In this paper, three novel designs of linear permanent magnet motors (LPMM) having moving magnets armature, are proposed for driving a direct drive linear reciprocating compressor in household refrigerator. The designs are then compared, including the configurations and static characteristics based on finite element analysis (FEA). In contrast to a conventional reciprocating compressor, a direct-drive linear compressor in which the piston is driven directly by a linear motor (LM) and resonant springs is considered a positive displacement. The analysis on performance of LPMM using the proposed designs is carried out on the magnetic flux-lines, magnetic field intensity, magnetic flux density, back-EMF and thrust force. The extensive simulation results indicate the effectiveness of the proposed designs. © 2013 IEEE.