health. Winning."
The biggest downside to this product is the limited formulation, especially for people with more restrictive diets. Luckily, the brand also makes a complete multivitamin with 22 essential vitamins and minerals, as well as single-nutrient products, like iron, for completing your supplement regimen.
Form: Gummy | Dose: 6 gummies per day | Key Nutrients: Choline (women's only), iodine, zinc, selenium, chromium (women's only), all eight B vitamins, omega-3 DHA and EPA, CoQ10 and vitamins A, C, D, E and K | Missing Nutrients: Iron, choline (men's only), chromium (men's only), magnesium, manganese, copper and potassium
When it comes to flavor, quality and formulation, Smarty Pants Women's and Men's Multivitamins set the gold standard for gummy vitamins. These gummies are packed with more than 15 essential nutrients, including vitamin D and omega-3s — two nutrients that many adults struggle to get enough of. Plus, the NSF Contents Certification ensures what's on the label is exactly what you're getting, adding a layer of trust that's essential in the supplement world.
But it's not just about the nutrients — it's about the experience. Testers unanimously agreed that the fruit-flavored gummies are delicious and easy to incorporate into a daily routine. One tester noted, "The gummies are pleasantly chewy without getting stuck in your teeth. I liked the flavor, though they were a bit too sweet to take all six in the morning. Instead, I found myself spreading the dose out throughout the day." This flexibility, combined with their enjoyable taste, made SmartyPants a standout choice.
Another factor that elevated SmartyPants to the top is the tailored approach of their gender-specific formulas. These versions are designed to meet the unique needs of men and women, with slightly less added sugar than their general Adult formula, making them a great fit for targeted nutrition without sacrificing flavor. That said, the Adult formula remains a strong option for healthy adults across the board.
A reviewer called these gummies the best they found. Adding, "These are my favorite gummies. I went through several brands, but this brand is the one I keep coming back to. They are high quality and provide one of the most complete sets of nutrients of all the brands. I will say these taste better than the ones with probiotics, but they do still have that metallic taste most gummy multivitamins have. The texture is delightfully gummy and they’re easy to chew and dissolve. In my opinion this is a great value for the money."
They're also available in organic versions for women and men.
Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 packet (3 capsules) per day | Key Nutrients: Iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, chromium, biotin, collagen, omega-3 DHA and EPA, all eight B vitamins and vitamins A, C, D, E and K | Missing Nutrients: Iron and choline
When it comes to addressing the multifaceted needs of women, Perelel Women's Daily Vitamin Trio stands out as a thoughtfully designed supplement. Developed by ob-gyns, this daily pack goes beyond the basics, delivering a tailored blend of nutrients to support overall health, beauty and well-being.
The trio includes a comprehensive multivitamin with 20 essential nutrients like folate and vitamin B6, paired with a "beauty blend" containing biotin and collagen peptides to nourish hair, skin and nails. An added omega-3 softgel rounds out the pack, providing 350 milligrams of EPA and DHA — essential fatty acids that play a key role in brain, eye and heart health. This all-in-one approach makes it an excellent option for women looking to streamline their supplement routine.
As someone who eats a mostly balanced diet, I wasn't sure I'd notice any differences while testing multivitamins. However, after about three weeks of taking Perelel Women's Daily Trio, I noticed my nails weren't breaking as often and my hair seemed shinier. Even my complexion seemed brighter. Benefits aside, I also liked the convenience of the daily packs and found all three tablets easy to swallow.
Perelel Women's Daily Vitamin Trio is third-party tested for purity and potency. It's also gluten- and dairy-free. While it doesn't include iron, making it suitable for a broad age range, the brand offers an optional iron supplement for those who need it. You may also want to check out our other top picks for the best multivitamins for women.
One happy Amazon user calls the Women's Daily Vitamin Trio an absolute necessity, writing, "I've personally always struggled with vitamins, because adding new things to my daily routine can be complicated, but these make it SO easy!! The individual packs make it so simple to take on the go when traveling, and they are really effective I feel soo good after taking them. I love the benefits of the vitamins, and they are really the best quality. They don't have any bad taste or smell like other vitamins can have, and I love the size of them (I can take all three at once). I am so thankful these got recommended to me! It's definitely worth it."
