Would it be fantastic to have an automated sprinkler system in your yard? With a computerized system, your garden gets a drink, and you get to finish your proposal. At the hearty of any home irrigation system is the sprinkler controller.
This smart device lets your program watering setting for different zones around the yard. It gives you comprehensive coverage and accurate, efficient watering of your lawn at exactly the right time of day to minimize evaporation.
In this review, we’ll unpack the best sprinkler controller models for your new home irrigation system.
Our Top Picks
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 Sprinkler Controller Reviews
- 2.1 Rachio Smart 8-Zone Sprinkler Controller
- 2.2 Netro Control Smart Sprinkler Hub
- 2.3 Rain Bird Sprinkler System Controller
- 2.4 Orbit B-Hyve 16-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller
- 2.5 Aeon Matrix Smart Sprinkler Controller
- 2.6 Netro Spark Smart Sprinkler Controller
- 2.7 Orbit B-Hyve 12-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller
- 2.8 Orbit B-Hyve 4-Zone Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller
- 2.9 MoKo Smart Lawn Sprinkler Controller
- 2.10 Toro Lawn Master II
- 3 Other Best Selling Options
- 4 Sprinkler Controller Buyer’s Guide
- 5 What are the Benefits of using a Sprinkler Controller?
- 6 Sprinkler Controllers Features to Look For
- 7 Sprinkler Controller FAQs
- 8 Sprinkler Controllers – The Verdict
We spent hours browsing through dozens of listings looking for the best sprinkler controller. Our research led us to the curation of this list of top-ten models for your yard. From our top-ten, we selected these three models for the best sprinkler controller.
We have three choices to suit your budget and your watering requirements. Choose the model that’s the right option for your yard, and never worry about your watering duties again this summer.
- Best Pick: Rachio Smart 8-Zone Sprinkler Controller
This Rachio 8-Zone sprinkler controller wins our award for the best overall model in this review. You get control over eight watering zones in your yard, with the intelligent system avoiding overwatering in the rain and windy conditions. You get full smart integration with Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to set voice commands to activate the system. Manage every aspect of your watering duties through your mobile phone app, and get easy, tool-free installation of the controller with simple programming. - Premium Pick: Netro Control Smart Sprinkler Hub
This model wins our award for the best premium sprinkler controller in this review. The Netro Control Smart Hub is an excellent choice for the largest yards. This model comes with 16 programmable zones, giving you complete coverage of flowerbeds, your lawn, and the veggie garden. You get smart integration with Alexa and Google Assistant and complete control of your watering tasks through the app on your cellphone. This model comes with easy, tool-free installation and easy setup in less than 20-minutes. - Budget Pick: Rain Bird Sprinkler System Controller
Homeowners looking for the best budget sprinkler controller in this review will get outstanding value from this Rain Bird model. This model features six watering zones, with simple fly-by-zone settings and customized watering schedules. You get a rain delay system and one-touch seasonal adjustment to increase or decrease watering volumes in the summer or winter. This model comes with indoor installation for easy access to your watering system, without the need to go outside.
Sprinkler Controller Reviews
Now that you have an idea of the best sprinkler controller models in this review, let’s unpack them in detail. We’ll also look at other models that qualify for the title of the best sprinkler controller.
After reading through the reviews, check out the buyer’s guide section. We offer helpful tips on selecting the right model to suit your yard and your budget.
Rachio Smart 8-Zone Sprinkler Controller
With the Rachio Smart home Sprinkler Controller, you never have to concern yourself with manually watering your lawn again. The Internet of Things (IoT) is changing the way we maintain and manage our homes – and our yards. Today, there are several smart sprinkler controllers available for watering your yard.
This Rachio 8-zone watering system is our top choice for the best overall sprinkler controller. This model comes with integration to your smart home system through your Wi-Fi connection. You get full compatibility with Alexa and Google Home, with syncing through an app on your home.
The result is a completely autonomous watering system, taking care of your yard in all weather conditions. This model comes with weather sensors that detect the rain and overcast conditions, adjusting your watering schedule to account for weather changes.
