We researched dozens of sprinklers, evaluating them on functionality, durability, and ease of use. Our top pick, the Melnor 4500 sq. ft. Deluxe Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler, offers an adjustable spray pattern to distribute water evenly over a larger area. Here are the best sprinklers for all types of lawns. Thanks to a turbo drive motor, this sprinkler runs smoothly and resists clogging and puddling. Another handy feature is the nozzle-cleaning tool, which eliminates any blockages that might occur. The internal design keeps water out of the turbo drive motor, which in turn prevents impurities from damaging smaller parts. For that reason, it’s also a great choice for homeowners with wells that may have grit present. Made from heavy-duty plastic, this sprinkler is durably constructed and backed with a lifetime warranty. At just 1.1 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to easily move around a yard. Price at time of publish: $20 This sprinkler is very simple to use. The preset patterns can be adjusted with an easy-to-set dial. Each pattern creates a different shape so you can fine-tune the coverage area to suit your specific needs. Considering the extremely low price, it’s no big surprise that this sprinkler has its limitations. It’s designed to operate with low water pressure, making it best suited for small lawns and gardens. If you have a larger-sized yard, you should opt for a more powerful option. Price at time of publish: $17 Note that this sprinkler serves you well, as long as you use it in the right conditions. Its gentle, fountain-like spray is ideal for watering small areas and targeting trouble spots. It also works best in areas with low water pressure. If your water pressure is too forceful, the sprinkler may come right off the hose. This sprinkler also comes in a rectangular version, which covers an even smaller area–15 x 30 square feet. Price at time of publish: $13 This sprinkler has three speeds–high, low, or neutral–so you can adjust the amount of water saturation to suit your lawn’s needs. At high speed, the unit travels approximately 37 feet per hour and delivers about .25 inch of water. You can also put it in neutral and use it as a stationary sprinkler. The ramp stop can automatically shut off the sprinkler at any location along the hose length, which means you don’t have to worry about wasting water. For added peace of mind, it’s backed by a one-year limited warranty. Price at time of publish: $75 This unit’s weighted circular base keeps it stable and upright–even if you crank up the water pressure. A removable, washable filter stops dirt and debris from entering the sprinkler’s moving parts. Those are made from durable materials that are UV- and frost-proof, which means it should hold up in some of the toughest conditions. Featuring a quick-connect product adapter, this unit is simple to set up and adjust. We found some reports of the sprinkler leaking or breaking within a short time. Although it’s backed by a 2-year warranty, some say they’ve had difficulty reaching customer service. (The company is based in Germany, which may complicate matters for U.S.-based customers.) Also note that the Zoom Maxx is pricier than most of our other picks, so there’s no need to splurge unless your yard requires customization. Price at time of publish: $102 This sprinkler is very easy to install–all you need to do is attach it to a standard hose. The height of the spray depends on your hose and the amount of water pressure in your area. (We read some reports that say the water doesn’t go higher than a few inches, while others say it can go up to 4 or 5 feet.) Price at time of publish: $25 It’s important to note that this sprinkler has a high gallonage output, so it’s not the best choice for areas with low water pressure: When water pressure drops, the hose tends to stop rotating. Also, because it emits a forceful spray, this sprinkler is best suited for grass that has firmly taken root; it could be too powerful for young lawns and freshly seeded ground. Featuring a male pipe thread connection, this sprinkler can be easily installed to risers. Price at time of publish: $27 The kit includes all the tubing and connecting parts, but you need three additional tools to install it: a half-blade shovel or half-moon edger; measuring tape; and garden shears or a tubing cutter along with AA batteries. Installation should be fairly simple for a do-it-yourselfer, but set aside an afternoon to get the job done. Price at time of publish: $130 This unit controls up to eight zones, and it’s also available in a 16-zone version. Note that the panel isn’t water-resistant, which isn’t a problem as long as you mount it indoors. However, if you intend to place the panel outside, you need to invest in a waterproof installation box. Although installation tends to be fairly easy, it may take longer than Rachio’s 30-minute promise. Price at time of publish: $230
Connection
Look for models with a sturdy metal connection to prevent clogs, leaks, and protect against everyday wear and tear. Check to be sure the connection between the hose and sprinkler includes a hose washer.
Features
If your area has water restrictions or if you travel frequently, look for models with automatic timers or irrigation systems. Flow timers and automatic shutoff valves earn extra points for convenience. Adjustable heads and sprinklers that allow you to set a pattern can help with some of the hard to reach places in your yard.
Why Trust the Spruce?
Sage McHugh specializes in the home and garden sector and has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. For this roundup, she considered dozens of sprinklers, carefully evaluating each model’s functionality, durability, and ease of use. She also took hundreds of customer reviews and write-ups from third-party websites into account. Additional insight was provided by Debra LaGattuta, a master gardener and a member of The Spruce’s Gardening and Plant Care Review Board.
