OUTsurance vs Pineapple Insurance

OUTsurance vs Pineapple Insurance: Which Is Better in 2025?

Complete comparison guide for South African residents

Last updated: December 2025

Quick Facts

  • OUTsurance premiums start from R350 per month
  • Pineapple Insurance starts from R19 per day (about R589 per month)
  • Both offer cashback rewards for claim-free periods
  • OUTsurance established 1998, Pineapple launched 2018
  • Both are FSCA-regulated and legally compliant

Company Overview

OUTsurance: The Established Leader

OUTsurance has been operating in South Africa since 1998. They are part of the JSE-listed OUTsurance Group. The company is well-known for traditional insurance products. They have over 27 years of experience in the market. OUTsurance expanded internationally to Australia in 2008.

As of December 2025, OUTsurance is one of South Africa’s most trusted insurance brands. They offer car insurance, home insurance, life insurance, pet insurance and business insurance. The company is known for their OUTbonus cashback reward system.

Pineapple Insurance: The Digital Disruptor

Pineapple Insurance launched in July 2018. They are a newer company focused on digital-first insurance. The company uses innovative technology to make insurance simple. Pineapple is underwritten by Old Mutual Alternative Risk Transfer Insure Limited. This means your policy is backed by the established Old Mutual Group.

Pineapple operates mainly through their mobile app. They offer a peer-to-peer insurance model where unused premiums can be returned. The company targets young, tech-savvy South Africans. Their FSP number is 48650, which proves they are FSCA-regulated.

💡 Pro Tip: Both OUTsurance and Pineapple are fully licensed by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). This means your money is protected under South African insurance law. Always verify an insurer’s FSCA registration before buying any policy.

Products & Coverage Offered

OUTsurance Product Range

Car Insurance: OUTsurance offers both comprehensive and essential car insurance. Comprehensive cover includes accidental damage, theft, hijacking, fire, weather damage and third-party liability. Essential cover is designed for older cars over 5 years old valued under R125,000 to R130,000.

Home Insurance: They cover buildings (structure and fixed fittings) and contents (furniture, electronics, valuables). You also get 24/7 home assistance for emergencies like burst geysers or electrical faults.

Other Products: Life insurance with personal accident cover, pet insurance for cats and dogs, business insurance for entrepreneurs, portable possessions cover for items you carry outside your home.

Pineapple Product Range

Car Insurance: Pineapple focuses on comprehensive car insurance. Their cover includes accidental damage, theft, hijacking, fire, weather damage and third-party liability. You can insure cars, motorbikes, caravans and trailers.

All-Risk (My Stuff) Insurance: This covers individual items like laptops, cellphones, cameras, bicycles, sporting equipment and electronics. You can insure items one at a time by taking a photo. Coverage is worldwide, not just in South Africa.

What’s Included: Both insurers include 24/7 roadside assistance for car insurance. Emergency services like towing, battery jump-starts, tyre changes and fuel delivery are free. You also get help if you lose your keys.

⚠️ Costs & Monthly Premiums

Insurance costs vary based on your personal risk profile. Your age, driving history, where you live and what you drive all affect your premium. Here are typical cost ranges for 2025.

OUTsurance Pricing (December 2025)

Starting price: R350 per month for comprehensive car insurance. This is their advertised starting rate for low-risk customers. Actual premiums depend on your vehicle value and risk factors.

Example costs: A 35-year-old driving a 2017 Volkswagen Move Up! might pay between R400 and R600 per month. Newer, more expensive cars cost more to insure. High-risk areas like Johannesburg CBD have higher premiums than suburban areas.

Pineapple Pricing (December 2025)

Starting price: From R19 per day (approximately R589 per month). Pineapple advertises daily rates to show affordability. Monthly costs range from R200 to R2,000 depending on your car and risk profile.

Example costs: A 2022 Suzuki Swift GL with comprehensive cover costs around R589 per month for a low-risk driver. Premium prices are “risk profile dependent” which means your individual circumstances determine your exact cost.

Cost Factor OUTsurance Pineapple
Starting Price R350/month R589/month (R19/day)
Typical Range R350 – R2,000 R200 – R2,000
Price Guarantee 12 months fixed Monthly review
Best Price Guarantee R500 cash if they can’t beat your current rate Competitive quotes in 90 seconds

Important: Never pay anyone upfront fees to “arrange” insurance. Legitimate insurers only charge monthly premiums. Any request for cash deposits or processing fees is a scam.

