Disclosed is an electromagnetic drive, comprising an armature that can move electromagnetically back and forth. An element, especially the valve of an internal combustion engine, is driven by the movement of the armature. The ratio of the depth of the yoke in relation to the width of the yoke of the electromagnets and the length of the armature in relation to the width of the armature is greater than 1.5, preferably greater than 2, in order to reduce the power consumption of said drive.