Smart sprinkler controllers work by intelligently assessing your lawn, plants, or your requirements, and will water accordingly. Smart controllers feature an app that you can use to set schedules, watering zones, or even override the device when needed.

By watering your yard only when it's needed, you can save water and money on your water bills.

Here are the best smart sprinkler controllers available today.

To set up the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller (16-Zone), simply remove the magnetic cover to see 16 wire clip terminals. The DIY installation should take around 30 minutes to complete, including syncing with the Rachio app. Here you can configure watering zones based on the type of soil, vegetation, and sun exposure, which is incredibly useful and detailed.

Using Rachio's Weather Intelligence Plus technology, you can set schedules manually or automatically. You can also determine no-watering zones which means the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller (16-Zone) will skip watering if it's too windy, wet, or if there's potential frost on the way.

There's no hiding the fact that this smart sprinkler controller is expensive. But, if you want to control it from your phone and have ultimate control over your garden's watering schedules, you won't find much better than the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller (16-Zone). Additionally, if you are gearing towards a smarter home, this smart sprinkler controller is also compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and other smart home devices.

Key Features
  • Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and more
  • Creates water schedules based on the weather
  • Control from anywhere using the app
  • DIY installation
Specifications
  • Brand: Rachio
  • Weight: 1.05lbs
  • Dimensions: 9.1 x 1.4 x 5.6 inches
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.5GHz)
Pros
  • Doesn't take long to instal
  • Compatible with many sprinkler systems
  • Smart schedules can be tailored
Cons
  • Expensive
Buy This Product
Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller (16-Zone)
Editors choice

2. Orbit B-hyve XR (8-Zone)

8.80 / 10
Read Reviews

With a waterproof case and compatibility with Amazon's Alexa, the Orbit B-hyve XR (8-Zone) rivals the Rachio 3 controller but comes in at half the cost. While this smart sprinkler controller doesn't have as vast smart scheduling features as its rival, it does work well if you need something more affordable.

Setting up and inserting the wires into each port is fairly straightforward. It's definitely an improvement over the previous model, and the Bluetooth connection makes the process of syncing the device much easier. It's pretty intuitive, and the Orbit B-hyve XR (8-Zone) now works with Wi-Fi 2.4GHz and 5GHz connections. Similarly, you can also use Alexa and Google Assistant-enabled devices to use voice commands.

From the app, you can turn watering zones on/off, turn your timer on/off, set different watering modes, and adjust thresholds. Similar to the Rachio app, you can determine what type of turf you have in your garden, the type of flowers, trees, and more.

Key Features
  • Create watering schedules and receive alerts via the app
  • Adjusts to weather changes automatically
  • LED light ring and digital display shows timer
  • Receives local weather data
Specifications
  • Brand: Orbit
  • Weight: 3.87lbs
  • Dimensions: 4 x 9 x 11 inches
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Pros
  • No subscription needed
  • Features save water and money
  • Good value for money
Cons
  • Some scheduling options are limited
Buy This Product
Orbit B-hyve XR (8-Zone)

With a series of eight lights on the front of the unit, it's easy to see which zones are active using the Wyze Sprinkler Controller. It's one of the most affordable smart sprinkler controllers on the market, allowing you to control stop/start watering manually, or with slightly more advanced settings using the app.

From the app, you can configure different water zones, and schedules, or manage your watering using localized weather. However, some features require the Sprinkler Plus add-on which is a subscription service. This is how Wyze manages to keep its Wyze Sprinkler Controller costs down initially.

If you're in the market for a smart sprinkler controller that isn't too complicated, nor is it fancy, the Wyze Sprinkler Controller should do the trick. It's friendly on the wallet too, so it's a great entry-level device.

Key Features
  • Use the Wyze app to stop/start watering at any time, from anywhere
  • Uses local weather data to water zones
  • Fixed schedules
Specifications
  • Brand: Wyze
  • Weight: 0.47lbs
  • Dimensions: 9.1 x 1.5 x 3.3 inches
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Pros
  • DIY installation doesn't take long
  • Notifications help to keep an eye on watering
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Limited to 8 zones
  • More simplistic features
Buy This Product
Wyze Sprinkler Controller

The first thing you'll need to know about the Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller (12-Zone) is that it isn't weather resistant. This means you'll need to install it indoors to ensure it doesn't get damaged. With that out of the way, installing this smart device is easy since you can use the companion app to get it set up.

By using the Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller (12-Zone), you'll get accurate local weather alerts, the ability to control your watering schedules from anywhere around the world, and alerts when there are watering restrictions in your area. But, if you want to take this smart sprinkler to the next level, you'll need to invest in the Netro Whisperer so you can keep track of the temperature, sunlight levels, and moisture levels to determine the right amount of irrigation for your lawn.

If you have a seriously large yard, or you want to control more than 12 zones, you can link multiple Netro Smart Sprinkler Controllers together using the Netro app. It's a pretty versatile device as long as you're comfortable with the lack of manual controls.

