The Best Smart Sprinkler Controller with Sensors for Efficient Watering (2023)

Smart sprinkler controllers with sensors are the latest innovation in the world of sprinkler systems. These cutting-edge gadgets use cutting-edge technology to assist homeowners in lowering their water consumption and consequently their water bills. 

Smart sprinkler controllers with sensors can detect changes in weather and soil moisture levels, so they can adjust watering schedules accordingly. This means that homeowners can avoid overwatering their lawns and gardens, which can lead to water waste and higher bills.

When it comes to choosing the best smart sprinkler controller with sensors, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to make sure that the device is compatible with your existing sprinkler system. 

You’ll also want to consider the number of zones that the device can control, as well as the range of sensors that it comes with. 

Some smart sprinkler controllers with moisture sensors can even be controlled remotely via a smartphone app, which can be a convenient feature for busy homeowners.

At our testing lab, we put several smart sprinkler controllers with sensors to the test to determine which ones offer the best performance and features. 

We evaluated each device based on its ease of use, accuracy, and overall value. 

After extensive testing, we’ve identified the top smart sprinkler controllers with sensors on the market today.

The Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers with Sensors

We understand the importance of maintaining a lush and healthy lawn, but we also know how time-consuming and water-wasting the process can be. 

That’s why we’ve rounded up the best smart sprinkler controllers with sensors to help you keep your lawn green and thriving without breaking the bank or wasting water. 

These controllers adjust watering schedules based on weather and soil moisture and allow you to control your sprinklers remotely from your smartphone. 

So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best smart sprinkler controllers with sensors.

1. Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller

The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller is designed to lower your water bill and ensure a beautiful yard. 

With hyperlocal Weather Intelligence Plus and Rachio Wireless Flow Meter compatibility, the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller creates watering schedules automatically. 

The mobile app lets you manage your sprinkler system from anywhere, and the controller is compatible with the top smart-home platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Nest, and IFTTT. 

Easy-press connectors make wiring snap, and the magnetic cover locks right into place. The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller is also compatible with a master valve, pump relay, or indexing valve, and it can operate in temperatures ranging from -4°F to 140°F.

Pros

• Save money and water with up to 30-50% savings on your monthly water bill.
• Avoid watering in the rain with exclusive weather intelligence plus, which automatically skips unnecessary watering with features like rain skip, wind skip, freeze skip, and more.
• Control your sprinkler system from anywhere with this easy-to-use app.

Cons

• Installation may take longer than 30 minutes if you’re not familiar with sprinkler systems.
• The mobile app is required to connect the controller to Wi-Fi, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• The controller must be connected to the AC power adapter included, and DC transformers are not supported.

2. Moen 8/16-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller

The Moen Smart Sprinkler Controller is a great product for homeowners who want to intelligently and efficiently manage their irrigation system. 

One of its standout features is its ability to independently control up to 8 and 16 zones of irrigation, allowing for customized watering schedules and reducing water waste.

Another great benefit of the Moen Smart Sprinkler Controller is its weather skip feature, which uses real-time weather data to adjust the schedule and avoid watering during periods of rain or extreme heat. This helps conserve water and reduce your overall water bill.  

Furthermore, the Moen Smart Sprinkler Controller includes a moisture sensor that measures the moisture content of the soil in the root zone prior to a scheduled irrigation event. 

If the soil moisture is above a specific threshold, the cycle is bypassed, thus avoiding overwatering and ensuring efficient use of water resources.

Pros:

• The Moen Smart Sprinkler Controller is easy to install and set up
• It comes with a weather skip feature that reduces water waste by adjusting schedules according to real-time weather data;
• It includes a moisture sensor that prevents overwatering and helps save water
• The controller can be connected to Wi-Fi, allowing for remote control using a smartphone or tablet
• It has an intuitive interface that makes it easy to customize watering schedules

Cons:

• The price point of the Moen Smart Sprinkler Controller may be higher compared to other irrigation controllers on the market
• It may require frequent manual adjustments during the initial setup process to ensure optimal performance.

3. INKBIRD Smart Sprinkler Controller

We highly recommend the INKBIRD Smart Sprinkler Controller for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to manage their garden watering.

