The Best Garden Sprinkler For A Great Watering Experience

Watering your plants is surely a very important thing to do as this is where their survival depends on. This is the reason why it’s important for you to have a proper watering device such as a garden sprinkler.

In this article, we’re going to show you the best garden sprinklers you can get.

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Top 3 Garden Sprinkler on the Market: Comparison Chart

Editor's Choices
Melnor XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler with TwinTouch Width Control & Flow Control, waters up to...*
Price
$24.99
Prime
Customer's Rating
Best Feature
Affordable price tag
Nelson Traveling Sprinkler RainTrain 13,500 Square Feet Yellow (818653-1003)*
Price
$77.74
Prime
-
Customer's Rating
Best Feature
Extensive coverage of 13,500 ft
Best Selling
Rain Bird 25PJLSP Hose-End Brass Impact Sprinkler on Large Spike, Adjustable 20° - 360° Pattern,...*
Price
$36.90
Prime
Customer's Rating
Best Feature
All-metal construction offering ultimate durability

The Different Types of Garden Sprinklers

1. Pop-up Spray Heads

There are many types of garden sprinklers, however, the most popular type is the pop-up spray heads. These pop-up spray heads are specifically designed to be used on small areas that have a distance of around 3 and 15 feet. Its operating pressure is also around the figures of 15 and 30 psi, which is just the right amount of pressure you need in tending to your garden plants.

This sprinkler system depends highly on system pressure, which is why its pressure needs to be carefully maintained. Nozzle size varies for this type of garden sprinkler, but it’s usually spraying around a to 2.5 inches per hour.

2. Impact Rotors

There are also impact rotors that are simply garden sprinklers that give off multiple water streams. This is what you need if you want to water your landscape or perhaps distribute water in an arching manner.

The arc pattern of this type of garden sprinkler is around 40 to 360 degrees, making them really flexible. These can cover huge areas thanks to its pop-up spray heads. The spray radius can even reach 150 feet, which is a testament to its efficiency and power. Precipitation rate for this kind of rotors is 0.1 to 1.5 inches per hour.

3. Gear-Driven Rotors

If you have a medium to a large lawn, these gear-driven garden sprinklers are what you're going to need.

Not only are they affordable and have a low maintenance cost, but they also operate quietly. These garden sprinklers are popular because of their versatility and flexibility. They are less in need of maintenance due to its internal mechanisms being enclosed by its design. Clogging rarely happens with this one because its driving mechanism is found inside.

4. Large Turf Rotors

Then there are the large turf rotors which are the garden sprinkler of choice of commercial properties.

These are very effective in distributing water over huge areas. Its rotors run in 50 to 100 psi and can take on a 100 ft. area. That’s how effective these sprinklers are when you’re using them in big places.

It can accommodate flowing of up to 80 gallons per minute which is incredibly fast when compared to the other garden sprinkler types.


Best Garden Sprinkler Money Can Buy: My Top 6 Favorites

Melnor XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler - Best For Budget

The first product we review today is the oscillating sprinkler from Melnor - a trusted brand in the industry.

This XT Turbo garden sprinkler consists of a metal base and plastic moving parts, which makes the whole thing lightweight and compact. You will have no difficulty in carrying and transporting it.

The plastic parts also explain the low price of this product. However, do not expect it to be as durable as other competitors entirely made of metal.

This device features operating tabs that allow you to control the length, the width, and the position of the watering pattern. Also, there are 18 built-in nozzles intended for maximum coverage.

Don’t be surprised when we tell you that it offers a coverage of up to 4,200 sq.ft. That is almost the size of a baseball court!

About the engine, the XT Turbo is equipped with an infinity turbo motor to work well at both low and high pressures.

However, according to our experience, this sprinkler could hardly operate with too low water pressures. We recommend it for anyone having great pressures at home only.

Pros
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Affordable price tag
  • Optimal and maximum coverage
Cons
  • Not durable as other high-end models

Nelson Traveling Sprinkler RainTrain - Best For Coverage

A traveling sprinkler is the best thing you can buy to maintain your lawn. Especially for busy homeowners, this kind of sprinkler is the ideal assistant. Check out this top-quality traveling sprinkler of Nelson.

