Best Automatic Irrigation Controllers of 2025

Toby Butcher Avatar
Toby Butcher
Last Updated: 2 Feb 2025

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Automatic Irrigation Controllers are devices designed to automate the process of watering plants, lawns, and gardens. These controllers are a great solution for those who want to conserve water and save time by not having to manually water their plants. They come in various sizes and models, and can be programmed to water at specific times of the day or week. Automatic Irrigation Controllers are easy to install and operate, and can be used with different types of irrigation systems. They are perfect for busy gardeners who want to ensure their plants receive the right amount of water without having to constantly monitor and adjust their watering schedule.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

HOZELOCK Watering Timer Sensor Controller Plus Cover #TOP 1
HOZELOCK Watering Timer Sensor Controller Plus
ftb score rating icon 9.9
HOZELOCK Watering Timer with Light Sensor Cover #TOP 2
HOZELOCK Watering Timer with Light Sensor
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller for Apple Home Cover #TOP 3
Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller for Apple Home
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Automatic Irrigation Controllers

#TOP 1

HOZELOCK Watering Timer Sensor Controller Plus

Hozelock
2214 0000
Yellow/Grey
40x25x15 cm
HOZELOCK Watering Timer Sensor Controller Plus Cover
HOZELOCK - Watering Timer Sensor Controller Plus : Automatic and Easy Watering with its Light Sensor, Adjustable Watering at Sunrise and/or Sunset, Manual Watering Function [2214 0000]

The HOZELOCK Irrigation Controller is a tap-mounted device that automates your garden watering. It can schedule watering at dawn and dusk, ensuring your plants receive moisture at optimal times. You can customise the schedule to water once, twice, or every few days, giving you control over your garden's needs. Additionally, the manual water button allows you to water for 10, 30, or 60 minutes at your convenience, providing flexibility when unexpected weather arises.

What We Like
Automates watering schedule
Customisable frequency options
Manual watering available
Works with various irrigation systems
#TOP 2

HOZELOCK Watering Timer with Light Sensor

Hozelock
2212
Multicolor
40x25x15 cm
HOZELOCK Watering Timer with Light Sensor Cover
HOZELOCK - Watering Timer Sensor Controller : Automatic and Easy Watering With Its Light Sensor, Daily Watering At Sunrise And/or Sunset, Manual Watering Function [2212 0000]

The HOZELOCK Watering Timer makes daily watering effortless. This tap-mounted controller automatically waters your garden at sunrise and sunset, ensuring your plants receive consistent care. The built-in daylight sensor adapts to changing light conditions, so you never have to worry about adjusting the schedule. Additionally, you can use the manual water now button for a quick 60-minute watering session whenever needed, providing you with ultimate convenience for your garden's needs.

What We Like
Automatic daily watering
Light sensor adjusts schedule
Manual watering option available
Easy to set up
Compatible with various irrigation systems
#TOP 3

Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller for Apple Home

Eve
20ECC8101
Silver
Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller for Apple Home Cover
Eve Aqua (Apple Home) – Smart water controller for Apple Home app or Siri, irrigate automatically with schedules, easy to use, remote access, no bridge, Bluetooth, Thread, black

The Eve Aqua Controller offers effortless control over your irrigation system, allowing you to manage your garden's watering schedule remotely through the Eve app or Siri. You can set up automatic watering, so even while you're on holiday, your plants receive the care they need. With its auto shut-off feature, you can wave goodbye to overwatering and excess water bills. Additionally, it's compatible with various hose systems, making it an ideal choice for any garden enthusiast.

What We Like
Easy remote access
No bridge required
Automatic scheduling
Compatible with popular systems
100% privacy

Diivoo Smart WiFi Water Timer with 4 Outlets

Diivoo
Diivoo Smart WiFi Water Timer with 4 Outlets Cover
Diivoo WiFi Water Timer 4 Outlets, Smart Sprinkler/Hose/Tap Timer Compatible with Alexa & 24 Irrigation Plans & Rain Delay, Garden Watering Systems Controller with 2 Watering Modes for Lawn Yard

The Diivoo WiFi Water Timer offers remote and voice control through the HomGar app, making irrigation effortless. You can automate watering schedules for your garden, setting the timer to operate daily, on specific days, or according to a custom plan. With 24 independent programmes, you can tailor watering for different areas without affecting others. The Rain Delay function lets you pause watering during rainy days, ensuring efficient water use and convenience. This timer truly simplifies your gardening routine.

What We Like
Remote and voice control
Customisable watering schedules
24 independent programmes
Rain Delay feature
Manual watering option
#TOP 5

HOZELOCK Watering Timer Select Controller

Hozelock
2220 0000
Standard
One Size
HOZELOCK Watering Timer Select Controller Cover
HOZELOCK - Watering Timer Select Controller : Automatic Watering, Easy To Use, 16 Pre-installed Programs, 2 to 60min Watering up to 4 Times A Day, Manual Watering Function [2220 1240]

The HOZELOCK Timer Controller is designed for ease of use, featuring six fixed daily watering options and an additional ten programmes to suit your needs. You can initiate immediate watering with a separate manual button, providing flexibility when you need it most. The limited rotation of the dial prevents accidental adjustments, ensuring your watering schedule remains intact. An LED light alerts you when the battery is low, so you can replace it in time and avoid interruptions to your garden care.

