Our top picks at a glance
Best overall
Rachio 3See itPrice tier 2 of 4:$150–$500Anyone with an in-ground system who wants easy remote control.Best budget
Orbit B-hyve XRCheck pricePrice tier 2 of 4:$150–$500Budget buyers who want smart scheduling.Best for large or complex systems
Hunter HydrawiseCheck pricePrice tier 3 of 4:$500–$1,500Large or complex irrigation systems.
If your sprinklers run on a fixed timer, you're probably watering lawns that don't need it — including in the rain. A smart controller replaces the old timer with one that adjusts to the weather, and many homeowners find they cut water use noticeably while keeping the lawn greener. Installation is a typical DIY weekend-afternoon job.
Quick picks
- Best overall: Rachio 3
- Best budget: Orbit B-hyve XR
- Best for complex systems: Hunter Hydrawise
How we picked
We compared smart controllers on ease of installation, weather-based scheduling, app quality, reliability, compatibility and total cost, including any subscription for premium features. We checked Rachio's own product page for its current lineup and features. See our methodology.
Our top picks
The Rachio 3 comes in 4-, 8- and 16-zone versions, offers weather-aware scheduling with rain skip and seasonal shift, and — per Rachio — has no monthly fees for the app, with some premium features optional. It needs Wi-Fi where it's mounted, and an outdoor installation requires a separate weatherproof enclosure.
What we like
- Available in 4-, 8- and 16-zone versions
- Weather-aware scheduling, rain skip and seasonal shift
- Described by the maker as no monthly fees (some premium features are optional)
Trade-offs
- Needs Wi-Fi coverage where the controller is mounted
- Outdoor installs need a separate weatherproof enclosure
- Best for
- Anyone with an in-ground system who wants easy remote control.
- Skip it if
- You don't have Wi-Fi where the controller mounts, or you don't want to buy a weatherproof enclosure for an outdoor install.
A capable, lower-cost alternative with weather-aware watering, app control and an outdoor-friendly design on the XR model. The app is less polished than Rachio's and there are fewer premium features.
What we like
- Weather-aware watering and app control at a lower price
- Outdoor-friendly design on the XR model
- Works with common smart-home assistants
Trade-offs
- App is less polished than Rachio's
- Fewer premium features
- Best for
- Budget buyers who want smart scheduling.
- Skip it if
- You want the most polished app and the premium features of Rachio.
Best for large or complex systems
Hunter Hydrawise
A pro-grade smart controller favored by irrigation installers.
Hunter's Hydrawise is a pro-grade smart controller favored by irrigation installers, with strong diagnostics and alerts and good scalability for larger systems. Setup is more involved than consumer-focused options.
What we like
- Designed with irrigation contractors in mind
- Scales well for larger and more complex systems
- Strong diagnostics and alerts
Trade-offs
- Setup is more involved than consumer-focused options
- Sometimes sold only through pros and select retailers
- Best for
- Large or complex irrigation systems.
- Skip it if
- You have a small, simple system and want the easiest possible setup.
How to choose a smart sprinkler controller
Zone count
Count the zones on your current controller (the wires coming from the valves) and buy a controller with at least that many. It's wise to leave a spare zone or two for the future.
Weather intelligence
Look for rain skip, seasonal adjustment and forecast-based watering. Some controllers add more advanced features behind a paid tier.
Indoor or outdoor
Many controllers are designed to be installed in a garage, basement or utility room. Outdoor installs often need a weatherproof enclosure.
App and integrations
A good app makes it easy to see schedules and adjust them. Check smart-home integrations if you care about voice control.
Subscriptions
Most smart controllers work without a subscription, but some premium features may cost extra. Check what's included.
Installation basics
- Take a photo of your existing wiring before you disconnect anything.
- Turn off power to the old controller.
- Label each wire by zone and connect to the new controller's terminals.
- Mount the controller near Wi-Fi and a power outlet.
- Set up the app, enter zone details (grass type, sprinkler type) and run a test cycle.
Complete the automated yard
Pair smart irrigation with a robot lawn mower and you can nearly forget about lawn care.
Frequently asked questions
How do smart sprinkler controllers save water?
They adjust watering based on local weather, rainfall and sometimes soil and plant data, skipping watering when it's raining or has just rained. Savings vary — the more wasteful your old schedule, the more you'll save.
Will a smart controller work with my existing sprinklers?
Most work with standard 24-volt AC irrigation valves, which cover the majority of home systems. Check zone counts, whether you have a master valve or pump relay, and the controller's compatibility notes.
Do I need Wi-Fi at the controller?
Yes, for most smart controllers. If your garage or basement has a weak signal, a Wi-Fi extender or a controller with a better antenna may help.
Are there rebates?
Some water utilities offer rebates for WaterSense-labeled or qualifying smart controllers. Check with your local utility.
Alex Mercer brings 15 years of experience and a practical editorial approach to Backyard Review. Alex compares published product information, installation needs and ownership costs, highlighting trade-offs and distinguishing research from documented hands-on experience.
