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10 Best Automatic Watering Timer 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Orbit 58910 2-Outlet Programmable Digital Hose Watering Timer

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,444
Programming Flexibility
Power Source
Ease of Use

Most important from
48148 reviews

Programming Flexibility
Easy to program and a quality product.
Power Source
Simple to set up, works great where needed, and batteries can last up to 2-3 years.
Ease of Use
Simple to set up, works great where needed, and batteries can last up to 2-3 years.
Durability
Despite being impressed initially, long-term use revealed problems with timers not shutting off and failing to respond to manual controls.

The Orbit 58910 Digital 2 Outlet Hose Faucet Timer offers a convenient solution for automating your garden watering needs. With its ability to control two different zones, you can customize watering schedules for different parts of your garden. It provides extensive programming flexibility, allowing you to set watering frequency from every 6 hours to every 7th day and adjust watering duration from 1 to 240 minutes. This makes it suitable for various types of plants and lawn care routines.

Additionally, the rain delay feature helps conserve water by pausing the schedule for up to 72 hours based on weather conditions, although it doesn't include advanced weather sensing technology that some other timers might offer. Using two AA batteries, it’s quite convenient but may require regular battery changes depending on usage. The timer is also designed for ease of use, with a straightforward setup that includes a swivel connection for quick installation.

The manual watering function is a nice touch, allowing you to water without disrupting your programmed schedule. Durability is another strong point, as it is constructed with weather-resistant plastic, ensuring it can withstand outdoor conditions. Its light weight of 1.2 pounds makes it easy to handle and install. Ideal for those who need a simple yet flexible and durable watering timer, the Orbit 58910 is a solid choice, though it may not offer the most advanced features available in higher-end models.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,444
Programming Flexibility
Power Source
Ease of Use

Most important from
48148 reviews

Programming Flexibility
Easy to program and a quality product.
Power Source
Simple to set up, works great where needed, and batteries can last up to 2-3 years.
Ease of Use
Simple to set up, works great where needed, and batteries can last up to 2-3 years.
Durability
Despite being impressed initially, long-term use revealed problems with timers not shutting off and failing to respond to manual controls.
#2

Rain Bird SST600IN Simple-to-Set Indoor Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller, 6-Zone/Station (This New/Improved Model Replaces SST600I),Gray/Green

Rating
9.7
Ease of Use
Programming Flexibility
Durability

Most important from
2920 reviews

Ease of Use
The interface is intuitive and easy to learn, making programming straightforward without needing a manual.
Programming Flexibility
Setup and programming, including date, time, and watering schedules, are simple and accurate.
Durability
The timer performs reliably and functions perfectly over extended use.

The Rain Bird SST600IN is a straightforward indoor watering timer that manages up to 6 zones, making it a good fit for medium-sized yards with multiple watering areas. Its biggest strength is ease of use—programming is simple enough that you often won’t need instructions, and zone-by-zone settings provide flexibility to customize watering schedules. The one-touch seasonal adjust is handy for quickly increasing or decreasing watering times based on weather changes. It also offers a Rain Delay feature, which lets you pause watering for up to 72 hours during rainy spells without losing your settings.

While it lacks advanced weather sensing technology, its sealed case protects against moisture, insects, and dirt, contributing to its long-lasting durability. It’s designed for indoor installation, like in a garage or waterproof shed, which means it’s not suitable for outdoor mounting. Powered by standard 127V electricity, it doesn’t rely on batteries or solar power, so you need a nearby outlet.

If you want a simple, reliable timer with solid build quality and basic programmable features for an indoor setup, this model performs well. However, if you’re after more advanced weather-based watering or outdoor installation flexibility, you might want to consider other options.

Rating
9.7
Ease of Use
Programming Flexibility
Durability

Most important from
2920 reviews

Ease of Use
The interface is intuitive and easy to learn, making programming straightforward without needing a manual.
Programming Flexibility
Setup and programming, including date, time, and watering schedules, are simple and accurate.
Durability
The timer performs reliably and functions perfectly over extended use.
#3

Orbit 24634 B-hyve XD 4-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer

Rating
9.4
Number of Zones
Programming Flexibility
Power Source

Most important from
2679 reviews

Number of Zones
Each of the four valves can be controlled separately, providing flexibility in managing different zones in your garden.
Programming Flexibility
The Bluetooth-WiFi bridge is essential for remote monitoring and programming beyond Bluetooth range, making it convenient for managing your watering system while away.
Power Source
The device is durable and can last through an entire season on just two AA batteries, thanks to its efficient design.
Ease of Use
Setting up the Orbit 24634 B-hyve XD is straightforward; simply attach it to your faucet, connect your hose, and use the app to set up your watering schedule.
Durability
It’s crucial to store the timer inside before winter to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.