As a result, you get efficient watering that saves you on electricity and water costs throughout the year. You get an easy, tool-free setup, with the sprinkler ready to command your first watering session in less than 30-minutes, right out of the box.
- Eight watering zones
- Multi-function sensors
- Integration with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Syncs to mobile app
- Easy, tool-less installation
- Mounting hardware included
Netro Control Smart Sprinkler Hub
Homeowners and estate managers with large gardens that require multiple watering zones should check out this smart model. The Netro Smart Hub is a great choice, offering you full custom watering plans across 16 watering zones.
This smart system links to your Wi-Fi connection, with syncing to an app on your mobile device. Your dashboard on your device offers you full control of the system, allowing you to plan your gardens watering needs in advance.
This sprinkler controller comes with smart functionality that includes weather sensors. It detects rain and overcast conditions to reduce your garden’s water needs and save on maintenance costs. This model gives you easy installation in minutes and troubleshooting directly from your mobile device.
We like the Sprinkl Sense sensor, which stakes directly into the ground and flower beds. The sensor monitors moisture levels in your lawn and flower beds, providing feedback to your app to show you the results of your watering schedule.
- Smart sprinkler system
- Integration to Alexa and Google Assistant
- Autonomous watering with 16 zones
- Syncs with a smartphone app
- Easy installation
- Customized watering schedules
Rain Bird Sprinkler System Controller
Homeowners looking for an affordable and effective sprinkler controller will love this Rain Bird model. Rain Bird is one of the leading brands in automated watering, and this model is a fantastic choice for smaller yards.
You get six watering zones included with this model, with customized watering plans included. This model also features seasonal watering adjustments to help you conserve water and customizable watering plans for your yard.
You get an intelligent design with memory functions and internal mounting inside the house for easy control without going outdoors. This model also features a rain delay function that delays watering for 72-hours after sensing rain.
This model comes with zone-by-zone settings, allowing full control of your watering for lawns and flowerbeds. Rain Bird includes new cyclical sets with this model, and you get an easy setup that’s ready for use in minutes, with no tools required for installation, and all mounting hardware included with your purchase.
- Affordable sprinkler control
- Easy programming with customizable schedules
- Zone-by-zone settings
- One-touch seasonal adjustment
- Rain delay for 72-hours
- Six watering zones
Orbit B-Hyve 16-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller
Homeowners and estate manager with large gardens, plenty of lawn, and loads of flower beds will get the best value from the Orbit B-Hyve model. This automated sprinkler controller features 16 watering zones, with independent programming and operation.
The B-Hyve technology features WeatherSense technology, automatically adjusting your watering schedule to accommodate for the weather changes. The system feeds less water to the garden on cooler days while increasing water output in drier, warmer conditions.
This model connects to your Wi-Fi and offers you integration with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands. You get easy programming and a tool-free setup that’s ready to use in minutes.
The B-Hyve controller features syncing compatibility with a dedicated app for your mobile device, available from the Google Play and Apple App Stores. Control every aspect of your watering plan from the app dashboard on your phone.
- Affordable choice with large capacity
- 16 watering zones
- Smart home integration to Alexa and Google Home
- Syncs to a smartphone app
- Weather sensors for auto watering adjustment
- Multi-functional watering features
Aeon Matrix Smart Sprinkler Controller
The Aeon Matrix is another affordable option for your sprinkler controller. This model offers impressive features and functionality that rivals the top brands. This smart system connects to your home Wi-Fi network, allowing for the unit’s intelligent control through a dedicated app on your smartphone.
You get complete control of the eight watering zones through the app on your mobile device. This model comes with weather sensors that detect rain, automatically adjusting your watering schedule to accommodate the climate conditions.
The result is the efficient and effective watering of your garden. This Aeon Matrix model features certification by the EPA WaterSense program, making it a top choice for eco-conscious gardeners.
The unique design of this model features a 1080p camera mounted into the body of the controller. You can check up on the condition of your garden from a remote location, adding more security to your property while you’re out of town.