Form: Tablet | Dose: 1 tablet per day | Key Nutrients: Calcium, iron, iodine, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, all eight B vitamins and vitamins A, C, D, E and K | Missing Nutrients: Choline, magnesium and omega-3 DHA and EPA
Our top choice for men — Nordic Naturals Men's Multivitamin — checks all the boxes. It's third-party tested, requires just one pill per day and provides 100% (or more) of the DV for nutrients men need more of, including zinc and B vitamins, like riboflavin, niacin and thiamin.
This multi also includes saw palmetto and nettle extract, herbs that may help manage symptoms of prostate enlargement and reduce inflammation. Just keep in mind that saw palmetto may not be well tolerated by some people and can lead to side effects like nausea and dizziness.
Our tester tried the extra-strength version of Nordic Naturals Men's Multivitamin and had a positive experience. He noted the pill was easy to take and especially appreciated the high dose of vitamin B12, a vitamin that becomes even more important as you age.
"I've been on these multivitamins for a few weeks now and I feel great," said one Amazon reviewer. They continue, "No upset stomach and they seem to absorb well. Also no bad after taste and no weird side effects that I've had with other brands. I also use the Nordic brand omega 3 which is very good too and is why I decided to to give these a try. Very pleased."
Form: Chewable tablet | Dose: 1 tablet per day | Key Nutrients: Calcium, iodine, zinc, selenium, manganese, all eight B vitamins and vitamins A, C, D and E | Missing Nutrients: Choline, magnesium, copper, iron and omega-3 DHA and EPA
Hiya is a kid's supplement brand founded by a dad looking for a healthier alternative to children's gummy vitamins. The result is our best option for kids — Hiya Kids Daily Multivitamin. This multivitamin features 15 whole-food-based vitamins and minerals in the form of sugar-free, fruit-flavored chewable tablets. They're also free of dairy, gluten, artificial colors and preservatives.
As a mom and registered dietitian, I was drawn to Hiya after hearing my toddler refer to his gummy vitamins as candy. In addition to not being as easily mistaken for dessert, I was won over by the multivitamin's comprehensive formulation and limited ingredient list. My son generally enjoys the taste and still does, although over the past year, he's had occasional phases of not wanting to take it in the morning — something I chalk up to typical toddler pickiness.
The packaging is another standout feature. Initial shipments include a 30-day supply of tablets and a bright yellow glass bottle with stickers to decorate with. Refill pouches are automatically shipped each month thereafter, so you don't have to worry about remembering to re-order them.
Form: Tablet | Dose: 1 tablet per day | Key Nutrients: Iron, iodine, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, all eight B vitamins and vitamins A, C, D, E and K | Missing Nutrients: Choline, calcium, magnesium and omega-3 DHA and EPA
MegaFood Once Daily is a whole-food-based multivitamin formulated to be gentle on the stomach, making it our best choice for digestive ease. The capsules can be taken with or without food, making them a good option if you aren't a big breakfast eater or can't always take your vitamins with a meal.
One Amazon reviewer praised these vitamins, saying, "I've been using this product for over twenty years. I like how mega food is made out of all natural ingredients. You can take it on an empty stomach and it doesn't upset your system."
Another bonus is the one-a-day formulation, with each tablet providing 21 essential vitamins and minerals. Unlike other products that aim to meet 100% of the daily value (DV) for all nutrients, this formulation provides slightly lower amounts of certain nutrients, making it a practical choice for those with a well-rounded diet who need to fill specific nutritional gaps.
During testing, the multivitamin lived up to its claim of being easy on the stomach. I typically have a hard time tolerating multivitamins with iron. However, after taking the supplement for about a week, I didn't experience any issues with stomach pains or constipation. The tablet was somewhat more difficult to swallow than others I tried, mostly because of its large size and rougher texture.
MegaFood Once Daily is third-party tested for allergens and glyphosate residue. While the company states it performs testing throughout manufacturing, the product isn't third-party tested for potency or heavy metals.
Choosing the right multivitamin isn't as simple as grabbing the first bottle you see on the shelf. Multivitamins come in various formulations tailored to specific life stages, health needs and preferences. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:
Men's: Formulated to meet men's unique nutrient needs, these are typically iron-free and higher in zinc, B vitamins and vitamins A, C and K. Some may also include extras like CoQ10 to support prostate health, fertility or sports performance.
