7 Best WiFi Irrigation Sprinklers | Smart Sprinkler Controller Reviews
For most people, having to irrigate the lawn or garden is not a fun task. They must manually start the irrigation system at specific times every day and you can easily miss an important irrigation schedule. And for homeowners who need to travel or simply go to work at odd hours, it can be a huge problem. Especially if your project requires multiple water sprinklings throughout the day.
But what if you could directly interface with your irrigation controller via a smartphone anywhere in the world? This is where the Wi-Fi sprinkler controller steps in. It is a smart device that allows you to automatically irrigate your projects by simply using a smartphone, and sometimes even your voice. It can be used to create watering schedules, as well as help save water cost by irrigating much more efficiently.
Modern advancements have made those smart sprinkler controllers affordable and best of all, they are very easy to install and use. Additionally, many models can make smart decisions like whether to irrigate or not, depending on the weather forecast.
Image | Product Name | Customized Zone | Rating | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller | 8 or 16 | 4.7 | |
 | 2. Orbit 57950 B-hyve WiFi Sprinkler System Controller | 12 | 4.5 | |
 | 3. Orbit 57946 B-hyve WiFi Sprinkler System Controller | 6 | 4.5 | |
 | 4. RainMachine Mini-8 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller | 8 | 4.4 | |
 | 5. Aeon Matrix Yardian Wi-Fi Irrigation and Security Camera | 12 | 4.5 | |
 | 6. Rain Bird ST8I-WIFI Sprinkler System Timer/Controller | 8 | 4.4 | |
 | 7. RainMachine Touch HD-16 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller | 16 | 4.5 |
7 Best WiFi Irrigation Sprinklers - Reviews
#1. Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller
Editor's Rating: 
(4.7 / 5)
The Rachio smart sprinkler controller is one of the most popular controllers online. It has a simple and minimalist design that packs a wide range of features. This device is controlled with a smartphone or computer and the user can interact with the controller through its elegant dashboard.
It contains a lot of information, from the soil type to the water usage. Users can quickly and easily make any changes with the click of a button inside the dashboard.
Furthermore, it can automatically adapt to the weather and syncs directly to popular weather stations for forecasts. Since this controller is EPA certified, users can benefit from water saving schemes depending on their local water supply policies.
To top it off, installing this device is very easy. The 2 backside screws make it easy to mount anywhere screws can be positioned. Best, this is a model that is built from quality materials that are weather proof, so it can comfortably be placed indoors or outdoors.Despite its steep price and lack of LCD screen, it is a well-rounded smart sprinkler controller that has both an excellent build quality and attractive features.
Pros
- Detailed irrigation stats
- Compatible with both iPhone, Android, and Computers
- Simple and easy to use
- Excellent build construction
- EPA certified for water savings
Cons
- No LCD screen. Controllable only with a smartphone or computer.
Who Should Buy?
The Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller is a proven and tested device used by thousands of home owners looking for a cost-effective and easy to use sprinkling controller. If you are new to this then this is unit is one of the best irrigation controllers to get started with. It is very user-friendly and easy to install.
#2. Orbit 57950 B-hyve 12-Station WiFi Sprinkler System Controller
Editor's Rating: 
(4.5 / 5)
The Orbit 57950 is an upgrade to the Orbit 57946 below. Orbit hit a home run with this device. It has the right ratio of functionality and price. The LCD panel displays important information like the next watering start time. The functions can easily be operated using the colored front buttons.
What makes the Orbit 57950 smart sprinkler controller stand out is the 12-station control system that offers a lot of versatility at an entry-level price point. Owners looking to irrigate many projects at the same time but on a low budget will be particularly attracted to this unit.
This device employs a special system that allows it to deliver a water savings of up to 50% when compared to other similarly priced models. Furthermore, a special technology called WeatherSense makes this unit incredibly easy to use. This kind of technology is rare to find in irrigation controllers in this price. It automatically waters your project based on complex factors like the slope, soil type and live weather feeds.
Moreover, this unit can be placed outdoors and it even has a weather-resistant cover that can be securely latched. It does a great job protecting the LCD screen panel. For better ease of use, the 57950 B-hyve can be controlled by voice using Amazon Alexa.
Pros
- Affordable. Value for money.
