For many wargamers, the "foam case burial" is no longer acceptable. You spend hundreds of hours painting an army only to hide it in a dark bag, risking snapped spears and chipped paint every time you travel. Magnetisation is the modern solution—but how does it translate to your home display?
Pro Tip: The One-Way Workflow
The goal is a "one-way workflow": your miniatures stay on the same magnetised base from the painting desk to the display stand, and finally into your transport case. This reduces handling and keeps your paintwork pristine.
Do All Display Stands Work with Magnets?
Not all stands are created equal. High-cost acrylic alternatives are often made of non-reactive plastic, meaning your magnetised bases will simply slide around on the shelves. This defeats the purpose of magnetising for security.
The WarSplay modular display system is designed specifically with magnet-ready pods. By using a tiered stadium seating layout with steel-responsive inserts, your miniatures "snap" into place. This ensures that even if you bump your desk or move your display cabinet, your army stays in perfect formation.
Choosing the Best Magnets for Wargaming Bases
When search results point you toward "best magnets for wargaming," you will likely see N52 Neodymium magnets mentioned. For systems compatible with Warhammer 40,000® or Age of Sigmar®, the strength of the magnet (N52) is more important than the size. To give a sense of scale, even a tiny 5mm × 2mm neodymium disc holds around 0.45kg (roughly 1 lb) of pull force — many times the weight of a plastic model — so the right magnet locks a base to a steel insert with ease.
- 25mm - 32mm Bases: Use 3mm x 2mm N52 magnets. They fit perfectly inside the hollow of most standard plastic bases.
- 40mm - 60mm Bases: Use 5mm x 2mm N52 magnets. These provide enough pull to keep heavier elite units or small monsters secure during movement.
For a deep dive into specific sizes, read our full guide on how to magnetise miniature bases.
When are Magnets Overkill?
Magnets are a game-changer for transport, but for a stationary home display, they aren't always a requirement. If your collection sits inside a glass cabinet and never moves, a standard non-magnetised WarSplay stand provides excellent visibility and stability.
However, if you frequently move your units between your hobby desk and the gaming table, magnetisation is the ultimate insurance policy. It allows for a seamless display and transport system that protects your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will magnets stick to the plastic tiers?
Standard plastic display tiers are not magnetic. To make your display magnet-ready, you need a system like WarSplay that incorporates steel-responsive surfaces or pods. You can learn more on our How to Magnetise WarSplay page.
Does magnet thickness matter for display stands?
Yes. If the magnet is too thick, the miniature will "hover" slightly above the tier, making it look unstable. A 2mm thick magnet is standard for most wargaming bases and ensures a flush, professional finish.
Can I use magnetised stands for heavy resin models?
Yes, but you may need multiple magnets or larger 10mm discs for centrepiece models. Stadium seating stands are excellent for resin because they reduce the need to physically touch the fragile parts when showing them off to friends.
Disclaimer: WarSplay® products are independently manufactured. We are not affiliated with, authorised by, or endorsed by Games Workshop Limited or IKEA® AB. Trademarks such as Warhammer 40,000® and Age of Sigmar® are used solely to indicate compatibility.