Women's: Designed for women's specific health concerns, these are higher in iron and folic acid to support menstruation and fertility. Many also include herbs or nutrients to address bone health, hot flashes or hormone balance.
Prenatal: Created for pregnancy and breastfeeding, these contain higher amounts of key nutrients to meet the increased demands of this life stage. Some also include ginger to help combat morning sickness.
50+: Tailored for adults over 50, these typically provide more vitamin D and B12 while reducing iron content to match changing nutrient needs and deficiency risks. These products often contain antioxidants and other nutrients to support healthy aging, including eye, heart and brain health.
Children's: Between periods of immense growth, brain development, physical activity and bouts of picky eating, kids' nutrient needs are constantly evolving. Children's vitamins are formulated for specific ages and often contain sweeteners or flavors to make them more palatable. Kids metabolize nutrients differently than adults, making them more prone to nutrient toxicities. For this reason, choosing a kid's vitamin that's specifically formulated for their age is essential.
Gummy: Gummy vitamins are popular for their ease of use and sweet taste. However, because they're typically made with added sugars and gelatin, they aren't always suitable for people trying to manage their blood sugar levels or those following a vegan diet. If you have kids in your house, keep gummy vitamins tightly sealed and out of reach.
Liquid: Liquid vitamins are a good option for people who dislike swallowing pills. Plus, the nutrients in liquid multivitamins are typically more readily absorbed than those in pill or capsule form. The downside? There aren't as many options, and they don't always taste great.
Capsules/tablets: The vast majority of adult multivitamins are capsules or tablets. Soft gel capsules are more expensive than tablets but are easier to swallow, digest and absorb.
Athletic performance: Some multivitamins include nutrients, like CoQ10, to support athletic performance and recovery. Highly active individuals often have greater nutrient demands, so many sports multivitamins contain elevated levels of specific vitamins and minerals.
Organic and whole-food-based: These multivitamins derive nutrients from real foods rather than synthetic nutrients made in a lab. While synthetic nutrients benefit some, whole-food-based nutrients may be higher quality and easier to absorb. If eating organic is a priority, look for USDA-certified options.
High-potency: These contain higher doses of vitamins and minerals and are designed for those with significant nutrient deficiencies. However, consult a healthcare professional before use.
Vegan: Made without animal-derived ingredients, these are perfect for those following plant-based diets. If animal welfare matters to you, look for cruelty-free or certified vegan products.
Finding the right multivitamin doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a little strategy. Are you aiming to target specific health goals, or do you just need something to fill small nutritional gaps? No matter your needs, here are some considerations when looking for the best multivitamin:
Nutrient content and dosages: Choose a multivitamin with a formulation that aligns with your nutritional needs and lifestyle. Gender- and age-specific options can help address unique requirements, like higher iron for women or increased vitamin D for older adults.
Form: The best multivitamin is the one you'll actually take. Softgels are generally easier to swallow than tablets, but gummies or liquid options can be great alternatives if you can't swallow pills.
Artificial additives: Aim for products with minimal artificial additives for a cleaner supplement. Avoid unnecessary colors, flavors, sweeteners, fillers or preservatives whenever possible.
Third-party testing: Opt for a multivitamin that's undergone third-party testing by trusted organizations such as NSF or USP to guarantee the label accurately reflects the contents within.
Dietary restrictions: If you follow a specific diet or have allergies, look for products that align with your needs, such as vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free options. If you have severe allergies, consider supplements made in allergen-free facilities to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
Specific health goals: Select a multivitamin with scientifically backed ingredients for targeted support. Whether you need support for heart health, bone strength or prostate health, a tailored formula can make a difference.
Value: You don't have to break the bank to find a quality multivitamin. Compare serving sizes and ingredient quality to find an option that fits your budget while still delivering the necessary nutrients.
Selecting the best multivitamin was no easy task. As a registered dietitian with nearly a decade of experience in dietary supplements, I've dedicated myself to staying current with the latest products and research to provide informed recommendations. To complement my expertise, I consulted with three fellow registered dietitians to gather additional insights on multivitamins and key considerations, including the ongoing debate between synthetic and whole food-based formulations.
