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Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum vs. Isolate

AffordPure Team · March 10, 2024 · 5 min read
Three CBD droppers labeled full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate arranged side by side
Each extract format keeps a different amount of the hemp plant's original compounds.

CBD products are often grouped into three extract types:

  • Full spectrum
  • Broad spectrum
  • Isolate

The differences matter for how products feel and who they are best for.

Full Spectrum

Full spectrum includes CBD plus additional cannabinoids and terpenes, including trace THC within legal limits.

This format is often chosen for entourage-effect potential.

Broad Spectrum

Layered botanical profile card showing cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace THC in a full spectrum extract
Full spectrum formulas retain the widest range of cannabinoids and aromatic terpenes.

Broad spectrum keeps multiple cannabinoids and terpenes while removing detectable THC.

It is commonly selected by customers who want a multi-compound profile without THC exposure.

Isolate

Broad spectrum and isolate product cards highlighted for THC-free selection decisions
Broad spectrum and isolate both serve THC-avoidant shoppers, but they deliver different plant complexity.

Isolate contains only CBD.

It is typically the simplest formula, but it does not include the additional plant compounds found in full or broad spectrum extracts.

How To Choose

  • Prefer full spectrum when you want the most complete hemp profile.
  • Prefer broad spectrum when you want THC-free products.
  • Prefer isolate when you want CBD-only simplicity.