A linear drive device comprising at least one excitation winding for producing a variable magnetic field and is provided with an associated yoke body conducting a magnetic flux and an armature body which comprises a magnet carrier provided with at least two permanent magnet parts, preferably in the form of a plate, and to which an axial oscillation movement can be transferred by the magnetic field of the excitation winding. In order to avoid eddy currents in the magnet carrier, it is made of an electrically insulating material at least in the part thereof which penetrates into the magnetic field area defined by the pole surfaces of the yoke body and the excitation winding or which are arranged in said area. The magnet parts can be provided with ferromagnetic covers.