As a homeowner you may always strive to maintain a lush green and healthy lawn. However, watering your lawn can be a challenge, especially during the hot and dry summer months where you may have to stand outside with a hose to water your lawn. That’s why it is important to upgrade from the old and traditional method of hosing your lawn to using a smart sprinkler system to better manage your lawn’s health. In this article we will be comparing two smart sprinkler controllers on the market which are the Yardian Pro and the Rachio 3, this article serves to help you make a better buying decision when choosing a smart sprinkler controller for your lawn.
| Yardian Pro | Rachio 3 | |
| Product Weight | 1lb (0.45kg) | 1.05lb (0.48kgs) |
| Product Dimensions | 6″ Length × 6″ Width × 1.38″ Height | 9.1″ Length × 5.6″ Width × 1.4″ Height |
| Manufacturer | Aeon Matrix | Rachio 3 |
| ASIN | B08CR51M15 | B07CZ864Y9 |
| Product Model Number | N/A | 8ZULW-C |
| Power Source | Battery-powered, Electrical | Battery-powered, Electrical |
| Batteries Required | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Type | 1 Lithium-metal battery required (and included) | 1 Lithium-Ion battery required |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Yes | Yes |
| Ethernet Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| USB Compatible | Yes | No |
| Soil Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | -13°F to 140°F (-25°C to 60°C) | -13°F to 140°F (-25°C to 60°C) |
| Power Input | 120 Volts | 120 Volts |
| Power Output | 24 Volts | 24 Volts |
| Control Method | Voice control, Push button control, Smartphone/ remote control | Voice control, Push button control, Smartphone/ remote control |
| Special Features | Control from anywhere, Wi-Fi connectivity, Voice control, Internet connectivity, Soil sensors, Easy setup, Automatic rain skipping, etcetera | Control from anywhere, Wi-Fi connectivity, Voice control, Internet connectivity, Soil sensors, Easy setup, Automatic rain, wind, freeze, saturation and seasonal skipping, smart watering, etcetera |
| Warranty | 2 Year Manufacturer Warranty | 2 Year Manufacturer Warranty |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Table of Contents
Yardian Pro – Features and Benefits
| Yardian Pro |
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The Yardian Pro is a smart sprinkler controller that offers several advanced features to help you maintain a healthy lawn. Some of its key features and benefits include:
Weather Intelligence
- The Yardian Pro uses real-time weather data to adjust your watering schedule. It can also detect changes in weather patterns and adjust your schedule accordingly.
Soil Moisture Sensors
- The Yardian Pro comes with soil moisture sensors that measure the moisture level in your lawn. This allows it to adjust your watering schedule based on the current moisture level, which can prevent overwatering and underwatering.
Voice Control
- The Yardian Pro is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, which means you can control your sprinkler system with your voice.
Easy-to-Use App
- The Yardian Pro comes with a user-friendly app that allows you to control your sprinkler system from anywhere.
- You can also set up custom schedules and receive alerts when your system is running low on water.
Rachio 3 – Features and Benefits
| Rachio 3 |
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The Rachio 3 is another popular smart sprinkler controller that offers advanced features to help you maintain a healthy lawn. Some of its key features and benefits include:
Weather Intelligence Plus
- The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller uses Weather Intelligence Plus, which combines real-time weather patterns with satellite imagery to create an efficient watering schedule. It can also adjust your schedule based on changes in weather patterns.
Zone Watering
- The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller allows you to set up custom watering zones based on the specific needs of your lawn. This means you can water different areas of your lawn at different times and water pressures.
Mobile App
- The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller comes with a mobile app that allows you to control your sprinkler system fromanywhere.
- Like the Yardian, you can also set up custom schedules, receive alerts, and monitor your water usage.
Easy Installation
- The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller is easy to install and can be set up in just a few minutes. It also comes with a user-friendly installation guide to help you get started.
Yardian Pro vs Rachio 3: Battle of The Sprinkler Controllers
Both the Yardian Pro and the Rachio 3 offer advanced features to help you maintain a healthy lawn. However, there are some key differences between the two controllers that may influence your overall buying decision and here they are:
Yardian Pro vs Rachio 3: Price
The Yardian is generally less expensive than the Rachio 3, making it a more affordable option for homeowners on a budget. This is only because the Rachio 3 has a lot more to offer in terms of features than the Yardian Pro.
Yardian Pro vs Rachio 3: Weather Intelligence
Both controllers use real-time weather data to adjust your watering schedule. However, the Rachio 3 makes use of satellite imagery to create a more precise watering schedule. So you can use this feature to automate your entire sprinkler system such that you don’t have to waste your water when it’ll rain later.
Yardian Pro vs Rachio 3: Zone Watering
The Rachio 3 allows you to set up custom watering zones based on the specific needs of your lawn, this means that some parts of the lawn may be watered more than others because of your lawn’s overall health. This feature helps parts of your lawn that need more water to get it, whilst some other parts of your lawn receive less water because they’re already pretty healthy. The Yardian Pro does not offer this feature.
Yardian Pro vs Rachio 3: Voice Control
Both controllers are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your sprinkler system with your voice. All you have to do is say a voice command to activate the entire smart sprinkler controller system.