The INKBIRD Smart Sprinkler Controller is a great choice for anyone looking for a smart, efficient way to manage their garden watering. 

With its built-in WiFi module, non-volatile memory, support for rain sensors and seasonal adjustment, it offers a wide range of features that make it easy to customize your watering schedule to suit your needs.

Installation is easy, and the INKBIRD app is user-friendly and intuitive, allowing you to set schedules and adjust watering times with just a few taps. 

The app also allows you to add family members and share the sprinkler management, and you’ll receive a notification on your phone whenever the sprinkler controller is offline or the watering is complete.

While there are some downsides to the INKBIRD Smart Sprinkler Controller, such as the difficulty connecting to the 2.4 GHz WiFi band, overall it’s a great product that offers excellent value for the price. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a smart sprinkler controller with sensors.

Pros

• The built-in WiFi module allows you to easily set watering schedules and monitor the process on the INKBIRD app, which is compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
• The non-volatile memory ensures that all settings are saved even after a long power outage, so you can always count on it to implement watering schedules.
• The irrigation controller offers 4 cyclic options and 6 start times, allowing you to separately program a watering schedule for each zone.

Cons

• Some users have reported difficulty connecting to the 2.4GHz WiFi band, which is required for the controller to function properly.
• The app can be slow to respond at times, which can be frustrating when trying to adjust watering schedules on the fly.
• The controller does not come with a rain sensor, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you want to take advantage of the rain skip feature.
  

4. Orbit B-Hyve Smart Sprinkler Controller

The Orbit B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Controller is a CES Innovation Award-winning device that allows you to control your sprinklers from anywhere with your smartphone or tablet. 

The B-hyve app is fully functional for Android, iOS, or web devices and gives you control wherever you need it – program your timer on the app, at the timer, or let the WeatherSense technology create a program for you. 

The WeatherSense technology provides watering based on site conditions such as slope, soil type, sun/shade, historical et and live weather feeds, it automatically adjusts your controller to deliver the right amount of water to your plants. 

The swing panel and plug-and-go line cord make installation and wiring simple and convenient.

While the 6-zone capacity may not be sufficient for larger yards, the Orbit B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Controller is perfect for smaller yards and gardens. 

Some users have reported connectivity issues with the app, but these issues are rare and can be resolved with troubleshooting. 

The price point is higher compared to other smart sprinkler controllers, but the advanced features and convenience make it worth the investment.

Pros

• The B-hyve app allows you to control your sprinklers from anywhere with your smartphone or tablet.
• The WeatherSense technology automatically adjusts your watering schedule based on site conditions and live weather feeds, ensuring your plants receive the right amount of water.
• The swing panel and plug-and-go line cord make installation and wiring simple and convenient.

Cons

• The 6-zone capacity may not be sufficient for larger yards.
• Some users have reported connectivity issues with the app.
• The price point is higher compared to other smart sprinkler controllers.
  

5. Rain-Bird Controller ESPME3

The Rain-Bird Controller ESPME3 is a great option for those who want a smart sprinkler controller with sensors that is easy to install and use. 

With its flexible station count options and ability to add modules, this controller is perfect for both residential and light commercial sites. 

The LNK WiFi module can be added for even greater control and monitoring through the Rain Bird app.

The large text and symbols make the color-coded dial positions easy to understand, and the large 3” back-lit screen is clear to read in dark garages or sheds. 

The controller alerts you of system issues, such as electrical, programming, or high flow (when using a flow sensor), via a red LED and scrolling messages and mobile device alerts when used with the LNK WiFi Module and the Rain Bird app.

The LNK WiFi module is sold separately, increasing the controller’s cost. The controller may not work with all flow sensors, and it may take time to transfer the wires from an old controller to this one. 

Pros

• With 4 to 22 stations, the ESP-ME3 provides the station count options customers need. Install the same controller on residential and light commercial sites. Add station modules when expanding irrigation without removing or even powering down the controller.
• Upgrade the ESP-ME3 to a SMART controller by adding the LNK WiFi module and a WR2 rain sensor. The LNK makes programming and monitoring easy through the enhanced Rain Bird app.
• Configurable to 22 stations with additional 3 or 6 station modules for different-sized jobs or future irrigation needs. comes with a power plug and an outdoor cabinet for indoor or outdoor installation.

