Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers in 2022: Buying Guide

Modern technology has surely made life easier for the modern homeowner. One useful device that has made yard and lawn maintenance a breeze is the smart sprinkler controller. If you’re looking for a way to conserve water and decrease your water bill, you should definitely look into upgrading your current sprinkler system by investing in a “smart one.”

RainMachine HD-12 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller

RainMachine HD-12

What is a smart irrigation system?

Smart irrigation systems are a modern kind of home watering which uses smart technology to activate and operate the system. They are better than traditional water systems as they offer the added benefit of more customizable control over the schedule and timing of activation. Smart irrigation systems also monitor plant water use, weather and evaporation to determine the best times and duration of watering plants.

These systems are designed to conserve water use and increase the efficiency of sprinkler systems. They can be managed using smart sprinkler controllers.

Smart Sprinkler Controller | Recommended

Last update on 2024-03-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Smart Sprinkler Controller | Recommended

Last update on 2024-02-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This website is supported by readers. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.


Our Recommended Smart Sprinkler Controllers in 2022

10) NxEco HWN12-200

NxEco 36- Zone Smart Irrigation Sprinkler...
  • 36-Zone Smart Controller: Next Generation Smart Controller. Real-time Remote operation and individual smart...
  • EASY TO INSTALL & SETUP: Multi-control option allows you to control your NxEco HWN12-200 using your...
  • FUTURE PROOF: No need to have your smartphone nearby! Run all functions and features manually from the...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

9) Aeon Matrix

Aeon Matrix Smart Sprinkler Controller 8 Zone with...
  • connected|smartphone|surveillance|garden|security camera|garage|sprinkler|motion detection|Yardian|live...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

8) RainMachine Touch HD-12

The RainMachine HD-12 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller is our top pick. It pretty much has everything you may want and need from a sprinkler controller packed in a well-designed product.

It’s got a touchscreen LCD where you can set up and customize the schedule of your sprinkler system. The HD-12 allows for a maximum of 12 sprinkler zones which would be enough to cover a medium to large lawn or yard.

But what we like best about the HD-12 is its corresponding iOS app through which you can also control your system. It shows you beautiful and easy to comprehend weather charts and graphics.

RainMachine Touch HD-12, Cloud Independent Smart...
  • SMART SCHEDULE & SAVE WATER - Save water with real-time weather adjustments. (EPA WaterSense Certified, check...
  • CLOUD INDEPENDENT - All personal data stored locally. RainMachine continues to work even when WiFi is down....
  • FREE WEATHER DATA - Direct access to NOAA, METNO or Wunderground, OpenWeatherMap, NetAtmo. Use National or...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

7) Orbit 57985 B-hyve

Orbit 57985 B-hyve XR Smart 8-Zone Indoor/Outdoor...
  • SMART UNDERGROUND WATERING TIMER - Effortlessly manage your watering schedule with our advanced technology....
  • WIFI WATERING TIMER - Experience the convenience of remote control and programming with our WiFi-enabled smart...
  • SMART WATERING TIMER - Optimize water usage and promote healthy plants with our intuitive smart timer....

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

6) Rain-Bird ESP-TM2

Rain-Bird ESP-TM2 Indoor Outdoor Irrigation WiFi...
  • Controls 8 sprinkler zones, Quick to Install, Suitable for indoor or outdoor installations, Factory installed...
  • Simple to Program. Quickly program a schedule in just 3 steps. NEW large back-lit LCD display for improved...
  • Advanced Features. Contractor Default allows you to easily save and restore your custom schedule. Delay...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

5) Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller

If you’re looking for a fully automatic smart sprinkler controller, you may want to consider choosing the Netro Sprite-06. This six-zone controller determines the most efficient watering schedule and duration for your yard using the latest weather data it accesses through the Internet. Ideally, you can let it run your watering system by itself with minimum input from you giving you more time to do other things around the house.

Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller, WiFi, Weather...
  • Fully Automatic - EPA WaterSense certified, dynamically creates and adjusts watering schedules optimized for...
  • Lifetime Cloud Service - Connects to WiFi(2.4G), monitors and controls your sprinkler system anywhere from...
  • Eco Friendly - Save up to 50% of your outdoor water use with advanced water saving technologies including...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

4) Orbit B-hyve 4-Zone

Orbit B-hyve 4-Zone Smart Indoor Sprinkler...
  • SMART SPRINKLER CONTROL - Orbit B-hyve offers a WiFi sprinkler timer with remote control capabilities for your...
  • EFFICIENT WATERING MADE EASY - Our automatic watering system works with other water saving techologies like...
  • CONVENIENT INDOOR PLANT CARE - With our smart plant watering system, you can set automated schedules to...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

3) Orbit 57946 B-hyve

Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Indoor/Outdoor 6-Station...
  • EFFICIENT WATERING SOLUTION - The smart sprinkler controller ensures automatic watering with precision, saving...
  • INDOOR AND OUTDOOR PLACEMENT - This automatic watering system can be placed indoors or outdoors providing the...
  • EASY-TO-USE DRIP IRRIGATION - The drip irrigation timer allows for hassle-free management of your garden's...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

2) SPW Hunter PRO-HC

SPW Hunter PRO-HC PHC-1200i 12 Zone Indoor...
  • PRO-HC Indoor Wi-Fi enabled for simple and fast connection to the internet. External Plug-In Transformer
  • Full-functioning controller with touchscreen, also fully accessible via app.
  • Large terminal strips and wiring compartment. Dedicated master valve/pump start

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1) Rachio 8ZULWC-L

Rachio has been a trusted brand for smart irrigation systems, so you can bet that the Rachio 8ZULW Smart Sprinkler Controller is a trustworthy product.

This first generation sprinkler controller has the ability to generate its own customization and schedule depending on weather data around where you live making lawn maintenance a breeze. What more, you can command the controller via voice prompt as it’s also compatible with Amazon’s Alexa.

Another one of its selling points is its guaranteed promise to save you 30% of your usual water bill.

Rachio 8ZULWC-L R3e Generation: Smart, 8 Zone...
  • Automatically save money and water. See savings in your monthly watering bill with the Rachio 3e Smart...
  • Cut back on unnecessary watering – without compromising your lawn’s health. Rachio 3e’s standard Weather...
  • Control your sprinklers from anywhere with Rachio’s free, easy-to-use app. Run, pause, and stop your...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Who should get a smart sprinkler controller?

Any home or property owner with a sprinkler system which is controlled by either an electronic or mechanical timer should think about getting one. Upgrading to a smart sprinkler controller is also a great way for people to easily keep their lawns in top shape as it prevents over and underwatering.

Rachio 8ZULW Smart Sprinkler Controller

Rachio 8ZULW

Busy people would also benefit from owning a smart sprinkler controller as they won’t have to make constant decisions on the watering of their lawns or yards as the device can make all the choices for them.

How does a smart sprinkler controller work?

Smart sprinkler controllers need to be connected to both an underground sprinkler system and your home’s Wifi to work (though the sprinklers can run on schedule even without an Internet connection).

It uses the Internet to get the latest data on the weather conditions around your area and adjusts the schedule and timer of the system depending on factors such as rain, humidity, and general temperatures. There are also models which account for the moisture level in your garden’s soil.

RainMachine Mini-8 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller

RainMachine Mini-8

Do I need to download an app to use it?

Most smart sprinkler controllers require you to download a corresponding app on your mobile phone or tablet through which you can control your system from. Using the app, you can control your smart irrigation system even if you’re not home with just a push of a few buttons from setting up a schedule to turning the sprinklers on and off.

Can I install it on my own or do I need a professional to do so?

You can definitely replace your old irrigation controller with a smart sprinkler controller easily by yourself. Just search up a video tutorial online or follow the instructions you find with the device. Installation of the device to mobile app setup can usually take around 30 minutes.

What type of power supply do smart sprinkler controllers need?

Most controllers require an AC supply to power them. There are also other models which come with some extra batteries in case of power interruptions.

How much water and money will I actually save each month?

Some of the best smart sprinkler controller models can save you up to 50% in your monthly water bill by conserving gallons of water. Upgrading to a smart irrigation system is also proven to use around 20% less water than traditional irrigation systems.

Rain Bird ST8I-WIFI Smart Indoor WiFi Sprinkler/Irrigation System

Rain Bird ST8I-WIFI

Which is the better controller range, WIFI or Bluetooth?