After an in-depth review of more than 30 products from more than 15 brands, our team — assisted by family and friends — rigorously tested 16 multivitamins. Each product was evaluated for at least two weeks for factors such as ease of use, taste, cost and overall user experience.
Taking a multivitamin consistently is key to reaping its full benefits. "Always follow directions on the label, but best practice is taking a multivitamin daily," says Isaacs. Regular daily use helps fill nutritional gaps and ensures your body receives a steady supply of essential vitamins and minerals. Remember, the exact dosage and timing may vary by product, so always check the label for specific instructions tailored to your chosen supplement.
If your diet is well-rounded and nutrient-rich, multivitamins might not be necessary. However, certain gaps can still occur, making supplementation helpful.
Registered dietitian Emily Hulse of Emily Grace Nutrition, explains, "Certain conditions or dysfunctions in our bodies may reduce how much we can digest and absorb nutrients from even the most balanced diet." Factors like age, medical conditions and lifestyle can influence nutrient absorption and create deficiencies. To determine if a multivitamin is right for you, consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian who can assess your needs.
Synthetic multivitamins are made using nutrients created in the lab, whereas whole-food multivitamins derive most of their nutrients from food sources. The debate over which is better remains ongoing, but some studies suggest that whole-food-based nutrients may be easier for the body to absorb.
Ultimately, the choice between synthetic and whole-food multivitamins depends on your preferences, health needs and budget. Both types can provide essential nutrients to support your overall wellness.
Multivitamins can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, especially if taken on an empty stomach. Additionally, certain nutrients can become toxic when consumed in excessive amounts. For this reason, it's important to follow dosing directions and avoid doubling up on multivitamins or other supplements, says Jessica M. Kelly, registered dietitian of Nutrition That Heals, LLC.
The best way to determine the right multivitamin for your needs is to work with a registered dietitian. They'll consider factors like your diet, health history, wellness goals, physical activity level, age and gender. It's also crucial to look for a product made by a reputable brand that has been tested for purity and potency, ideally by a third-party lab.
Not every multivitamin made the cut for our top rankings, but several products still stood out for specific needs or preferences. Here's a closer look at those that didn't quite make the top tier but are worth considering for the right person:
EllaOlla Toddler's Unflavored Multivitamin: We appreciated the concept of EllaOlla's powder multivitamin for toddlers, which also comes in a version for older kids. The formula is comprehensive and free of added sugars, making it a thoughtful choice for parents. However, it is on the pricier side, and its effectiveness can be tricky to gauge if your toddler doesn't entirely consume the food or drink it's mixed into.
MegaFood Women's Once Daily: This whole food women's multi is a good option if you prefer to take your multivitamin on an empty stomach. But, its rougher texture and larger size make the capsule harder to swallow than other women's multivitamins we tried.
MegaFood Men's Advanced 55+: As with all MegaFood supplements, we'd love to see third-party testing done to confirm its potency and purity. Still, thanks to its high dose of vitamins D and B12, MegaFood Men's Advanced 55+ is one of our top picks for men over 50. We also like that it includes selenium and choline, two nutrients essential for brain health as we age.
Mary Ruth's Liquid Morning Multivitamins: For those who dislike swallowing pills, Mary Ruth's line of liquid morning multivitamins is worth considering. The products are third-party tested and available in sweetened and unsweetened varieties. While our testers liked the flavors, they weren't a fan of the vitamin's thick consistency.
Optimum Nutrition Opti-Women: This multivitamin is a solid choice for active women who may struggle to meet their iron needs through diet alone. Although the product lacks third-party certification, we appreciate that all Optimum Nutrition products are manufactured in Informed Sport-certified facilities, ensuring quality production standards. The formula's high nutrient doses and inclusion of herbs are noteworthy, though they may warrant consideration depending on individual needs — not all herbs are appropriate for all individuals.
Thorne Men's Multi 50+: If you can overlook the requirement of taking six capsules daily, this multivitamin for men over 50 is an outstanding option. Backed by Thorne's trusted reputation for high-quality supplements, it's designed for optimal absorption and includes key nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium, essential for promoting healthy aging.
Emily Hulse, MS, RD of Emily Grace Nutrition
Bridget Isaacs, MS, RDN of Nutrition by Bridget
Jessica M. Kelly, RDN, LDN of Nutrition That Heals, LLC
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.