As CBD use becomes more mainstream, many consumers are asking a key question: What is the cheapest way to take CBD oil without compromising its benefits? With prices ranging from $30 to over $150 per bottle, finding cost-effective strategies matters more than ever-especially for long-term users managing pain, anxiety, sleep, or general wellness.
This guide goes beyond generic advice. Backed by firsthand interviews, price comparisons, and formulation breakdowns, we’ll explore:
- The real cost per milligram (mg) of CBD
- Delivery methods that stretch your dollar
- High-potency vs. low-potency oils: which wins?
- DIY options for serious savers
- Hidden fees (like shipping) that silently drive up your cost
- Why full-spectrum oils might be more cost-effective than they appear
Let’s uncover how you can get maximum value from every drop of CBD.
What Makes One CBD Oil Cheaper Than Another?
Many people assume the cheapest CBD oil is simply the one with the lowest sticker price. But that’s a common mistake. The true cost of CBD should be measured in cost per milligram (mg) of active cannabidiol, not price per bottle.
For example:
| Brand A (low potency) | $39.99 | 500 mg | $0.08 |
| Brand B (high potency) | $99.99 | 3000 mg | $0.03 |
Despite the higher price tag, Brand B is more cost-effective per mg.
Tip: Always calculate the cost per mg of CBD.
Use this formula: Price ÷ Total mg of CBD = Cost per mg
1. Choose High-Potency CBD Tinctures
Buying high-potency CBD oil (1,500mg to 3,000mg + per bottle) usually delivers the best price-per-mg ratio.
Why it works: Higher concentrations require fewer drops per dose, and you’ll buy less frequently.
Expert Insight:
“High-strength oils are ideal for daily users. You get more CBD for your buck and avoid the markups associated with low-dose products,” says Dr. Alisha Grant, a cannabinoid researcher and health economics analyst.
Look for:
- 3,000mg per 30mL bottle
- Cost per mg around $0.02-$0.04 (very good)
- Bulk buying options (more on that below)
2. Buy in Bulk or Subscribe for Discounts
Buying CBD in bulk (like 2oz bottles or 1-gallon options for tincture makers) can dramatically lower the cost per dose.
Example:
- 1oz (30mL) 1,500mg bottle = ~$80 ($0.053/mg)
- 1-gallon full-spectrum CBD oil (128oz) with 1,000mg per oz = ~$1,200 ($0.009/mg)
That’s over 80% savings for DIY-savvy users.
Look for:
- Monthly subscriptions (10-25% off)
- Bundles with volume discounts
- Free shipping thresholds
- Wholesale pricing for home formulators
Pro Tip: Subscription + high-potency = long-term value
3. Skip the Gummies and Stick With Oil
CBD gummies, capsules, and beverages may be convenient, but you pay for it.
| CBD Oil Tincture | $0.04-$0.09 |
| CBD Gummies | $0.08-$0.20 |
| CBD Capsules | $0.10-$0.16 |
Why is oil cheaper?
- Fewer ingredients
- Less processing
- Lower shipping weight
- Easier to manufacture in bulk
Bottom Line: Stick to unflavored tinctures if your goal is budget-friendly dosing.
4. Try DIY CBD Oil (for Advanced Users)
Making CBD oil at home is not only doable, it’s the cheapest option per mg, especially if you have access to:
- Bulk CBD isolate
- Full-spectrum distillate
- Organic MCT oil or hemp seed oil
DIY Formula Example:
- 10g of CBD isolate (10,000mg) costs ~$90-$150
- Combine with 100mL MCT oil
- Makes 100mL of 100mg/mL tincture
- Final cost = ~$0.01-$0.02 per mg
“We make our tinctures in-house for under $0.02/mg,” says Tom Ridley, founder of an Oregon-based hemp co-op. “It takes about 15 minutes, and you can customize the dose exactly to your needs.”
Risks:
- No lab testing unless you pay for it
- Legal complications in certain states
- Risk of inaccurate dosing
5. Go Full-Spectrum. It May Save You Money Long Term
Full-spectrum CBD contains minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, and trace THC (<0.3%), which may increase the entourage effect, a synergistic boost in therapeutic effect.
Why it matters: Users may require less full-spectrum oil than isolate to achieve the same result.
Study Insight: A 2015 study by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found full-spectrum CBD was more effective at lower doses than pure CBD isolate for inflammation and pain.
Translation:
- 25mg of full-spectrum may = 50mg of isolate
- Less oil used = more savings
6. Watch for “Silent Costs” That Inflate Price
Even cheap CBD can become expensive once hidden costs are factored in:
- Shipping fees ($5-$15)
- Low-quality oil that requires higher doses
- No third-party testing, risking wasted money on fake or weak products
Checklist to Avoid Overpaying:
✅ Transparent 3rd-party lab tests
✅ Clear CBD mg per bottle
✅ High bioavailability delivery
✅ Reputable reviews or certifications
✅ Subscription or loyalty program
Final Verdict: What’s the Absolute Cheapest Way to Take CBD Oil?
The most cost-effective method is to buy high-potency full-spectrum tinctures in bulk or via subscription, calculate the cost per mg, and consider DIY options if you’re experienced. Avoid low-potency, novelty products like sodas and gummies if budget is a concern.
Cheapest Route (Advanced):
- DIY tincture from isolate or distillate
- Cost: ~$0.01-$0.02/mg
Easiest & Best-Value Route (Beginner to Intermediate):
- 3,000mg full-spectrum tincture
- Buy through subscription for 20-30% off
- Cost: ~$0.03-$0.04/mg
Recommended Products (Based on Cost Efficiency)
| Lazarus Naturals 6000mg | 6000mg/120mL | $120 | $0.02 | Discount program available |
| CBDistillery 5000mg | 5000mg/30mL | $115 | $0.023 | Great for daily users |
| Industrial Hemp Farms Gallon Tincture | 128,000mg/1 gal | $1,200 | $0.009 | Best for DIY use |
FAQs
Q: Is it safe to make CBD oil at home? Yes, if you use lab-tested ingredients and follow GMP practices. Always measure doses accurately.
Q: How much CBD should I take daily to save money? Start low (10-20mg), assess effects, and increase only as needed. Many people overuse, wasting money.
Q: Are cheap CBD oils less effective? Not always. Some affordable brands are high quality, just make sure they provide third-party testing and clear labeling.
Final Thoughts: Smart CBD Spending Pays Off
You don’t need to overspend to benefit from CBD. With a bit of knowledge and the right buying strategy, you can cut costs by 50% or more-without giving up potency or purity.
Whether you’re a beginner or a bulk buyer, the key is to look beyond the bottle price and focus on cost per mg, delivery method, and overall formulation quality.
Bookmark this guide, share it with fellow CBD users, and keep your wellness journey both effective and affordable.
