Best Vitamin B12 Supplements in 2025 (Top 9: Nature Made, Thorne and More)
Looking for a B12 boost? Find the best vitamin B12 supplements for energy and health, recommended by experts. Essential for vegans and overall well-being.
You need a real boost — not another mystery pill. You drag through afternoons, your focus dips, and you wonder if a B12 could help. Short on patience? Short on patience for swallowing big tablets? You’re in the right place.
This roundup cuts through forms and delivery styles so you don’t have to. You’ll see which options give broad B‑vitamin coverage, which prioritize active methyl B12, and which are best if you need fast sublingual uptake or post‑surgery support.
Contents
- The Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
- Thorne B-Complex #12 with Active B12
- Pure Encapsulations B12 + Metafolin Formula
- Pure Encapsulations B12 Liquid Sublingual
- Bariatric Fusion B12 Sublingual Melts 1000 mcg
- Jarrow Methyl B-12 1000 mcg Chewables
- Wonder Labs Sublingual B12 with B6 & Folate
- Nature Made B12 500 mcg Tablets
- Piping Rock B12 1000 mcg Sublingual Tablets
- Vitamin Shoppe B12 500 mcg Capsules
- Final Thoughts on the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
- What Is Vitamin B12 and What Is It For?
- Cyanocobalamin vs. Methylcobalamin: Understanding the Difference
- How to Choose the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
- Best Vitamin B12 Options for Children and Seniors
- Combining Vitamin B12 with B9 (Folate) and B6
- Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
- Check Out the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
- Also Check Out Other Helpful Articles
- Video About the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
The Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
Thorne B-Complex #12 with Active B12
You’ll get a full-spectrum B-complex that includes active forms of B12 and folate to support energy, mood, and nervous system function. It’s a clinician-favored option if you want broad B-vitamin coverage in one capsule.
Pros
- Contains active B12 (methylcobalamin) and supportive B-vitamins
- Clinical-grade manufacturing and testing standards
- Delivers steady energy without jitters for many users
Cons
- Higher price point compared with basic B12 supplements
- Smaller bottle size relative to daily users
- Some may prefer separate dosing of individual B-vitamins
Why pick a clinical-grade B-complex
You’ll benefit from a formula designed for more than single-vitamin supplementation: the blend supports methylation, nervous system health, and steady cellular energy production. Thorne’s reputation for rigorous testing makes this appealing for people seeking professionally formulated supplements.
Formula highlights and usage
- Active B12 (methylcobalamin) included with a full range of B-vitamins
- 60 capsules; typical dosing is one capsule daily unless otherwise directed
- Manufactured to high purity and tested for quality
This is often recommended when you want broader micronutrient support beyond B12 alone.
Benefits and practical considerations
You’ll likely notice steadier energy, better recovery from stress, and improved mental clarity when taken consistently. The main trade-off is cost: you’re paying for a researched formula and clinical manufacturing. If you only need simple B12 support, a cheaper single-vitamin may suffice.
Who should choose this
If you’re under clinical care for fatigue, cognitive concerns, or want a one-stop B-vitamin regimen, this product is well-regarded by practitioners and users who prefer evidence-driven supplements.
Pure Encapsulations B12 + Metafolin Formula
This formula pairs methylcobalamin with Metafolin (L‑5‑MTHF) for higher bioavailability and targeted support for energy and nervous system health. It’s well-suited if you want a clean, science-backed supplement from a reputable professional brand.
Pros
- Contains methylcobalamin (active B12) and L‑5‑MTHF (active folate)
- High-quality, hypoallergenic manufacturing standards
- Gentle, well-tolerated formula with professional-grade sourcing
Cons
- Premium price compared with basic B12s
- Smaller bottle size means faster reorders for daily users
- Capsule format may be less convenient than sublingual forms for some
Targeted formula for energy and neurological support
You’ll find this product aims to do more than deliver B12 — pairing methylcobalamin with active folate supports methylation pathways, nervous system health, and energy metabolism. That combination is particularly useful if you want a targeted, clinically minded supplement rather than a basic single-vitamin product.
Composition and practical use
- Methylcobalamin (active B12) combined with L‑5‑MTHF (Metafolin)
- 60 capsules; take 1 capsule 1–2 times daily with a meal as directed
- Manufactured to high purity and hypoallergenic standards
Taking it with food can help tolerance, and the active folate eliminates the need to rely on folic acid conversion for many users.
