A beautiful and green lawn is the dream of every owner of a private house. Though, it is sometimes tricky to achieve, especially when it comes to keep it watered. Timely and sufficient watering is a guarantee that the roots of the grass will be saturated with moisture and oxygen, they will grow strong and provide the stems with moisture. At the same time, too much water can become a critical factor for the lawn - in this case, the roots can simply rot, and all the landscaping work will have to start over.
To stick to the golden mean in lawn watering, you can choose one of two solutions:
- Water it yourself, tightly controlling the amount of moisture and bypassing the lawn with a hose in your hands.
- Order lawn sprinklers and use them to water your lawn.
Of course, the second option is much more convenient and easier to implement. After all, who likes to stand idle for hours with a hose to water the lawn properly? We've put together a detailed round-up of the top ten lawn sprinklers for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike in 2024.
But we will not start with our top ten. Let's find out what is this type of garden equipment and how does it work. And at the same time, what design options are there for these useful devices for the garden.
Imagine your lawn watering routine. Here you are standing with a hose spraying jets of water onto the surface to deliver water deep into the soil. Sprinkling device do the same for you. You do not need even to control them. Due to the diversity of form factors of such garden equipment, you can choose a Device like that not only according to the size of your garden or the climate you are living in but also for specific purposes, for example, for timer watering.
Why should I water my lawn at all, you may ask? The answer is simple: natural precipitation does not always fall to the extent that plants need it. Of course, if you live in a tropical climate or a region where high humidity is in itself the norm, additional water injection is superfluous. In regions where the amount of precipitation is low in spring and summer and the air temperature is over average, additional watering is necessary. The way to organize it is to install water sprinklers.
By their design, water sprinklers are striking in their diversity. There are compact and large enough, stationary or mobile, irrigate the ground with one stream of water or several at once. According to its principle of operation, this garden equipment is divided into several types:
- Inground sprinkler systems are quite complex to install but highly reliable lawn sprinklers. They can be installed as a linked system of points throughout the lawn. In this case, the base of the system is underground, and only the sprinklers are located above the surface. Such a system is reliable, but, unfortunately, not all lawn owners can install it: it is demanding on water pressure in the water supply system, soil types, and it is also costly.
- Mobile or travelling sprinklers are devices that look like tiny lawnmowers from the outside. Driven by a motor, they can easily traverse the lawn on any trajectory, and for many models, you can program a route and send them to water the lawn without your participation. It is enough to make sure that the length of the hose is sufficient.
- Oscillating lawn sprinklers look no less stylish than fountains. They release several jets of water at once, scattering in a hemisphere, while the sprinkler itself also moves, which allows it to cover a large area.
- Impact sprinklers are good for their compact size and the ability to direct their stream precisely to a certain part of the lawn. But due to the fact that the water supply to them is a fairly strong flow, such sprinklers are best used for watering shrubs and trees, but delicate flower beds or beds with vegetables and herbs can suffer from them.
- Rotary and stationary sprinklers are similar in type of work: they are installed in one place and, due to the rotation of the sprinkler head, spray water jets in a circle or semicircle. Depending on the model, these sprinklers can perfectly irrigate both small adjoining lawns and large areas.
The type of lawn sprinkler is important. Well, let's consider what else should be taken into account when you want to get a new sprinkler for your lawn.
There are some features that in combo define the choice of a certain sprinkler. Let's figure them out.
So we have emphasized all the features that influence your water sprinkler choice. And it's time to start with our TOP-10 list. So here we go.
We've gathered the most important info about any lawn sprinkler on our list. We shall notice that we haven't ranged the TOP-list of garden sprinklers as we consider that every model represented in our rating is really worth your attention.
1. Orbit 58257N Metal 3-Arm Sprinkler
This traveller sprinkling device, despite the compact size, is impressively potential. The first thing you should note, is the material choice as the sprinkler is completely made of durable metal except for the two wheels helping the sprayer across the surface. Despite the metal origin, the device weighs only 0.7 pounds, because of lightweight aluminium it is manufactured of. Do not look at its small size, it sprays the water jet over a 24-foot radius. And three hose outlets help much to simultaneously spray water in 3 directions at once, which helps to supply radial irrigation when moving forward.
Such a device can be set in any part of your garden to saturate the ground with moisture, and then you can replace it in one motion. Overall, this is an example of a simple yet effective medium-sized lawn sprinkler. It is suitable for adjoining lawns, a small garden or a vegetable garden. With its stable wheels, you can move it on an uneven surface without doubts.
Pros:
- A lightweight,
- Comfortable wheels,
- Three hoses for the water jet,
- Mobility,
- Low price - only about $12.