This model features a cast-iron body with a yellow coat that is chip-resistant. Such a robust construction can last you several seasons.

The whole thing can travel up to 200 feet. It is intended for large and open areas with maximum coverage of up to 13,500 feet.

However, do not jump to assume that if the sprinkler works well in wide areas, it does the same with small lawns. In fact, it takes this device a long time to finish watering a small patch.

You can adjust the speed of the sprinkler thanks to the three-speed adjustment feature. That said, it allows you to customize water saturation depending on your lawn or garden.

Worried about wasting water? Do not worry; it is equipped with an automatic shut-off to avoid that problem.

The downside? It is precisely what you think right now. Such a top-notch product surely comes with a sky-high price. We always believe that you should get what you are paying for, so if you can afford it, do not hesitate.

Pros
  • Extensive coverage of 13,500ft
  • Automatic shut off
  • Sturdy construction with cast-iron body
  • Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
  • High price tag
  • Not for small lawns or gardens

Rain Bird 25PJLSP Brass Impact Sprinkler - Best For Construction

Aside from regular and traveling sprinklers, impact sprinklers are also must-have lawn tools today. It works on the impact force of the water, thereby being highly efficient.

One of the best impact sprinklers must be the Rain Bird 25PJLSP.

This model is constructed with brass, bronze, and stainless steel. Such a sprinkler is apparently more durable than those zinc competitors out there.

Its coverage is adjustable, either a full or part circle (20° to 340°). Plus, it offers infinite pattern adjustment. That is not to mention the adjustable detector flap designed to change the spray distance from 20’ to 41’ radius.

Your lawn will benefit from a fully customized landscaping experience.

Amongst quality features, the highlight is probably the heavy-duty 8-inch step stake, which allows you to move the sprinkler around your yard effortlessly, even across hard-packed clay soil.

The unit is able to thread onto most garden hoses via the built-in ¾’’ female hose thread.

Overall, this is an excellent impact sprinkler from Rain Bird. However, it might be less efficient with low water pressure.

Pros
  • All-metal construction
  • Adjustable coverage, pattern, and distance
  • Heavy-duty step stake
Cons
  • Not suitable for lawns with low water pressure

Milemont Garden Sprinkler - Best For 360-Degree Watering

If you want an attractive lawn or garden, Milemont automatic garden can fulfill your wish. Let’s see what it has to offer.

The real highlight of this model must be powerful irrigation from the 360-degree system. It features 3 adjustable rotating arms with 12 built-in nozzles, which delivers a powerful watering pattern to every corner in your garden.

The nozzles are movable within a 15-45 degree angle so that you can adjust them to your liking.

Wondering how extensive is its coverage?

Well, the sprinkler can cover up to 3600 sq.ft with an 80 PSI water pressure. Using two designed water inlets with other sprinklers, you are able to irrigate larger areas.

The Milemont garden sprinkler can withstand the test of time. It is made of premium thick ABS material, and TPR encapsulated sides. Rest assured that it offers years of service.

Feel free to connect it with a regular hose using the built-in removable black connector. However, no hose is included in the purchase. You need to buy it separately.

Pros
  • 360-degree automatic watering system
  • 12 built-in nozzles
  • Removable hose connector
Cons
  • No hose included

GrowGreen Rotating Lawn Sprinkler - Best For Resistance To Impact

GrowGreen is devoted to manufacturing top-notch lawn and gardening tools. This rotating sprinkler is a primary example.

It is made of rust-proof polymer and ABS plastic for durability. The whole thing is resistant to impact, meaning that regular wear and tear due to external forces will be reduced to the least.

If placed in the middle of your lawn, this GrowGreen sprinkler can water any foliage within the distance of 32.8 feet at 80 PSI pressure . Feel free to adjust the nozzles on each arm to customize your watering.

According to our experience, this unit works well with standard and high water pressure. However, the water flow is less powerful in areas with low pressure.

The three rotating arms on the sprinkler not only ensure 360-degree watering but also serve as a playground for children in hot summer days. Have you thought about this?

However, these rotating arms are also a drawback. While the device is on, you cannot move it without getting wet.

Also, the nozzles tend to get clogged with debris as the sprinkler works close to the ground.

