Purchasing a sprinkler timer is not as easy as one would expect: It takes a lot of time to compare the products available on the market, because many sales offers only give part of the performance data. Important parameters can often only be found after detailed research in operating instructions or customer reviews, or not at all. Different manufacturers also specify key data in very different forms or in different units. The following blog post will help you with a list of the most important watering computers including an overview of performance data.
Note: This post is about watering computers that combine computer and solenoid valve in one device and can be attached directly to the tap. This type of control is therefore also referred to as “water tap control”. There is also a second category of irrigation computers that you need if you work with solenoid valves in your irrigation system! With the help of these computers, electronic control of a certain number of solenoid valves connected to them is possible. This second type of irrigation computer is covered in a separate blog post!
For the layman, it is often difficult to see whether the envisaged sprinkling computer is suitable for the intended purpose or not. Run-of-the-mill irrigation computers that master the basic functions are a dime a dozen. However, if the sprinkling computer is to have certain functions such as the integration of a soil moisture sensor, manual watering at the push of a button, battery level indicator, etc., or if you are looking for a computer that can be used in combination with an automatic water distributor, then the search is much more difficult.
Below you will find comparison tables of sprinkler timer from different manufacturers, branded products and no-names. It lists the essential criteria that are relevant for buying a sprinkler timer.
Note: What cannot be shown here is the longevity of the products. Since sprinkler timer are usually installed outdoors and are permanently exposed to wind and weather, high demands are placed on the robustness of the materials used. The plastic must not become brittle and break due to sunlight and weather, the computer must remain sealed even after several seasons. The best way to determine whether the computer meets this requirement is from the experiences of other buyers and the resulting online ratings and comments.
In order to enable you to find the right sprinkler timer for your application as quickly as possible, these are divided into 4 groups:
Sprinkler timer for 1 zone
This is the usual watering computer, of which there is the largest offer. It has one output and can therefore only supply one irrigation zone. No problem if you only need to water a small area and are not forced to divide it into zones. If it does, then you have to use a device from the three categories described below.
Rainpoint 1 outlet | Rain Bird 1ZEHTMR | Orbit 62061Z Single-Outlet Hose | |
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RAINPOINT Sprinkler Ti...25% Off【Easy Programming Program】Through the Sprinkler Timer to program, you can set the Start Time, Watering Duration is 1min-3h59min, Watering Frequency from 1h to 12h or 1 day to 7 days, so you can customize your watering time, and can be more accurate. ... read more
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Rain Bird 1ZEHTMR Prof...20% OffRobust professional grade digital hose-end timer for use with hose-end sprinklers, Drip irrigation and soaker hose Simple-to-set automatic programming, 7-day scheduling and sophisticated functions provide worry-free watering convenience Extra-large d... read more
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2-Pack Orbit 62061Z 1-...27% OffCONSERVE WATER: never forget to turn your water off again, this timer will shut the water off for you EASY-TO-USE DIAL: ergonomic dial cycles easily between set clock, start time, how long, how often, auto, and off LARGE DIGITAL DISPLAY: easy to read... read more
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Maximum individual cycles per day | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Possible watering intervals | Every 1 to 23 hours, every 1 to 7 days | Individual adjustment of each cycle | Every 6 hours, 12 hours, every 1 to 7 days |
Watering duration | 1 to 239 minutes | 1 to 360 minutes | 1 to 240 minutes |
Possible operating pressure | 7 to 72 psi | 15 to 87 psi | 10 to 100 psi |
WiFi? | No | No | No |
Rain sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Soil moisture sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Manual watering at the push of a button? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Irrigation break possible? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Batteries | AAA batteries (2 pieces) | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AA batteries (2 pieces) |
Battery level indicator? | Yes | Yes | No (but symbol is displayed when batteries need to be changed) |
Works with Gardena water distributor? | No | No | No |
Special feature | Protection function: Computer closes valve automatically when battery is low |
Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer | Orbit 62034 Mechanical Watering Hose Timer | Crosofmi | |
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Orbit 21004 B-hyve Sma...5% OffEFFORTLESS AUTOMATIC WATERING - Keep your plants healthy and vibrant with our water timer for garden hose. It delivers precise, timed watering so you can relax while your garden thrives. NEVER WORRY ABOUT PLANT CARE AGAIN - Our garden hose timer ensu... read more
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Orbit 62034 Mechanical...43% OffEASIEST TIMER TO USE: Works just like an egg timer. Set the perfect time for your watering needs, anywhere from 15 to 120 minutes construction Oversized dial with comfort grip for easy use No batteries required Timed watering up to 120 minutes
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CROSOFMI Sprinkler Tim...(as of 27. July 2025 10:08 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)SIMPLE AND FLEXIBLE PROGRAMMING: CROSOFMI Sprinkler for yard allow wider range of run time and interval. The watering duration ranges from 1s to 300min, and irrigation interval from 1h to 15 days. That can make you watering schedule fully customizabl... read more