Benefits, limitations and when to pick this
If you have genetic variants (e.g., MTHFR) or want a proactive approach to methylation and cognitive support, this is a thoughtful choice. The trade-off is cost: you’re paying for premium raw materials and testing. If you simply want low-cost maintenance B12, a basic cyanocobalamin or methyl B12 chewable may suffice.
Practical insights
Clinicians and users who prioritize purity and targeted nutrients often choose this brand. If you’re stacking B vitamins or managing specific metabolic concerns, the inclusion of Metafolin is a meaningful advantage.
Pure Encapsulations B12 Liquid Sublingual
You can use this liquid methylcobalamin if you prefer sublingual dosing or have trouble swallowing pills, and it’s formulated for quick uptake. It’s a convenient, professional-grade liquid option that’s easy to titrate by dropper.
Pros
- Sublingual liquid (methylcobalamin) for rapid absorption
- Fine control over dose with a dropper
- Minimal taste and good tolerability reported by many users
Cons
- Dropper design and markings have varied across production batches
- Liquid format can be less portable than tablets
- Slightly higher cost per serving compared with bulk tablets
Fast, flexible dosing in a liquid form
You’ll appreciate the convenience of a liquid sublingual if you prefer to place drops under your tongue for faster absorption or need flexible dosing. Liquid methylcobalamin removes the need for conversion and can be helpful when quick uptake is desired.
Features and practical directions
- 1,000 mcg methylcobalamin per recommended serving (follow label)
- Liquid format with dropper for sublingual administration
- Designed to support nerve health, immune function, and cellular energy
Place the recommended number of drops under your tongue and hold for the suggested time to optimize absorption; many users find the taste mild.
Benefits and real-world considerations
The liquid lets you adjust micro-doses and is a good option if you have post-surgical or swallowing limitations. Some users report a change in dropper style over time, so check the packaging when you receive it. For everyday convenience, it’s slightly less pocketable than tablets but unbeatable if you need sublingual delivery.
Who will like this
If you want professional-grade ingredients in a form that’s easy to swallow or titrate, this liquid is a solid pick. Discuss dosing with your provider if you have complex medical conditions or are on interacting medications.
Bariatric Fusion B12 Sublingual Melts 1000 mcg
This cherry-berry sublingual melt is formulated with bariatric patients in mind — it dissolves quickly for superior buccal uptake and includes folic acid to support recovery and nutritional balance. It’s a practical choice if you need reliable post-surgery B12 support.
Pros
- Sublingual melt optimized for fast absorption
- Contains methylcobalamin with folic acid for balanced support
- Sugar-free and pleasant cherry-berry flavor
Cons
- Targeted for bariatric needs; may be over-specified for casual users
- Smaller tablet size means more frequent repurchasing
- Some users prefer higher therapeutic dosages under clinician guidance
Purpose-built for post-surgical absorption challenges
You should consider this if you have undergone bariatric surgery or struggle with oral absorption. The sublingual melt is designed to dissolve quickly under the tongue, which can improve uptake when gastrointestinal absorption is compromised.
Ingredients and how to use
- 1000 mcg methylcobalamin per sublingual melt with added folic acid
- Cherry-berry flavor, sugar-free, 90 count
- Designed to dissolve under the tongue for fast buccal absorption
Use as directed — the melt format allows you to bypass some digestive barriers and can be easier to manage after surgery.
Benefits and real-world tips
You’ll likely notice easier dosing and improved adherence thanks to the tasty, meltable tablet. Many bariatric patients report better energy and fewer deficiency symptoms when on a reliable sublingual regimen. If you have special medical needs, coordinate dosing with your surgical team or nutritionist.
Considerations
Although optimized for bariatric use, it’s also a fine option for anyone who prefers sublingual delivery. For severe deficiency, your clinician may still recommend higher-dose injections or an individualized plan.
Jarrow Methyl B-12 1000 mcg Chewables
You get the biologically active methylcobalamin in a pleasant lemon-flavored chewable that’s easy to take. It’s a good choice if you prefer sublingual/chewable delivery and want a higher 1000 mcg dose for energy and cognitive support.