If you want the freedom and convenience of being able to access and control your sprinkler system anywhere, then a smart sprinkler controller with a WIFI connection is the best choice. Controllers which use Bluetooth will only allow for a 30-meter radius where you can control your system. The latter can be restricting but stay at home moms will find this type sufficient enough to control their smart irrigation systems.

A Buyer’s Guide to Choosing a Smart Sprinkler Controller

Before you choose which smart sprinkler controller to purchase, here are some factors and features you may want to consider first.

Factors to Consider

Indoor vs. outdoor: Smart sprinkler controllers can be installed outdoors or indoors depending on your preference or needs. Indoor controllers usually require a power outlet to function and are not weather-resistant. Should you decide on an indoor model, know that they need at least 110-volt outlet to work. These models are usually installed in garages or patios for convenient access. Meanwhile, outdoor controllers require to be hard-wired to be powered. They also tend to come with weather-resistant casing to protect it from the elements.

Netro Sprite-06 Smart Sprinkler Controller

Netro Sprite-06

Number of zones: Zones refer to the divided areas of your backyard or lawn after a sprinkler system is installed. In general, houses tend to have around two zones at least and nine at most. Be sure to get a smart sprinkler controller which can accommodate the number of zones you’re planning to have in your system.

Communicating range: This pertains to the range of communication that your smart device with the sprinkler controller. Controllers with Bluetooth connection allows around 30 feet of distance before your phone or tablet becomes out of range to control your sprinkler system. But if you find that too constricting, then you might want to buy a smart sprinkler controller that connects using Wifi or INSTEON so you can operate your system wherever you are.

Features to Look For

Customization: Some controllers will give you more options to customize your sprinkler setup than others. Good controllers will allow you to adjust the watering schedule of each zone based on multiple factors.

RainMachine HD-12 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller

RainMachine HD-12

Rain sensor: Smart sprinkler controllers can also prevent the overwatering of plants if you live in a rainy area. Some controllers are equipped with rain sensors which monitor rain so the sprinkler system can activate or deactivate a watering cycle.

Scheduling: This feature will allow you set up the specific times and time length of each watering cycle. It also allows users to determine which days they want the sprinkler to activate.

Smart Sprinkler Controller | Recommended

Last update on 2024-03-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Smart Sprinkler Controller | Recommended

Last update on 2024-02-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


This website is supported by readers. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.




If you have any questions or do you spot any mistakes, please add them below.

Previously in Our Recommended List

Rain Bird ST8I-WIFI Smart Indoor WiFi Sprinkler/Irrigation System Fi Sprinkler/Irrigation System

The Rain Bird ST8I may not look as modern as the other options on this list, but it still offers the same conveniences that smart sprinkler controllers do.

It offers an eight-zone watering coverage and allows users full control over settings and schedules which they can program in the device using the controller’s button pad itself or through the corresponding Rain Bird app.

Another great thing about the app is that it can control multiple smart sprinkler controllers if you have multiple systems installed.

Rain Bird ST8I-WIFI 8 Station WiFi Timer, Indoor...
  • WiFi signal conveniently places control of your timer in the palm of your hand
  • Super easy to program; allows access to timer functions from anywhere in the world
  • Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Apple iOS 8 or greater, and Android 4.4 (KitKat) or later

Last update on 2024-03-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

RainMachine Mini-8 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller

If you’re looking for a fuss-free device that can efficiently water a small yard or lawn, you may want to give the RainMachine Mini-8 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller a go.

It’s got a no-nonsense user interface that’ll make it easy for any user to set up and schedule up to eight zones in your smart irrigation system. Like other RainMachine products, it also comes with an iOS app which visually aids owners about weather forecasts and total water savings.

Our only complaint is that it doesn’t have a full smart watering feature yet.

RainMachine Mini-8, Cloud Independent, The...
  • CLOUD INDEPENDENT - All personal data stored locally. Rain Machine continues to work even when Wi-Fi is down.
  • 8 ZONES (7 when Master Valve is used as Zone 1)
  • SMART SCHEDULE & SAVE WATER - Save water with real-time weather adjustments (EPA Water Sense certified, check...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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