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Head-to-head · Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers

Netro Sprite Smart Sprinkler Controller (6-Zone) vs Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control)

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control) comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.1). Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control) is best for: homeowners running up to eight zones who want weather-based scheduling. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Netro Sprite Smart Sprinkler Controller (6-Zone)
Ranked #4 in Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers
Netro Sprite Smart Sprinkler Controller (6-Zone)
1 sourceall derived$79.99as of Oct 30

The Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller takes a minimalist approach to smart irrigation and is built to retrofit an existing system. Reviewed points to a simple setup process and effective use of local weather data, which both optimizes watering and keeps schedules in regulatory compliance. It connects over 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and works with Amazon Echo and Google Home. The functionality is straightforward, though some reviewers saw the 6-zone or 12-zone configurations as limiting for smaller irrigation setups. Homeowners after a no-frills smart irrigation solution will like it more than anyone hunting for extensive customization.

Strengths
  • — Connects to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi for remote operation and monitoring, per Reviewed
  • — Pulls local weather data to optimize watering schedules and minimize water waste
  • — Automatically updates with local government watering regulations for compliance
Watch-outs
  • — Minimal physical interface with all controls via app, which may not suit all users
$79.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control)
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers
Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control)
2 sources$199as of Oct 11

The Rachio 3 is the default recommendation in smart irrigation, and the app is why: PCMag scored it 4.5 out of 5, with its reviewer calling it the best designed and easiest to use of the controllers he tested. Weather Intelligence Plus handles rain, wind and freeze skips with no subscription, it ties into Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT and SmartThings, and schedules keep running locally when Wi-Fi drops. CNET's take on the same hardware was more measured at 7.5 out of 10. The catches are practical: it needs the supplied AC adapter, it mounts indoors unless you buy the weatherproof housing, and it wants reliable Wi-Fi where the valve wiring is.

Strengths
  • — Automatically adjusts watering schedules based on local weather conditions
  • — Easy installation taking 30 minutes or less with no special tools required
  • — Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Siri Shortcuts for voice control
Watch-outs
  • — Caps out at 16 zones, so large or commercial properties need a different controller
$199 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Netro Sprite Smart Sprinkler Controller (6-Zone)

The Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller (6-Zone) puts all controls in its app, where the Orbit B-hyve Indoor Smart Sprinkler Controller has on-device buttons and the Rain Bird ARC6 Smart WiFi Sprinkler Timer takes simple commands at the controller. It handles six zones like the Rain Bird, two fewer than the Orbit's eight. It also updates automatically with local government watering regulations.

Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control)

The Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller's app carries a 4.9 App Store rating, where the app for the Orbit B-hyve Indoor Smart Sprinkler Controller is described as finicky and confusing. Both run eight zones and mount indoors unless a weatherproof housing is bought, against six zones for the Rain Bird ARC6 Smart WiFi Sprinkler Timer. The Rachio costs more than the Orbit and the Rain Bird.

Specs side-by-side

SpecNetro Sprite Smart Sprinkler Controller (6-Zone)Rachio WiFi Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone Irrigation Remote Control)
Zones6 zones8-zone
Smart Home IntegrationAmazon Alexa, Google HomeAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Alarm.com, SmartThings
App CompatibilityAndroid/iOSiOS 10.3+ and Android 4.4+
Installation TypeIndoorIndoor (optional weatherproof housing for outdoor)
Weather IntegrationReal-time local weather data and forecastsWeather Intelligence Plus
Power Input24VAC, 50/60Hz, 800mAAC power adapter included
Dimensions5.7" x 5.7" x 1.2"9.1" x 5.5" x 1.4"
Voltage24 Volts120 Volts
MaterialPlasticPlastic
Connectivity—Wi-Fi
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