Pros
- Active methylcobalamin form for direct cellular uptake
- Lemon-flavored chewable — easier for people who dislike pills
- Vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free formula
Cons
- Chewable tablets may not suit everyone’s texture preference
- Higher potency may be more than needed for some
- Not specifically formulated with additional B-vitamins
Why choose a methyl B-12 chewable
If you want a readily usable form of B12, this chewable provides methylcobalamin — the form your cells recognize without conversion steps. The chewable/dissolvable format helps when swallowing is difficult or when you prefer buccal absorption.
Key features and directions
- 1000 mcg methylcobalamin per chewable tablet
- Lemon-flavored, dissolves in mouth or can be chewed
- Vegan and free of common allergens like gluten and dairy
You typically take one daily or as directed; dissolving under the tongue can improve absorption for some people.
Practical benefits and considerations
You’ll likely notice improved energy and mental clarity if you were previously low in B12. The flavor and format make consistent dosing easier for many users. Keep in mind that if you’re on medication or have a complex medical history, check with your clinician before starting high-dose supplements.
User experience tips
People report the flavor is pleasant and the chewable format removes the need to swallow large pills. If you prefer a tablet-free routine but want a potent, bioavailable dose, this is a pragmatic option.
Wonder Labs Sublingual B12 with B6 & Folate
You receive a multi-nutrient sublingual that combines methylcobalamin with B6, folic acid, and biotin for broader B-vitamin support. It’s well-suited if you prefer a combined approach for energy, mood, and metabolic pathways.
Pros
- Includes methylcobalamin plus B6, folic acid, and biotin
- Sublingual format for improved absorption
- Third-party testing claims for potency and purity
Cons
- Combined formula may complicate tailoring doses of individual B-vitamins
- Some users may prefer higher individual B12 dosing
- Sublingual tablet count may run out faster if used daily at high doses
An all-in-one B-vitamin sublingual option
You’ll appreciate that this product bundles B12 with complementary B-vitamins to address multiple pathways — energy metabolism, nervous system function, and hair/skin support via biotin. The sublingual format aims to improve uptake compared with swallowed tablets.
Composition and usage notes
- 1000 mcg methylcobalamin, 5 mg B6, 400 mcg folic acid, 25 mcg biotin per tablet
- Sublingual delivery — let dissolve under the tongue for best absorption
- 100 tablets for general daily use
This combination is practical if you want a single product to cover multiple B-vitamin needs rather than buying separate supplements.
Benefits and caveats
Combining these nutrients can simplify your routine and support a range of functions from mood and cognition to metabolic processes. If you have specific clinical needs (high therapeutic B12 doses, or tailored folate dosing for genetic variants), you may need a more specialized product or clinician guidance.
Practical user guidance
Many users report improved energy and fewer deficiency symptoms with consistent use. If you’re managing a condition like MTHFR or complex metabolic issues, discuss whether the included folic acid vs. L‑5‑MTHF is the best fit for you.
Nature Made B12 500 mcg Tablets
You get a high-count, straightforward B12 supplement that focuses on value and third-party verification. It’s a practical choice if you want a no-frills B12 for everyday energy support without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Excellent value per tablet (200 count)
- USP-verified for ingredient quality and potency
- Simple, allergen-minimal formula (no artificial colors)
Cons
- Uses cyanocobalamin (less bioactive than methylcobalamin)
- Large tablet may be hard for some to swallow
- Limited additional nutrients or advanced delivery forms
What this supplement does and who it's for
You’ll find this option is built around straightforward B12 support for energy metabolism and general wellness. The formula focuses on providing 500 mcg per tablet in a high-count bottle so you can take one daily and not worry about refills for months. It’s an especially strong fit if you prioritize third-party verification and low cost.
Key features and usage
- 500 mcg cyanocobalamin per tablet, 200 tablets for a long supply
- USP-verified manufacturing and potency
- Free of artificial colors, common allergens, and preservatives
You can take it with a meal and water as directed; many users like that it’s tasteless and easy to integrate into a daily routine.
Benefits, practical insights and limitations
You’ll benefit from a reliable daily dose that supports energy metabolism and helps maintain B12 status. Because it uses cyanocobalamin, your body still benefits, although some people with absorption issues or specific genetic variants may prefer methylcobalamin or sublingual forms. If you want a budget-friendly, widely available B12 backed by verification standards, this is a sensible pick.
