Best wireless sprinkler system controller

(Image credit: Future/James Bricknell)

published 1 July 2020

Sprinkler controller technology hasn't changed very much in the last 30 years, but we have recently gotten a new wave of smart controllers that work with our phones and smart assistants. These are our favorite Wireless sprinkler systems.

Best Overall

Rachio 8 zone controller — (Image credit: Amazon)

Rachio R3e

All the zones you'll ever need

With up to 8 separate zones to control, a comprehensive app, and smart scheduling, the Rachio 3E is a powerhouse of a controller. The scheduling even takes into account the local weather to pause the sprinklers if rain is expected, or if the ground will be frozen.

Best outdoor solution

B-hyve faucet controller — (Image credit: Amazon)

Orbit B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer

This one connects direct to your tap

If you don't have the in-ground sprinklers that are prevalent around the United States but you still want to smarten up your backyard, the B-Hyve smart faucet control is a brilliant choice.

The faucet control unit is easy to set up and can be left out in all weather, while the Wi-Fi controller is unobtrusive and can be plugged in anywhere in your house. Theses faucet controllers can even work in a mesh to control multiple sprinklers at the same time.

Best app

Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller

Packed full of data

While the Netro does pretty much everything the Rachio does, the data it collects is a little more comprehensive. If you are an avid gardener and want as many different metrics to help plan your watering, then the Netro should be your go-to. There is even a sensor you can buy to put in the ground to give you even more data!

Best value

B-hyve 4 zone controller — (Image credit: Amazon)

Orbit B-hyve 4-Zone Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller

The writer owns this one

When I was looking to make my home smarter and I started to think about a smart sprinkler controller I did a lot of research. In the end, due to monetary concerns and the fact I only needed 4 zones, I went for the B-Hyve.

So far, it has replaced my old system perfectly. With just a small amount of setup time, I now have my sprinklers running on a perfect cycle. Because I only have two zones this cheaper model was perfect for me, though there is an eight zone one if needed.

Bonus technology

Aeon camera sprinkler combo — (Image credit: Amazon)

Blossom Wi-Fi Smart Water Controller

This one can see intruders

If you are going to make your home smarter, why not make it safer too. This sprinkler controller has a night vision camera integrated into it so you can keep an eye out on your garage if you keep it indoors, or your yard if you don't.

It still does all the awesome smart things the other controllers do, it just has an added eye in the sky to keep you safe.

Alexa, water the plants

Why you can trust Real Homes Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Your sprinkler system may not be your first priority for your connected home, but like a smart thermostat, a good one can save you money in the long run. By intelligently controlling the amount of water that your sprinkler uses, you can save both water and money over the course of the year.

Through all the research, the Rachio R3e comes out on top as the best controller in terms of features and cost. There are better ones out there, but not at this excellent price point.

I'm personally a big fan of the B-Hyve from Orbit, especially as I own one myself. It's only four zones, so perfect for the smaller yard, but it has saved me a lot of water, and it is excellent at scheduling different times for different seasons.

Ever since James bought his first home, he has been obsessed with making it the perfect space. From curtains, paint, and pictures to grills, mixing bowls, and pots and pans, nothing is too small an item for James to adore!