The Orbit 24634 B-hyve XD 4-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer offers a solid solution for automatic watering needs. One of its key strengths is its ability to control watering based on precise local weather data, which ensures that your plants get the right amount of water. The timer can be programmed both wirelessly via Wi-Fi or through Bluetooth locally, giving you flexibility and convenience in managing your watering schedule remotely.

Its smart irrigation system also adjusts to local drought conditions and implements watering restrictions when necessary, which can be especially useful for water conservation efforts. With an IPX-5 waterproof design, the device is durable and can withstand outdoor conditions, making it reliable for summer use in your yard or garden. Additionally, the product is EPA WaterSense certified, ensuring efficient water usage when paired with a Wi-Fi hub.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The timer requires 2 AA batteries, which means you will need to replace them periodically. Some users might find the initial setup and connection process challenging, especially if they are not familiar with smart devices. Despite these minor inconveniences, the Orbit 24634 B-hyve XD stands out for its programming flexibility, durability, and smart features, making it a good choice for those looking to automate their garden watering efficiently.

Rating
9.4
Number of Zones
Programming Flexibility
Power Source

Most important from
2679 reviews

Number of Zones
Each of the four valves can be controlled separately, providing flexibility in managing different zones in your garden.
Programming Flexibility
The Bluetooth-WiFi bridge is essential for remote monitoring and programming beyond Bluetooth range, making it convenient for managing your watering system while away.
Power Source
The device is durable and can last through an entire season on just two AA batteries, thanks to its efficient design.
Ease of Use
Setting up the Orbit 24634 B-hyve XD is straightforward; simply attach it to your faucet, connect your hose, and use the app to set up your watering schedule.
Durability
It’s crucial to store the timer inside before winter to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.

Buying Guide for the Best Automatic Watering Timer

Choosing the right automatic watering timer can make a significant difference in maintaining a healthy garden or lawn with minimal effort. An automatic watering timer allows you to set specific times for your irrigation system to turn on and off, ensuring your plants get the right amount of water without over or under-watering. When selecting an automatic watering timer, consider the following key specifications to find the best fit for your needs.
Number of ZonesThe number of zones refers to how many separate areas or sections of your garden or lawn the timer can control independently. This is important because different plants or areas may have different watering needs. If you have a small garden, a timer with 1-2 zones may be sufficient. For larger gardens or lawns with diverse plant types, you might need a timer with 4 or more zones. Choose a timer that matches the complexity and size of your irrigation system.
Programming FlexibilityProgramming flexibility refers to how customizable the watering schedules are. This includes the ability to set different start times, durations, and days of the week for watering. More advanced timers offer greater flexibility, allowing you to tailor the watering schedule to the specific needs of your plants and local climate conditions. If you have a variety of plants with different watering requirements, look for a timer with high programming flexibility. For simpler needs, a basic timer with fewer options may suffice.
Weather SensingWeather sensing features allow the timer to adjust the watering schedule based on current weather conditions, such as rain, temperature, and humidity. This is important for conserving water and preventing over-watering. Some timers come with built-in sensors, while others can be connected to external weather stations. If you live in an area with variable weather, a timer with weather sensing capabilities can be very beneficial. For regions with more stable climates, this feature may be less critical.
Power SourceAutomatic watering timers can be powered by batteries, solar energy, or a direct electrical connection. The power source affects the convenience and reliability of the timer. Battery-powered timers are easy to install and portable but require regular battery changes. Solar-powered timers are eco-friendly and low-maintenance but may not work well in shaded areas. Electric timers are reliable and can handle more complex systems but require a nearby power outlet. Choose a power source that fits your garden setup and maintenance preferences.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how user-friendly the timer is, including the simplicity of programming and the clarity of the display. A timer with a clear, intuitive interface and easy-to-follow instructions can save you time and frustration. If you are not tech-savvy, look for a timer with straightforward controls and a simple display. For those comfortable with technology, more advanced timers with app control and additional features might be appealing.
DurabilityDurability is about how well the timer can withstand outdoor conditions, such as exposure to water, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations. A durable timer will last longer and require less maintenance. Look for timers made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials. If your timer will be exposed to harsh conditions, prioritize durability to ensure it continues to function properly over time.

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