Magnesium comparison

Magnesium Citrate vs Magnesium Oxide

The most directly studied magnesium comparison: solubility, absorption markers, and cost.

Last reviewed September 28, 20263 referencesNo universal winner
Quick answer

This is the magnesium pairing with the most direct research. In small human studies, citrate was more soluble and produced higher absorption markers than oxide. Oxide packs far more magnesium per tablet and is cheaper per 100 mg. Both can loosen stools; citrate is used as a laxative at higher doses.

Magnesium Citrate vs Magnesium Oxide
CompareCitrateOxide
Elemental magnesium by weightSuppScout calculation~16%~60%
SolubilityPublished researchHighly solublePoorly soluble
Absorption studiesPublished researchHigher absorption markers vs oxideLower absorption markers vs citrate
Digestive effectsPublished researchLaxative at higher dosesAssociated with diarrhea at higher doses
Typical formatsPowders, capsules, liquidsTablets, multivitamins
Price per 100 mg (demo catalog)SuppScout calculationBased on fictional demonstration listings$0.08–$0.17 (demo)$0.04–$0.09 (demo)

Rows marked with a source type show where the information comes from. See how SuppScout compares.

Who might look at each

Magnesium Citrate

  • People comparing forms with more absorption data

Magnesium Oxide

  • People prioritizing cost and pill count

These describe common reasons people consider each option — not a recommendation. There’s no universal winner.

Magnesium Citrate and Magnesium Oxide, explained

Magnesium Citrate

A soluble magnesium salt of citric acid. Citrate overview.

Magnesium Oxide

A dense, low-cost, poorly soluble magnesium compound. Oxide overview.

Key differences

  • Citrate dissolves readily; oxide does not.
  • Studies show higher absorption markers for citrate.
  • Oxide is denser and cheaper per 100 mg.

Similarities

  • Both are widely available and inexpensive.
  • Both can cause loose stools at higher intakes.
Published research

Research overview

A randomized, double-blind study found magnesium citrate more bioavailable than other preparations including oxide, and an earlier study reported greater solubility and absorption for citrate than oxide. Both studies were small and short, and they measured absorption markers rather than health outcomes.[1][2][3]

How to read product labels

  • Compare cost per 100 mg elemental magnesium.
  • Check whether a “citrate” product also includes oxide.

Full guide: how to read a supplement label

Products containing each

Magnesium Citrate

Primary ingredient
Magnesium Citrate
Per serving
150 mg elemental magnesium
Servings
60
Format
Capsules
Price
$14.99*
Per serving cost
$0.25
Not verified
Primary ingredient
Magnesium Citrate
Per serving
300 mg elemental magnesium
Servings
90
Format
Powder
Price
$21.99*
Per serving cost
$0.24
Not verified
Magnesium Citrate overview →

Magnesium Oxide

Primary ingredient
Magnesium Oxide
Per serving
250 mg elemental magnesium
Servings
100
Format
Tablets
Price
$8.99*
Per serving cost
$0.09
Not verified
Magnesium Oxide overview →

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References

  1. Walker AF, Marakis G, Christie S, Byng M (2003). Mg citrate found more bioavailable than other Mg preparations in a randomised, double-blind study. Magnesium Research 16(3). pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govRandomized trial
  2. Lindberg JS, Zobitz MM, Poindexter JR, Pak CY (1990). Magnesium bioavailability from magnesium citrate and magnesium oxide. Journal of the American College of Nutrition 9(1). pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govStudy
  3. Magnesium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. ods.od.nih.govGovernment

SuppScout links to primary and authoritative sources wherever possible. See our editorial policy for how sources are selected and how corrections are handled.

This page is educational and is not medical advice. Talk to a healthcare professional before starting a supplement, especially if you have a medical condition, take medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.