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Maximum individual cycles per day | 3 | 1 | 1 |
Possible watering intervals | Programming in 3 individual watering programs | No intervalls | 1 hour to 15 days |
Watering duration | 1 to 240 minutes | 15 to 120 minutes | 1 second to 300 minutes |
Possible operating pressure | 10 to 100 psi | 10 to 100 psi | 7 to 116 psi |
WiFi? | Yes | No | No |
Rain sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Soil moisture sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Manual watering at the push of a button? | Yes | Only manual watering | Yes |
Irrigation break possible? | Yes | No | Yes |
Batteries | AA batteries (2 pieces) | No batteries | AA batteries (2 pieces) |
Battery level indicator? | Yes (on the app and by blinking the diode on the computer) | No | Yes |
Works with Gardena water distributor? | No | No | No |
Special feature | Works with WiFi hub, control via app, built-in flow meter, control with online weather data |
Kazeila | Restmo O-HT-3 | RainPoint WiFi | |
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Kazeila Programmable W...(as of 27. July 2025 10:09 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Efficient and Reliable Sprinkler Timer: Our sprinkler timer is designed for peak efficiency and reliability, ensuring that your garden or lawn receives watered care just at the right moments. With accurate programming features, this timer is the ulti... read more
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RESTMO Sprinkler Timer...(as of 27. July 2025 10:02 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)【Dual Program Modes】Combine interval and 7-day programming logics together, this sprinkler timer can provide ultra-flexible watering schedules than ever. No matter you need to water every X hours/days, or water specific days in a week, this dual mode... read more
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RAINPOINT Sprinkler Ti...(as of 27. July 2025 10:02 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)2ND GEN WIFI SPRINKLER TIMER: The latest WiFi water timer gets a bunch of upgrades, such as: Strengthened the water inlet mold, make it more sturdy and hard to break; Enable smart water according to soil moisture; Compatible with 2-Zone WiFi sprinkle... read more
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Maximum individual cycles per day | 1 | 1 | 3 |
Possible watering intervals | Interval between 1 hour and 15 days | 1 to 12 hrs, 1 to 7 days | Programming in 3 individual watering programs |
Watering duration | 1 second to 99 minutes | 1 to 239 minutes | 1 minute to 12 hours |
Possible operating pressure | Maximum 145 psi | 15 to 120 psi | 7 to 73 psi |
WiFi? | No | No | Yes |
Rain sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Soil moisture sensor connectable? | No | No | Yes |
Manual watering at the push of a button? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Irrigation break possible? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Batteries | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AAA batteries (2 pieces) | AAA batteries (4 pieces) |
Battery level indicator? | Yes (on the app) | Yes | No (but symbol is displayed when batteries need to be changed) |
Works with Gardena water distributor? | No | No | No |
Special feature | Automatic rain detection: There is a chip on the top of the computer that automatically detects when it is raining and then stops watering until the chip is no longer wet, child safety lock | Works with gateway, control via app, built-in water flow meter |
Sprinkler timer for 2 zones
The sprinkler timer in this category are computers with two water outlets. The water outlets can be programmed separately and allow 2 sectors to be watered separately.
Orbit 58910 Programmable Hose Faucet Timer, 2 Outlet | Dewenwils Sprinkler Timer 2 Zone | Rainpoint 2 outlet | |
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Orbit 58910 Digital 2 ...27% OffWatering frequency from every 6 hrs up to every 7th day Watering duration from 1 to 240 minutes Rain delay options of 24, 48, or 72 hours Manual watering without interrupting programing Install quickly with swivel connection; Durable, weather resista... read more
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DEWENWILS Sprinkler Ti...15% Off[Easy to Program & Setup] With 3.4" large easy to read LCD screen, details of all functions and working statuses are displayed intuitively, 5 program buttons make your settings easy as adjusting a digital watch, easy to select the days, start time, d... read more
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RAINPOINT Water Timer ...29% Off2 SEPARATE PROGRAMMABLE ZONES - RAINPOINT sprinkler timer with 2 large outlets (Flow Rate 5-35 L/min), allows you to customize the watering schedule (start time, frequency, and run time) per zone, giving you complete control over the watering of each... read more
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Maximum individual cycles per day | 1 | 4 | 3 |
Possible watering intervals | Every 6 hours, 12 hours, every 1 to 7 days | every 1 to 7 days, every 2nd day, every 3rd day | Every 1 to 12 hours, every 1 to 7 days |
Watering duration | 1 to 240 minutes | 1 to 240 minutes | 1 to 239 minutes |
Possible operating pressure | 10 to 100 psi | Maximum 120 psi | 8 to 116 psi |
WiFi? | No | No | No |
Rain sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Soil moisture sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Manual watering at the push of a button? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Irrigation break possible? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Batteries | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AAA batteries (2 pieces) |
Battery level indicator? | No (but symbol is displayed when batteries need to be changed) | No (but symbol is displayed when batteries need to be changed) | Yes |
Works with Gardena water distributor? | No | No | No |
Special feature |
Sprinkler timer for 3 or 4 zones
The sprinkler timer in this category are computers with three or four water outlets. The water outlets can be programmed separately and allow 3 or 4 sectors to be watered separately.
