Ajax SoloButton 1‑Gang 2‑Way Touch Panel (Fog) ITM000996

Introduction: Meet the Ajax SoloButton 1‑Gang 2‑Way Touch Panel (Fog)

Ajax SoloButton (1‑Gang / 2‑Way) — Fog finishis a contactless front panel designed for the Ajax LightSwitch ecosystem. It provides a sleek, modern alternative to traditional mechanical light switches by combining proximity touch activation, optional night backlight, and wireless communication with LightCore relays and the Ajax hub. Intended for indoor use and sized to the standard European 55 form factor, the SoloButton is a user‑facing component that delivers a refined smart‑home switching experience.

Key features at a glance

• Contactless touch activation:Proximity activation up to ≈15 mm, responsive even with wet hands or gloves.
• Optional soft night backlight:Configurable on/off via the Ajax app for convenience in low light.
• Wireless control:Communicates using Ajax Jeweller protocol with LightCore relays and the Ajax hub for remote control and automation.
• European 55 form factor:Designed to replace or sit in standard 1‑gang or 2‑way installations (front panel only).
• Slim, modern finish:Fog colour provides a neutral aesthetic suitable for many interiors.

Detailed specifications and benefits

The technical design of the SoloButton balances form and function. Below are the most relevant specifications followed by how each contributes to real‑world benefits.

• Device type:Touch‑sensitive front panel for LightSwitch.
• Compatible relays:LightCore relays (1‑gang / 2‑way).
• Touch activation:Proximity contactless activation up to ~15 mm.
• Operating temperature:−10 °C to +40 °C.
• Operating humidity:Up to 75% (non‑condensing).
• Protection class:IP20 (indoor use).
• Form factor:European 55.
• Dimensions:≈ 82.75 × 82.75 × 10.26 mm.
• Weight:≈ 44–45 g.
• Wireless protocol:Ajax Jeweller.
• Radio frequency:Region dependent (e.g. 866–869 MHz or 915–926 MHz).
• Radio range:Up to ~900–1,100 m in open space (environment dependent).
• Finish / Colour:Fog.

• Proximity touch activationremoves the mechanical wear of traditional switches and enables activation without direct pressure — useful when your hands are full or dirty, or when wearing gloves.
• Optional night backlightimproves usability at night without creating glare; because it can be disabled in the app, you control when and where it illuminates.
• Wireless integrationvia Ajax Jeweller enables reliable low‑latency communication with the LightCore relay and Ajax hub, supporting remote control, scenes, and automated responses from other sensors within the Ajax ecosystem.
• Standard form factorsimplifies replacement and retrofit: the panel fits existing European 55 frames so installation can be quick when used with the appropriate LightCore hardware.
• Slim profile and neutral finishallow the SoloButton to blend into contemporary interiors while offering a tactile, premium feel.

Use cases and scenarios where the SoloButton excels

The SoloButton is most effective in installations that pair aesthetic minimalism with practical smart‑home control. Typical scenarios include:

• Kitchen or laundry: Contactless activation is convenient when hands are wet or soiled, reducing the need to touch surfaces and helping keep the switch clean.
• Hallways and bedrooms: The optional backlight serves as a subtle night guide without overpowering the room.
• Modern living spaces: For homeowners who want a clean, flush look without exposed mechanical toggles.

• Scene activation: Use the SoloButton to trigger lighting scenes, schedules, or multi‑device macros via the Ajax hub and LightCore relay.
• Integration with sensors: Combine with motion or luminosity sensors to create responsive lighting that reacts to presence or time of day.

• Guest rooms, small offices, and boutique retail: The unobtrusive design and contactless operation suit spaces where cleanliness and aesthetics matter.
• Shared facilities: Easy activation with gloves makes it suitable for staff areas in hospitality or healthcare environments (note: SoloButton is IP20 and intended for indoor use only).

Comparisons with similar products in the market

There are several alternative approaches to modern light control: traditional mechanical switches, smart relay‑based wall switches, and touch or capacitive faceplates from other manufacturers. Here's how the SoloButton stacks up.

• Durability:Contactless activation reduces mechanical wear compared with toggle or rocker switches.
• Hygiene:Less direct contact lowers surface contamination — a practical advantage in kitchens or shared spaces.
• Installation:Mechanical switches often require simpler wiring changes when replacing—SoloButton requires pairing with a LightCore relay and correct installation by a qualified electrician for line‑side wiring.

• Flexibility:SoloButton is a front panel only and relies on separate LightCore relays. This modularity can simplify maintenance and allow relay placement away from the wallbox.
• Cost and complexity:Systems with built‑in relays may reduce component count but can be less flexible for retrofits where relay placement is constrained. The suggested price positioning of the SoloButton makes it an affordable aesthetic upgrade when paired with LightCore hardware.

• Protocol reliability:Ajax Jeweller is engineered for secure, low‑latency signalling within the Ajax ecosystem, delivering dependable communication comparable with other premium smart‑home protocols.
• Compatibility:The SoloButton is purpose‑built for the Ajax LightSwitch system, which ensures seamless interoperability with LightCore relays and Ajax hubs but limits cross‑ecosystem compatibility compared with some multi‑platform smart switches.

Customer feedback and reviews

While individual experiences will vary by installer and environment, typical feedback themes from homeowners and installers include:

• "Responsive and elegant" — users often praise the sleek finish and reliable touch activation, noting the Fog colour integrates well with neutral interiors.
• "Great for hygiene‑sensitive spaces" — customers in kitchens or shared facilities appreciate the contactless activation and reduced surface contact.
• "Requires correct pairing and installation" — installers underscore the importance of pairing via QR code and following Ajax instructions, and they recommend a certified electrician for relay and line‑side connections.

These representative comments reflect common strengths and typical installation considerations. Prospective buyers should consult local installers or suppliers for hands‑on demonstrations and site‑specific advice.

Installation, compliance and practical notes

• Front panel only:SoloButton does not switch line voltage by itself — it must be paired with a LightCore relay and an Ajax hub (or compatible controller) to operate.
• Pairing:Pairing is performed via QR code and manufacturer instructions in the Ajax app; follow the official manual for best results.
• Electrical safety:Line‑side wiring and relay installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician in accordance with CE/UKCA requirements and local regulations.
• Indoor use only:IP20 protection class means the unit is designed for dry, indoor environments.

Conclusion: Why choose the Ajax SoloButton?

The Ajax SoloButton 1‑Gang 2‑Way Touch Panel in Fog offers a compelling mix of minimalist design, practical contactless activation, and seamless integration within the Ajax LightSwitch ecosystem. It’s particularly well suited for homeowners and small commercial spaces that prioritise hygiene, modern aesthetics, and reliable smart‑home automation. While it requires pairing with LightCore relays and an Ajax hub and professional installation for line‑side components, its modular design and standard European form factor make it a versatile choice for retrofits and new builds alike.

At a suggested retail price of approximately £11.99, the SoloButton represents an affordable, stylish front‑end for smart switching when combined with the LightCore and Ajax hub. Its benefits — from reduced mechanical wear and improved cleanliness to dependable wireless communication — make it a strong option for anyone upgrading traditional switches to a contemporary, contactless smart interface.