- Large LCD Panel for quick stats
- Front buttons for ease of use
- Weather-resistant cover when used outdoors
Cons
- Some users reported glitches with the app
Who Should Buy?
Those with a low budget and still require a sprinkler controller with at least 12 stations will like this unit very much. It is affordable and yet offers many premium features found in much more expensive models.
#3. Orbit 57946 B-hyve 6-Station WiFi Sprinkler System Controller
Editor's Rating: (4.5 / 5)
This model is the most affordable unit we have in this smart irrigation controller review. It still offers excellent features that make it an awesome buy for home owners with a small yard.
It sports the same features as the Orbit 57950 reviewed above with only a smaller station count of 6. It even has the same look and build construction, at a much smaller price. It is more suitable for those who need a small-scale irrigation controller and it will surely bring some good savings over the Orbit 57950.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Equipped with WeatherSense technology
- LCD Panel Screen
- Weather-resistant cover
- Voice controllable
Cons
- Work with only 6 stations
Who Should Buy?
We recommend this controller to those with a small yard and who do not need more than 6 stations. It can be used outdoors as well as indoors, but best of all, it is a simple and easy watering controller with WeatherSense technology.
#4. RainMachine Mini-8 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller
Editor's Rating: 
(4.4 / 5)
The RainMachine Mini-8 has long been one of the best Wi-Fi irrigation controllers for the money. This is a compact and minimalist device that packs a punch.
It has a low-energy consumption footprint and is even EPA certified, guaranteeing you some significant water savings over the long term. This unit has an exceptional and premium build construction. Clearly, it is built to last a long time. However, this is a strictly an indoor unit. It does not have any weather protection, whether inside or outside.
Pros
- Small and compact. Beautiful looks
- EPA certified for water savings
- Easy to control and use with any smartphone or computer
- White LED display clearly show time schedules
Cons
- Indoor use only
- Can control a maximum of 8 stations
Who Should Buy?
The RainMachine Mini-8 is an awesome buy for those looking for a small and compact indoor Wi-Fi sprinkler controller. It is compatible with Amazon Alexa for voice recognition as well as all IOS, Android or computer devices.
#5. Aeon Matrix Yardian Wi-Fi Irrigation and Security Camera
Editor's Rating: (4.5 / 5)
This Aeon Matrix Yardian Wi-Fi Irrigation and Security Camera controller is a more beefed up version than the model above. It has a mobile app for ease of use and works with many open API like Nest and WINK amongst others.
The Aeon Matrix Yardian Wi-Fi Irrigation and Security Camera is a truly automatic Wi-Fi sprinkler and once it is configured, it will literally work on its own. Furthermore, the user can easily control the controller by Wi-Fi anywhere he or she is in the world.
If the user wants to operate this unit remotely and not use the touchscreen, the app dashboard is intuitive and very user-friendly, allowing anyone to operate it. Moreover, it uses multiple data sources like NOAA and METNO to predict the weather and take proactive irrigation measures based on those forecasts.
Lastly, being EPA certified, you can expense some good water savings from the local water supply company with this unit. The only downside of this controller is its steep price.
Pros
- Excellent quality build construction
- Large 6.5 inches color touchscreen panel
- Easy to operate anywhere in the world
- Uses reputable weather data sources like NOAA for weather forecasts
- EPA certified for water savings
Cons
- It is an expensive unit
- Works with only 12 stations
Who Should Buy?
Users who do not require more than 12 stations will love this touchscreen smart sprinkler controller. It has an exceptional build construction and very fun to work on.- Rain Bird ST8I-WIFI
#6. Rain Bird ST8I-WIFI Sprinkler System Timer/Controller
Editor's Rating: (4.4 / 5)
With a more modest look, the Rain Bird ST8I-WIFI is an indoor model that is still a decent performer. The LCD panel is a little bit on the small side but still manages to display important information like stations connected or the next watering time.
The user can easily schedule the watering scheme by either using a smartphone (iPhone or Android) or by simply inputting it directly on the controller. It is quite intuitive and very beginner-friendly.
Installation is equally easy since Rain Bird made amenities to pass wires behind the unit, as well as fitted it with backside holes for easy placement on a wall.
Moreover, the app is professional done and looks quite polished. One feature that is particularly attractive is the notifications setting that will alert you the status of the controller even if you are away from home.
