Top 20 Electrolytic Capacitor Manufacturers in 2024

Examining the malfunctioning audio amplifier, the engineer quickly identified the culprit - a failed 2200 μF electrolytic capacitor on the power supply board. She replaced the swollen, dried-up component, explaining, "These high-value electrolytics are essential for cleaning up the DC power and ensuring stable operation." With the new capacitor installed, the amplifier roared to life, outputting crisp, undistorted audio. "Electrolytic caps may not be glamorous, but they're the workhorses keeping electronics running smoothly," She noted.

Electrolytic capacitors’ essential role in maintaining stable and clean power in electronic circuits makes them indispensable workhorses in the electronics industry. Today we will discuss the best electrolytic capacitor brands and top 20 manufacturers.

Difference Between Electrolytic Capacitor and Normal Capacitor

An electrolytic capacitor is a capacitor that uses an oxide film made of aluminum, tantalum or other oxidizable metal as a dielectric to achieve a larger capacitance than other capacitors.

As a polarized capacitor with a metal anode or positive plate that has undergone anodization to produce an insulating oxide layer. The oxide layer serves as the capacitor's dielectric. This oxide layer is covered with an electrolyte, which can be liquid, gel, or solid. This electrolyte acts as the capacitor's cathode or negative plate.

Like other conventional capacitors, electrolytic capacitors store the electric energy statically by charge separation in an electric field in the dielectric oxide layer between two electrodes. So what are the differences between electrolytic capacitor and normal capacitor.

Feature	Electrolytic Capacitor	Normal (Non-Electrolytic) Capacitor
Construction	Uses an electrolyte, typically rolled in a cylindrical shape	Made from ceramic, film, or mica dielectric materials
Polarity	Polarized (has positive and negative leads)	Non-polarized (can be connected in any direction)
Capacitance Range	High capacitance (µF to mF)	Lower capacitance (pF to µF)
Voltage Ratings	High voltage ratings, varies widely	Can handle higher frequencies and specific high voltages
Applications	Power supply filters, audio circuits, energy storage	RF circuits, coupling/decoupling, timing circuits
Leakage Current	Higher leakage current	Lower leakage current
Lifespan	Limited lifespan, especially under high temperatures	Longer lifespan, stable over time
Frequency Response	Lower frequency applications	Suitable for high-frequency applications
Size	Generally larger due to high capacitance	Generally smaller, especially for low-capacitance types

Types of Electrolytic Capacitors

There are two main types: those that use a solid electrolyte or one that is based on water (wet). As seen below, these groups can be further separated. Though nonpolar varieties are also available, polarized electrolytic capacitors are the standard.

Image Source: TDK

Applications of Electrolytic Capacitors

Because of their compact size and high capacitance, electrolytic capacitors are frequently employed in a wide range of electronic applications.

Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors:

The most common type of electrolytic capacitor, utilizing aluminum foil and an electrolyte.

Applications: Power supply filtering, audio applications, decoupling, and timing circuits.

Variants: Radial and axial lead types, snap-in, screw terminal, and surface-mount versions.

Image Source: Mouser

Tantalum Electrolytic Capacitors:

Use a tantalum metal for the anode, offering higher stability and reliability than aluminum types.

Applications: Mobile phones, laptops, medical devices, and other applications requiring compact size and stable performance.

Variants: Available in both solid and wet (liquid electrolyte) forms, primarily in surface-mount packages.

Image Source: Amazon

Electric Double-Layer Capacitors:

Because of their relatively high internal resistance (several hundred mΩ to a hundred Ω), they cannot be used for ripple absorption or other purposes. They are mainly used as secondary batteries for power supply backup. Since the capacitance is very large and there is no limit to the number of charge/discharge cycles, it is used for backup of memory circuits, etc.

Image Source: Ohmite

Principle of Electrolytic Capacitors

The formula below can be used to calculate a capacitor's capacitance. The formula indicates that the higher the capacitance of the capacitor, the greater its electrode surface area and the smaller its electrode gap distance.

Image Source: TDK

A sheet type dielectric is utilized for film capacitors and multilayer ceramic capacitors. In contrast, an oxide layer created on a metallic surface through electrochemical surface treatment serves as the dielectric in an aluminum electrolytic capacitor. The electrode foil surface is roughened through an etching process to increase the effective surface area and thereby the capacitance. 

