How to Choose Magnets for a Magnetic Board
How to choose magnets for a magnetic board
Choose the right magnet according to the type of board, the number of sheets you need to attach and how you want to handle it. An office magnet is often sufficient for a standard steel board, while a glass magnetic board usually requires a stronger neodymium version.
- Neodymium magnets offer high strength in a small size.
- Ferrite magnets are sufficient for lightweight paper on a standard board.
- Silicone and plastic cases make magnets easier to handle.
- The number of sheets held always depends on the particular board.
Magnetic boards are used in schools, offices, meeting rooms and homes. They display documents, timetables, work instructions, photographs and other lightweight materials.
The type of magnetic board matters
Painted or enamelled steel board
The magnet is relatively close to the steel backing, so both neodymium magnets and standard ferrite office magnets usually work well.
Glass magnetic board
There is a layer of glass between the magnet and the steel. This greater distance significantly reduces holding force, so ordinary ferrite magnets may not hold at all. Strong neodymium magnets designed specifically for glass boards are more suitable.
Ceramic or enamel board
The key factor is not just the top surface, but above all the construction of the board and the thickness of the steel layer beneath it. Check whether a magnet is suitable with a practical test.
A simple selection guide
- One lightweight sheet: a small office magnet.
- Several sheets: a neodymium magnet in a silicone case.
- A larger number of documents: a strong magnet in a large plastic case.
- Glass board: only a sufficiently strong, tested neodymium magnet.
Neodymium or ferrite magnets?
Neodymium magnets
Neodymium magnets are considerably stronger than ferrite magnets of a similar size. They suit multiple sheets, thicker documents and boards with a greater distance between the magnet and the steel backing.
Ferrite magnets
Coloured ferrite magnets suit standard school and office boards. They work well for timetables, notes and individual sheets, but may be too weak for a glass board.
Benefits of plastic and silicone cases
A bare neodymium magnet can be small, smooth and difficult to remove from a board. A case therefore offers several practical benefits:
- the magnet is easier to grip between your fingers,
- it is easier to remove from the board,
- colours let you organise information into groups,
- silicone reduces the risk of scratching a delicate surface,
- the magnetic core is partially protected against impacts.
The sheet capacity is only a guide
The number of sheets held can vary with paper thickness, board type, the layer of paint or glass and the size of the contact area. On a vertical board, the load also acts downwards, so the magnet may slide before it would pull straight off.
Recommended magnets for magnetic boards
Strong magnet in a plastic case – black
A compact cone-shaped magnet for attaching lightweight documents, notes and photographs to a standard magnetic board.
- Case diameter 9 mm
- Magnet diameter 5 mm
- Pull force 8.5 N
- Approximate force 0.85 kg
- Weight 2 g
- NdFeB neodymium magnet
- Black PLA case
- Temperature resistance up to 50 °C
- Product code 60161
Magnets in silicone cases – 10 pcs
A colourful set for schools, offices and planning boards. The silicone case makes each magnet easier to remove and protects more delicate surfaces.
- Pack contains 10 pieces
- Diameter 18 mm
- Height 4 mm
- Pull force per magnet 7.89 N
- Approximate force 0.785 kg
- Set weight 76 g
- Mixed colours
- Up to 10 A4 sheets according to the manufacturer
- Product code 10567
Very strong magnet in a case – green
A large neodymium office magnet for attaching a greater number of sheets and thicker presentation materials.
- Case diameter 30 mm
- Pull force 40 N
- Approximate force 4 kg
- Weight 10.9 g
- NdFeB neodymium magnet
- Green plastic case
- Up to 25 A4 sheets according to the manufacturer
- Designation MVP-30 NdFeB-BP
- Product code 60155
Frequently asked questions
Will every magnet hold on a glass board?
No. The glass layer increases the distance from the steel backing, so a strong neodymium magnet is usually necessary.
Is a ferrite magnet suitable for a school?
Yes, it is usually sufficient for individual sheets on a standard steel board.
Will a magnet scratch the board?
A bare metal magnet or trapped dirt can damage the surface. A silicone or rubber-coated case is suitable for delicate boards.
Will the magnet really hold the stated number of sheets?
This is a guide only. The result varies with the board, paper, surface and direction of the load.
Are strong office magnets toys?
No. Keep them out of the reach of small children and prevent them from being swallowed or inhaled.
Summary
Both ferrite and neodymium office magnets can be used on standard steel boards. For more sheets and glass magnetic boards, choose a stronger neodymium version.
A plastic case makes handling easier, while a silicone surface also helps protect the board from scratches. Always treat the stated sheet capacity as a guide.
Choose magnets for school and office use
Compare coloured, silicone-cased and very strong neodymium magnets according to the type of board and the number of documents.