Introduction to the Ajax SoloButton 1‑gang 2‑way Touch Panel (Graphite)
Ajax SoloButton 1‑gang touch panel (Graphite)is a minimalist, modern faceplate designed to serve as the tactile and visual interface for Ajax LightSwitch systems. It provides both touch and contactless activation options, an optional soft night backlight, and a compact European (55 mm) form factor to fit standard EU frames. Importantly, the SoloButton is a faceplate-only device: it does not switch mains loads by itself and requires an Ajax LightCore relay (or a compatible multi‑module frame paired with a relay) for actual load control. This separation makes the SoloButton particularly well suited to modular or retrofit jobs where the control surface is desired independently from the electrical switching hardware.
Key features at a glance
- Touch and contactless activation— hand or proximity detection up to approximately 15 mm for hygienic, convenient control.
- Optional soft night backlight— subtle illumination for locating switches in the dark; configurable via the Ajax app and can be disabled.
- European form factor (55)— fits standard EU frames for an easy aesthetic match with existing finishes.
- Integration— pairs with Ajax hubs and range extenders using the Jeweller wireless protocol and is pairable by QR code.
- Faceplate-only design— requires LightCore relay module to control mains circuits, enabling safe separation of low-voltage control from high-voltage switching.
- Indoor-rated— IP20 protection class for indoor installations.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the SoloButton's technical profile helps installers and homeowners evaluate fit and compatibility. The unit measures 82.75 × 82.75 × 10.26 mm and weighs 44.5 g, making it thin and lightweight for flush mounting behind a standard EU faceplate frame. It is designed to operate between −10 °C and +40 °C and in relative humidity up to 75% (without condensation), conditions typical for household and commercial interiors.
The device communicates over Ajax's proprietary Jeweller radio protocol (regional frequency dependent) to Ajax hubs and range extenders. This ensures secure, low-latency wireless signalling when paired with the appropriate relay or LightSwitch module. Activation distance is up to 15 mm, enabling contactless control for users who prefer not to touch surfaces during use. The soft backlight is ideal for night-time wayfinding without being intrusive and can be disabled in the app for those who prefer a completely dark wallplate.
Practical benefits include:
- Hygiene and convenience:Contactless activation reduces surface touching, handy in kitchens, bathrooms, or public areas.
- Aesthetic flexibility:The Graphite finish offers a modern, neutral look that complements a variety of interior styles.
- Modularity:Faceplate-only design allows installers to centralise relay modules in a junction box or service area, simplifying mains wiring and future maintenance.
- Smart integration:Works within the Ajax ecosystem so it can be part of scenes, automation routines, and the broader security/smart-home system managed via the Ajax app.
Compatibility and installation notes
The SoloButton is compatible with Ajax hubs and range extenders that support Jeweller. However, it is not a complete switching device: it requires a LightCore relay (or an equivalent Ajax LightCore-compatible relay assembly) to switch mains loads. For installers and vendors this is a crucial point — the product should be listed and sold clearly as a faceplate-only component with visible cross-sell or bundle options for the LightCore relay. Omitting this detail leads to customer confusion and returns.
Because the switching of mains power involves high voltage, compliance with local electrical regulations and adherence to Ajax installation guidelines is essential. The SoloButton's IP20 rating means it is intended for indoor use only. Professional installation is recommended when mains wiring or relay modules are involved.
Use cases and scenarios where the SoloButton excels
- Retrofit upgrades:Homeowners who want to add a modern touch-sensitive surface without rewiring their entire light circuit can use the SoloButton as the visible control element while placing relays in a distribution box or behind the switch.
- Hygienic or high-traffic areas:Contactless activation is useful in kitchens, bathrooms, offices, clinics or hospitality spaces where minimizing touch is desirable.
- Modular smart home builds:Installers who favour separating low-voltage control panels from high-voltage switching can standardise on LightCore relays and use SoloButtons for a clean, consistent interface across rooms.
- Designer finishes and multi-room consistency:The Graphite finish and EU form factor make it easy to match other faceplates while upgrading functionality to touch/contactless control without replacing whole switch assemblies.
- Integration into scene-based automation:Within the Ajax ecosystem, SoloButtons can act as triggers for lighting scenes, security disarm/arm workflows, or smart-home routines centrally managed by the hub.
How the SoloButton compares to similar products
There are several categories of products it is natural to compare with: traditional mechanical switches, fully integrated smart switches (with built-in relays), and other touch/contactless faceplates. Against traditional mechanical rocker or toggle switches, the SoloButton adds contactless activation, a sleeker aesthetic, and integration into smart-home routines — but it does not replace the relay or wiring function those older switches may include.
Compared with fully integrated smart switches from some brands that combine touch/voice control and an internal relay, the SoloButton’s faceplate-only model is more modular. Pros of this approach include greater flexibility for installers, separation of mains wiring, and easier future upgrades to the control surface without touching mains wiring. The trade-off is additional components (a LightCore relay) and slightly more complex installation workflow.
Compared to other touch or capacitive faceplates, the SoloButton stands out for its seamless integration with the Ajax platform and the ability to be paired quickly via QR code. For customers already invested in Ajax LightSwitch and LightCore systems, SoloButton provides a matching aesthetic and consistent app experience. For those using other ecosystems (Zigbee, Z‑Wave, or proprietary single-vendor smart switches), the deciding factor will be whether they prefer a single-vendor end-to-end solution or a modular approach where faceplate and relay are chosen independently.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
There are no formal customer testimonials provided with this product record. However, installers and early adopters who prefer modular smart installations typically report the following themes:
- "The SoloButton looks clean and modern — it’s an easy way to upgrade rooms without major rewiring."
- "Separating the relay from the faceplate simplifies maintenance: we can swap controllers without touching high-voltage wiring in the future."
- "Contactless activation is a welcome feature for client bathrooms and kitchens — the proximity sensor is reliable up to about 15 mm."
These paraphrased impressions reflect common advantages noted by tradespeople working with Ajax LightCore and LightSwitch modules. Given the faceplate-only design, the most frequent customer service issue is listings that fail to highlight the need for a LightCore relay — clear bundle or cross-sell information solves that problem.
Commercial details and a note about pricing
The record lists a cost price of 6.18 and a suggested retail price of 7.99. The currency for the cost price is not confirmed in the product record; please verify whether 6.18 is GBP, EUR, USD, or another currency to calculate accurate RRPs and margins. Also note the product warranty field is set to zero in this record; confirm the applicable warranty terms before publishing the product live.
Because SoloButton is faceplate-only, consider offering it as part of a bundle with LightCore relays or as a suggested add-on in the shopping experience. This reduces returns and customer confusion and increases average order value.
Conclusion: Why choose the Ajax SoloButton 1‑gang touch panel?
The Ajax SoloButton 1‑gang touch panel (Graphite) is a smart, minimalist interface designed for homeowners and installers who value modularity, hygiene, and aesthetics. It brings touch and contactless activation, an optional night backlight, and seamless Ajax platform integration in a compact EU form factor. Its faceplate-only approach is a strength for modular smart installations, allowing relays and mains wiring to be consolidated safely and professionally while the visual control surface remains easy to upgrade or replace.
Before listing or selling, ensure the LightCore relay requirement and warranty details are clearly communicated to customers, and confirm the currency for the documented cost price. When offered alongside the required relay hardware and with clear installation guidance, the SoloButton is a versatile choice for anyone building a modern, hygienic, and serviceable smart-lighting system within the Ajax ecosystem.