Cons:
- Several buyers note that the paint in the model breaks down quickly enough.
2. Orbit 58308Z Brass Impact Sprinkler
This instant item has an unusual appearance. At a glance, it resembles an outlandish theodolite or a video equipment tripod. With its stable tripod design, the sprinkler isn't able to wobble and it is stable even in the worst climate fluctuations, i.e. during storms or strong gusts of wind. One more notable factor is the unusual construction of its drainage - it is blockage-protected, suitable for spreading secondary water for irrigation with no preliminary purification required.
One more advantage you should know about this device is its range of spraying. It disperse jets of water within 90 ft of the place it is installed. Additionally, presets of this device are able to adjust the irrigation segment - from a narrow angle to full-fledged pivot irrigation. The construction itself is made of a durable metal base with an adjustable height of a tripode in a matter of minutes: if necessary, you can rise it up to 48''. This feature allows you not damaging the plant stems when issuing water jets and make the sprayer's settings more precise.
Pros:
- Reliable construction,
- Wide irrigation radius,
- Hose contamination protection,
- Tripod height adjustment.
Cons:
- Not mobile.
- 5 pounds of weight is too much.
3. Melnor 65003-AMZ MiniMax Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler
Oscillation sprinkler by Melnor is a compact yet efficient device that will amaze you with its abilities and functionality. Measuring only 12.63'' x 9.68'' x 2.67'', this mini irrigator can supply water in the necessary amount to 4,000 square feet of your garden facilities. Its 4-levelled adjustment settings provide your soil with the necessary level of moisture with the precise injection to the area you want it to be injected.
Operation of this device is provided via the durable motor. To start watering, you need just to set the item in the middle of your lawn or flowerbed, and it will provide you with fast and effective watering. Another important thing you should know about the functionality of this item is the connector that can be integratedto any hose or water source in a matter of seconds due to its fast installation abilities. A firm fixation igreatly simplifies the operation of the equipment.
Products from the Melnor garden equipment brand have held the lead for almost a century, are considered one of the most reliable and durable, and this sprinkler confirms the reputation of the company.
Pros:
- 4,000 square feet of garden will be watered fast during the single operation.
- Easy-to-connect thanks to the innovative connector.
- Effective and reliable motor.
- 4-stages of presets for dispersing water efficiently.
- Best for long and narrow lawns.
- Pricing of only $ 19.99.
Cons:
- Manual for the device is not included in the kit.
4. Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 Indestructible Metal Base Oscillating Sprinkler
One more model of oscillator is the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16. It is inferior to the previous sprinkler on our shortlist in the irrigation area at 3,600 sq. ft. against 4000. But in terms of its durability and reliability, it is definitely ahead of many competitors.
Assembled on a solid metal base, this sprinkler consists of a moisture-insulated motor unit, 16 moisture-distributing nozzles and the body itself. The simple design has its advantages - no blockages are formed in the nozzles, and if necessary, they can be easily cleaned using the built-in cleaning tool. You will be able to adjust the width of the moisture spray using the settings.
In addition, such a compact device weighs only 1.72 pounds.
Pros:
- Compact size and lightweight.
- Metal base.
- Easy cleaning of nozzles.
- An affordable price - $ 16.85.
Cons:
- You cannot adjust and customize presets.
- The surface of the device is plastic.
5. Eden 94113 Lawn & Garden Essential Oscillating Water Sprinkler
Еhis model of the sprinkler oscillator is the golden mean between the previous two. It can effectively water up to 3600 sq. ft. at a time. And 16 nozzles distribute jets of water over long distances.
The sprinkler itself is very stableб thanks to the metal base. An engine is installed inside to control irrigation, is as much as possible protected from moisture ingress. Also in the design of this model, there is a built-in tool for cleaning nozzles from clogs. You will also appreciate the connection speed of such a water sprinkler. The special leak-proof connector fits easily with all major hose types used in the United States. Additionally, the connector is protected by a twist lock, which prevents the spray arm from accidentally disconnecting.
In order to increase the efficiency of irrigation, the manufacturer has provided a system for adjusting the intensity and range of spraying. Moreover, the settings are set using a sliding slider, and you can use one of the irrigation patterns as you wish.
Pros:
- Convenient watering settings,
- Metal base, stable and durable,
- Powerful motor,
- 16 nozzles with the possibility of cleaning,
- Compatible with all types of garden hoses,
- Leakage protection.
- There are also options with 18 and 22 nozzles available.
Cons:
- To be honest, we did not find them.