- Affordable smart model
- Eight watering zones
- Smart home compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Syncs with a smartphone app
- HD security camera included
- Easy installation
Netro Spark Smart Sprinkler Controller
The Netro is a great choice for an affordable smart home sprinkler controller. This model comes with full smart compatibility, connected to your home’s Wi-Fi network. You download the dedicated app to your mobile device and then manage the system from within the app’s dashboard.
The Netro Spark Smart Sprinkler Controller offers you active monitoring of your lawn and flowerbeds. You get complete control of the system through your phone and the option for customized watering plans, with independent operation in each zone.
In this model, the automated weather sensors adjust your sprinkler output to accommodate rain, snow, wind, and a host of climate conditions that affect your watering schedule. The result is an effective, efficient watering of your yard that saves you money.
This model includes easy installation, and you get compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice-commands over your watering system.
- Ideal for smaller homes
- Six watering zones
- Wi-Fi compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Eco-friendly watering with weather sensors
- Easy installation
- EPA WaterSense Certified
Orbit B-Hyve 12-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller
This orbit model is a step below the 16-zone model we covered earlier. You get all the same functionality as other B-Hyve models, including the WeatherSense system. WeatherSense provides automatic adjustment to your custom water plan to meet climate conditions.
If it’s raining, the system avoids watering your yard for 72-hours. If it’s overcast, it reduces water output. This smart functionality earned the B-Hyve range the coveted EPA WaterSense certification for all models in the range.
You get efficient watering of your yard that saves resources and money. This model is the ideal choice for the eco-conscious gardener that needs to water large yards. This model links to the Wi-Fi network in your home, providing smart functionality to the system. It’s compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, giving you voice-control over your watering duties.
Check on the status of your watering schedule and your yard through the dedicated app, available for download from the Google Play or Apple App Stores.
- A good choice for mid-sized to larger yards
- EPA WaterSense certified
- Smart watering with weather sensors
- Connects to Alexa and Google Assistant
- Syncs to a smartphone app
- 12 watering zones
Orbit B-Hyve 4-Zone Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller
It was a challenging decision not to name this model our top choice for the best budget buy in this review. With this model, you get all the advantages of the Orbit B-Hyve smart sprinkler controller, with an affordable price tag.
As with all the other B-Hyve models, you get Wi-Fi compatibility and dedicated control of the system through an app on your phone. You get the same Weather Sense technology and customized watering plans offered in the more expensive models.
This B-Hyve is a good choice for small gardens, with four programmable watering zones. The WeatherSense technology detects changes in your environment, adjusting your watering plan to suit the climate conditions.
- A great choice for smaller yards
- Four watering zones
- Syncs to a smartphone app
- Multi-functional operation
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi compatible
- Built-in fault detection
MoKo Smart Lawn Sprinkler Controller
This MoKo smart sprinkler controller comes with an affordable price tag. It offers many of the same advantages as the leading models in this review.
We think it offers fantastic value for money, but we’re unsure of the brand’s credibility. However, you get a warranty included with your purchase, and Amazon offers you hassle-free returns if you have a problem.
For less than $70, you get a smart-enabled watering system for your yard. This model connects to Wi-Fi, giving you full control of the system from the control box. The sprinkler controller also syncs with an app on your mobile device, giving your total control over the watering process.
You get six programmable watering zones, with an independent operation for lawn or flower bed requirements. This model includes sensors that detect rain and snowy days, adjusting your watering schedule to suit the climate.
- Eight watering zones
- Smart home compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Easy installation
- Syncs to a smartphone app
- Multi-functional use
- Customizable watering plans
Toro Lawn Master II
This automatic sprinkler controller is another affordable option for homeowners. You might not get the same smart functionality as other models in this review, but you get an effective and efficient system.
The Toro features a design with six independent watering zones and customizable programming. You get onboard memory for your watering requirements, and a watering calendar included. This model sports a battery backup, and you get three watering functions to suit your climate.
This model comes with seasonal adjustment to your watering plan, and you get adjustable watering for rainy weather. The Toro is an affordable choice and a great option for the gardener on a budget.
