Typically, magnets come in two different types: electromagnets and permanent magnets. The electromagnet is quite different from permanent magnet in that it needs an external source of energy in order to function like a proper magnet. An electromagnet needs electricity to work, while a permanent magnet emits its own magnetic energy. Both magnet types come in different strengths and with different names: ceramic magnets are electromagnets, while neodymium magnets are permanent.
