Comparison: Best Automatic Irrigation Controller (Updated | Oct 14th)
When maintaining a healthy, vibrant landscape, choosing the right automatic irrigation controller is key to efficient water use and plant care. This comparison explores top devices designed to simplify lawn and garden hydration, balancing features like weather adaptability, smart connectivity, and ease of use. Whether you prioritize water conservation, remote control via apps, or compatibility with existing systems, our guide helps you navigate options to find a reliable, user-friendly solution tailored to your needs. Discover which controllers stand out in performance, flexibility, and value without compromising on essential functionality.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
-
Best for best overall:
Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control) – App-Based Scheduling -
Best for easy setup:
Rain Bird SST600IN Simple-To-Set Indoor Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller -
Best for best value:
Rain Bird ARC6 App-Based Indoor Smart Irrigation WiFi Timer/Controller -
Best for weather resistant:
Rain Bird SST1200OUT Simple-to-Set Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler/Irrigation Timer/Controller -
Best for budget pick:
Orbit 57915 B-hyve 4-Zone Indoor Smart Sprinkler Controller -
Best for simple adjust:
Rain Bird SST900IN Simple-To-Set Indoor Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller -
Best for smart weather:
HiOazo Smart Sprinkler Controller WiFi -
Best for indooroutdoor:
Orbit 57950 B-hyve 12-Zone Smart Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller -
Best for smart app:
LetPot Automatic Watering System for Potted Plants -
Best for premium build:
Hunter X-Core XC800i Indoor Sprinkler Timer
Product Comparison: Best Automatic Irrigation Controller
Best overall
Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control) – App-Based Scheduling, Local Weather Intelligence, Rain Skips, Easy DIY Install
Rachio
- DITCH THE DIAL – Upgrade to smart irrigation with the free Rachio app for precise, easy control.
- AUTOMATIC WEATHER SKIPS – Patented Weather Intelligence skips watering for rain, wind, freeze & more.
- SAVE WATER YEAR-ROUND – Adaptive schedules help your yard thrive in April showers & July heat.
- FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING – Create your own schedule or let Weather Intelligence adjust automatically; includes grow-in options.
- CONTROL FROM ANYWHERE – Manage watering, run zones, view schedules & track estimated usage in the Rachio App.
- FAST DIY INSTALL – Install in 30 min or less, compatible with 99% of existing sprinkler systems.
Easy setup
Rain Bird SST600IN Simple-To-Set Indoor Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller, 6-Zone/Station (this New/Improved Model Replaces SST600I),Gray/Green
Rain Bird
- This timer is so easy to program you won't need the instructions
- Simple zone-by-zone settings allow customized watering schedules for each area of your yard
- Designed for indoor installation within a garage, home, or waterproof shed
- One-touch seasonal adjust allows increase to watering time in hot, dry months or reduction in cool, rainy periods
- Rain Delay suspends watering for up to 72-hours; when delay ends programming automatically resumes
- Superior long-lasting durability and built-in surge protection
- Sealed case to protect against moisture, insects and grime
- New and Improved model SST600IN timer replaces the Obsolete SST600I
Best value
Rain Bird ARC6 App-Based Indoor Smart Irrigation WiFi Timer/Controller, 6-Zone/Station, EPA WaterSense Certified, Compatible with Alexa
Rain Bird
- Indoor WiFi timer puts control of your sprinkler system in the palm of your hand with intuitive Rain Bird mobile app
- Use mobile device to set, monitor, or adjust schedules anywhere in the world; easily share control with family members, landscaping/maintenance professionals
- Activate any schedule, delay watering, view upcoming watering schedules, manual watering, even check your local weather forecast
- Automatically skips or adjusts daily watering for a postal code based on local weather forecast and historic averages for up to 30% water-savings
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple iOS 8 or greater, and Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or later
- Controls 6-zones with 3 individual programs (A, B, C) per zone customizable for days of week, odd/even calendar days or cyclic (every 1 to 14 days)
- Provides up to 4 start times per zone for a total of 12 start times with run times from 1-minute to 6-hours; plus manual watering
- Seasonal Adjust lets you reduce run time from 5% to 200% on all programs simultaneously or for individual programs
Weather resistant
Rain Bird SST1200OUT Simple-to-Set Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler/Irrigation Timer/Controller, 12-Zone/Station (this New/Improved Model Replaces SST1200O),Gray/Green
Rain Bird
- This timer is so easy to program you won't need the instructions
- Simple zone-by-zone settings allow customized watering schedules for each area of your yard
- For use indoors or outdoors: weather resistant cabinet, built-in transformer and removable power cord for direct wiring
- One-touch seasonal adjust allows increase to watering time in hot, dry months or reduction in cool, rainy periods
- Rain Delay suspends watering for up to 72-hours; when delay ends programming automatically resumes
- Superior long-lasting durability and built-in surge protection
- Weather-resistant cabinet and sealed case ensure protection from moisture, insects and grime
- New and Improved model SST1200OUT timer replaces the Obsolete SST1200O
Budget pick
Orbit 57915 B-hyve 4-Zone Indoor Smart Sprinkler Controller
Orbit
- SMART SPRINKLER CONTROL – Orbit B-hyve offers a WiFi sprinkler timer with remote control capabilities for your irrigation system. Program, monitor, and adjust your watering schedule from anywhere using the user-friendly app.
