Magnetic Snap Fidget Toy | Plain Bearing & Thrust Bearing Versions

Magnetic Snap Fidget Toy

A compact and satisfying magnetic fidget toy designed for endless flipping and rotating.

The model consists of two halves connected by a rotating joint. Embedded magnets create distinct snap points, giving the toy a satisfying tactile feel as it moves from one position to the next. Whether you're looking for a desk toy, a focus aid, or simply something fun to play with, this design delivers smooth motion combined with crisp magnetic feedback.

Versions

This model is available in two variants:

• Plain Bearing Version – Simple, durable, and easy to print.

• Thrust Bearing Version – Provides smoother rotation and a premium feel.

Features

• Magnetic snap action

• Compact pocket-sized design

• Smooth rotating mechanism

• Choice of plain bearing or thrust bearing

• Great for stress relief, focus, and everyday fidgeting

Required Hardware

• Magnets (6x3 mm, 12 pcs)

• M4x12 machine head screw (DIN 912, 1 pcs)

• M4 Nut (DIN 934, 1 pcs, IMPORTANT: There is no room for a captive nut, so you have to fabricate your own by threading it on another M4 screw. To do so hit it with a hammer to slightly deform it, increasing resistance in order for it to not unscrew on its own.)

• M4 washers (DIN 125, 2 pcs)

• Optional thrust bearing for the bearing version (12x21x5 mm, 1 pcs, e.g.: https://amzn.eu/d/0cbl5ajZ)

• Synthetic grease (like the one from Prusa for lead screws)

Assembly

1. Print all required parts (positive and negative shell (optional: plain bearing)).

2. Sand plain bearing using 800 grit sandpaper (skip if you use the thrust bearing)

3. Insert the magnets in the first shell, either:

   1. All 12 magnets from one shell with north facing up when inserting. (This will make the snaps feel less pronounced, with each position in an attracting state.)

   2. Six magnets facing north, six facing south when inserting. (This will make the snaps feel stronger, as every second position will cause the magnets to repel each other, requiring more force to force it to the next state.)

4. Insert the four remaining magnets equidistantly spaced in the second shell, south facing up when inserting. Use super glue on the bottom of all holes to firmly fixate the magnets.

5. Install either:

   1. Thrust bearing halves in each shell, applying grease in each half as well as the bearing balls.

   2. Printed plain Bearing, applying grease liberally on both sides of the mating surfaces.

6. Assemble the two halves.

7. Apply grease on one side of each washer, then place them into the hole on the outside with grease facing inside. Apply grease on other side of the washer.

8. Insert M4 screw into the hole.

9. Fix both halves using the M4 nut. Tighten until no play is left, then back up slightly (you can adjust the tension by feel, too tight and there will be too much resitance, too loose and it will feel rattly).

10. ENJOY!

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