Magnetic gate latches are sometimes used with mechanical digital keypad locks when a standard tubular latch will not fit the gate frame or post.

They can be useful on narrow gate posts, including some 50x50mm gate frames. If this is the problem you are trying to solve, our guide Gate Post Too Narrow for a 60mm Latch? explains the issue in more detail.

The main issue is alignment. If the gate moves, sags or shifts even slightly over time, the magnetic latch may no longer line up correctly with the strike. When that happens, the gate may stop latching reliably.

What is a magnetic gate latch?

A magnetic gate latch uses a latch body and strike arrangement where the latch is drawn into position as the gate closes.

In a digital mechanical gate lock setup, the keypad controls access, while the magnetic latch body is responsible for engaging with the strike and keeping the gate latched closed.

If you are new to battery-free keypad locks, it may help to first read What Is a Mechanical Digital Lock?.

This can be handy where a standard tubular latch will not fit, especially on narrow metal gate frames.

Why are they used on narrow gate posts?

Many gates use narrow metal box-section posts, often around 50x50mm. This can make a standard 60mm tubular latch difficult or impossible to fit correctly.

Because of this, installers sometimes look at magnetic gate latches as a way to get a mechanical digital keypad lock working on a narrow gate.

The idea makes sense: solve the backset problem and make the keypad fit the gate. But the long-term issue is that gates move, and magnetic latches need the latch and strike to line up properly.

For a broader explanation of latch styles, read our guide to latch vs bolt mechanical digital locks.

The main problem: gate movement

The biggest issue with magnetic gate latches is that they rely heavily on accurate alignment between the latch body and the strike.

That may be fine on the day the lock is installed. The gate closes, the latch lines up, the mechanism engages and everything works as expected.

The problem is what happens months or years later when the gate naturally moves.

Why gates move over time

Unlike a standard internal door, an external gate lives a much harder life.

Gates are exposed to weather, wind, vibration, ground movement, hinge wear and everyday force from being opened and closed. Even a well-built gate can shift slightly over time.

• Hinges wear or loosen
• The gate drops slightly under its own weight
• Posts move over time
• Heat and weather affect metal and timber
• Wind can push the gate against the latch
• People pull, slam or lean on the gate
• The gap between the gate and post changes

With a magnetic latch, even a small change can be enough to cause problems because the latch and strike need to meet in the correct position.

What happens when the latch no longer lines up?

When the magnetic latch and strike fall out of alignment, the gate may still look like it is closed, but the latch may not actually engage properly.

This can cause issues such as:

• The gate bouncing back open
• The latch not catching unless the gate is pushed firmly
• The gate needing to be lifted or pulled into position
• The lock feeling inconsistent from day to day
• The gate appearing closed but not being properly latched
• Extra adjustment work after installation

Why we often prefer the Borg 28mm latch option

Where possible, we generally prefer a more conventional 28mm Borg latch setup over a magnetic gate latch.

The 28mm backset gives a narrow-stile solution while still using a more traditional latch style. This can be a better option where the gate or frame allows it, because it is not relying on the same magnetic alignment behaviour.

These are available in right-hand and left-hand versions:

When would we still use a magnetic gate latch?

There are still situations where a magnetic gate latch may be the practical answer.

For example, the BDS Mortice Magnetic Gate Latch can suit Borg 2000 and 4000 series style keypad applications where a gate-specific magnetic latch solution is needed.

• The gate post is too narrow for a standard tubular latch
• A 28mm latch solution is not suitable for the application
• The gate is stable and well aligned
• The hinges and post are in good condition
• The customer understands that future adjustment may be required

When should you be cautious?

We would be more cautious about using a magnetic gate latch where the gate already has signs of movement or poor alignment.

• The gate already sags or drops
• The hinges are loose or worn
• The gate moves noticeably in wind
• The post or frame is flexible
• The gate needs to be lifted to close
• The existing latch already misses the strike
• The customer expects a very low-maintenance setup

In these cases, the magnetic latch may work initially but become frustrating once the gate moves slightly out of position.

Other gate factors to consider

The latch is only one part of choosing the correct digital mechanical gate lock.

You also need to consider whether the gate can be reached over or through, whether the lock should require a code from both sides, and whether the lock is exposed to harsh weather or coastal conditions.

• If someone can reach the inside handle, read Why Double-Sided Digital Mechanical Locks Are a Smart Choice for Gates
• If the lock is going outside or near the coast, read MG Pro & ECP Explained
• If you are comparing free access functions, read Passage Mode vs Holdback Mode

Quick comparison

Related mechanical digital lock guides

Still comparing gate lock options? These guides may help:

• What Is a Mechanical Digital Lock?
• Latch vs Bolt Mechanical Digital Locks
• Gate Post Too Narrow for a 60mm Latch?
• Why Double-Sided Digital Mechanical Locks Are a Smart Choice for Gates
• Passage Mode vs Holdback Mode
• MG Pro & ECP Explained
• Lockwood vs Borg vs Carbine
• Why Our Range Is Better Than Hardware Store Imitations

Need help choosing the right gate latch?

Send us a few photos and we’ll help you work out whether a 28mm Borg latch, magnetic gate latch or another gate lock solution is the right option.

Disclaimer: This article is general information only. The correct gate latch depends on your gate design, post depth, frame construction, alignment, hinge condition, installation requirements and intended use. Always confirm suitability before purchasing or installing hardware.