- EFFICIENT WATERING MADE EASY – Our automatic watering system works with other water saving techologies like drip irrigation and multipoint rotators, delivering precise and targeted water distribution to your plants, promoting healthy growth.
- CONVENIENT INDOOR PLANT CARE – With our smart plant watering system, you can set automated schedules to provide consistent moisture for your indoor plants. Ensure their well-being even when you're away or busy.
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND FLEXIBILITY – The Orbit B-hyve sprinkler timer is equipped with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, offering seamless control and customization options. You can effortlessly create personalized watering programs to meet your specific needs.
- RELIABLE PERFORMANCE AND EASY INSTALLATION – Our timer for sprinklers is designed for DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors alike. Featuring user-friendly setup instructions and a durable build, it guarantees hassle-free operation and long-lasting use.
Simple adjust
Rain Bird SST900IN Simple-To-Set Indoor Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller, 9-Zone/Station (this New/Improved Model Replaces SST900I)
Rain Bird
- This timer is so easy to program you won't need the instructions
- Simple zone-by-zone settings allow customized watering schedules for each area of your yard
- Designed for indoor installation within a garage, home, or waterproof shed
- One-touch seasonal adjust allows increase to watering time in hot, dry months or reduction in cool, rainy periods
- Rain Delay suspends watering for up to 72-hours; when delay ends programming automatically resumes
- Superior long-lasting durability and built-in surge protection
- Sealed case to protect against moisture, insects and grime
- New and Improved model SST900IN timer replaces the Obsolete SST900I
Smart weather
HiOazo Smart Sprinkler Controller WiFi, 8 Zone Irrigation Controller Indoor with Automatic Weather-Based Watering (2025 New Version)
HiOazo
- Smart Weather Skips: Automatically skips watering based on hyperlocal rain, wind, or freeze forecasts. Such as rain, frost, or wind, the preset watering will automatically skipped for optimal plant health
- Cycle and Soak Mode: Prevents runoff with Cycle & Soak mode. Customizes watering for your lawn
- Smart App Control: Manage your sprinkler system anytime, anywhere via Newly updated HiOazo app. Real-time monitoring and instant adjustments at your fingertips
- 8 Zone+16 Watering Schedules: A total of 16 irrigation schedules can be set, with a variety of options allow for flexible settings. Supports 4 zones with sunrise/sunset scheduling, odd/even days, or interval modes
- Quick DIY Setup: Install in 15-30 minutes with basic tools. Step-by-step app guidance ensures compatibility with 99% of existing systems. No professional required
Indooroutdoor
Orbit 57950 B-hyve 12-Zone Smart Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller
Orbit
- EFFICIENT WATERING SOLUTION – The smart sprinkler controller ensures automatic watering with precision, saving you time and effort.
- INDOOR AND OUTDOOR PLACEMENT – This automatic watering system can be placed indoors or outdoors providing the maximum flexibility for installation in your yard or garden.
- EASY-TO-USE DRIP IRRIGATION – The drip irrigation timer allows for hassle-free management of your garden's watering needs, ensuring healthy plant growth.
- VERSATILE AUTOMATIC IRRIGATION – Automatically control your sprinkler system, with automatic adjustment to weather conditions and plant watering needs.
- SMART HOME WATERING – With our wireless sprinkler controller, you can adjust your sprinklers from anywhere, transforming your home into an intelligent oasis.
Smart app
LetPot Automatic Watering System for Potted Plants, [Wi-Fi & App Control] Drip Irrigation Kit System, Smart Plant Watering Devices for Indoor Outdoor, Water Shortage Remind, IPX66, Green
![LetPot Automatic Watering System for Potted Plants, [Wi-Fi & App Control] Drip Irrigation Kit System, Smart Plant Watering Devices for Indoor Outdoor, Water Shortage Remind, IPX66, Green](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/415XQXhtP6L._SL160_.jpg)
LETPOT
- 🥇 [New Upgrades for Superior Performance]: The LetPot automatic watering system now includes an anti-backflow valve to prevent the siphon effect, enhancing watering efficiency. Its upgraded 2.0 chip ensures faster and more stable connectivity, while the LetPot app supports up to 5 simultaneous watering tasks for maximum flexibility. Combined with an advanced spiral lock, it maintains better water pressure retention, ensuring consistent and reliable irrigation every time.