Real-world notes
Some users report good results for steady daily energy and find the tablet size manageable; others prefer chewable or sublingual options. If you have known absorption issues, digestive disorders, or require targeted therapeutic dosing, discuss alternatives with your provider.
Piping Rock B12 1000 mcg Sublingual Tablets
You’ll like this if flavor and quick-dissolve sublingual delivery matter to you — the berry taste and fast-dissolve format make daily use pleasant. It’s a budget-friendly way to get a 1000 mcg methylcobalamin dose in an easy-to-take form.
Pros
- Methylcobalamin in a sublingual, fast-dissolve tablet
- Pleasant berry flavor increases adherence
- Vegetarian, non-GMO, and gluten-free
Cons
- Some users may prefer true lozenges for maximal buccal absorption
- Quality control and potency can vary across budget brands
- May dissolve too quickly for those who prefer swallowing intact tablets
Flavor-first approach to sublingual B12
If you struggle to swallow pills or dislike the taste of some supplements, this berry-flavored sublingual solves both problems. The fast-dissolve tablet is intended to break down under the tongue for faster uptake compared with a swallowed tablet.
Ingredients and how to use
- 1000 mcg methylcobalamin per tablet
- Berry-flavored, fast-dissolve sublingual format
- Vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-GMO labeling
Place under the tongue and allow to dissolve for the recommended time; you can also chew if you prefer a chewable experience.
Practical benefits and trade-offs
The enjoyable taste makes daily compliance easy, especially for younger users or those who dislike pills. As a budget brand, you get good value, but if you want the highest possible pharmaceutical-grade assurance, a professional brand may be preferable.
User tips
Try dissolving one tablet and waiting a short while before swallowing to maximize sublingual absorption. If you have strict therapeutic needs, track your symptoms and lab values to ensure this format meets your goals.
Vitamin Shoppe B12 500 mcg Capsules
This capsule delivers a solid 500 mcg dose intended for everyday energy support and nervous system maintenance. It’s a straightforward, no-frills choice if you want a reliable capsule from a recognizable retailer brand.
Pros
- Convenient once-daily capsule format
- Free of common allergens and artificial colors
- Reasonably priced for maintenance dosing
Cons
- Contains cyanocobalamin rather than methylcobalamin
- Capsule size may be large for some users
- Lacks additional active folate or B-complex nutrients
Practical daily support for routine supplementation
This product is built to be a dependable daily supplement for people seeking consistent B12 support without specialty ingredients or formats. You take one capsule a day, and the product is formulated to be free of gluten, dairy, soy, and common allergens.
What’s in the bottle and how to take it
- 500 mcg vitamin B12 (as cyanocobalamin)
- 100 capsules; take one daily with a meal as directed
- Allergen-free labeling and simple formula
The capsule approach suits people who prefer a swallowed tablet over chewables or liquids.
Who should consider this and limitations
If you want a straightforward maintenance dose for general energy and nervous system support, this is adequate. However, if you have absorption problems, a methylcobalamin or sublingual option might be more appropriate. Also, therapeutic dosing for a diagnosed deficiency will often require higher doses or clinician guidance.
Practical note
Check capsule size if swallowing is a concern; users have noted the tablets are a bit large. For long-term use, monitor how you feel and consult your healthcare provider if you expect higher dosing needs.
Final Thoughts on the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
Best overall pick: Thorne B-Complex #12 with Active B12 — Choose this if you want a single, clinician-favored capsule that covers the full spectrum of B vitamins with active forms (including active B12 and folate). It’s ideal if you want broad support for energy, mood, and nervous system health without taking multiple supplements.
Best targeted B12: Pure Encapsulations B12 + Metafolin Formula — Pick this if you want a high-bioavailability methylcobalamin paired with Metafolin (L‑5‑MTHF). It’s the smart choice when you need focused B12/methylation support, prefer a clean professional brand, or have concerns about folate metabolism.
What Is Vitamin B12 and What Is It For?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining good health. Since the human body cannot produce it in sufficient amounts, it must be obtained through food or supplements. The vitamin is mainly found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products, making supplementation especially important for those following vegan or vegetarian diets.
