Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

Published: June 12th, 2024

💧Keeping your garden lush and green has never been simpler with the new wave of smart sprinkler controllers. These nifty gadgets let you manage your irrigation system right from your smartphone, set up watering schedules with ease, and even make adjustments based on the current weather.

We dug deep into the latest models and looked at different needs to bring you a list of the best smart sprinkler controllers for 2024. Here's hoping this helps you find the perfect one for your garden.

🥇
Overall Best: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller

Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller (Simple Automated Scheduling + Local Weather Intelligence. Save Water w/ Rain, Freeze & Wind Skip), App Enabled, Works w/ Alexa, Fast & Easy Install 08 Zone Controller

The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller is our top choice for overall performance and ease of use. Known for its user-friendly interface and extensive feature set, this controller offers precise control over your watering schedule. It adapts to local weather conditions by integrating real-time data, thus optimizing water usage based on rainfall and temperature. The Rachio 3 is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, enabling you to manage your irrigation through voice commands. Supporting up to 16 zones, it's ideal for most residential yards. The Rachio app stands out for its intuitive navigation and robust functionalities, making it easy for users to shift to smart gardening while ensuring water conservation and lush landscaping.

View TLDR Review: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller 8 Zone

The Rachio 3 earns a high score due to its impressive features such as intuitive app control and advanced Weather Intelligence technology that helps conserve water and optimize lawn care. However, it faces criticism for connectivity issues and complicated scheduling that can lead to inconsistent watering patterns, which some users find frustrating. Overall, while it delivers significant benefits, potential buyers should be aware of its setup and performance quirks.

7.95

Overall

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$159.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller 8 Zone? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

💧

How much water/money can you save with the Rachio 3?

The Rachio 3 is pretty cool because it can help you save both water and money. According to the manufacturer, it can cut your outdoor water use by about 30-50%, thanks to its smart weather-based watering schedules. It adjusts how much water your yard gets based on local weather, the season, and your specific lawn's needs, so you’re not wasting water or cash by overwatering. Our research backs this up—many people noticed their water bills went down after they started using it. The real game-changer is its smart scheduling and skip features. The [Weather Intelligence Plus](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DWeather%2BIntelligence%2BPlus%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) feature will automatically skip watering if it’s raining, too windy, freezing, or if the ground is already saturated. This means you won’t be watering your lawn when it doesn’t need it. According to some folks, they saved thousands of gallons in just one season, which meant serious savings on their water bills. Money-wise, the Rachio 3 saves you by slashing your water usage, which is especially great if you live somewhere with pricey water bills or during dry seasons. People have mentioned seeing significant savings just in the first few months. Plus, some areas give rebates for installing smart irrigation controllers, so that can help cover the initial cost. In short, the Rachio 3 can be a smart pick if you’re looking to save water and money. Its intelligent features tweak your watering schedule to prevent waste, cut your bills, and might even get you a rebate. Whether you’re all about conserving water or just want to save some cash, it’s worth considering.

📶

What are common issues with WiFi connectivity for the Rachio 3?

Hey there! So, the Rachio 3 is a great smart sprinkler controller, but like any WiFi device, it can sometimes run into connectivity issues. Here are a few common problems people have and some tips to sort them out, based on our research and info from the manufacturer: 1. **WiFi Signal Strength:** If the WiFi signal is weak, that’s often the root of the problem. The manufacturer suggests placing your WiFi router as close to **Rachio 3** as possible. If that's not doable, you might need a [WiFi extender](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DWiFi%2Bextender%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to boost the signal. 2. **Network Compatibility:** The Rachio 3 only works with 2.4 GHz WiFi networks. If your router is set to 5 GHz, the controller won’t connect. Make sure your router is set to support 2.4 GHz. 3. **Firmware Updates:** Sometimes, missing or outdated firmware can cause issues. The manufacturer regularly releases updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Check for the latest firmware updates and install them if needed. 4. **Router Settings:** Some router settings can mess with the Rachio 3’s connection. For example, using WPA3 encryption might cause issues since the Rachio 3 supports WPA2. Also, make sure your router's firewall isn’t blocking the controller. 5. **Interference:** Other electronic devices like microwaves, cordless phones, or even thick walls can interfere with the WiFi signal. Try to minimize obstacles between your router and the Rachio 3. 6. **App Integration Issues:** Sometimes, the issue might be with the mobile app. Make sure you have the latest version of the [Rachio app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DRachio%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) installed. Restarting the app or your phone can also help. 7. **Power Cycles:** Sometimes, just turning the Rachio 3 and your router off and on again can fix things. According to our research, lots of folks have managed to sort out their connectivity issues using these tips. If you're still having trouble, you might want to reach out to Rachio’s customer support for more detailed help. They can guide you through advanced troubleshooting steps specific to your setup. So yeah, while WiFi problems can be annoying, they’re usually fixable with a few tweaks here and there. Hope this helps and your Rachio 3 works smoothly!

🌿

How does the Rachio 3 adjust watering based on weather?

