Abstract. The enrichment irregularity of coalbed methane has been a problem for exploration and development. Great differences exist in methane enrichment even between different wells within a region. To study the main factors and reasons controlling these differences, we selected a relatively mature development block within a coalbed methane enrichment region of the Southern Qinshui Basin, China. Using individual well data, 3D seismic data, and methane content data and considering the coalbed methane (CBM) reservoir as a closed system, we analysed the enrichment irregularity of CBM in coalbed 3# and the various geologic factors influencing the enrichment.The results show that the CBM reservoir formation resulted from an interaction of various geologic factors, the evolution process is irreversible, and all of these factors are subject to certain internal relationships. The enrichment is controlled by several factors, such as tectonic development, formation pressure, coalbed structure, properties of roof strata, and hydrogeological conditions. Among these, formation pressure and coalbed structure are the most likely factors to cause differences in methane contents. Burial depth affects formation pressure, which consequently affects the saturation level of CBM in its adsorption state. Moreover, the coalbed structure determines the development of the reservoir space.Larger reservoir space and higher coalbed pressure are more favourable for CBM enrichment and the best enrichment region appears where both factors correlate well,this is particularly obvious in synclinal areas. Furthermore, tectonic development controls the overall form of CBM reservoirs, fault development reduces methane content and the mudstone cap provides a trap condition for CBM accumulation.