Pros
  • 3,600 feet coverage at 80 PSI
  • 360-degree watering
  • Adjustable nozzles
Cons
  • Clogged nozzles

Kadaon 360 Degree Garden Sprinkler - Best For Saving Water

To end our list, we would like to recommend this rotating lawn sprinkler from Kadaon. Discover its features with us now.

The sprinkler is made of ABS plastic, featuring three rotating arms. Like the GrowGreen model, it can either water your garden or let your children have fun on hot days.

The water comes out in two directions, including a direct and 45-degree angle. You are able to adjust the water density, size, and scope thanks to the patented water-saving design of this Kadaon sprinkler.

The coverage is about 3000 sq.ft, average size with rotating sprinklers. Those who have medium to larger-sized yards might be interested in it.

Do not forget that there is no connector included in the purchase. You need to buy it separately so that you can attach the sprinkler with hoses.

Pros
  • Affordable price tag
  • Patented water-saving design
  • Small and lightweight
Cons
  • No connector

Getting The Perfect Garden Sprinkler For You

1. Sprays or Rotary Nozzles

best garden sprinkler heads

The first thing you need to consider if you want to get the perfect garden sprinkler is the water distributing type you need. Do you need a sprinkler that sprays water or perhaps one which has a rotary nozzle?

It’s in answering these questions that you get to know the recommended water pressure your sprinkler can accommodate.

It’s highly recommended you get those that have spray or rotary nozzles if you have a water pressure of less than 40 psi.


2. Size

You then have to consider the size of the area. It’s in knowing the area that you get the right type of garden sprinkler that has the right specs.

If the area that you’re going to spray water with is long and narrow, it’s recommended you choose rotary nozzles. They’re effective in precisely targeting the exact place that you wanted to water.

There are also side strip rotators that are what you need if you’re going to place it on a wide area. And if the area you’re targeting is really huge, probably around 30 x 30 feet, then what you need is are rotor garden sprinklers.


3. Shape of the Area’s Edge

You also need to consider how the area’s edges are shaped. You surely don’t want to have water going beyond the area that you intend to supply with water.

If you’re going to place it in an area which has sharp curves, or around a 20 feet radius, it’s recommended for you to get a rotor that has short radii. This ensures that you won’t be over spraying on another part of your lawn.


4. Durability

Of course, you need to take into consideration the durability of the product. It's in knowing it's material that you get to know if it is going to last for a long time.

You want something that is durable and is made of high-quality materials. Through this, you don't have to buy another one if in case it gets damaged.


5. Design

You want something that will compliment the overall look of your garden or lawn. This is the reason why it's also important for you to consider the design of the garden sprinkler you're choosing. It should look nice and good and it should add beauty and design to your outdoors.

The last thing you want to have is something that will look like an eye sore. When you're choosing a product, you need to see to it that its aesthetic value goes hand in hand with its functional value.

It's not just about how effective or how good a product functions because its visual look also has a say in its value.


6. Function

It would also be better if the sprinkler of your choosing has a lot of advanced features that will make the whole watering part of your plants easier.

There are already a lot of sprinklers that boast new intuitive technologies that revolutionize how you take care of your plants.

Examples of these are the Wi-Fi garden sprinklers that you can control through your smart phone.


7. Price

Then there’s the price factor. Most people misunderstood the fact that not all expensive products are of high quality.

Remember that this is not what you should remember because it’s not entirely true. Take note that there are a lot of cheap garden sprinklers that are similar or even better in features and quality than the more expensive ones.

This shows that you need to be vigilant in choosing one because it's not the price that counts. It's the product's durability and function.

The Bottom Line

Amongst other names on the list, the Melnor XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler seems the most outstanding. It is absolutely powerful and efficient. Plus, it is lightweight and compact and has an affordable price tag on it, so that you can set your heart at rest when making a purchase.

Melnor XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler with TwinTouch Width Control & Flow Control, waters up to...*
  • Large volume tube, Maximum pressure (PSI):100
  • 18 Precision rubber nozzles with clog resistant design even at high pressures
  • Clog resistant desgin and built-in flow control
  • Turbo-drive motor for extra long life
  • Patented one-touch width adjustable

Read the reviews carefully and consider your situations and demands to make a wise decision.

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