Key Features
  • Creates and adjusts watering schedules optimized for your lawn
  • Control your sprinklers from anywhere using the Android or iOS app
  • Water restriction alerts
Specifications
  • Brand: Netro
  • Weight: 0.51lbs
  • Dimensions: 5.7 x 5.7 x 1.2 inches
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Reasonably priced
  • Alerts and notifications are useful
Cons
  • Onboard controls are lacking
  • Indoor installation only
Buy This Product
Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller (12-Zone)

Using the app or by using voice commands, you can instruct the Rainpoint Smart Sprinkler Controller to turn on/off the water. Since it only has one zone, setup is incredibly simple, allowing you to get the device ready in under five minutes.

Whether you need to manage the watering of your yard at home or in a vacation property, the Rainpoint Smart Sprinkler Controller can help you to save money and water. If it rains, the timer will delay watering for either 24, 48, or 72 hours, offering more control over your water bills.

If you do need to expand the system later down the line, the Rainpoint Smart Sprinkler Controller is compatible with two-zone sprinklers. It's certainly a more affordable way to water your lawn and plants if you've only got a small area.

Key Features
  • Control the water timer via voice commands
  • 3 watering plans and 2 watering modes
  • Manual watering option
Specifications
  • Brand: Rainpoint
  • Weight: 0.55lbs
  • Dimensions: 6.85 x 6.3 x 3.31 inches
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
Pros
  • Suitable for vacation properties
  • Detects weather and delays or initiates watering automatically
  • Very quick setup
Cons
  • Only a single zone timer
Buy This Product
Rainpoint Smart Sprinkler Controller

Since the Eve Aqua only works with Apple devices and Apple HomeKit, steer away if you're an Android user. To install, the device needs two AA batteries and needs to be mounted to your spigot. After this, use your smartphone to connect to the smart sprinkler controller via Bluetooth.

Using the Eve app, you can control your sprinkler or irrigation system. Here you can set up schedules so that you know your garden will always be watered, even if you're not at home.

While this smart sprinkler controller does offer some basic features, it's in no way as in-depth as other systems like Rachio or Orbit B-hyve. This may have something to do with the large number of smart devices you can purchase from Eve, so if you want to stick with the same ecosystem, it makes sense.

Key Features
  • Use the Eve app or Siri to control the system
  • Schedule watering while you're on vacation
  • Compatible with popular hose systems
  • Apple HomeKit-enabled
Specifications
  • Brand: Eve
  • Weight: 13.3oz
  • Dimensions: 3.03 x 3.74 x 5.04 inches
  • Batteries required : 2x AA
  • Compatability: Apple HomeKit
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth LE, Thread
Pros
  • No subscription required
  • Multiple Eve Aqua controllers can be controlled at the same time
  • Good privacy options
Cons
  • Not compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant
  • App has a steeper learning curve than other smart sprinkler contoller apps
Buy This Product

Starting at a lower price, the Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 is the indoor version of this smart sprinkler controller. If you do want to upgrade and invest in waterproof housing, then the outdoor version will cost a little more. Either way, both units are incredibly robust and offer the ability to adjust your sprinklers or irrigation systems from anywhere using the app.

There are lots of features that stand out on the Rain Bird ST8I-2.0, but it's worth noting that not all of them are available unless you have other devices installed, for example, a wired rain sensor. However, based on the season and local weather, this controller can adjust daily watering schedules based on the data to ensure your plants and lawn are watered when needed.

Installation is a little more tricky compared to other smart sprinkler controllers, but once it has been setup, you're good to go. There's support for iOS and Android, and you can opt-in to notifications so you get alerts on your phone when the water has been adjusted, or if an error has been found.

Key Features
  • Works with iOS, Android, and Alexa
  • 8-zone setup
  • Enable notifications to get alerts when you're away
Specifications
  • Brand: Rain Bird
  • Weight: 0.99lbs
  • Dimensions: 1.95 x 7.63 x 6.75 inches
  • Batteries required : 2x AAA
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
Pros
  • Manual controls available
  • Can manage multiple controllers via the app
  • Outdoor model available if you want to upgrade
Cons
  • Indoor use only
  • Installation isn't as easy as others
Buy This Product
Rain Bird ST8I-2.0

FAQ

Q: Are Smart Sprinkler Controllers Worth It?

If you want to save money and conserve water by only watering your yard when it's necessary, then yes, a smart sprinkler controller is worth it.

Q: What Does A Smart Sprinkler Controller Do?

Smart sprinkler controllers use technology to assess the current weather in your area and optimize your irrigation or sprinkler systems to water accordingly. Most of them offer schedules, too, or manual overrides so you can be in control of when your plants are watered.

Q: Can I Use Any Controller For Sprinkler System?

It depends on the sprinkler infrastructure you have. For example, if you have an in-ground irrigation system, you can use a multi-zone hardwired smart sprinkler controller.

Alternatively, if you only have a hose, you can use a hose-based controller which also offers smart functionality via the use of an app.