Isotropy and Anisotropy with magnets

The characteristics "anisotropic" or "isotropic" indicate whether a magnet has a preferred magnetisation direction. In isotropic magnets, the direction of magnetisation is random and, as a result, the adhesive force is lower than in anisotropic magnets. On the other hand, anisotropic magnets are exclusively magnetised in a predetermined direction and thus have a higher adhesive force.
Our neodymium, ferrite and AlNiCo magnets are all anisotropic. Some magnetic tapes and magnetic sheets are anisotropic, while others are isotropic. You can find the specifications in the individual product descriptions.

Comparison isotropic/anisotropic

isotropic = no preferred direction	anisotropic = has preferred direction
Magnetisation in any direction	Magnetisation exclusively in the specified direction
Lower price	Higher price
Lower adhesive force	Higher adhesive force

You can't tell on sight if a magnet is anisotropic or isotropic. The difference lies in an additional production step for anisotropic magnets: When producing the raw magnet, an electromagnetic field is created, hence, the material adjusts ideally. That's why anisotropic magnets are stronger than isotropic ones, but they can then only be magnetised in the specified direction. Due to the additional production step, anisotropic magnets are somewhat more expensive than isotropic ones.

More general information can also be found under FAQs What are neodymium, ferrite and AlNiCo magnets made of? and What do I need to know about using magnetic tapes and sheets?.

Is this magnet isotropic or anisotropic?

Comparison isotropic/anisotropic

Examples of isotropic magnetic products in our shop

Examples of anisotropic magnetic products in our shop