✅ Rewards & Cashback Programs

OUTsurance OUTbonus Explained

OUTsurance pays you 10% of your premiums back in cash if you remain claim-free. Here’s how it works:

First reward: After 3 consecutive claim-free years, you get 10% of all premiums paid during those 3 years back in cash.

Second reward: If you remain claim-free for another 2 years (years 4 and 5), you get another 10% back.

Ongoing rewards: After that, you get 10% back every claim-free year.

Example: If you pay R500 per month for 3 years, that’s R18,000 total. Your OUTbonus would be R1,800 cash after 3 claim-free years.

Pineapple “Drive Less Get Blessed” Cashback

Pineapple offers up to 30% of your premiums back if you drive less than 300 kilometres per month. This reward is paid monthly, not annually.

How it works: The Pineapple app tracks your driving automatically. If you drive under 300km in a month, you get cashback. The less you drive, the more you save.

Best for: People who work from home, use public transport, live close to work, or have multiple cars. If you’re a remote worker who only uses your car on weekends, this is perfect.

Example: If you pay R600 per month and drive only 200km, you could get R180 back (30% of R600). That’s only R420 actual cost per month.

Reward Feature OUTsurance Pineapple
Cashback Amount 10% of premiums Up to 30% of premiums
Requirements No claims for 3 years Drive under 300km per month
Payment Frequency After 3 years, then ongoing Monthly
Best For Careful drivers who rarely claim Low-mileage drivers, work-from-home
💡 Smart Tip: You can benefit from both models. If you drive less than 300km per month, Pineapple’s monthly cashback is better. If you’re a careful driver who never claims but drives more, OUTsurance’s 3-year bonus works better. Consider your actual driving habits.

Claims Process & Speed

OUTsurance Claims Handling

Processing time: Internal data from 2024 shows OUTsurance approves personal vehicle claims within an average of 1.4 working days. Most claims are processed within 5-7 working days from submission to payment.

How to claim: You can claim through their app, website, or by calling their claims line. Each claim gets assigned a dedicated claims specialist. They guide you through the entire process.

Key benefits: Fixed excess amount (doesn’t increase based on claim size), premiums stay the same for 12 months even if you claim, you can choose your own repairer for Essential cover.

Pineapple Claims Handling

Processing time: Claims are lodged digitally through the app. An agent contacts you with an update after you submit. Processing times vary but the digital system aims for quick turnaround.

How to claim: Click “Make a claim” in the top right corner of the app. Sign into your account. Follow the steps to lodge your claim. Everything is done on your phone.

Key benefits: Digital pre-inspection (no need to visit an assessor), car replacement instead of book value if written off, coverage continues even if someone else drives with your permission (must be 18+, have valid license).

Important Claim Requirements

For both insurers, you must report theft or hijacking to SAPS (South African Police Service) within 24 hours. Keep your case number. Take photos of accident damage before repairs. Notify your insurer as soon as possible, ideally within 30 days. Keep all documentation including police reports, repair quotes and medical reports if there were injuries.

💡 Pro Tip: Customer reviews show OUTsurance has strong claims approval rates but premiums can increase significantly after claims (one pet insurance customer reported 42% increase after claiming R3,600 twice). Pineapple users praise the simple digital process. Always ask about potential premium increases before choosing an insurer.

Technology & Mobile Apps

OUTsurance App Features

The OUTsurance app lets you manage your entire policy from your phone. You can view policy details, check when your next OUTbonus payment arrives, request emergency roadside or home assistance 24/7, and submit claims for windscreens and geysers.

SmartDrive feature: Track your driving habits through the app. You get 10% off your monthly premium for safe driving. The app monitors acceleration, braking and cornering.

Customer ratings: The app has mixed reviews on Google Play. Some users praise the service while others report technical issues with OTP (one-time password) access and slow loading times.

Pineapple App Features

Pineapple operates entirely through their mobile app. You get quotes in 90 seconds by taking photos of items you want to insure. Their AI recognizes the item and provides instant pricing. The entire process from quote to purchase takes under 5 minutes.

Digital pre-inspection: Take photos of your car using the app. No need to visit a physical location for vehicle assessment. This saves time and makes getting insured much faster.

Automatic accident detection: The app can detect if you’ve been in an accident. It automatically alerts your loved ones. This safety feature works whether you’re the driver or passenger.