The Rachio 3 is all about smart, weather-savvy watering for your lawn. It adjusts your watering schedule based on the current weather conditions, making sure your lawn gets exactly what it needs without any waste. Here's a bit more on how it works and some tips if you're on a mesh network. ### Weather-Based Adjustments Rachio 3 uses really local weather data from over 300,000 personal weather stations and various weather services to tweak your watering schedule in real-time. According to the manufacturer's product description, it checks the weather forecast and soil moisture levels to decide when to water and how much. So if rain’s on the way, it’ll hold off watering. If it’s hotter or cooler than usual, it adjusts accordingly. ### Wi-Fi and Mesh Network Compatibility We’ve found that Rachio 3 works with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks, which most mesh systems support. But according to our research, folks sometimes run into hiccups when setting it up on a mesh network because these systems often merge the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands into one SSID. For example, someone had trouble connecting their Rachio 3 to a [Netgear Orbi](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DNetgear%2BOrbi%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) mesh network (which combines both bands under one SSID). They got it working by temporarily switching their phone to a 2.4GHz network and using an Android device. Another person had no issues using their [Google Nest](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGoogle%2BNest%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) mesh network. ### Tips for a Smooth Setup To smooth things out, try these tips: 1. **Connect to 2.4GHz Network:** Make sure your phone is on a 2.4GHz network during setup. You might need to temporarily split your 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands into separate SSIDs. 2. **Temporary SSID:** If setup’s still a hassle, create a temporary 2.4GHz SSID just for setup, then switch back to your main network afterward. 3. **Customer Support:** If you get stuck, reaching out to Rachio’s customer support can help. We've seen mixed reports on their response times, but it's worth a shot. Following these steps can help you get your Rachio 3 set up without too much fuss. Once it’s up and running, you’ll love how it keeps your lawn looking great by adjusting the watering schedule based on the weather.

View All Answers for

🥈
Runner-up: Orbit B-hyve XR Smart Sprinkler Controller

Orbit 57985 B-hyve XR 8-Zone Smart Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller 57985 (8-Zone) Sprinkler Controller

As a stellar runner-up, the Orbit B-hyve XR Smart Sprinkler Controller offers excellent versatility for various landscaping needs. Handling up to 16 zones, the B-hyve XR adjusts its watering schedule based on real-time local weather data, ensuring efficient water use. The built-in display makes setup and manual operation straightforward, and its weatherproof design allows for outdoor installation without requiring extra protection. While its app may not be as polished as the Rachio 3's, it still delivers robust performance. The B-hyve XR is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for effortless voice control, making it a solid pick for those with large or complex gardens.

View TLDR Review: Orbit B-hyve XR 8-Zone Sprinkler Controller

The Orbit 57985 B-hyve XR 8-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller receives a moderate score mainly due to its strong user-friendly design and extensive scheduling features, praised by many for their ease of installation and operation via a mobile app. However, numerous users report significant Wi-Fi connectivity issues and limitations in the app's functionality, particularly concerning zone control and rain sensor integration. Despite these drawbacks, its solid construction and effective programming capabilities make it a commendable choice for smart irrigation solutions.

8.04

Overall

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$123.99 at Amazon

💸
Budget Pick: Wyze Sprinkler Controller

Wyze WSPRK1 Smart Controller, Smart Sprinkler Timer with EPA Watersense, 8-Zone WiFi (1 Year of Automatic Weather-Based Watering with Sprinkler Plus Included), Black Controller Box Sprinkler Controller, 8-Zone WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (1 Year of Automatic Weather-Based Watering with Sprinkler Plus Included)

For budget-conscious gardeners, the Wyze Sprinkler Controller provides excellent value without skimping on essential features. It handles up to eight watering zones and allows for easy scheduling via its app, which also integrates local weather data to adjust watering times. While it lacks some of the advanced integrations seen in pricier models, it offers reliable performance for smaller gardens or users new to smart irrigation systems. This budget-friendly controller ensures you still achieve effective water management without the premium price tag, making it a fantastic option for cost-effective smart gardening.

View TLDR Review: WYZE Smart Sprinkler Timer

The WYZE WSPRK1 Smart Sprinkler Controller receives a moderate overall score, reflecting its strong performance and user-friendly installation praised in professional reviews, as well as customer satisfaction with its price point and functionality. However, significant concerns about the app's usability and inconsistent performance, particularly features dependent on Wi-Fi connectivity and customer support issues, dampen overall sentiment. Despite these drawbacks, the product offers considerable value for tech-savvy users eager to enhance their gardening experience.

8.4

Overall

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$77.74 at Amazon

Best for Large Lawns: RainMachine Touch HD

When it comes to large lawns, the RainMachine Touch HD is your go-to controller. Supporting up to 16 zones, it offers advanced water conservation features by connecting to local weather data for optimal watering schedules. The front-facing touchscreen provides an easy setup and adjustment experience directly on the unit. The RainMachine Touch HD is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, adding an extra layer of convenience with voice control. This model shines for expansive properties, delivering just the right amount of water so your lawn remains lush and green.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best for Integration: Gardena Smart System

If you're already a fan of the Gardena ecosystem, the Gardena Smart System is a perfect addition to your garden management tools. This comprehensive system allows for seamless control of irrigation, lawn mowing, and garden lighting through its app. It excels at providing an integrated approach to all your garden needs, making it particularly valuable for those seeking complete cohesion among their gardening devices. This robust system ensures you manage everything efficiently from your smartphone, offering both convenience and top-tier performance for a beautifully maintained garden.

View TLDR Review: Gardena Smart Irrigation Control

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$316.76 at Amazon

Get ShopSavvy

ShopSavvy is totally free and works on all popular phones and browsers