What is the Difference Between a Piezo and Magnetic Buzzer?

Piezo and magnetic buzzers are used extensively to produce sound in a variety of consumer devices. These two components account for the tone produced by nearly every automobile alarm, washing machine, sound-making toy, and other such products. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about piezo and magnetic buzzers, including their differences, applications, and function.

Piezo components are named after the piezoelectric effect, which describes an object that creates an electrical charge when mechanical stress is applied or mechanically degrades when an electric current is used. Piezo buzzers contain a ceramic material that vibrates and generates an audible sound wave when an electric current is applied. These components are so popular because they are lightweight, inexpensive, have a large range of operating voltages, and typically require less than 30 mA of energy.

Magnetic buzzers produce a similar-sounding tone to a piezo buzzer but use a different mechanism to generate the noise. These devices contain a coiled wire that makes a magnetic field when a current is applied. Also included in the casing is a ferromagnetic disk, which is attracted to the magnetic field produced by the coil. When a current is applied, this disk vibrates in an oscillating manner and creates an audible tone. These buzzers generally demand a higher energy input and a narrower operating voltage window.

Choosing between a piezo and magnetic buzzer is highly dependent on the intended application and specifications of the circuit or broader device the buzzer will be used with. It is also important to decide if a specific frequency is needed. For example, a piezo buzzer should likely be considered for an alarm system or similar applications requiring a higher pitch tone. Conversely, magnetic buzzers may be preferred for personal devices or toys since they generally produce a less piercing frequency. Another important variable to consider is the frequency response, which describes the relationship between the input frequency and the audio output. Since piezo buzzers can work with a wider range of input voltages, the breadth of audio frequencies available is typically greater than magnetic buzzers.

Both buzzers can also be purchased as indicators or transducers. Indicators contain the frequency generators already embedded in the device, allowing for simple installation and integration with the intended circuit. However, indicators have a fixed frequency range in which they can operate. On the other hand, transducers require an external frequency generator to be connected to work. Integrating these components is more difficult, but the user can select from a wider frequency range during installation.

Another factor to consider when choosing between a piezo and a magnetic buzzer is the relative size. For example, magnetic buzzers can be as small as 5mm and go up to 25mm, whereas piezo buzzers can be as large as 55mm. The two options also differ in the position of the sound vent, with piezo buzzers typically containing a top-sided sound vent and magnetic models featuring a sound vent on the sides. Finally, it is important to consider the price difference between the two. Piezo buzzers are more expensive than magnetic ones due to their wider operating capabilities.

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