Image Source: TDK

Top 20 Best Electrolytic Capacitor Manufacturers Brands

We list the top 20 electrolytic capacitor manufacturers and brands for you.

• Rubycon is a leading Japanese manufacturer of high-quality electrolytic capacitors, renowned for their reliability and performance. Established in 1952, Rubycon specializes in a wide range of capacitors, including aluminum electrolytic, polymer, and film types. Their products are widely used in consumer electronics, industrial applications, and automotive electronics. Popular series like the YXG and ZL are favored for power supply designs due to their excellent endurance and low ESR characteristics. Rubycon's commitment to innovation and quality makes them a trusted name in the electronics industry.
• KEMET is a prominent global manufacturer of high-performance capacitors and electronic components, established in 1919. Known for their diverse product range, KEMET produces tantalum, ceramic, film, aluminum electrolytic, and polymer capacitors, catering to various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical, and telecommunications. With over 1,600 patents and trademarks worldwide, KEMET has established a leading position for their products via our advanced R&D, technical staff and design-in capabilities.
• Nichicon is a leading Japanese manufacturer of capacitors and electronic components, established in 1950. Renowned for their high-quality aluminum electrolytic, polymer, and film capacitors, Nichicon serves diverse industries including automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial applications. Popular series like the UFW and UHE are known for their reliability and performance in power supplies and audio equipment. Nichicon's dedication to innovation, quality, and environmental sustainability makes them a trusted name in the global electronics market.
• Murata is a global leader in the design and manufacture of electronic components, including capacitors, inductors, and sensors. Founded in 1944 and headquartered in Japan, Murata is renowned for its innovative solutions in miniaturization and high-frequency components. Their electrolytic capacitors are widely used in various applications, from consumer electronics to automotive systems, providing high reliability and performance.
• Panasonic is a leading Japanese multinational electronics company with a rich history dating back to 1918. Renowned for their comprehensive range of electronic components, including electrolytic capacitors, Panasonic products are integral to various industries, such as automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial systems. Their capacitors are celebrated for their high reliability, long life, and excellent performance in power supply and energy management applications.
• United Chemi-Con, a subsidiary of Nippon Chemi-Con, is one of the largest manufacturers of aluminum electrolytic capacitors. Established in 1931, Nippon Chemi-Con is recognized for its innovation and high-quality products. Their capacitors are used in various applications, including power supplies, automotive electronics, and industrial equipment, known for their reliability, longevity, and superior performance.
• TDK is a comprehensive electronic components manufacturer leading the world in magnetic technology, with more than 250 manufacturing, R&D and sales sites in over 30 countries and regions worldwide. TDK Corporation, established in 1935, is a manufacturer of electronic solutions for the smart society based in Tokyo, Japan.
• Vishay, founded in 1962, is a major global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and passive electronic components, including a wide range of capacitors. Their electrolytic capacitors are known for their high reliability and are used in various applications, such as power supplies, industrial equipment, and automotive electronics. Vishay's commitment to quality and innovation has made them a trusted name in the electronics industry.
• Samsung Electro-Mechanics, a subsidiary of the Samsung Group, specializes in high-performance electronic components, including capacitors, inductors, and modules. Known for their advanced technology and innovation, Samsung's electrolytic capacitors are used in consumer electronics, automotive systems, and industrial applications. Their products are prized for their reliability, high capacitance, and efficiency in power management.
• AVX, a subsidiary of Kyocera Corporation, is a leading manufacturer of advanced electronic components, including capacitors, filters, and connectors. Founded in 1972, AVX's electrolytic capacitors are known for their high reliability and performance in demanding applications. They serve various industries, including automotive, telecommunications, and medical, offering innovative solutions and high-quality products.

