What is the difference between Neodymium and Ferrite magnets?

The main differences:

appearance – ferrite magnets are black in color, while neodymium magnets usually have a shiny metallic coating.

pulling force – neodymium magnets are 10 times stronger than ferrite magnets

price – neodymium magnets are more expensive than ferrite magnets

fragility – neodymium magnets are more fragile than ferrite magnets

waterproofness – ordinary neodymium magnets rust in wet environments, ferrite magnets do not

thermal resistance – ferrite magnets can be used at higher temperatures than neodymium magnets, but there are neodymium magnets with higher thermal resistance, but their strength is lower and the price is higher

resistance to demagnetization – ferrite magnets can lose their magnetic strength when placed in a strong magnetic field

Appearance

Ferrite magnets are black. The color of neodymium magnets depends on the surface treatment. The most commonly used surface treatment is nickel. However, there are other examples of the surface treatment of neodymium magnets: nickel, zinc, gold, epoxy resin, plastic, rubber

Each type of surface has its advantages and disadvantages.

Pulling force

Neodymium magnets are roughly 10 times stronger than ferrite magnets of the same size:

If you need the strongest possible magnet, neodymium magnets are a better choice than ferrite magnets. In some cases, the neodymium magnet may be too strong, in which case it is better to use a ferrite magnet.

Neodymium magnets are also more suitable when space is limited and the magnet must be small. With neodymium magnets, you can achieve the same strength with a much smaller volume:

Price

Neodymium magnets are 3-5 times more expensive than ferrite magnets of the same size.

Ferrite magnets have a better price/volume ratio, but neodymium magnets have a better price/strength ratio.

Fragility

The disadvantage of neodymium magnets is that they are fragile and can break upon impact.

Ferrite magnets can also break under strong impacts, but they are more resistant compared to neodymium magnets.

You can reduce the fragility of neodymium magnets by placing them in a hard steel case. Neodymium pot magnets have all the advantages of neodymium magnets, but at the same time they are not fragile, as the steel case (cover) protects the magnet from impacts.

Waterproof

Traditional neodymium magnets with a nickel-plated surface are not suitable for use in wet environments, as they can start to rust. This problem can be solved by choosing the right surface treatment. The most suitable surface treatment is rubber or plastic, which protects the magnet 100% from moisture. You can also use magnets with an epoxy resin or gold coating, but these coatings can wear off over time.

Ferrite magnets do not rust, so they can be used even in wet environments without protective surface treatment.

Heat resistance

Ferrite magnets withstand temperatures up to 250 °C.

Traditional neodymium magnets are approx. At 80 °C, they begin to permanently lose part of their tensile strength. However, there are also special types of neodymium magnets that can withstand temperatures up to 240 °C.