# TLDR Review: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller 8 Zone

*Published: 2024-09-04 | Updated: 2024-09-04 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/rachio-3-smart-sprinkler-controller-8-zone*

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## Product: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller 8 Zone
**Brand:** Rachio

**Overall Score:** 0.795/100

## Pros
- Simple automated scheduling allows for convenient lawn care.
- Local weather intelligence helps save water by adjusting schedules based on rain, freeze, and wind conditions.
- Integration with Amazon Alexa and other top smart-home platforms allows for voice control and automation.
- App-enabled control that lets you manage your sprinkler system from anywhere.
- Foolproof installation process, making it easy to set up.
- Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures reliable connectivity.
- Expressive light bar for easy status checks.
- Significant water savings by skipping watering during inappropriate weather conditions.

## Cons
- Can require a pump for systems that source water from a well to ensure adequate pressure.
- The mobile app is mandatory for initial setup, which might be inconvenient for some users.
- Some users might find the price point high compared to non-smart sprinkler controllers.

## Bottom Line

The Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller is a top-tier choice for anyone looking to upgrade their lawn care system with smart technology. It offers robust features like automated scheduling and local weather intelligence, helping you save water and ensure a lush yard. However, make sure you have a reliable Wi-Fi connection and be ready to invest a bit more for the convenience and functionality it provides.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Simple automated scheduling allows for convenient lawn care. | Can require a pump for systems that source water from a well to ensure adequate pressure. |
| Local weather intelligence helps save water by adjusting schedules based on rain, freeze, and wind conditions. | The mobile app is mandatory for initial setup, which might be inconvenient for some users. |
| Integration with Amazon Alexa and other top smart-home platforms allows for voice control and automation. | Some users might find the price point high compared to non-smart sprinkler controllers. |
| App-enabled control that lets you manage your sprinkler system from anywhere. |  |
| Foolproof installation process, making it easy to set up. |  |
| Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures reliable connectivity. |  |
| Expressive light bar for easy status checks. |  |
| Significant water savings by skipping watering during inappropriate weather conditions. |  |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| SMUD Energy Store | $49.99  | Check |
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| aeonlinedeals | $138.99  | Check |
| Amazon | $138.99  | Check |
| Galomex | $159.95  | Check |
| Flexxpricing | $159.99  | Check |
| tadaout | $159.99  | Check |
| Melitawillstore | $163.18  | Check |
| DiscountToday | $165.81  | Check |
| Robot Cleaner Store | $168.87  | Check |
| The Home Depot | $169.15  | Check |
| P.C. Richard & Son | $169.88  | Check |
| Walmart | $171.26  | Check |
| Surveillance-Video.com | $176.40  | Check |
| Surveillance-Video.com | $176.40  | Check |
| 123SecurityProducts.com | $179.00  | Check |
| BAM.deals | $179.99  | Check |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*