Customer ratings: Pineapple has a 4.7/5 rating across all app stores and Hellopeter combined as of December 2025. They have a Trust Index Rating of 9.8/10 on Hellopeter. Users praise the easy signup process and fast service.

Technology Feature OUTsurance Pineapple
App-Based Management Yes Yes (100% app-based)
Digital Pre-Inspection Yes Yes (photo-based)
Quote Speed 10 minutes online 90 seconds
AI Technology SmartDrive tracking Photo recognition, accident detection
Customer Rating Mixed reviews 4.7/5 combined rating

⚠️ Head-to-Head Comparison

Comparison Factor OUTsurance Pineapple
Established Since 1998 (27 years) 2018 (7 years)
Underwriter OUTsurance Group (JSE-listed) Old Mutual (established 1845)
Target Market All age groups, traditional customers Young, tech-savvy, millennials
Service Channels Phone, online, app, branches App-only (digital first)
Product Range Wide (car, home, life, pet, business) Focused (car, all-risk items)
Best Price Guarantee R500-R1,500 cash guarantee Competitive instant quotes
Fixed Premiums 12 months guaranteed Reviewed monthly
Excess Policy Fixed (doesn’t change) Your choice (flexible)
Multi-Car Discount Yes Yes
Customer Service 24/7 phone and app support App chat and phone support

Who Should Choose OUTsurance?

Choose OUTsurance if you want an established insurer with a long track record. They’re good for customers who value traditional service channels. Pick them if you need multiple insurance products (home, life, pet). OUTsurance works well for careful drivers who won’t claim often. The 3-year OUTbonus rewards long-term loyalty. Their 12-month fixed premiums give pricing certainty.

Who Should Choose Pineapple?

Choose Pineapple if you’re comfortable with app-based service only. They’re perfect for low-mileage drivers who work from home. Pick them if you want monthly cashback rewards instead of waiting 3 years. Pineapple suits tech-savvy customers who prefer digital self-service. They’re ideal for younger drivers comfortable with mobile apps. The instant quotes and fast setup (under 5 minutes) appeal to busy people.

🚨 Insurance Scams & Consumer Protection

As of December 2025, insurance scams are increasing across South Africa. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) issued over 100 public warnings in 2024 about unlawful financial activities. Criminals are using social media, deepfake technology and impersonation tactics.

Common Insurance Scams to Avoid

1. Fake Insurance Companies: Scammers create fake websites that look like real insurers. They copy the names and logos of OUTsurance, Pineapple or other known brands. Check the official FSCA register before paying any money. The real FSCA website is www.fsca.co.za

2. Impersonation Scams: Criminals pose as insurance brokers or company employees. They ask for copies of your policy documents and ID. They then use your information for identity theft or to submit false claims in your name. Never email ID copies or banking details to unsolicited contacts.

3. Fake Payment Accounts: Scammers create fake bank accounts pretending to be insurance companies. They trick you into paying premiums into these accounts. The real insurance company never receives your money. Always verify banking details by calling the official company number from their website.

4. Upfront Fee Scams: No legitimate South African insurer charges upfront “processing fees” or “registration deposits” to give you insurance. If someone asks for R500 or R1,000 upfront before covering you, it’s a scam. Real insurers only charge monthly premiums.

5. Too-Good-To-Be-True Promises: Scammers advertise “R50 per month comprehensive cover for any car.” This is impossible. Real comprehensive insurance depends on your car’s value and risk factors. No company can offer the same low price to everyone.

Digital Fraud Threats (2025)

Digital banking platforms account for 65.3% of reported fraud incidents in South Africa. Over R1.4 billion was lost to digital fraud in 2024 according to SABRIC (South African Banking Risk Information Centre).

Deepfake scams: Criminals use AI to clone voices or create fake video calls. They might pretend to be a friend or family member saying they’ve been in an accident. They ask you to urgently pay for “insurance excess” or “repairs.” Always verify by calling the person directly on their known number.

SIM swap fraud: Scammers convince your mobile provider to transfer your number to their SIM card. They then access your insurance app using OTP (one-time password) codes sent to your number. Enable extra security on your mobile account. Use app-based authentication instead of SMS where possible.

How to Verify Legitimate Insurers

Check FSCA registration: Visit www.fsca.co.za and search for the company in their FSP (Financial Services Provider) register. OUTsurance is FSCA-registered. Pineapple’s FSP number is 48650 (underwritten by Old Mutual Alternative Risk Transfer).

