N35 vs N52 Magnets: What Is the Difference and How to Choose?

Many buyers get stuck choosing between N35 vs N52¹ magnets. One is cheaper. The other is stronger. But the real decision? Depends on your use case.

N35 and N52 refer to the magnetic grade² of neodymium magnets. N52 is the highest standard grade with stronger magnetic force, while N35 is the most common and affordable.

Some assume that stronger always means better. But that’s not true for magnets. In this article, I’ll help you break down the technical and commercial differences, so you can pick the right grade for your project—not just the most expensive one.

What do N35 and N52 magnet grades mean?

Choosing a magnet by its grade can feel confusing. The numbers sound technical, but what do they actually represent?

N35 and N52 indicate the maximum energy product (BHmax)³ of a neodymium magnet, measured in Mega-Gauss Oersteds (MGOe)⁴. Higher numbers mean stronger magnetic potential.

Magnet grades like N35, N42, and N52 are shorthand for a magnet’s maximum energy product. It’s a technical value that tells us how much magnetic energy the material can store. N35 magnets have a BHmax of around 35 MGOe, while N52 magnets peak near 52 MGOe.

But that number isn’t the only thing to consider. Grades don’t include mechanical strength, temperature resistance, or coating durability. They simply indicate potential magnetic strength under ideal conditions.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Grade	BHmax (MGOe)	Relative Strength	Common Usage Level
N35	~33–35	Standard	Entry-level, bulk use
N52	~50–52	Maximum	Precision, high-power

In my experience working with procurement teams, those who rely only on the grade number often overpay or under-spec. Understanding what the grade actually affects—and what it doesn’t—is critical for smart sourcing.

How do N35 and N52 magnets compare in magnetic strength and performance?

Stronger sounds better. But is the performance gain always worth it?

N52 magnets are significantly stronger than N35 magnets—up to 50% more in holding force. But strength alone doesn’t determine real-world suitability.

N52 is currently the strongest standard grade in the neodymium⁵ family. It generates a stronger magnetic field and higher pull force in the same volume. If you’re building a compact motor, sensor, or magnetic tool where space is limited, that’s a huge benefit.

Let me show you how they compare in actual force:

Shape	N35 Pull Force6	N52 Pull Force
Ø10×2 mm disc	~1.0 kgf	~1.7 kgf
Ø20×5 mm disc	~7.0 kgf	~12.0 kgf
Block 20×10×5	~5.5 kgf	~9.5 kgf

(Source: internal magnet test data, standardized on steel plate contact.)

However, stronger fields also mean more risk. N52 magnets can pinch skin, attract metal tools unexpectedly, and damage nearby electronics. They are also more brittle and more sensitive to temperature fluctuations. For many general applications—like holding, separation, or non-critical fixtures—N35 is more than enough.

In other words: N52 wins in strength, but not always in safety or practicality.

Learn more about N52 magnets and its safety Tips⁷

What are the cost differences between N35 and N52 magnets?

Here’s the catch with performance upgrades: they usually cost more.

N52 magnets are 30% to 60% more expensive than N35 magnets due to higher rare earth content and more precise manufacturing requirements.

Cost is one of the biggest deciding factors in magnet selection. The price difference comes down to material composition and process control. N52 requires a higher concentration of neodymium and tighter manufacturing tolerances to maintain performance without cracking or demagnetization.

Here’s a rough pricing comparison (as of 2025， MOQ 10K):

Size	N35 Price (USD)	N52 Price (USD)	Price Increase
Ø10×2 mm disc	$0.065	$0.09	+38%
Ø15×3 mm disc	$0.185	$0.255	+38%
Ø20×5 mm disc	$0.64	$0.89	+39%
Block 10×10×5mm	$0.235	$0.335	+43%
Block 20×10×5mm	$0.42	$0.61	+45%
Block 30×10×10mm	$1.55	$2.25	+45%

(Source: MainRich internal pricing estimates for 10k+ order volumes.)

Now multiply that by hundreds or thousands of units per month, and the impact on your BOM (bill of materials⁸) adds up fast. If you don’t truly need the extra strength, you’re better off saving the margin.

I often advise clients to use N35 for base-level models and reserve N52 only for top-tier SKUs or critical components.

Which applications are best suited for N35 vs N52 magnets?

Not all use cases demand top-shelf performance. So where does each grade fit best?

N35 magnets are ideal for general holding, separation, and low-stress fixtures. N52 suits precision tools, compact motors, sensors, and high-performance assemblies.

Let’s map common use cases to grades:

N35 Use Cases

• Magnetic clasps and closures
• Cabinet and door latches
• Basic industrial separation
• Educational kits and hobbyist projects
• Consumer electronics mounts

These environments are cost-sensitive. N35 provides plenty of strength without overengineering.

N52 Use Cases

• Precision magnetic encoders
• BLDC and servo motors in robotics⁹
• Aerospace assemblies with weight limits
• Magnetic sensors in medical devices
• High-efficiency magnet couplings

In these applications, strength-to-size ratio¹⁰ is critical. The added cost of N52 is justified by higher energy output in compact spaces.

I always recommend buyers evaluate their functional requirement per gram. Over-specifying adds cost. Under-specifying introduces risk.

How to choose the right magnet grade for your procurement needs?

The wrong magnet can cost more than just money. It can fail in critical use.

Choose N35 if your application allows larger size or tolerates lower pull force. Choose N52 if you need compact strength, especially in weight-sensitive or high-performance designs.

Here’s a simple checklist I use with procurement teams:

1. Define Function First

• What must the magnet do? Lift? Sense? Rotate?
• What’s the required force or field?

2. Confirm Space Constraints

• Is magnet volume a limitation?
• Can you use a larger N35 instead of a small N52?

3. Estimate Lifecycle Exposure

• What’s the operating temperature?
• Will it face corrosion, shock, or vibration?

4. Balance Performance with Price

• Will the added cost of N52 improve performance or reliability in a measurable way?

Requirement	Best Grade
Low-cost, non-critical	N35
High force in small size	N52
Educational or demo	N35
Robotics, sensors	N52
General purpose holding	N35

Sometimes clients even combine both: N35 for main structure, N52 for key modules. The hybrid approach saves cost while preserving function.

Learn more tips in this magnets buyers bible¹¹

Reach out to our team and discuss your project

Frequently asked questions about N35 and N52 neodymium magnets

Can I replace N52 with a larger N35 magnet?
Yes—if space allows. A physically larger N35 can often match the pull force of a small N52.

Do N52 magnets lose magnetism faster?
Not inherently. But because they operate closer to magnetic limits, improper heat or shock may cause quicker degradation.

Is N52 always better than N35?
Not necessarily. N52 is stronger but also more brittle, more expensive, and more sensitive to heat. Use it only where strength is critical.

Are N52 magnets more dangerous?
Yes. Their force is high enough to cause injury or damage electronics if mishandled. Always follow safety guidelines.

What coatings are available for both grades?
Same options apply: Ni-Cu-Ni, epoxy, Zn, gold, and more. Grade doesn’t determine coating—application does.

Conclusion

N35 and N52 each serve their purpose. Stronger isn’t always better. It’s smarter to match the grade to your exact needs.

References