Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers

The Rain Bird ARC6 is an indoor smart WiFi irrigation controller that pairs intuitive local controls with a more capable mobile app. Reviewers noted it adjusts watering schedules automatically from weather data, which can cut water use by as much as 30%. It handles up to six stations and accepts a rain sensor, but it has to be installed indoors and needs 120V power. Residential users who want automated irrigation control with smart home integration are the natural buyers.

The Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller takes a minimalist approach to smart irrigation and is built to retrofit an existing system. Reviews point to a simple setup process and effective use of local weather data, which both optimizes watering and keeps schedules in regulatory compliance. It connects over 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and works with Amazon Echo and Google Home. The functionality is straightforward, though some reviewers saw the 6-zone or 12-zone configurations as limiting for smaller irrigation setups. Homeowners after a no-frills smart irrigation solution will like it more than anyone hunting for extensive customization.

Orbit's B-hyve Smart Indoor Irrigation Controller is the budget-friendly entry in smart sprinkler control, and Wirecutter recommends it as a solid value pick. The essentials are there: weather-based scheduling and app integration with Alexa, Google Home, and Siri. Reviewers did find the app confusing. It's an indoor unit, though an optional housing adapts it for outdoor installation. Smaller to medium-sized yards running up to 8 watering zones are where this model makes sense.