Orbit 56082 3-Outlet Hose Watering Timer | Orbit 56233D 3-Outlet Digital Watering Timer | Eden 93413 Programmable Digital Water Timer | |
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Orbit 56082 3-Outlet H...9% OffWatering frequency from every 6 hrs up to every 7th day Watering duration from 1 to 240 minutes Rain delay options of 24, 48, or 72 hours Manual watering without interrupting programing Install quickly with swivel connection; Durable, weather resista... read more
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Orbit 56233D 3-Outlet ...46% OffCONSERVE WATER: Automate your watering routine! This timer shuts the water off for you, giving your yard just the right amount of water. MANUAL LEVER: Pull toward yourself to access water on demand, without the worry of disrupting your programmed sch... read more
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Eden 93413 Programmabl...12% Off4 valves operate like separate timers to water four separate areas from one faucet Features easy installation, flexible programming, and automatic irrigation to meet different watering needs; large, angled LCD display and easy-to-press buttons for co... read more
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Maximum individual cycles per day | 1 | 1 | 4 |
Possible watering intervals | Every 6 hours, 12 hours, every 1 to 7 days | Every 6 hours, 12 hours, every 1 to 7 days | Individual setting of each cycle |
Watering duration | 1 to 240 minutes | 1 to 240 minutes | 1 to 360 minutes |
Possible operating pressure | 10 to 100 psi | 10 to 100 psi | 10 to 120 psi |
WiFi? | No | No | No |
Rain sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Soil moisture sensor connectable? | No | No | Yes |
Manual watering at the push of a button? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Irrigation break possible? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Batteries | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AA batteries (4 pieces) |
Battery level indicator? | No (but symbol is displayed when batteries need to be changed) | No (but symbol is displayed when batteries need to be changed) | Yes |
Works with Gardena water distributor? | No | No | No |
Special feature | Only two of the outlets are programmable, the third can only be used for manual watering! |
Orbit 24639 B-hyve XD 4-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer | DEWENWILS Sprinkler Timer 3 Zone | Melnor 65128-AMZ 4-Zone Bluetooth Water Timer | |
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Orbit 24639 B-hyve XD ...$114.72 (as of 29. July 2025 06:22 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)EFFORTLESS AUTO WATERING - Orbit B-hyve XD Smart Hose Timer controls watering based on precise local weather data, ensuring your plants receive the perfect amount of water. SMART IRRIGATION TIMER - Program the XD wirelessly via Wi-Fi or locally throu... read more
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DEWENWILS Sprinkler Ti...$54.99 (as of 27. July 2025 09:51 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)【Leak-proof for Outdoor Use】Pure zinc integrated tap connector without extra gaskets installation,support standard 3/4 outdoor water faucet and avoid water leakage in use, ABS plastic shell sunscreen and waterproof in outdoor use; the hose timer itse... read more
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Melnor 65128-AMZ 4-Zon...(as of 27. July 2025 09:51 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)4 high flow valves to water multiple areas Easy and convenient scheduling from your smart device through the app within a range of 30 ft. The angled valve design makes it easy to attach multiple hoses Flexible watering options – water on specific day... read more
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Maximum individual cycles per day | 4 | 4 | 12 |
Possible watering intervals | Individual setting of each cycle | Every 1 to 7 days, every 2nd day, every 3rd day | Individual setting of each cycle |
Watering duration | 1 to 240 minutes | 1 to 240 minutes | 1 to 360 minutes |
Possible operating pressure | 10 to 100 psi | Maximum 120 psi | No information |
WiFi? | Yes | No | No (Bluetooth within a distance of 30 ft.) |
Rain sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Soil moisture sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Manual watering at the push of a button? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Irrigation break possible? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Batteries | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AA batteries (4 pieces) |
Battery level indicator? | No (but symbol is displayed when batteries need to be changed) | No (but symbol is displayed when batteries need to be changed) | Yes |
Works with Gardena water distributor? | No | No | Yes |
Special feature | WiFi requires an additional WiFi hub |
Sprinkler timer for up to 6 zones (can be used with the Gardena water distributor)
These watering computers can be used with a Gardena Automatic Water distributor and can thus supply up to 6 sectors with water.
