AXS is a major ticket seller for live events like concerts, shows, and sports. As one of the largest primary ticket outlets, AXS sells tickets directly from venues and event organizers. This raises the question – can you trust AXS to provide valid event tickets? There are a few key factors to consider when evaluating AXS as a ticket provider.
Who is AXS?
AXS is owned by Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG), one of the largest entertainment companies in the world. AEG owns and operates over 100 venues globally, including major arenas like the Staples Center and O2 Arena. As AEG’s primary ticketing platform, AXS has exclusive rights to sell tickets for events at AEG venues. This direct partnership gives AXS strong access to reputable event tickets.
Beyond AEG venues, AXS also partners with other major event promoters like Live Nation to sell tickets at third party arenas and stadiums. AXS is essentially a one-stop shop for tickets at the biggest concert and live entertainment venues across North America and Europe.
AXS as an official ticket seller
Given its direct partnerships and connections in the live entertainment industry, AXS is considered an official primary ticket outlet. This means that when you buy tickets on AXS, you are buying directly from an authorized seller that obtains inventory directly from the venue or event promoter.
Authorized primary sellers like AXS have several benefits over unauthorized third party sellers:
- AXS tickets are guaranteed valid and authentic
- Prices are set at face value instead of marked up
- Refunds, exchanges, and cancellations can be processed reliably
- Tickets are delivered on time and securely before the event
Buying from an unauthorized vendor has major risks, including counterfeit tickets, unfair prices, and no recourse if plans change. AXS provides the peace of mind of buying directly from an official source.
Security features
To prevent fraud and counterfeiting, AXS tickets include unique security elements and identification. Most AXS tickets today are mobile entry only, meaning you access your tickets on your smartphone via the AXS app. This adds a layer of security, with a unique QR or bar code that refreshes periodically. Print-at-home paper tickets include anti-copy watermarks and QR codes. At the venue, your AXS ticket barcode can only be scanned once to prevent duplication.
Are there any downsides to AXS tickets?
While AXS is generally a safe and legitimate ticket seller, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
High fees
Like most major ticket companies, AXS adds substantial service and processing fees on top of the base price. These fees can add 15-20% to the overall cost. Some event goers complain that AXS has higher fees than competitors like Ticketmaster. It’s important to factor in fees when comparing ticket prices.
Less selection for high demand events
For extremely popular events that sell out instantly, AXS may have more limited ticket availability than resale sites. This is because AXS can only sell the ticket inventory they are allocated by the venue. Hot events with frenzied demand tend to sell out on AXS quickly. Fans sometimes turn to secondary markets in hopes of finding tickets.
Risk of technical issues
Because AXS tickets are primarily digital through the AXS app, technical problems can prevent you from accessing your tickets. For example, if you lose cell service or your phone battery dies on the way to an event, you won’t be able to display your ticket barcode. Some venues allow you to visit the box office for assistance. Still, technical issues are an inherent risk of mobile-only tickets.
Change and cancellation limitations
Changing or canceling AXS tickets can be difficult, especially close to show time. Each event has its own refund, exchange, and transfer policies that generally become stricter as the event date approaches. Buyers should review policies carefully before purchasing tickets.
Notable AXS ticket pros
Despite some limitations, AXS tickets still offer major advantages:
Price stability
AXS sells tickets at fixed face value prices. Unlike resale sites, prices don’t fluctuate based on demand. You can also opt-in for price drop protection when buying tickets in case the price decreases.
Official event updates
The AXS app provides important event updates like lineup changes, delays, and cancellations. AXS works directly with venues to communicate official information about the event.
Rewards benefits
AXS integrates rewards programs and referrals so fans can earn perks. For example, you can earn concert ticket rebates by joining AXS Premium. Referring friends to buy tickets grants you account credits. Rewards enhance the AXS buying experience.
Reward Program | Benefits |
AXS Premium | Access to preferred tickets, 5% rebates on purchases, other discounts |
AXS Referral Program | $5 account credit for each referred friend who buys tickets |
Secure buying experience
AXS integrates technology like multi-factor authentication and profile verification to protect customer accounts and prevent fraud. Customers have peace of mind that personal information and purchases are secured.
Tips for buying AXS tickets
Here are some best practices for smoothly purchasing AXS tickets:
Create an account
Register for a free AXS account before ticket sales open. Pre-registering makes the checkout process faster. Make sure to enable enhanced security features like two-factor authentication as well.
Use the mobile app
The AXS app typically provides the best buying experience with faster speeds than the desktop site. Download the app and login ahead of the sale. Enable notifications so you don’t miss presale windows.
Understand the venue layout
When choosing seats, check the seating chart and virtual view from your seats. This ensures you pick tickets with your desired perspective. AXS maps out venues in detail.
Compare ticket types
Most events have multiple ticket tiers and add-ons. Compare VIP, reserved seating, and general admission options. Also factor in parking, meet & greets, merchandise bundles and other upgrades.
Review policies
Carefully read the event’s ticket policies, including refund, transfer, and entry details. This avoids surprises if you need to make changes later. AXS displays full event policies during checkout.
Is AXS or Ticketmaster better?
AXS and Ticketmaster are the two dominant ticketing platforms for major concerts and live entertainment in the US. Here’s how they compare:
Inventory and access
Category | AXS | Ticketmaster |
Direct venue partnerships | 100+ AEG venues | 70+ Live Nation venues |
Primary ticket deals | Select concerts, shows, sports leagues | Broader selection of major concerts, NFL, NBA, NHL |
Ticketmaster has wider ticketing inventory, while AXS is stronger for AEG-hosted events. Both have strong primary ticket access.
Buying experience
AXS and Ticketmaster both use queue systems for high demand onsales. Ticketmaster’s Verified Fan program aims to reward loyal fans. Both suffer from technical issues on busy sales days. Overall, AXS tends to have a smoother mobile buying experience.
Fees and pricing
Typical fees are around 15-20% for both AXS and Ticketmaster. Dynamic pricing has been controversial on Ticketmaster. AXS pricing stays consistent but has less resale inventory. Overall costs are comparable.
Security
AXS and Ticketmaster use mobile ticket authentication, QR codes, and other anti-fraud measures. Ticketmaster has had more data breaches historically while AXS has fewer known issues. Both provide relatively secure ticket buying.
Customer support
Wait times can be lengthy for support during peak sales. Ticketmaster has a larger support team while AXS is still expanding. Overall, customer service is on par.
The verdict on AXS
In summary, AXS is one of the top event ticketing platforms, especially for AEG venues and live entertainment. While fees and limitations exist, AXS is a safe and reputable way to buy official event tickets. Taking precautions like reviewing policies and registering early maximizes your ticketing experience. With its deep access to major venues and events, AXS provides trustworthy ticket inventory directly from event organizers. For popular concerts, sports, and shows, fans can confidently use AXS to acquire valid event access.
Conclusion
AXS is a secure and recommended option for buying tickets to premier events like concerts, theater shows, and live sports. With strong partnerships across the entertainment industry, AXS sells authentic event tickets on behalf of venues, artists, and promoters. While buyers should factor in convenience fees and sales limitations, AXS delivers guaranteed valid event tickets over a smooth mobile platform. For exciting events at renowned stadiums, theaters, and arenas, AXS is a go-to destination for fans to purchase official tickets directly from the source.