What We Like
Easy to set up
Manual watering button
Accidental start prevention
Low battery indicator
Compatible with water butt tanks
#TOP 6

LinkTap Smart Sprinkler Controller with Gateway

4-Zone Kit
LinkTap Smart Sprinkler Controller with Gateway Cover
LinkTap 4-Zone ValveLinker & Gateway, Battery Powered Smart Sprinkler/Irrigation Controller, Automatic Rain Skip, Better Range than WiFi, Compatible with LinkTap Wireless Water Timer, Alexa, IP66

The LinkTap Sprinkler Controller allows you to manage your garden's watering needs effortlessly. You can schedule watering times directly from your phone or computer, ensuring your plants receive water only when necessary, thereby saving water. The controller offers powerful watering options, allowing you to start or stop watering instantly and set specific schedules. With automatic fault detection, you'll receive real-time notifications about water usage, leaks, or clogs, helping you address issues promptly. This smart controller is designed for ease of use and reliability, making garden maintenance straightforward.

What We Like
Saves water efficiently
User-friendly mobile app
Real-time notifications
Easy installation
Wide wireless coverage
#TOP 7

LINZI Waterproof Garden Hose Timer Controller

664044
Green
10x16x5cm
LINZI Waterproof Garden Hose Timer Controller Cover
LINZI Electronic Garden Hose Water Timer Single-Outlet Waterproof Automatic Irrigation Lawn Sprinkler Watering Controller with LED Display and Adjustable System 664044

The LINZI Water Timer is designed for easy outdoor irrigation management. With its heavy-duty weatherproof construction, you can rely on it in various weather conditions. The simple installation and programming allow you to set your watering schedule effortlessly. Additionally, the rain delay feature helps conserve water, ensuring that your garden thrives without waste. You can easily adjust the start time, duration, and frequency of watering to suit your specific needs.

What We Like
Weatherproof design
Easy installation
Water conservation feature
Flexible manual watering
#TOP 8

Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller Sprite-12

Netro
Sprite-12
Pearl White
Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller Sprite-12 Cover
Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller, Pearl White, Sprite-12, WiFi, 12 Zone, WaterSense Certified, Compatible with Alexa

The Netro Sprite-12 is a fully automatic sprinkler controller that ensures your plants receive the right amount of water. It is EPA WaterSense certified, which means it can dynamically create and adjust watering schedules tailored to your garden's needs. You can easily monitor and control your sprinkler system from anywhere via WiFi, using your smartphone or web browser. Additionally, it helps you save up to 50% on outdoor water usage through advanced water-saving technologies, including weather forecasting.

What We Like
Fully automatic watering schedules
Lifetime cloud service access
Eco-friendly water savings
Alerts for local watering rules
Easy installation in 15 minutes
#TOP 9

Netro Spark Smart Sprinkler Controller with WiFi

Netro
16 Zone
16 Zone
Netro Spark Smart Sprinkler Controller with WiFi Cover
Netro Spark Smart Sprinkler Controller, WiFi, Weather aware, Remote access (16 Zone)

The Netro Spark Controller offers a user-friendly touch control and an LED display to manage your watering needs effectively. It is fully automatic and WaterSense certified, allowing you to create and adjust watering schedules tailored to your plants and lawn. With lifetime cloud service, you can monitor and control your sprinkler system from anywhere using your smartphone or web browser. Additionally, it is eco-friendly, helping you save up to 50% on outdoor water use through advanced technologies like weather forecasting.

What We Like
Easy touch control
Automatic watering schedules
Remote access via smartphones
Water-saving technology
Quick and simple installation
#TOP 10

Rain Bird ESP-TM2 Automatic Irrigation Controller

TM2-8
white
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 Automatic Irrigation Controller Cover
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 Irrigation Controller (WiFi Module Not Included) / 8 Zones RainBird TM2-8

The Rain Bird ESP-TM2 offers effortless installation and is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, making it convenient for any setting. You can quickly set up your watering schedule in just three simple steps, thanks to its large back-lit LCD display which enhances visibility in various lighting conditions. With the advanced Contractor Default feature, you can easily save and restore your customised schedule. Additionally, the option to delay watering for up to 14 days ensures that your plants receive the right amount of water without any hassle.

What We Like
Quick and easy installation
Simple three-step programming
Large back-lit display
Delay watering feature
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are smart sprinkler controllers worth it?

A small yard won't need the same level of maintenance as a larger space, so the smart controller won't be as effective. However, if the functionality and control of a smart sprinkler can help you save money and time in your daily life, the transition will be both cost-effective and useful.

2. What is a smart irrigation controller?

Smart irrigation controllers tailor watering schedules and run times automatically to meet specific landscape needs. These controllers are a proven technology to improve outdoor water use efficiencies.

3. How do I choose an irrigation controller?

When selecting irrigation controllers, know how many stations the system needs. Choose a sprinkler timer with extra stations, in case of later expansion. The number of programs a controller or timer typically has can range from 1 up to as many as 4. They are usually labeled as Program A, B, C, and D.

Editor's Notes

During our automatic irrigation controller research, we found 171 automatic irrigation controller products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 23,493 customer reviews through our big data system to write the automatic irrigation controllers list. We found that most customers choose automatic irrigation controllers with an average price of £84.73.

The automatic irrigation controllers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of automatic irrigation controllers, including Hozelock, Eve, Diivoo, LinkTap, LINZI.

Written by
Toby Butcher Avatar

Toby Butcher is a Horticulturist, and he earned his title as a Master Gardener in 2016. Toby has acquired a 25-year experience as a home gardener planting, designing, grooming vegetables and flowers. He is the leader of a plant group in Durham. Toby owns a blog where he publishes articles on growing and growing your flowers at home, in a vase, or in a garden.