Yardian Pro vs Rachio 3: Installation
Both controllers are easy to install and come with user-friendly installation guides. However, the Yardian Pro requires a separate (bridge) device for WiFi connectivity, while the Rachio 3 has built-in WiFi.
Yardian Pro vs Rachio 3: Which One Is The Best For You?
The better choice between the two smart sprinkler controller systems is without a doubt the Rachio 3 for its advanced weather intelligence and zone watering features, as well as its built-in WiFi connectivity (even though the Yardian can also have WiFi connectivity, the Rachio 3 just reigns more superior.) However, if you’re on a tight budget, the Yardian Pro is an excellent choice that still offers many advanced features. However it is worth noting that the best smart sprinkler controller for your lawn (and your homes) will depend solely on you and you alone.
What You Need To Know About Smart Watering Systems and Irrigation Controllers Like The Yardian and The Rachio
Smart watering systems and irrigation controllers are an excellent way to maintain a healthy lawn while conserving water and saving money. When choosing a smart watering system or irrigation controller, consider the features that are most important to you, such as weather intelligence, soil moisture sensors, and mobile app control. It’s also important to choose a system that is compatible with your existing sprinkler system and any other smart home devices you may have.
Installation and Setup Process for The Yardian and The Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controllers
Both the Yardian and the Rachio are easy to install and set up. Here’s are some step-by-step instructions for setting up each controller effectively:
- Connect the bridge device to your WiFi network.
- Install the Yardian app on your smartphone.
- Connect the Yardian controller to the bridge device.
- Install the Yardian controller in your sprinkler system.
- Follow the instructions in the app to set up your watering schedule.
- Download the Rachio app on your smartphone.
- Connect the Rachio controller to your WiFi network.
- Install the Rachio controller in your sprinkler system.
- Follow the instructions in the app to set up your watering schedule.
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Right Smart Sprinkler Controller For You
When choosing a smart sprinkler controller for your lawn, there are several factors to consider, including:
Price
- Smart sprinkler controllers can range in price from around $100 to over $300. Consider your budget when choosing acontroller.
Features
- Consider the features that are most important to you, such as weather intelligence, soil moisture sensors, and mobile app control.
Compatibility
- Make sure the controller is compatible with your already present sprinkler system and any other smart home devices you may have.
Installation
- Consider how easy the controller is to install and whether you will need professional installation.
What Are Smart Sprinkler Controllers?
Before we dive into the features and benefits of the Yardian Pro and the Rachio 3, let’s first understand what a smart sprinkler controller is and how it works. A smart sprinkler controller is an irrigation controller that uses advanced [sensor] technology to optimize your lawn’s watering times. It uses real-time weather data from trusted meteorology/ weather sites, soil moisture sensors, and other metrics to determine the most efficient watering schedule for your lawn, which can save a lot of water and money while keeping your lawn perfectly healthy.
The Benefits of Using a Smart Sprinkler Controller
There are several benefits to using a smart sprinkler controller like the Yardian Pro or the Rachio 3 and those include:
Water Conservation
- A smart sprinkler controller can help you save water by adjusting your watering schedule based on real-time weather data and soil moisture levels. This means you won’t overwater your lawn, which can lead to water waste and higher water bills.
Cost Savings
- By using less water, you can save money on your water bill. Additionally, some smart sprinkler controllers are eligible for rebates from your local water utility, which can further reduce your costs.
Healthy Lawn
- By providing your lawn with the right amount of water at the right time, a smart sprinkler controller can help keep your lawn healthy and green all year round. This means you won’t have to worry about brown patches or overgrown weeds.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About The Yardian Pro and The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controllers
How long does it take to install the Yardian and the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller?
Both controllers are easy to install and can be set up in about 30 minutes. However, the Yardian Pro requires a
separate bridge device for WiFi connectivity, which may add some extra time to the installation process.
Are the Yardian Pro and the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller compatible with all sprinkler systems?
Both controllers are compatible with most sprinkler systems. However, it’s always a good idea to check the compatibility before purchasing.
Can I control the Yardian and the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller with my voice?
Yes, both controllers are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your sprinkler system with your voice.
Is a smart sprinkler controller worth it?
Yes, smart sprinkler controllers are not all talk, they can actually help you save up a lot of water when comparing them to traditional methods of watering your lawn like hosing or using some containers. Not only are they efficient, they also help you save money and time as well.
Can the Rachio 3 work without the internet?
Yes it can. If for some reason the WiFi connectivity goes down then the Rachio 3 will attempt to automatically reconnect after every 30 seconds. However whilst it is doing this, it reverts back to the preset watering schedule. So it will not stop working because the internet is down.
Conclusion
The Yardian and the Rachio are both good choices for homeowners looking to upgrade their traditional sprinkler system to a more a more smart and modern sprinkler controller system. While both controllers offer advanced features and benefits, there are some key differences that may influence your overall buying decision. When comparing between the Yardian to the Rachio, it is always best to first consider your budget, the features you mostly need, and the compatibility with your existing sprinkler system (if you happen to have one already) when choosing a smart sprinkler controller.
Yardian Pro
Rachio 3
