10 Best Irrigation Timers 2025 in the United States

The Rachio 3rd Gen Smart Sprinkler Controller is a solid choice for homeowners looking to automate irrigation with smart technology. It supports up to 4 zones, which suits small to medium-sized yards but may not be enough for larger properties with many separate watering areas. Its programming flexibility stands out because it customizes watering schedules based on specific plant types, soil, and sun exposure, which helps keep your lawn healthy and water-efficient. The controller runs on 120V AC power, so it needs to be installed near an outlet. One of its most practical features is the Weather Intelligence technology that automatically pauses watering during rain, wind, or freezing conditions, saving water effortlessly. The setup is designed for easy DIY installation within 30 minutes and doesn’t require special tools, making it friendly even for beginners. You can control and monitor watering through a user-friendly app, compatible with Alexa, adding convenience.

The device is made of plastic, so while it’s lightweight and easy to handle, you might want to install it in a protected area to avoid exposure to harsh weather over time. The absence of subscription fees is a nice advantage, keeping ongoing costs low. If you want a smart, water-saving irrigation timer that’s straightforward to install and manage, especially for a property with up to 4 zones, the Rachio 3rd Gen is a reliable option. For larger systems or more heavy-duty use, you might need a controller with more zones or more rugged construction.

The Orbit 57950 B-hyve is a 12-zone smart sprinkler controller that offers a convenient and flexible watering solution for both indoor and outdoor use. With 12 zones, it can handle medium to large garden setups, making it suitable for homeowners with varied watering needs. One of its strong points is the smart home integration, allowing you to control your sprinklers remotely through your phone, which adds great convenience and the ability to adjust watering schedules on the go.

The controller also adjusts watering based on local weather data, helping save water by avoiding unnecessary watering during rain or cooler temperatures. Programming is user-friendly, especially with the app, though initial setup might require some time to get familiar with the interface. It operates on standard 110 volts, so it needs to be plugged in rather than battery-powered, which may limit placement options but ensures steady power. The device is made of plastic and designed for outdoor durability, but like most plastic controllers, it should be protected from extreme weather for longer life.

If you want an irrigation timer that combines smart features, multiple zones, and weather-based adjustments, this Orbit model is a good fit, especially for those comfortable with smartphone apps. However, if you need a simpler or battery-operated timer, or have a very small garden, there might be easier or more compact options available.

The Orbit 62067 is a simple and reliable watering timer designed to connect to a single hose outlet, making it suitable for small gardens or single-zone irrigation. It offers basic but effective programming where you can set start times, watering duration, and frequency, which helps save water and keeps plants healthy. The large LCD screen makes it easy to use, and it remembers your schedule even if you change batteries.

This timer includes a handy rain delay feature that can pause watering for up to 72 hours during wet weather, preventing overwatering. It runs on batteries, so you don’t need to worry about power outlets, but keep in mind you’ll need to replace them occasionally. While it’s built with weather-resistant materials and is quite durable for outdoor use, it supports only one zone, so it may not be ideal for larger or more complex irrigation needs.

Its straightforward setup and good water-saving features make it a solid choice for homeowners wanting an affordable, no-fuss timer for a simple garden or flower bed.