Cons

• The LNK WiFi module is sold separately, which adds to the overall cost.
• It may take some time to transfer the wires from an old controller to this new one.
• The controller may not be compatible with all types of flow sensors.

6. Orbit B-Hyve Smart 6-Zone Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller

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If you want to save water, time, and money, the Orbit B-hyve Smart 6-Zone Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller is a fantastic option. 

With its easy-to-use app and smart watering technology, you can be sure that your plants are getting the right amount of water at the right time. 

The swing panel and plug-and-go line cord also make installation a breeze. However, if you have a larger property or are on a tight budget, this may not be the best option for you.

Pros

• Ultimate WiFi and Timer CONTROL – The B-hyve app is fully functional for Android, iOS, or web devices and gives you control wherever you need it. Program your timer on the app, at the timer, or let the weather-based software create a program for you.
• SMART WATERING – Weather Sense technology provides watering based on site conditions such as slope, soil type, sun/shade, historical ET, and live weather feeds. It automatically adjusts your controller to deliver the right amount of water to your plants.
• EASY TO INSTALL AND USE – Utilize the swing panel for easy access to the angled wiring terminals, which make wiring simple and convenient, and the plug-and-go line cord that can also be cut for hardwired applications.

Cons

• LIMITED ZONES – This controller only has 6 zones, so it may not be suitable for larger properties.
• WIFI ISSUES – Some customers have reported issues connecting to the WIFI, so make sure to check your compatibility before purchasing.
• PRICE – This controller is more expensive than other options on the market.

7. Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller

The Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller automatically adjusts watering schedules based on lawn and plant types, soil type, sun exposure, and other factors. 

It’s EPA WaterSense certified and uses advanced water-saving technologies, such as weather forecasting and historical statistics, to help you save water and reduce your water bills.

One of the best things about the Netro controller is its lifetime cloud service, which allows you to connect to WiFi and monitor and control your sprinkler system from anywhere using your iOS or Android devices or web browsers. 

You can also set up water restrictions and alerts based on your local watering rules and weather conditions.

The Netro controller is easy to install and replace, and you don’t need to be a professional to do it. 

However, some users have reported connectivity issues with the app, which may require some troubleshooting. 

The controller is designed for indoor use only, so if you install it in a garage or basement, you may need to protect it from the elements.

Pros

• Automatically creates and adjusts watering schedules optimized for your plants and lawn.
• Connects to WiFi and allows you to monitor and control your sprinkler system remotely from your phone or computer.
• Eco-friendly features help you save up to 50% of your outdoor water use.

Cons

• Some users have reported connectivity issues with the app.
• The controller is designed for indoor use only.
• The installation process may require some basic tools and DIY skills.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best smart sprinkler controller with sensors, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend taking the following factors into account:

Watering Zones

The first thing to consider is the number of watering zones you need. Make sure the controller you choose has enough zones to cover all the areas of your lawn and garden that need watering. Some controllers offer as few as four zones, while others can handle up to 16 or more.

Sensor Compatibility

Smart sprinkler controllers with moisture sensors can help ensure that your lawn and garden are watered only when necessary. 

Look for a controller that is compatible with a variety of sensors, such as rain, soil moisture, and freeze sensors. 

This will allow you to customize your watering schedule based on the specific needs of your lawn and garden.

Weather-Based Watering

Many smart sprinkler controllers offer weather-based watering, which adjusts the watering schedule based on current weather conditions. 

This can help you conserve water and save money on your water bill. Look for a controller that uses local weather data to adjust watering schedules.

Mobile App Control

The majority of modern sprinkler controllers can be managed from a smartphone or tablet. You can easily modify your watering schedule, track your water consumption, and be notified of any problems. 

Look for a controller with a user-friendly app that is compatible with your smartphone or tablet.

Easy Installation

Finally, consider the ease of installation. Look for a controller that is easy to install and set up. Homeowners with little to no experience can install some controllers, while others require professional installation.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best smart sprinkler controller with sensors for your lawn and garden.