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If you are looking at getting one of these new smart sprinkler controllers for your system… if the controller you have now doesn’t cut it anymore, outdated or broken… then this post is just for you… in this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the best smart sprinkler controllers that are on the market in 2020.
There is no one best smart sprinkler controller as what I think is the best may not suit your requirements or needs. It could be that you are looking for a controller that is simple, easy to and only needs the basics.
So in this post, I am going to cover what I think are the top picks for being the best smart sprinkler controllers.
Best Smart Sprinkler Controller
Righto lets get into it… These are in no specific order
1. Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller
Here we have the latest edition from Rachio the gen 3 smart controller. Taking over from their best selling generation 2 and hands down this is our top choice as being the best irrigation controller for 2020.
Easy to install to your existing system and should only take bout 30 minutes max. No need for any special tools and the easy to follow instructions makes it a breeze.
You have a choice of either 8 or 16 stations and is the most connected controller on the market, connecting to Alexa, SmartThings, Google Assistant and many more.
The controller is compatible with the master valve, pump relay, or indexing valve and to use the app system, you will need to have iOS 10.3+ or with Android 4.4 or above running gear. You can use a web browser and you will need to download the Mobile app for Wifi connection.
Another good point is they are made in the USA. You will also be able to claim for local rebates as the controller is EPA WaterSense approved and certified.
If you want the latest Rachio 3 wifi Smart lawn Sprinkler Controller either the 8 or 16 station just click on the link below for the latest prices.
2. Orbit 57946 B-hyve
This controller has the facilities to caters to either a 6 station setup or 12 stations. It can only be used with Amazon Alexa at this stage and did hear on the grapevine they could be connecting to others in the near future.
The controller is also EPA and WaterSense approved and certified so you will also be able to apply for any local rebates making the system even cheaper.
Some depending where you live some folks are getting back 100% of the cost back of purchase back
The orbit 57946 b hyve smart indoor outdoor 6 and 12 station controller is also made in the United States.
It comes with a sturdy lockable case that is weather-resistant and allowing the controller to be mounted internally or outside.
Once all connected the system can look ahead using the wifi and connect with local and live weather feeds to cast the weather, then control the system to not water if it’s raining, or needs more from extreme temps.
It’s ok but I wouldn’t rely on it as it can be a little buggy.
It’s a good compact and easy to use and install the controller and works well.
If you want a basic controller this is a great choice.
3. Rachio Gen 2
The Rachio 2nd generation controller has been their best ever seller for 2019, 2018 and is still out in front over the newer gen 3 smart sprinkler controller at this stage.
This has been the highest and longest rated smart controller on Amazon.com ever. The Rachio 2 is able to be connected using either an 8 zone system or 16 zone layout.
EPA WaterSense certified meaning you can apply if available local rebates and can have the chance of getting 100% off. Just check your local water provider.
Installation is a breeze and you don’t need any special tools or qualifications either.
This is certainly one of the go-to smart controllers and even tho it’s a few years old now and the Richio 3 has been released, this makes an ideal controller for those who just want a simple easy to use controller that has already proven its the best.
4. Orbit B-hyve 57915
5. Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller
The Netro sprite smart sprinkler controller is also eligible for local water rebates that can save you a ton of cash as well as save you water usage over the months.
Like all these smart controllers, you can connect this to the wifi and weather data centers for weather reports, local data, and NOAA.
Installation is so easy and it even has a little level bubble inside the controller so you make sure you get the box level looking on the wall.
Couple things with this one are, it’s not made to be installed outdoors and the only way you can control the system is by app only. To me, that is a biggy if you aren’t that tech-savvy or you just want a controller that’s simple to use and want that option to have the control from the controller.
Suited for 6 and 12 zone systems and you can parallel two together to increase it to however many zones your irrigation system has.
. Rain Bird SST400IN
The Rain Bird SST400IN has received some really impressive ratings on Amazon.com from others who have used and purchased this controller.
Even tho it doesn’t come under the Best Smart Sprinkler Controller banner as its a manual controller, still worth an honorable mention.
You can purchase these in a 4, 6 and 9 station for indoor use and if you need to mount outside you only get a choice of 6 or 12 zone controller. Go figure hey.
It really isn’t a smart controller as such where you can’t use wifi and internet to control it like the above systems, but it’s still one of the best controllers on the market today for its price and practicality.
It has basic features like the rain delay function, easy push button to water just a zone of choice.
Wiring up and installing is so straight-forward, all you have is your zone wires, common and mains power.
The control panel is easy to read and nicely laid out panel.
With the rain delay, just rotate to the position and will suspend the system for up to 72 hours or if like you have it set to water every day.