Image Source: SL Power Electronics

• Illinois Capacitor has been acquired by Cornell Dubilier (CDE). Known for their reliability and performance, Illinois Capacitor's product range includes aluminum electrolytic, film, and supercapacitors. Their capacitors are used in power supplies, motor drives, and renewable energy systems, offering durability and excellent electrical characteristics.
• Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE), established in 1909, is a leading manufacturer of capacitors for power electronics. Their extensive product line includes aluminum electrolytic, film, and mica capacitors. CDE capacitors are known for their high reliability and performance, serving industries such as aerospace, defense, industrial automation, and renewable energy. Their products are essential for power conversion and filtering applications.
• Elna, founded in 1937, is a respected Japanese manufacturer of high-quality electrolytic capacitors. Their products are widely used in audio equipment, consumer electronics, and industrial applications. Elna capacitors are renowned for their excellent sound quality, reliability, and performance. Their commitment to innovation and quality ensures they remain a trusted name in the electronics industry.
• CapXon is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality aluminum electrolytic capacitors. Their products are widely used in power supplies, lighting, and consumer electronics. CapXon capacitors are known for their reliability, long life, and excellent performance. Their commitment to innovation and quality has made them a trusted supplier in the global electronics industry. 
• Viking Tech Corporation, founded in 1997, specializes in the design, manufacture, and marketing of electronic components such as thin-film and thick-film integrated passive devices. Their product range includes automotive resistors, current sensing metal strips, RF inductors, power inductors, and capacitors. Headquartered in Hukou Township, Taiwan, Viking Tech serves diverse sectors including automotive, industrial, medical, telecom, and IoT home appliances.
• Founded in 2002, KLS Electronic is one of the top ten electronic component enterprises in China. The company specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing a wide range of electronic components including connectors and capacitors. With over 10 subsidiaries and a sales volume exceeding 30 million USD, KLS serves diverse industries such as telecommunications, automotive, and consumer electronics. Their commitment to innovation and quality has established them as a key player in the global electronics market. ​
• Exxelia, a French company formed in 2009 through the merger of five organizations, including the 1921-founded SIC-SAFCO, is a global manufacturer of electronic components for electronics companies. The conglomerate is structured into three business units: Capacitors, Magnetics, and Resistors & Subsystems, offering a diverse portfolio of products across various material types and functionalities. This diversified business model allows Exxelia to serve a wide range of customers and applications within the electronics industry.
• Hitachi AIC Inc., a subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., specializes in the production of high-quality capacitors. Known for their reliability and performance, Hitachi AIC's electrolytic capacitors are widely used in automotive, industrial, and consumer electronic applications. The company's dedication to technological innovation and quality ensures their capacitors meet the stringent requirements of modern electronics.
• C&H Technology, a privately-held company founded in 1979 and based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, specializes in the sales and marketing of power semiconductors and electronic components for heavy industrial applications, including welding, aluminum, waste treatment, motor control, and solar inverters. The company partners with prominent manufacturers like Hitachi, ABB, Mitsubishi Electric, and Powerex to provide a range of products, such as assemblies, bridge rectifiers, heat sinks, and MOSFET modules, to its industrial clientele.
• Lelon Electronics, established in 1976, is a leading manufacturer of electrolytic capacitors. Known for their high-quality and reliable performance, Lelon's capacitors are used in a variety of applications including consumer electronics, industrial equipment, and power supplies. The company's focus on innovation and quality makes it a trusted provider of electronic components.

Where to Buy Quality Electrolytic Capacitors

I would highly recommend purchasing your electrolytic capacitors from Chipsmall. As an experienced distributor with over 20 years of expertise, Chipsmall has established strong relationships with leading manufacturers like Nichicon, Panasonic, and Kemet.

Chipsmall's extensive inventory includes a wide range of electrolytic capacitor types, from basic aluminum electrolytic capacitors to specialized high-temperature and high-ripple current variants. Their focus on hard-to-find and obsolete components means they are likely to have the specific electrolytics you need, even for legacy or specialized applications.

Check the Electrolytic Capacitor at Chipsmall

Conclusion

Electrolytic capacitors are critical components in electronic circuits, particularly for power supply filtering and ensuring stable operation. Their high capacitance values allow them to clean up DC power effectively, though they are prone to issues such as drying out and swelling, which can lead to circuit malfunctions.

We highlight the top best electrolytic capacitor manufacturer brands such as Rubycon, KEMET, Nichicon, and others, known for producing high-quality electrolytic capacitors used in diverse applications from consumer electronics to automotive and aerospace industries. Each company brings unique strengths in innovation, reliability, and performance to the market, ensuring that electrolytic capacitors remain indispensable in modern electronics.