Quick Answer
Ajax is the better choice for properties where sleek design, app-based control, and expandability matter most. Orisec is the stronger option when you need hybrid wired/wireless flexibility and straightforward installation on a tighter budget. For most residential and small commercial properties in Northern Ireland, Ajax offers superior features. For larger sites requiring more zones or wired components, Orisec has the edge.
Choosing a wireless alarm system is one of the most important security decisions for your property. In Northern Ireland, two brands stand out among professional installers: Ajax and Orisec.
Both can be installed by an SSAIB-certified company. Both offer app control, remote monitoring, and a range of detectors. But they serve different needs.
This guide breaks down exactly how they compare across the features that matter most.
Ajax vs Orisec at a Glance
| Feature | Ajax | Orisec |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless protocol | Jeweller (proprietary) | Via/GPRS (hybrid) |
| App control | Yes — fullfeatured | Yes — basic |
| Pet-friendly sensors | Yes — up to 20kg | Yes — adjustable sensitivity |
| Camera integration | Yes — with MotionCam | Via CCTV integration |
| Maximum zones | 200 (Hub 2 Plus) | 100+ |
| Installation type | Fully wireless | Hybrid wired/wireless |
| Typical cost | Mid-range | Budget to mid-range |
| UK availability | Widely stocked | Specialist installers |
Ajax: Key Features and Benefits
Ajax is a Ukrainian-born security brand that has rapidly gained market share across the UK and Ireland. Its focus on design, user experience, and app functionality sets it apart.
Hub and Control
Ajax offers three hub versions:
– Hub (original): Up to 100 devices, suitable for flats and small homes
– Hub 2: Up to 100 devices, supports photo verification
– Hub 2 Plus: Up to 200 devices, supports Wi-Fi, LTE, and more scenarios
All hubs work with the Ajax app (iOS and Android), allowing full system control, device management, and notifications from anywhere in the world.
Motion Detectors
Ajax motion detectors use Pets (up to 20kg) mode to distinguish between humans and pets, significantly reducing false alarms. The MotionCam detector takes a photo when motion is detected, allowing you to visually verify an alarm before calling the police.
Expandability
Ajax systems are fully modular. You can start with a basic kit and add:
– Door and window contacts
– Motion detectors (standard and pet-immune)
– Fire and flood detectors
– Smart home integration (via IFTTT and REST API)
– Third-party integration via Ajax Cloud
Battery Life
Ajax detectors are rated for up to 7 years on a single battery, reducing maintenance calls.
Orisec: Key Features and Benefits
Orisec is a UK-designed and manufactured alarm system, originally built for the professional installer market. It offers a practical, no-frills approach to security.
Hybrid Flexibility
Orisec’s key strength is its hybrid architecture. While it supports fully wireless devices, it also accepts wired zones via expander modules. This makes it suitable for:
– Large commercial properties with existing wired infrastructure
– Sites where wireless signal may be unreliable
– Properties requiring more than 100 zones
Control Panels
Orisec panels are solid, professional-grade control units. They support:
– LCD keypad and LED keypad options
– Remote control via app (Securenote app)
– Integrated PSTN and GPRS communicator options
Value for Money
Orisec systems are typically more affordable than Ajax when comparing equivalent zone counts. This makes them popular for budget-conscious residential installations and larger commercial projects where cost per zone matters.
Professional-Grade Monitoring
Orisec is well-established in the professional monitoring market. It works seamlessly with alarm receiving centres (ARCs) across the UK and Ireland, including police response options via established signalling protocols including Dualcom.
Which Is Better for Pets?
Ajax wins here.
Ajax’s MotionProtect Pet detector ignores animals up to 20kg, making it genuinely pet-friendly without sacrificing detection quality. The pet mode is adjustable in the app.
Orisec also offers pet-immune detectors with adjustable sensitivity, but they typically handle smaller animals (typically up to 15kg — confirm with your installer for the specific model).
If you have larger dogs, Ajax is the safer choice.
Which Is Better for Remote Monitoring?
Ajax wins.
The Ajax app is purpose-built for end users. You get:
– Real-time system status
– Push notifications for any event
– Photo verification from MotionCam detectors
– Automation rules (e.g., “when I arm the system, turn off the lights”)
– Integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Home (basic)
Orisec’s Securenote app provides basic arm/disarm and status monitoring but lacks the polish and feature depth of Ajax.
Which Is Better for Commercial Properties?
It depends on the site.
For small to medium commercial (offices, shops, cafes): Ajax. The app experience is better for daily use, photo verification adds accountability, and the system is easy to manage without specialist knowledge.
For large commercial or multi-building sites: Orisec. The hybrid architecture handles complex site requirements better, and the per-zone cost is lower for large installations.
Real NI Example
A 4-person dental practice in Coleraine needed a system that staff could operate without training. We installed an Ajax Hub 2 with 12 devices including MotionCams. The practice manager can now verify alarm events from her phone before deciding whether to call the police. No false alarms in 18 months.
For a warehouse in Derry with 40 existing wired door contacts, we expanded with an Orisec hybrid panel, adding 20 wireless zones. Total cost was significantly lower than an equivalent Ajax system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Ajax and Orisec systems be monitored by an ARC?
Yes. Both systems can be monitored remotely. Ajax uses its own cloud or can be integrated with third-party monitoring. Orisec works with standard alarm receiving centres via contact ID over PSTN, GPRS, or IP.
Q: Do I need broadband for either system?
Ajax requires internet for full app functionality but has a built-in battery backup. Orisec can operate on GPRS alone, making it more resilient in areas with poor broadband.
Q: Which brand lasts longer?
Both are well-built. Ajax components are rated for 7+ years on battery. Orisec hardware is similarly robust. Professional maintenance (annual testing) extends either system’s life to 10+ years.
Q: Can I install these myself?
Both systems can be installed by a professional SSAIB-certified company. A professional installation ensures proper device placement, signal testing, and monitoring setup. DIY installation means no SSAIB certification will be issued for your system.
Q: Which is easier to expand?
Ajax is easier to expand — devices pair via app and the system guides you through setup. Orisec expansion requires more configuration but is straightforward for a qualified engineer.
Summary: Which Should You Choose?
| Choose Ajax if… | Choose Orisec if… |
|---|---|
| Design and app experience matter | You need wired/wireless hybrid |
| You have pets up to 20kg | You need 50+ zones on a budget |
| You want photo verification | You have existing wired infrastructure |
| You prefer a modular, expandable system | You need simple, reliable protection |
Ready to Get Started?
Advanced Overwatch is an SSAIB-certified installer of both Ajax and Orisec systems across Northern Ireland. We offer free site surveys and expert advice on which system is right for your property.
Get a free quote or call your nearest office to speak with one of our security engineers.