One of the main functions of vitamin B12 is to support the production of healthy red blood cells. A deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia — a condition where the body produces large, immature red blood cells that cannot function properly.
Beyond blood health, vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining the central nervous system. It helps protect the myelin sheath, the insulating layer that surrounds nerves, ensuring efficient transmission of nerve signals. Low B12 levels can compromise this process, leading to fatigue, weakness, and neurological symptoms.
Cyanocobalamin vs. Methylcobalamin: Understanding the Difference
When choosing the best vitamin B12 supplements, you’ll often find two main forms: cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin.
Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic and more stable form commonly used in supplements. It’s easy to store and resistant to light and heat, which makes it a practical choice for most people. Although it contains a small amount of cyanide, it’s considered safe, as the body easily eliminates it.
Methylcobalamin, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring and active form of vitamin B12. It’s absorbed more efficiently because it doesn’t need to be converted inside the body. However, it’s less stable and can degrade when exposed to light or heat, requiring careful storage to preserve its potency.
Both forms are effective for correcting vitamin B12 deficiencies, but proper handling and storage are essential to maintain their benefits.
How to Choose the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
Selecting the right supplement can depend on your specific health needs, diet, and absorption capacity. When comparing options, consider the dosage, additional vitamins included, and the delivery form (tablets, capsules, chewables, or drops).
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For Vegans and Vegetarians
Since vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products, vegans and vegetarians should prioritize vegan-certified B12 supplements. For general maintenance, adults usually need around 2.4 mcg per day, which can be met through supplements containing 5–50 mcg daily.
In cases of deficiency or poor absorption, higher doses ranging from 500 to 1,000 mcg per day may be recommended until normal levels are restored.
Sublingual supplements can be especially useful for people with absorption difficulties, as they allow direct uptake through the mouth’s mucosa.
Best Vitamin B12 Options for Children and Seniors
Children and older adults often prefer chewable tablets or liquid drops, which are easier to swallow and can improve compliance. Drops offer precise dosing, while flavored chewables make daily intake more pleasant.
Recommended intakes vary by age:
- Infants: 0.4 mcg/day
- Children: up to 1.8 mcg/day
- Teens and adults: around 2.4 mcg/day
- Seniors: 25–100 mcg/day for maintenance, or more if a deficiency is present
For older adults with digestive issues, sublingual B12 may provide better absorption, bypassing the need for stomach acid and intrinsic factor. Liquid B12 can also be mixed into cold foods such as juices or yogurts without losing effectiveness.
Combining Vitamin B12 with B9 (Folate) and B6
Many of the best vitamin B12 supplements also include vitamin B9 (folate) and vitamin B6, forming a powerful trio that supports cardiovascular, cognitive, and cellular health.
- Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid): Essential for DNA formation and new cell production, particularly red blood cells.
- Vitamin B6: Helps metabolize proteins and supports the production of neurotransmitters important for mood and brain function.
- Vitamin B12: Works alongside B6 and B9 to regulate homocysteine — an amino acid that, in high levels, can negatively impact heart and brain health.
This combination is often recommended to prevent anemia, improve nervous system function, and support overall wellness, especially for older adults.
Typical daily intake for adults:
- Vitamin B12: 2.4 mcg
- Vitamin B9 (Folate): 400 mcg
- Vitamin B6: 1.3–1.7 mg
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting high-dose supplementation to avoid imbalances, as excessive folic acid may mask B12 deficiency symptoms.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to support your energy and nerve health, vitamin B12 supplements can play an essential role in maintaining well-being.
When choosing the best vitamin B12 supplement for your needs:
- Check the form (methylcobalamin or cyanocobalamin)
- Choose the right delivery type (capsule, sublingual, chewable, or liquid)
- Look for trusted brands with transparent labeling and quality testing
- Store the product properly, away from light, heat, and moisture
Maintaining optimal B12 levels can help boost energy, improve mood, protect the nervous system, and prevent anemia — all essential for long-term health and vitality.
Check Out the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
Still not sure which one to choose? Click the link below to see the best-selling products.
Also Check Out Other Helpful Articles
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Video About the Best Vitamin B12 Supplements
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About the Author
Sara Taylor has always loved storytelling. With a natural curiosity, she brings fresh perspectives to every article she works on.