<p>In this study, the physicochemical properties of magnetic zeolites synthesized with two methods were compared. The first approach involved using sub-micron iron powder in the zeolite synthesis gel, which resulted in a structure with a specific orientation. The second method involved synthesizing magnetite (Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles on LTA zeolite, achieving a more homogeneous distribution of magnetic centers. The resulting materials were analyzed through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM–EDS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Significant differences were found in the structural integration, the dispersion of the magnetic component, morphology, and particle size. These variations have direct implications for the potential applications of magnetic zeolites, especially in adsorption and catalysis, where surface area and magnetic separability are crucial. This comparative analysis is key to designing materials with specific properties for each application.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>