Which magnetic hook do you choose? By holding force and design

Choose the right neodymium hook magnet: small, fully rotatable, or rubber-coated. Overview of dimensions and holding force.

By Magnetenspecialist
2 min read


A hook magnet is a neodymium pot magnet with a hook. You attach it to a steel surface and use it to hang tools, cables, lamps, or other objects. The steel pot concentrates the magnetic force onto the flat front side, making the holding power on steel much higher than that of the same magnet without a pot. You can read more about this principle in Why are pot magnets so strong?

Step 1: choose the type

  • Standard hook magnet: steel pot with NiCuNi coating, for dry indoor spaces such as workshops, warehouses, and shops.
  • Swivel hook: the hook rotates, ensuring that an object can always hang straight.
  • Rubber-coated hook magnet: the rubber casing protects the surface the magnet is attached to and provides grip, preventing it from sliding.

Step 2: choose the holding power

The holding power in the table is measured under ideal conditions on a flat, thick steel plate. In practice, the actual holding power will be lower due to rust, paint, an air gap, or a thin surface. Furthermore, an object hanging from the hook pulls on the magnet at an angle, causing it to release more easily than it would under a perpendicular pull. Therefore, choose with a margin. Holding power is not a permitted working load: do not use a magnet as the sole means of securing heavy loads where a fall could cause injury. Read how holding power is determined.

Quick selection

Size Holding power (approx.) Suitable for
Ø10 and Ø13 mm 5.1 to 6.4 kg Keys, cables, light objects
Ø16 mm 9.3 kg Lightweight tools, displays
Ø20, Ø25 and Ø32 x 7 mm 16 to 18 kg Tools, lamps, workshop
Ø32 mm 29 kg Heavier tools in workshop and warehouse
Ø43 and Ø66 mm rubber 14 to 27 kg Where grip and surface protection matter
Ø40 to Ø50 mm 47 to 72 kg Heavy objects on thick steel surfaces
Ø88 mm rubber 55 kg Heavy objects with rubber grip
Ø60 x 18 mm 96 kg Very heavy-duty applications

View the entire range of hook magnets. Are you looking for a magnet with an eyelet instead of a hook? Check out our eyelet magnets.

Safe use

Magnets are not toys and should be kept out of the reach of children. Keep strong magnets away from pacemakers, electronics, and bank cards. Large hook magnets can snap onto steel with great force; keep your fingers clear.

Help with choosing

Are you in doubt between two sizes? Use our Magnet Advisor or contact us.