- 🌼[WiFi and Mobile Control]: Tired of traditional manual watering methods? Try our LetPot intelligent drip irrigation kit system! It supports WiFi and mobile remote control, enabling you to customize watering schedules from anywhere at any time. This not only provides an excellent plant care experience but also promotes water conservation, contributing to the preservation of our precious Earth resources and ecology.
- 🌱[Feature-Rich Exclusive App]: We've designed a dedicated app exclusively for LetPot users. Within the app, you have the freedom to set watering schedules, frequencies, and durations, with support for up to 5 watering tasks. The app also includes intelligent low-water alerts, catering to all your smart drip irrigation needs. Furthermore, it provides free plant information and a diary feature, allowing you to share your gardening joys with friends.
- 🍀[Adjustable Drip Modes]: Regardless of your plants' watering needs, our automatic plant waterer can handle them all with ease. The adjustable dripper feature, coupled with the app's customizable plans, allows you to choose between intermittent or continuous watering. You can control watering frequency and duration, ensuring that plants and soil absorb water fully without the risk of overflows. It's like magic, transforming your gardening experience!
- 🌻[IP66 Waterproof & Silent Water Pump]: Our plant watering devices not only sports a sleek and minimalistic design but also incorporates IP66 waterproof functionality, making it suitable for outdoor use on balconies or in various weather conditions. Additionally, it features a German-imported silent water pump, eliminating the high noise levels associated with traditional pumps. This means you can use it in your bedroom or living space without any disturbances.
- 🌿[What's Inside the Box]: LetPot's drip irrigation kit includes everything you need: a 10-meter water pipe, 10 adjustable drippers, 10 connectors, 10 brackets, 1 filter, and 1 adapter plug. It's capable of supporting 10-20 pots simultaneously, making it highly efficient and versatile. LetPot offers lifetime service and remote upgrades, ensuring that both your hardware and app remain up to date. Join us in nurturing greenery with LetPot!
- 🔥[ Warm Tips] : The thickened PE hose is strong and tight under normal temperature to prevent water leakage. When installing accessories for the first time, you can soak the pipe head in warm water above 70 degrees Celsius, making it easier to install and connect accessories.
Premium build
Hunter X-Core XC800i Indoor Sprinkler Timer, 8 Zone Irrigation Controller for Lawn and Garden, Easy to Program, Automatic Watering Schedule, Seasonal Adjust, No WiFi Required
Hunter Industries
- EXPANDED 8-ZONE COVERAGE FOR LARGE LAWNS AND GARDENS: Control up to eight zones with individual scheduling for lawns, flower beds, shrubs, and drip irrigation, perfect for larger or multi-use residential landscapes.
- NO WI-FI OR APP REQUIRED, SIMPLE DIAL CONTROL THAT ALWAYS WORKS: Skip signal drops, logins, and app issues, just use the intuitive dial to create and update your watering schedule anytime, even during power outages or offline situations.
- 3 PROGRAMS WITH 4 START TIMES EACH, FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING OPTIONS: Customize up to 12 total start times across three programs, ideal for managing different areas like front yards, backyards, gardens, and high-traffic zones with precision.
- SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT SAVES WATER AND TIME THROUGHOUT THE YEAR: Easily increase or decrease run times based on weather changes, reduce waste in cooler months or ramp up watering during heat waves without reprogramming every zone.
- SMART PORT READY WITH BUILT-IN PROTECTION FEATURES: Compatible with Hunter remotes through the optional Smart Port, includes Quick Check diagnostics and built-in surge protection to prevent damage and ensure system longevity.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
Which automatic irrigation controller offers the most zones?
Orbit 57950 B-hyve with 12-Zone capacity.
Which controllers are compatible with smart home systems?
Rachio WiFi, Rain Bird ARC6, Orbit 57915 B-hyve, HiOazo, and Orbit 57950 B-hyve support WiFi/App control.
Are there outdoor-rated options?
Rain Bird SST1200OUT is designed for indoor/outdoor use.
Which model is best for small setups?
Orbit 57915 B-hyve (4-Zone) or Rain Bird SST900IN (6-Zone) suit smaller systems.
Do any controllers include weather-based scheduling?
Rachio WiFi and Orbit B-hyve models adjust watering based on local weather.
Which is the most budget-friendly option?
Rain Bird SST900IN Simple-To-Set Indoor Timer is a cost-effective choice.
Are there models for potted plants?
LetPot Automatic Watering System is designed for potted plants with WiFi control.