All in all, there are a lot of decent features in this 8-station controller system.
Pros
- LCD panel shows the next watering schedule
- Controller notification directly to your smartphone
- Easy to use with clear button markings
Cons
- Cannot be used outdoors
Who Should Buy?
This indoor wireless sprinkler control system offers a lot of value at a relatively modest price. If you require functionality over looks and do not need more than 8 stations, this model is one of the best smart irrigation controllers on the market.
#7. RainMachine Touch HD-16 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller
Editor's Rating: (4.5 / 5)
The best was kept last. The RainMachine Touch HD-16 has long been a reference wireless irrigation sprinkler known for its exceptional station versatility and ease of use.
This unit can easily accommodate 16 stations for those who have a high irrigation demand. Other than this, the Touch HD-16 is a copycat of the RainMachine HD-12 as it contains the same features.
The touchscreen is large and very vivid, displaying colors graphs with white text. It can be placed in a dark room and be easily operated. Best, this unit, as all RainMachine Touch controllers offer real-time monitor. The stats can be viewed either on the device itself, by using a smartphone or a computer browser.
It is ridiculously easy to install and operate. People with zero experience with irrigation controllers will quickly start using this system like a pro within minutes. The only caveat with the RainMachine Touch HD-16 is its price. It is a premium controller system so it has a price to match.
Pros
- Powerful and easy to use
- Bright 6.5 inches Touchscreen panel
- Can control up to 16 stations at the same time
- Polished dashboard both on the touch panel and app interface
- Open API with popular weather sites
Cons
- Expensive
Who Should Buy?
The RainMachine Touch HD-16 is one of the best irrigation controllers on the market. It is a premium device that can host up to 16 stations at a time. We recommend this unit to those who need a quality controller for large irrigation projects.
Things to Consider When Buying A Wi-Fi Irrigation Sprinkler
Before purchasing a smart sprinkler controller, here are some quick advice and pointers that will help you make a smart purchase.
#1. Ease of Install
It should not be difficult to install your new controller. Make sure your model comes with a backside bracket that will allow you to quickly and easily affix the controller to a wall using only screws. The same goes for the wiring system inside the controller. Wire connections for 6, 12 or more stations should be clearly marked for a quick wire connection and installation.
#2. Device Compatibility
Ensure that the model is compatible with the widest range of devices and platforms you own. If 2 people will operate the controller on both iPhone and Android, it needs to be compatible with both. In case you use only 1 smartphone, the model needs to have a compatible app.
Furthermore, for those who own the Amazon Echo voice recognition system, it is always a good idea to get a model that is compatible with this system. It makes the job of watering much more fun by simply using one’s voice.
#3. Easy to Use
Some wifi sprinkler controllers come with bulky dashboard interfaces and have apps that are difficult to install and operate. Avoid them. Good models are generally very simple devices that do a seamless job of automatic the irrigation process automatically. In fact, many are so simple that anyone with no advanced technology knowledge can operate them via their smartphone.
It is generally a good idea to go with models with an LCD screen. Other than the other perks of controlling the device with Amazon Alexa or Google voice, you can also view important data like water consumption or time schedules on the LCD screen. For even greater ease of use, go with a model with an LCD Touchscreen. They are incredibly easy to work with and immediately adds a fair bit of modernity to any home.
#4. Technical Functions
The technical features of the controller need to be appropriate for the usage you have in mind. If you plan to use this system in a smart way and irrigate only when there is a sunny forecast and not on a rainy day, it needs to have the support of API like Alexa, Nest, WINK, amongst others. This will allow the controller to connect to those stations and automatically decide whether to start the watering process or not.
Operating your controller by Amazon Alexa voice recognition has quickly become a standard amongst wireless sprinkler controllers. Even the most basic and affordable model should be Amazon Alexa compatible for the best bang for the buck.
#5. Quality Certification
To get the best smart irrigation controller for the money, ensure that they are constructed from quality materials and are EPA certified. This will guarantee an efficient device that also entitles the user for water rebates from many local water companies.
This small saving can quickly add up over time, especially for those with a large area to irrigate. Additionally, being EPA certified means the device is resource friendly and does not do water wastage, something that is generally a problem with manual irrigation controllers.
Read More: 10 Best Lawn Sprinklers
Last Updated on January 27, 2020 by