- Affordable automatic watering
- Six watering zones
- Custom watering calendar
- Backup battery included
- Three operating modes
- Seasonal watering adjustment
Other Best Selling Options
- Worry-Free Watering - Rachio watches the weather, so you don't have to, providing the right amount of water for your lawn and garden. The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller automatically creates watering schedules that lower your water bill and ensure a beautiful yard.
- Exclusive Weather Technology - Exclusive Weather Intelligence plus automatically skips unnecessary watering with features like rain skip, wind skip, freeze skip, and more.
- Control From Anywhere - Control your watering from anywhere with the easy-to-use app. Run sprinklers, view upcoming schedules, and observe your estimated outdoor water usage. Rachio’s mobile app lets you manage your sprinkler system from anywhere. Please note: Phone is not included with sprinkler system.
- Fast & Easy Installation - Experience fast DIY installation in 30 minutes or less with no special tools needed. Rachio smart sprinkler controllers replace 99% of existing sprinkler controllers and Rachio’s in-app installation tutorial helps you get online and watering in no time!
- No More Thirsty Plants - Deliver all the water your plants need. Rachio creates tailored smart schedules based on the specific needs of your lawn, including plant type, soil type, sun exposure, and more.
- WELCOME TO B-HYVE: Looking to get a smart sprinkler controller? If this is out of stock, or if you want the best, check out the CES Innovation Award-winning B-hyve XR smart controller
- WI-FI CAPABLE: Fully functional with Android, iOS or web app for total control, wherever you need it; fast and easy pairing using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Technology
- FREE APP: Easy programming from the B-hyve App in both Android and iOS platforms; no subscription, no hidden fees
- LIVE WEATHER FEEDS: WeatherSense technology provides smart watering based on site conditions such as slope, soil type, sun/shade, and historical ET
- MULTI FUNCTIONALITY: Operates with or without Wi-Fi connectivity by storing app-set programs on the timer
- WELCOME TO B-HYVE: Looking to get a smart sprinkler controller? If this is out of stock, or if you want the best, check out the CES Innovation Award-winning B-hyve XR smart controller
- CONTROL FROM ANYWHERE: The B-hyve app is fully functional for android, iOS or web devices and gives you control wherever you need it program your timer on the app, at the timer, or let the weather-based software create a program for you
- SMART WATERING: WeatherSense technology provides watering based on site conditions such as slope, soil type, sun/shade, historical et and live weather feeds, it automatically adjusts your controller to deliver the right amount of water to your plants
- EASY TO INSTALL AND USE: Utilize the swing panel for easy access to the angled wiring terminals, which makes wiring simple and convenient and the plug-and-go line cord that can also be cut for hardwired applications
- CERTIFIED TO SAVE WATER AND MONEY: B-hyve is EPA WaterSense approved and certified, ensuring it will save you water and energy; this can also make your B-hyve timer eligible for local rebates, which can save up to 100% of the cost on your timer
- Water from Anywhere and Water Saving: EPA WaterSense test passed and savings water yearly. Manually start and stop watering from anywhere with the Wyze app.
- Weather-Based Watering*: Water when your plants are thirsty, not when it’s raining. The advanced Smart Schedule algorithm uses hyper-local weather data to automatically decide when to water each zone. Be confident that your lawn and plants are always taken care of. (*Requires Sprinkler Plus - 1 year included.)
- Simple Scheduling: Create fixed schedules to water your plants on specific days of the week, including dedicated sunrise/sunset settings.
- DIY Installation: Wyze Sprinkler replaces your existing controller in less than 20 minutes and automatically creates a schedule for you after setup.
- Stay Notified: Turn on notifications to know when your system starts or stops watering.
