I built a layout with c-track to experiment with the three different types of feedback mechanisms - contact track, circuit track and reed switches. The reed switches were a big disappointment. The clearance between the magnets and everything on the track was minimal and even the metal track was a problem. Plus adhering the magnets to the car or loco was also a pain. All three have their plusses and minuses and the reed switch allows you to single out which trains you want something to happen whereas the other two are non-discriminatory. There is a reason they are so hard to find - no one buys them.

M track is very different from c and k track, as it is all metal. Reed switches fit fine on m track, but magnets must be glued to trains or wagons as they otherwise will pop onto track. Especially switches have a lot of metal, pulling magnets. I tested reed switch use, but for a number of operational reasons, i stayed with no-moving-parts, ground-sensing contact tracks.
Ben

Edited by user 27 February 2026 11:59:30(UTC)  | Reason: Not specified