What is a Magnetic Catch? Function, Holding Force & Door Opening Systems

November 19, 2025

A magnetic catch is a mechanical-magnetic furniture fastener that keeps cabinet doors securely closed without the need for a traditional lock or latch. It consists of a magnetic housing on the carcase and a metal counter-plate on the door, with the holding force specified in kilograms (kg) typically ranging between 2 kg and 12 kg depending on the model.

What exactly is a magnetic catch?

A magnetic catch is used for the passive retention of furniture doors and lightweight flaps. The component comprises two main parts: a stationary block housing one or more permanent magnets, and a metallic counter-plate (also known as a strike plate). The magnet block is screwed to the interior of the furniture carcase, whilst the counter-plate is mounted to the inside of the door.

When the door closes, the magnet attracts the metallic plate. The magnetic catch functions as an invisible anchor, silently holding the door against the carcase edge. To open the door, one simply overcomes the magnetic pull by pulling manually on the handle.

Holding force and typical dimensions

The technical specification of a magnetic catch is primarily defined by its holding force. This is generally stated in kilograms (kg) and describes the resistance that must be overcome when opening the door.

2 kg to 4 kg: Standard value for lightweight furniture doors, small display cabinets, or bathroom cabinets.
5 kg to 8 kg: Medium holding force for standard cupboard doors made from solid chipboard or MDF.
10 kg to 12 kg: High holding force for large, heavy doors (e.g. floor-to-ceiling wardrobes) or doors with substantial weight.

Mounting dimensions vary depending on the design. Surface-mounted standard models often feature slotted holes for precise adjustment. For industrial fittings, the hole spacing frequently follows System 32 (32 mm spacing). Fixing is carried out using traditional wood screws (usually 3 mm or 3.5 mm diameter, with PZ or TX drive).

Types and variants

Depending on the furniture construction, different designs are utilised:

Surface-mounted magnetic catches: The most common variant. A plastic or metal housing is screwed directly to the carcase base, top panel, or side wall.
Recessed magnetic catches: These models are pressed flush into a pre-drilled hole (e.g. 15 mm diameter) in the wood. They are particularly unobtrusive.
Double magnetic catches: A single housing featuring two separate magnetic faces, mounted centrally in the carcase to hold two adjacent doors (double doors) simultaneously.

Distinction from other door opening systems

A standard magnetic catch always requires a furniture handle or recessed pull to open the door. It must not be confused with a push-to-open door mechanism.

While a magnetic catch merely holds the door closed, a push-to-open mechanism incorporates an integrated spring. Pressing against the handleless door releases the pin, popping the door open. Hybrid systems also exist: push-to-open catches with a magnetic tip. These not only push the door open, but also keep it flush against the carcase when closed via a small magnet on the strike plate.

Compared to runners, there is also a difference in retention: whilst modern drawer systems usually feature an integrated mechanical self-closing action in the slide, magnetic catches are a standalone solution specifically for hinged doors mounted on free-swinging hinges without built-in catches.

Installation and selection

Accurate alignment is essential during installation. The counter-plate must sit completely flush against the magnetic poles when the door is closed. A gap of just 1 mm drastically reduces the magnetic holding force.

When used as a cupboard catch, the position should be chosen as far away from the hinge as possible (usually at the top or bottom corner of the handle side of the door) to guarantee optimum leverage when opening and closing.