The first thing you should take into account when choosing a sprinkler timer or controller is how much functionality you’re looking to get from it. If you just need to turn your sprinklers on and off a couple times a day, then a basic timer should be fine. But if you want a little more customization and control—and you already have an irrigation system set up to connect to—you might want to opt for a dedicated sprinkler controller. Controllers can be mounted indoors, and some can even be controlled with a mobile app, making them even more convenient.
Although timers and controllers work in different ways, they’re equally useful depending on the user, which is why we decided to include a variety of both kinds in our list. We also used our landscaping experience to select from brands that we have come to trust, which is why Flora models take up so many spots. We also made sure to include a mechanical timer option, perfect for those who aren’t comfortable with programming digital tools or using Wi-Fi apps.