Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum vs. CBD Isolate: What’s the Difference?

Every CBD product label uses one of three terms: full spectrum, broad spectrum or isolate. They describe what else is in the product besides CBD, and they matter most for one question: does it contain THC? This guide explains each term in plain language so you can compare products on our CBD shop with confidence.

What does full spectrum CBD mean?

Full spectrum CBD contains CBD alongside the other compounds naturally found in the hemp plant, such as minor cannabinoids (for example CBG and CBN), terpenes and a small amount of THC. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is defined as cannabis containing no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC on a dry-weight basis, so the THC in a legal full spectrum product is present only in trace amounts.

Because the THC is not removed, full spectrum is the option to think about carefully if you are subject to drug testing. Hemp product rules are also changing at the federal and state level, so check the current rules where you live.

What does broad spectrum CBD mean?

Broad spectrum CBD starts from a similar hemp extract, then goes through an extra step to remove THC. The other cannabinoids and terpenes are largely kept. Many brands label these products “THC-free”. The exact amount left depends on the lab’s detection limit, which is one reason to read the product’s certificate of analysis.

What is CBD isolate?

CBD isolate is purified CBD with the other hemp compounds removed. It is the simplest profile: CBD and whatever carrier or ingredients the product adds, such as MCT oil in a tincture or gelatin or pectin in a gummy.

How do the three types compare?

How do I tell which type a product is?

Start with the label and product page: reputable brands state the spectrum clearly. Every CBD product page on our site lists its spectrum, or says “Not stated” when the brand does not specify it. Then check the brand’s certificate of analysis (COA) for the batch, which shows measured cannabinoid levels, including THC.

Our guide to reading a CBD certificate of analysis walks through a COA line by line.

Does the spectrum change the strength number?

No. The strength on the front of the bottle, such as 1500mg, is usually the total CBD in the whole container, whatever the spectrum. To compare products fairly, divide the total by the number of servings. A 30-serving 1500mg tincture and a 60-serving 3000mg tincture contain the same amount per serving.

Which should I choose?

It depends on your priorities rather than on which is “best”. If you want to avoid THC entirely, isolate or broad spectrum are the usual choices. If you prefer a product closer to the whole hemp extract and THC testing is not a concern, full spectrum is an option. If you have a health condition, take medication, or are pregnant or nursing, talk to a healthcare provider before using CBD.

You can browse by format: oils and tinctures, gummies, capsules and softgels and topicals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is full spectrum CBD legal?

Hemp-derived CBD within the federal 0.3% delta-9 THC limit is legal under federal law, but states set their own rules and federal hemp rules are changing. Check the current rules where you live.

Will broad spectrum CBD show up on a drug test?

Broad spectrum products have THC removed, but trace amounts below a lab's detection limit can remain. If testing matters to you, isolate is the most conservative choice, and you should check the batch COA.

Is the FDA involved in approving CBD products?

The FDA has approved one CBD medicine, a prescription drug. It has not approved CBD as a dietary supplement, so over-the-counter CBD products are not FDA-approved.

For more on reading labels and regulatory status, see our Buyer’s Guide.