- THE FUTURE OF WATERING: Winner of the CES Innovation Award, the B-hyve XR is built for easy installation and a best-in-class experience
- EASY PROGRAMMING: Use the free B-hyve app to create watering schedules, set duration times, get alerts and control everything right from your smartphone; the controller's long-range Bluetooth connectivity also makes for a fast pairing process
- AUTO ADJUSTS TO WEATHER: Automatically adjusts to weather changes, including rain, wind and freeze delays, and gives more water in dryer times too
- ULTIMATE CONTROL: Multi-color LED light ring and three full-color digital displays allow you to instantly see your timer status; the built-in manual watering override button on the timer also allows you to start or stop watering without using the app
- SAVE YOUR PLANTS: B-hyve's exclusive WeatherSense tech receives local weather data and adjusts your smart sprinkler controller to deliver the right amount of water to your plants
Sprinkler Controller Buyer’s Guide
It’s the late afternoon in summer, and the day was hot. With temperatures soaring across the country as the heatwave reaches a peak, you stare out onto your yard from your home office window. Your flowers and shrubs are looking thirsty, and your sweat the lawn looks a lighter tone of green than it did this morning.
Your garden needs a drink, or it’s going to die. Plants need water at least every other day in warm weather, or they start to look worse for wear. Your flowers begin to droop, the leaves on your shrubs start your yellow, and your lawn begins to burn.
As an avid gardening enthusiast, it’s your worst nightmare. However, it takes you 90-minutes to water the garden, and you don’t have the time right now. Your boss is demanding you to finish that proposal today, and you have several hours of work left to do.
Now what? You find yourself caught between a rock and a hard place, and your garden is drying out with every minute you postpone your watering duties.
A smart sprinkler solution is your answer.
After reading through the best models in this review, you have your work cut out for you in choosing the right model for your yard. In this section, we’ll look at the features, functions, and benefits of owning the best sprinkler controller and how it can help with your lawn maintenance.
What are the Benefits of using a Sprinkler Controller?
A sprinkler controller has plenty of benefits for your yard maintenance. Here are our top reasons to invest in this device.
No More Manual Watering
If you don’t have the time to water your lawn, no problem – let the machines do it for you. Manual watering of your lawn can take away hours of your week. Sure, it’s relaxing to spend a few hours out in the garden admiring your plants; after all, that’s what they’re there for in the first place, right?
However, it becomes an issue when life starts getting in the way. Maybe you need to pick up the kids from soccer practice or have an important function to attend? Whatever the reason, an automated sprinkler system can save you valuable time in your schedule.
Efficient Watering
With an autonomous watering system, you get efficient watering. Program the sprinkler controller to execute its watering duties to minimize evaporation. This smart functionality reduces your environmental impact by watering at the right time of day.
Some models come with climate sensors that detect rain or the moisture in your soil. They automatically adjust your watering schedule to suit your soil moisture requirements. Most models allow for the programming of individual plant species. Therefore, you get customized watering of your garden to its needs.
Seasonal Adjustment
When the seasons change, so do your watering requirements. With a sprinkler controller, you get a seasonal adjustment of your watering schedule to suit the local climate requirements. There’s no more wasti8ng water using a traditional watering system or watering by hand.
Autonomous Control
Most automatic sprinkler controllers feature a connection to your home’s Wi-Fi network. This feature gives the device smart functionality. Download an app for your mobile device and access your sprinkler system’s control panel remotely, from any location.
Check up on your garden while you’re away on vacation. Activate the sprinklers on command, without ever setting foot on your property. Smart functionality also lets you integrate the sprinkler controller with Alexa or Google Assistant. As a result, you get a voice-controlled operation of your sprinkler system.
Custom Watering Plans
Most models feature huge memory capacities, allowing for the programming of independent watering zones and plant watering specifications. Set up your watering tasks as needed, and the machine does the rest.
Sprinkler Controllers Features to Look For
Here are the top features to look for in the best sprinkler controller models.
- Wi-Fi Enabled – Look for models with Wi-Fi compatibility. Connect it to your home network to enable smart functionality and communication between your phone and the sprinkler controller.
- Smartphone App Compatible – The best sprinkler controller models feature a dedicated app you can download for Android and Apple devices. The app gives you a dashboard, offering you complete control over the watering process. Some apps also let you monitor the soil’s moisture levels through feedback from automated sensors in your yard.