Look for FSP numbers: Legitimate insurers display their FSP number on all official documents, websites and advertising. If you can’t find an FSP number, don’t pay any money.

Use official contact details: Only use phone numbers and emails from the official website. Don’t use contact details from unsolicited messages, social media ads or emails. Go directly to outsurance.co.za or pineapple.co.za

Verify banking details: Call the insurer on their official number to confirm banking details before making your first payment. Legitimate companies will gladly confirm their account information.

Where to Report Insurance Scams

Organisation Contact Details
FSCA (Financial Conduct Authority) 0800 110 443 / www.fsca.co.za
SABRIC (Banking Risk Centre) Report online at www.sabric.co.za
Insurance Crime Bureau 0860 002 526 / SMS 32269
SAPS (South African Police) 10111 (emergency) / Visit your local police station
Banking Ombudsman 0860 800 900 / www.obssa.co.za
🚨 CRITICAL WARNING: As of December 2025, the FSCA has intensified enforcement against unregistered insurance operators. Many funeral parlours are operating illegally by selling insurance without licences. Over 4,000 funeral parlours offer insurance-type products without proper regulation. Only buy insurance from FSCA-registered companies. Check www.fsca.co.za before paying anyone.

✅ Your Consumer Rights

As a South African insurance customer, you have legal protection under the Financial Sector Conduct Authority Act and Consumer Protection Act. Here are your rights:

Right to Clear Information

Insurers must give you clear policy documents in plain language. You must understand what is covered and what is excluded. They must explain all fees, excesses and terms before you sign. If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification in writing.

Right to Fair Treatment

Your insurer cannot discriminate based on race, gender, age (unless actuarially justified) or disability. They must treat all customers fairly. Claims cannot be rejected without proper investigation. You have the right to appeal any decision.

Right to Privacy

Your personal information is protected under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI Act). Insurers cannot share your details without permission. They must secure your data properly. You can request to see what information they hold about you.

Right to Complain

If you’re unhappy with your insurer, first complain to them directly. They must have an internal complaints process. If not resolved, escalate to the FSCA Ombudsman. This service is free. The ombudsman can order the insurer to fix the problem. You don’t need a lawyer.

Cooling-Off Period

You have 30 days to cancel a new insurance policy without penalty. This is called the cooling-off period. You get a full refund of premiums paid if you cancel within 30 days. After 30 days, normal cancellation rules apply.

Our Final Recommendations

Both OUTsurance and Pineapple Insurance are legitimate, FSCA-regulated insurers. Your choice depends on your personal needs, driving habits and technology comfort level.

Choose OUTsurance if you: Want an established company with 27 years’ experience, need multiple insurance products (home, life, pet), prefer traditional service channels including phone and branches, are a careful driver who rarely claims, want 12-month fixed premiums for budget certainty, or value the 3-year OUTbonus cashback system.

Choose Pineapple if you: Are comfortable with app-only service, drive less than 300km per month, work from home or use public transport regularly, want monthly cashback instead of waiting 3 years, are tech-savvy and prefer digital self-service, want ultra-fast quotes (90 seconds), or are a millennial comfortable with mobile-first companies.

Money-saving tip: Get quotes from both companies. Use OUTsurance’s Best Price Guarantee – they’ll give you R500 cash if they can’t beat your current quote (R1,500 if you’ve been claim-free for 3 years). Compare the actual monthly costs for your specific car and risk profile.

Safety first: Only use official websites – outsurance.co.za and pineapple.co.za. Check FSCA registration before paying. Never pay anyone claiming to “arrange” insurance for you. Legitimate insurers don’t charge upfront fees. If someone asks for cash deposits or processing fees, it’s a scam.

Both companies receive positive customer reviews for their service. OUTsurance has the longer track record and broader product range. Pineapple offers more innovative rewards and faster digital service. The best choice is the one that matches your lifestyle and driving patterns.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and was last updated in December 2025. Insurance premiums, rewards programs, fees and coverage terms may change. Always verify current information with official company sources before making insurance decisions. This article is not financial advice. We are not affiliated with OUTsurance or Pineapple Insurance.

OUTsurance Official Contact: 0860 668 487 / www.outsurance.co.za

Pineapple Official Contact: Visit www.pineapple.co.za or use their mobile app

For insurance complaints or disputes, contact the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) at 0800 110 443 or visit www.fsca.co.za

Leave a Reply