Ajax vs. Verisure: An Installer’s Honest Comparison for UK Homeowners
Choosing a new home security system can be overwhelming. You’ll see one name everywhere you look: Verisure. With a massive advertising presence, they are often the first port of call for many homeowners. But does being the most advertised mean they are the best solution for your security?
As professional security installers at HBSS, we frequently get asked how the alarms we champion—specifically Ajax Systems—stack up against the big names. We believe in transparency, so we’ve put together a straightforward, fact-based comparison to help you decide. No sales pitch, just the essential information.
Ownership: Do You Own Your Alarm or Just Rent It?
This is the single most important difference between the two systems.
- Verisure: With Verisure, you are essentially leasing the equipment. It’s tied to a mandatory monthly subscription. If you decide to cancel your contract, the system is either removed or remotely disabled, leaving you with non-functional hardware. You never truly own it.
- Ajax: When you buy an Ajax system, you own it outright from day one. It’s a security asset for your home, not a rental. There are no mandatory contracts to keep it running. It’s yours, forever.
Contracts & Costs: Unpacking the Real Price
Value for money isn't just about the initial price; it's about the total cost over the system's lifetime.
- Verisure: The sales process typically involves a long-term contract (often 3 years) and a variable initial quote. Many customers report an initial price of over £800, which can sometimes be negotiated down to £0. This sales model often locks you into high monthly fees to cover the “free” or discounted hardware.
- Ajax (with HBSS): We provide transparent, upfront pricing. There are no sales reps working on commission, just clear quotes for the hardware and professional installation. Most of our typical residential installations fall between £499–£899. With no mandatory contract, you are not tied into years of payments.
Monitoring: Professional Response vs. Total Flexibility
How your alarm notifies you of a breach is critical.
- Verisure: 24/7 professional monitoring is built into their service and is a key part of the required monthly fee. If you stop paying, you lose all remote functionality, including app alerts.
- Ajax: Ajax puts you in control. You get powerful, instant notifications through the intuitive mobile app for free. This self-monitoring is often more than enough for many homeowners. However, if you want professional 24/7 monitoring with police response, we can provide it as an optional, flexible service. You can turn it on or off as you need, without being locked in.
Technology & Features: The Brains Behind the Siren
A modern alarm should be smart, reliable, and adaptable.
- Verisure: Their system includes unique features like a “Smoke Cannon” (fog generator) and two-way voice communication through the panel. However, the hardware is proprietary, meaning it’s designed to work only within their ecosystem, limiting future upgrades or integrations.
- Ajax: Ajax is a Grade 2 certified, European-made system known for its sleek design, robust wireless technology, and market-leading features.
– MotionCam: Get a photo confirmation of an intruder within 9 seconds of the alarm triggering.
– Broad Integration: Easily add fire, flood, and carbon monoxide detectors.
– Third-Party Friendly: Want a smoke cannon? We can integrate a professional one directly into your Ajax system.
– Smart Home Ready: Control gates, lights, and smart plugs through automation scenarios in the same app.
| Feature | Verisure | Ajax (Installed by HBSS) |
|---|---|---|
| System Ownership | Leased as part of a service | You own the hardware from day one |
| Contract | Mandatory 2-3 year contract | No contracts, no tie-ins |
| Pricing Model | Variable quote + high monthly fees | Transparent one-off cost for hardware & install |
| Typical Install Cost | Often £800+ (before negotiation) | £499 – £899 |
| Mobile App Access | Requires active monthly subscription | Free for the life of the system |
| Professional Monitoring | Mandatory and included in fee | Optional and flexible service |
| Pet-Safe Sensors | Available as an option | Included as standard |
| Photo Verification | Limited options, not standard | MotionCam for instant photo alerts |
| Outdoor Protection | Limited availability | Full range of outdoor detectors available |
| Smart Integration | Very limited | Extensive (smart plugs, relays, third-party) |
| Who Installs It? | Commissioned sales rep & installer | Your dedicated HBSS security engineer |
The Verdict: A Service vs. An Asset
Choosing between Verisure and Ajax comes down to a simple philosophy.
Verisure offers a security service that you subscribe to. It’s convenient but comes with long-term contracts, ongoing costs, and a lack of ownership.
Ajax offers a security system that you own. It’s a premium, future-proof asset for your property that gives you complete control, flexibility, and freedom from monthly fees.
When you work with a local, professional installer like HBSS, you get more than just a box. You get expert advice, a clean installation, and dedicated support without the pressure of a sales quota.
Ready to own a smarter, more flexible home alarm system?
Contact HBSS today for a free, no-obligation quote and see how an Ajax system can be tailored perfectly to your home and budget.
Thinking of switching from Verisure?
Drop us a message. We’ll spec a better system — and you’ll own it from day one.
Call 07591 036267
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