- Smart Home Compatible – Some models feature integration with Alexa and Google Home or Google Assistant. As a result, you get voice-activated use of your sprinkler system, with manual override of your watering preferences.
- Weather Sensors – Most top-quality sprinkler controller models, come with weather sensor technology included with your purchase. These sensors check on the soil and air conditions around your yard. The system interprets the feedback and automatically adjusts the watering schedule to accommodate the weather changes. For instance, if it rains, your system will delay the next watering for up to 72-hours.
- Multiple Watering Zones – Most models come with various watering zones. Large estates and homes require up to 12 to 16 watering zones. Single-family homes will do well with six to eight watering zones, and townhouses can get away with as little as four watering zones around the yard.
- Programable Watering Schedules – Customize your watering schedule to suit your garden and the local climate. Most models provide you with programmable watering schedules up to a year in advance. Check the forecast and set up your watering schedule to accommodate weather changes in your local area.
- Seasonal Adjustment – Most models feature built-in seasonal adjustment for your sprinkler controller. Some models have it built into the software, allowing the sensors to do the work. Sprinkler controllers that don’t rely on sensors might have a manual seasonal adjustment button with one-touch functionality.
- Manual Override – Most models come with a manual override for the watering system. If you think your plants need a drink, get them water immediately without waiting for the system to turn on. If there’s a malfunction with your rain sensor, shut off the sprinkler system with a touch of a button when a downpour starts.
- Security Cameras – You wouldn’t expect a garden sprinkler system to include a security camera, would you? However, some models include this feature, and it comes in handy more often than you think. A camera adds an extra layer of security and protection to your yard, and it prevents someone from stealing your sprinkler controller. Some models even shoot in 1080p!
- Scalability – Some models allow you to connect other controllers in series, giving you more watering zones.
Sprinkler Controller FAQs
How far do I need to set up my sprinklers from the house?
We recommend you position your sprinkler heads at least two feet from your home. This strategy prevents the sprinklers from wetting the windows or window sills, keeping them dry.
How do I know which sprinkler zone I need to use?
Your sprinkler zones should include plants with the same watering requirements. Add up the flow rates from all your sprinkler heads in GPM, and divide it by the figure for the GPM of your water supply. The resulting figure equals the number of watering zones you need in your yard.
How many sprinkler heads can I have in a single zone?
The sprinkler heads consume different volumes of water at varying pressures. Therefore, if you have an example where you get 35-lbs per square inch (PSI), a 3.0 sprinkler nozzle uses around 3 gallons of water per minute (GPM). If your water capacity is 10-GPM, you can fit three sprinkler heads in each zone.
Where can I buy the best sprinkler controller?
We recommend buying the best sprinkler controller from Amazon. Amazon offers you the widest selection at the best prices, and you get buyer protection on your order. If you’re a Prime member, you get fast and free shipping directly to your door, with hassle-free returns.
Sprinkler Controllers – The Verdict
By now, you should have a good idea of the best sprinkler controller for your yard. A custom irrigation system just makes sense when you think about the advantages and the time and money it saves on your watering tasks.
This curated list of top sprinkler controllers has a model to suit any garden. However, we realize you might find yourself stuck with your purchase decision. With so many great options, how do you settle on the right choice for your yard?
If you’re on the fence with your purchase decision, why not rely on one of our top picks?
- The Rachio Smart 8-Zone Sprinkler Controller is our top choice for the best automated sprinkler controller. This model comes with eight watering zones and customizable watering schedules. You get full control of the system through an app on your smartphone and compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa. This model is the ideal choice for mid-sized to large gardens in suburban areas.
- The Netro Control Smart Sprinkler Hub is an excellent choice for the most extensive gardens. If you have a front and back yard lawn, plenty of flowerbeds, and a veggie garden, this model is your top choice. You get 16-watering zones with customized watering schedules. This model also offers full smart compatibility and control through your mobile device.
- The Rain Bird Sprinkler System Controller is our budget pick. This model features custom watering schedules, automated sensors for a rain delay, and installation inside your home for easy access to your watering duties. The Rain Bird is a trusted professional brand, and it comes at an affordable price point.