LinkTap G2 | Eve Aqua – Smart Water Controller for Apple | Kazeila Water Timer | |
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LinkTap G2S Smart Wate...$119.00 (as of 27. July 2025 09:52 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Wireless Water Timer with Weather-Adaptive Control: Manage your garden watering system from anywhere via mobile/web apps. This smart sprinkler timer automatically adjusts irrigation based on real-time weather data, ensuring efficient water usage and ... read more
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Eve Aqua – Smart Water...20% OffEve Aqua requires iPhone or iPad with the latest version of iOS/iPadOS. Control your sprinkler or irrigation system via the Eve app, Siri, or onboard button. Or effortlessly set up schedules that automatically water your garden independently of your ... read more
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Kazeila Water Timer, A...(as of 27. July 2025 09:51 GMT +02:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)💧6 Customizable Irrigation Programs - KAZEILA water hose timer for garden and lawn features 6 individual watering programs for you to easily personalize according to your irrigation needs: you will be able to customize the frequency and duration of y... read more
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Maximum individual cycles per day | 100 | 7 | 6 |
Possible watering intervals | 6 working modes (instant mode, calendar mode, month mode, interval mode, odd even days and 7-day mode) | Individual setting of each cycle | Every 1 to 24 hours, every 1 to 9 days |
Watering duration | 1 to 1.439 minutes | No information | 1 second to 100 minutes |
Possible operating pressure | 3 to 116 psi | 14 to 73 psi | 7 to 116 psi |
WiFi? | Yes | Yes | No |
Rain sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Soil moisture sensor connectable? | No | No | No |
Manual watering at the push of a button? | No | Yes | Yes |
Irrigation break possible? | Yes | No | Yes |
Batteries | AA batteries (4 pieces) | AA batteries (2 pieces) | AA batteries (2 pieces) |
Battery level indicator? | No | No | Yes |
Works with Gardena water distributor? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Special feature | WiFi requires an additional Gateway | Home automation possible via Apple HomeKit | Automatic rain detection: There is a chip on the top of the computer that automatically detects when it is raining and then stops watering until the chip is no longer wet |
Explanation of terms
Finally, an explanation of the criteria used in the tables:
Watering cycles per day
Indicates how many times per day the computer can water. In order to be able to use the Gardena automatic watering distributor, at least 6 watering cycles are necessary. With watering computers with 6 or more cycles, it is therefore possible to operate up to 6 watering sectors. Computers with fewer than six daily cycles can only run one, two, three, or four sectors, depending on how many outputs they have.
Watering intervals
Indicates the criteria according to which the watering intervals can be programmed. For example, some computers only allow a one-time definition of the start time and duration together with the choice of the day interval between the individual waterings or whether watering should be carried out on odd or even days. For others, the desired watering can be programmed individually for each watering cycle.
Watering duration
Defines the minimum and maximum possible duration of an irrigation run. Above all, if micro-irrigation is (also) to run via the computer, care must be taken to ensure a sufficiently long maximum irrigation duration, since e.g. drip irrigation only runs with small amounts of water but comparatively long.
Operating pressure
Indicates the maximum water pressure that the computer can handle. And the minimum necessary for it to work correctly.
Rain sensor or soil moisture sensor connectable?
Shows you whether you can use a rain sensor or a soil moisture sensor with the computer. On computers with two or more outputs it is also sometimes possible to connect a separate sensor to each of the outputs. Note: With computers that work with the automatic water distributor of Gardena and can thus supply up to 6 sectors, it is not possible with the models currently available to integrate several sensors for the different sectors, but only one, which then applies to all sectors.
Manual watering at the touch of a button
Describes the possibility of starting watering immediately by pressing a button reserved for this purpose and entering the desired time. This is very practical in day-to-day operation, since you always need water spontaneously, regardless of programmed runs. In that case, it would be very cumbersome to have to click through submenus every time to let water run.
Irrigation break possible?
Describes the possibility of having a programmed irrigation suspended at the push of a button. For example, if it has just rained and you want to do without watering. The watering is then suspended, from the next watering everything follows the usual course again. In some cases, the option of reducing irrigation is also offered. Irrigation is not completely suspended here, but only the duration is reduced by a certain percentage.
Battery level indicator
Indicates whether the current charge status of the batteries is shown on the display of the watering computer. This is useful for noticing in good time that the batteries are running out.
Works with Gardena water distributor?
Indicates again explicitly whether the computer works with the automatic water distributor from Gardena (Gardena water distributor automatic)