
The Rachio 3 offers the most features while still being easy enough for anyone to use.

For more accurate results, you can choose to sync the Rachio 3 with a personal weather station, like the Netatmo. There are additional features like Weather Intelligence, which enables the ability to automatically skip a session if rain or excessive wind is underway and Smart Cycle, which splits watering times into shorter, more frequent cycles to prevent runoff. When we let the Rachio 3 set the watering schedule, we chose the Flexible Daily schedule option, which uses public weather data to determine soil moisture depending on the questions you answered. By uploading photos and entering details about things like soils and sunlight, you can then set a custom schedule, or have the Rachio app figure one out based on the details you entered.

The Rachio app has a busy interface, but it's easy to navigate. There's even a host of IFTTT recipes available to customize your sprinkler even further. Smart home junkies will appreciate the integrations with Nest, Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and Apple HomeKit. The model we tested offers control over eight zones (sometimes called "stations"), though there's an additional model that supports up to twice that. The second-generation Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller is currently topping our list because it offers a ton of easy-to-use options and isn't intimidating to install. However, there are plenty of other great sprinkler controllers on our list for you to choose from. For something cheaper, the Netro Sprite Smart Sprinkler Controller (available on Amazon) is a value-packed choice.

Is the best smart sprinkler controller because It’s simple to use and is loaded with instinctive watering features. Other benefits like remote access via the device's companion app and voice control with popular smart assistants like Alexa and Google give you even more ways to help your garden grow.Īfter testing out the top-rated remote irrigation systems, we found that the Rachio 3 A smart controller works with your existing sprinkler system to automatically water the grass based on local weather conditions, giving your grass the right amount to drink every time. Written by Florence Ion, Perry Taylor, and Nick WoodardĪ smart sprinkler controller is one of the easiest ways to revive your lawn or garden for warmer weather, offering modern convenience for fully automating your in-ground irrigation system.
