The best smart sprinklers of 2026: Watering the easy way


Rain Bird open sprinkler controller with phone on front showing app.

Smart sprinkler systems are useful, but know your hardiness and watering needs before you buy.

Rain bird

Initial cost

Smart sprinklers can save you money over time, when used wisely. But you also need to take into account the initial costs and how long it will take Take payment for the smart upgrade When you buy it. The cost of these sprayers and controllers can range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the type you get, so it’s important to consider your budget.

Area controls

Zone controls won’t be a problem for most homes, since these smart sprinklers typically support 8+ zones with their wiring, which is more than enough for almost any residential property. But if you have specific needs for multiple irrigation zones, it’s worth taking a look at the wiring the controllers support.

Voice assistants

I won’t do that Rate of voice assistants This is an especially high priority for smart sprinklers, but if you want to use voice commands, check to see if your sprinkler controller offers the version you prefer. Many of my picks work with at least Alexa, which tends to have the smarter home support.

The Rachio app displays the home screen with the weather.

The Rachio app is packed with features and automation, like very cold weather.

Tyler Lacoma/CNET

Automation with weather and more

Today’s smart sprinklers can benefit from them more often Local weather reports If you give them your address. The value of this feature can vary depending on your location (my high desert city is notoriously unpredictable even to official weather forecasts), but it is often very useful for saving money and time by pausing watering when it rains. Look for this feature when purchasing.

Additional features of new grass and more

Smart irrigation controls may also come with guides for watering new patches of grass, watering recommendations depending on the season or grass types and other little tricks you may find useful — or prefer to ignore. If you’re doing a lot of new landscaping, you may want to keep an eye on features like these that may make watering easier.

Wi-Fi range

Depending on your home, your sprinkler controller may not be close enough to do this Your Wi-Fi router For stable connection. In this case, you may need extended Wi-Fi or a similar option to help make things better.

Phone alert showing rain skipping Rachio console next to girl holding umbrella in the rain.

Rain skipping and weather detection can be valuable features in a smart controller.

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