Magnetic Catches vs Touch Latches: Definition and Holding Force

June 7, 2026

A magnetic catch keeps furniture doors closed using magnetic attraction, whereas a touch latch opens and closes the door using mechanical spring pressure. Both systems enable handleless fronts, but they differ fundamentally in function: the magnetic catch holds passively, whilst the touch latch acts actively as an ejection mechanism.

What Are Magnetic Catches and Touch Latches Exactly?

The magnetic catch consists of a housing with an integrated magnet, which is screwed to the carcase, and a metallic counterplate on the inside of the door. As soon as the door touches it, the magnetic field ensures a secure, play-free closure.

A touch latch (often referred to in trade terminology as push-to-open or tip-on), on the other hand, uses a pre-tensioned internal mechanical spring. Light pressure on the front releases a pin that pushes the door open slightly. Pressing the front again pushes the pin back and re-engages the mechanism.

Types and Variants

Different designs are used depending on the furniture construction:

Standard magnetic catches: Mostly manufactured from plastic (commonly in black or white) or as a sturdier metal variant. They are available as surface-mounted versions for screwing on or as recessed catches for concealed installation in the carcase edge.
Touch latches with a magnetic tip: A hybrid solution. The ejection mechanism is combined with a magnet at the head. This keeps the door flush against the carcase when closed and prevents it from popping open during minor vibrations.
Touch latches with a rubber buffer: For fronts held purely mechanically. The buffer protects the surface during closure. This is technically distinct from a door damper, which brakes the closing action hydraulically (soft-close).

Dimensions, Holding Force, and Standards

When selecting fittings, specific physical values are crucial for proper function:

Holding force: The tensile force of magnetic catches is stated in kilograms (kg). For lightweight cupboard doors made of chipboard or MDF, 2 kg - 4 kg is sufficient. Heavy solid wood doors or large balcony doors require catches with 4 kg - 10 kg holding force.
Drilling pattern: The grid dimension for screwing into the carcase frequently follows System 32 (hole spacing 32 mm) in professional fittings.
Fastening: Fixing is usually carried out using wood screws and furniture screws with a diameter of 3 mm or 3.5 mm. The drive is typically PZ or TX.
Release travel: The stroke in touch latches is typically 10 mm - 40 mm, depending on the material thickness of the door and the required clearance to grip behind it.

Compatibility: The Most Common Installation Error

Installing both systems requires precision. Magnetic catches usually feature slotted holes to align the depth position precisely after screwing. The door must close completely flush so that the magnet makes full-surface contact with the counterplate.

Important note for installers: A touch latch must never be combined with soft-close hinges. The damping works against the spring force of the ejector like an engaged handbrake against an engine. Non-damped hinges are mandatory for ejection systems.

If, on the other hand, a purely magnetic catch is installed, the front strictly requires a furniture handle or furniture knob for opening, as the system only retains the door without ejecting it. A neat closing alignment also requires an accurate right-angled carcase, stabilised by precision furniture connectors.

Installing Magnetic Catches: Quick Guide

Required tools: Cordless screwdriver, cross-head bit, bradawl or 2 mm wood drill bit.

Positioning: Hold the catch against the carcase (usually at the top or bottom edge, not at the height of the hinges).
Carcase fastening: Secure the housing via the slotted holes using 3.5 mm screws, but do not tighten them fully yet.
Marking the counterplate: Attach the metal plate to the magnet. Close the door and press lightly. This marks the exact position on the inside of the door.
Fixing the counterplate: Screw the plate securely onto the marked position on the door.
Fine adjustment: Close the door, adjust the catch along the slotted hole until the front sits flush, and tighten the screws firmly.

Related Terms

Catch / Retainer: Technical umbrella term for all fittings that keep a door closed without a mechanical lock.
Recessed catches: Cylindrical magnetic catches recessed into a drilled hole in the wood.
Catch housing: The outer casing (plastic or metal) housing the magnet or spring mechanism.