6. GrowGreen Sprinkler, Rotating Lawn Sprinkler
The GrowGreen stationary rotary sprayer is a device that will find application in any private household. It efficiently irrigates lawns with an irrigation area of 3,600 square feet and can be installed in the summer heat to keep your kids entertained. The all-safety spray arm swivels 360 degrees for even and abundant watering in a short time. Its settings are very convenient. They allow you to adjust the direction and strength of the water jet.
The design of the sprinkler is made on the basis of durable ABS plastic. The top of the device is covered with a special polymer that is resistant to moisture, rust and damage.
Such a sprinkler weighs a lot - more than 2 pounds, but it will steadily take its position on the lawn and will not tip over under the pressure of water. Stylish design with bright colors will appeal to children and its price - to the owners of the house. This sprinkler costs only $ 19.99.
Pros:
- Stylish design,
- Stable base,
- Can be used for watering and children's entertainment,
- Convenient settings,
- 360degrees rotation.
Cons:
- Maybe short-lived as it's made of plastics,
- It weighs much.
7. Nelson Traveling Sprinkler RainTrain 13,500
We can bet you've never seen such a compact device. Ideal for even, narrow lawns, the traveller can spread water to 13,500 sq. ft. of surface area by a circle distributing. There are 2 nozzles mounted on a rotating head, it acts 15 to 50 feet away. The machine can traverse up to 200 feet of lawn.
The sprinkler has 3-wheel base. Two of them have a similar look to miniature truck wheels. They have spike relief to easily overcome uneven ground. The item itself is quite reliable, it is made of durable steel coveres with anti-corrosion paint. Also, this device has two operating speeds, which efficiently provide your watering routines.
Pros:
- Mobile and stable
- Wide range of dispersion,
- Suitable for narrow lawns,
- Double speed modes for operating.
Cons:
- Weighs a whopping 17 pounds.
8. Lawn Sprinkler Garden Sprinkler -2020 Updated
Get a real combo for irrigation goals and children's play. A rotary sprinkling item is combined with a range of nozzles as in the oscillators. Accordingly, it carries out water saturation much faster and efficiently than others. It is small in size and stylish at once, the item suits for irrigation, and when the work is done you can simply place it on your backyard to play under running jets with kids or to humidify your huseholding. Another merit you'll be happy with is the three-stage quick setting. Just choose among the angles of jets of water at 45, 90 degrees or circular irrigation as you wish. No complicated levers or buttons - intuitive interface and cost-effective operation.
Pros:
- Convenient for all gardeining and leisure activities,
- Spray radius 30 feet,
- Looks stylish
- Reliable build,
- Fast connection,
- A lightweight.
- Low cost.
Cons:
- No cons.
9. Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion-Activated Sprinkler
This sprinkler is the dream of every responsible gardener. It not only effectively serves as a stationary watering device but also scares away insects and animals from your land. In addition, it is equipped with light sensors to select day or night mode, saves water and energy.
The motion-sensing sprinkler is triggered when an animal or a bird or an insect approaches or according to the preset settings. At the same time, the sensitivity of the sensor is high - it accurately reacts to a living being, not giving false starts when the branches of trees move.
It is one smart solution for watering your lawn and controlling pests, because such a device works at the same time by spraying jets of water, emitting an audible signal. Moreover, the device operates at a distance of up to 40 feet.
Pros:
- Helps fight insects and animal pests
- Delivers a stream of water 40 feet away
- Has a day and night mode of operation
- Sensitive motion sensors do not work on people
Cons:
- A rather narrowly targeted device
- It's expensive
10. Hunter PGP-ADJ Rotor, 1-Pack, Black
Simplicity is essential for reliability. This rule is entirely true for the Hunter PGP-ADJ Rotor device. It's not costly, yet effective, it helps to saturate the ground with moisture quickly and cost-efficiently. You can simply dig the item into the ground, with the nozzled head staying above the surface. A simple vertical key-regulator on the outer side helps to place settings for the jet force. You can adjust a segment of irrigation from 40 degrees to the full circle, or set up pivot sprinkling. To provide a full-fledged operation, a water-cooled hydraulic pump is installed in the device. A reliable easy-to-use solution that will water your lawns for years. One more feature is its compact size and its low pricing, that makes it a perfect solution for your gardening activities.
Pros:
- Convenient settings for the spray segment.
- Miniature in dimensions.
- An affordable price.
Cons:
- The narrowest segment is 40'.
Our guide to new types of water sprinklers shouldn't be considered as the ultimate guide. But we hope that with it, you will choose the best automatic irrigation device for yourself and it'll keep your garden in the fresh and healthy condition.
