The 7 Best Lawn Sprinklers, Tested by BHG

The Bottom Line

The Melnor Deluxe Metal Pulsating Sprinkler with Tripod is our top pick of the best lawn sprinkler thanks to its adjustable tripod legs, sturdy and durable metal construction, and pulsating action that provided effective coverage. Adjusting its height was intuitive, and moving it around the garden to reach other areas was a breeze. 

Our Testing Process

To find the best lawn sprinklers, we spent 168 hours over a two-week period testing out 12 different models on our lawns. Each lawn sprinkler was evaluated on its setup, effectiveness, features, and durability.

We began by setting up each sprinkler according to the manufacturer’s instructions and connecting it to a water source (noting how easy it was to do so), if any special tools were required, and how clear and helpful the instructions were. 

Next, we looked for and tried out any special features like pressure regulators, adjustable flow direction and intensity, range, and pattern options to accommodate different lawn sizes and shapes, and minimize water waste.

We paid special attention to whether the sprinklers leaked, dripped, or became clogged, and if so, whether we were easily able to solve the issues. For traveling sprinklers, we assessed how efficiently they moved around the yard, and whether they ever got stuck. 

Finally, we evaluated each sprinkler’s construction (body and components), durability (whether they could withstand outdoor conditions and regular use), and overall value to determine if we’d recommend it. 

What to Know About Lawn Sprinklers Before Shopping

Sprinkler Type

According to Cosby, stationary sprinklers and self-propelled styles are the two main types of lawn sprinklers you’ll find while shopping. They can then be broken down into sub-types, like rotating, oscillating, and pulsating. 

• Stationary: These are typically round devices with water holes that can spray water out in a fixed pattern. They stay in one place on the lawn and are better suited to small yards.
• Oscillating: This type of sprinkler, like the Aqua Joe Oscillating Sprinkler, is typically rectangular with holes along the body, and it sprays out water with a back-and-forth motion in a fan shape, covering large areas of grass at a time.
• Rotating: Also known as rotary sprinklers, rotating models, like the GrowGreen Sprinkler, usually have two to four water spouting arms that turn, spraying water around in a circular pattern. 
• Impact: Another type of rotating sprinkler, this style is usually good at spraying at a higher pressure. One example is our top pick for large yards, the Orbit Impact Sprinkler on Tripod Base.
• Pulsating: A pulsating model, like the Melnor Deluxe Metal Pulsating Sprinkler with Tripod, our best overall pick, uses a rotating nozzle to spray water in pulsating bursts in circular patterns, which efficiently covers a wider area. These typically have adjustable settings to control the distance and angle of the spray.
• Wobbler: Similar to pulsating options, a wobbler sprinkler releases the water via a wobbling action that creates a gentle and uniform spray pattern. This type requires less water pressure than other sprinklers.
• Traveling: A traveling sprinkler, like the Orbit Traveling Sprinkler, is almost like a little robot with wheels that moves around the yard by itself watering all the areas. Instead of advanced AI, however, the power of the water alone, or a track created by the garden hose, moves the sprinkler along.
• Pop-Up: These types of sprinklers are fixed into the ground. They “pop up” when you turn the system on and then go back down when you turn it off, neatly tucking away out of sight.
• Telescoping: The telescoping sprinkler is a type of pop-up sprinkler, but it extends up much higher than the typical pop-up types, making it ideal for watering shrubbery, too.
• Irrigation kits: These are watering systems that come with tubes and various sprinkler heads. Set-up is a little more complex but you can customize the kit to your exact needs. They’re designed to release the water slowly for thorough watering without wastage, and can be almost hidden in the soil.

Spray Coverage/Pattern 

Depending on the sprinkler type and model, sprinklers can have a spray coverage of anywhere from 400 square feet all the way to 6,000 square feet, or more. The Orbit Traveling Sprinkler, for instance, has an impressive spray coverage of 13,500 square feet.

 Although some traveling sprinklers might offer a smaller spray coverage than a stationary model, it can cover more area thanks to its ability to move around the yard.

“Impact sprinklers are good for long spray throws, while rotary sprinklers are more efficient and less affected by wind,” says Cosby. “For newly seeded lawns, consider oscillating or wobbler sprinklers, which throw a more gentle spray.” 

You might find that just one sprinkler is enough if you have a small- to medium-sized lawn, whereas a larger lawn might need various sprinklers spread throughout the grass, or an irrigation kit with several sprinklers, like the Flantor Drip Irrigation Kit. 

As well as coverage, you may want to consider coverage patterns as well. “Stationary sprinklers will typically throw an adjustable circular pattern, oscillating sprinklers a rectangular fan-like pattern, while self-propelling models move in a circular pattern,” says Cosby. 

Hose Size

Each sprinkler will state the suitable hose size needed to operate, but the typical size used for tasks requiring high water pressure (such as water sprinklers) is ⅝ inch. 

“Always check the sprinkler hose connection size,” Cosby advises. “Most work with a standard ⅝-inch hose, but some may require ¾-inch.” Note that many of the thinner ½-inch hoses can't move enough water to keep the sprinklers working. 

Water Pressure

Water pressure is measured in PSI, or pounds per square inch. While most sprinklers are designed to be used with a minimum water pressure of approximately 30 PSI, you have to know the water pressure at your home before you buy the best lawn sprinkler for you. 

According to Cosby, “Rotary and wobbler-type sprinklers require less water pressure, while impact sprinklers require the most.”

If you have good home water pressure and find that the sprinklers are not performing as they should be or that the water pressure is low, there are many things you can try. For starters, you can check the backflow preventer valve to make sure it's completely open. The same goes for the main water valves or shut-off valves. 

You’ll also want to ensure that there isn't a water link break, a leak in the system, or some kind of obstruction in the head, such as dirt, that has caused the sprinkler to clog. If you still find that your sprinklers aren't putting out a lot of pressure, you might want to call in an irrigation specialist. 

Material

Sprinklers can come in many different materials, but the most common are metal, and plastic, which is typically less expensive. Sprinkler piping systems are often made from steel. Many sprinkler heads are constructed from hard-wearing and durable ABS plastic or metals such as brass or stainless steel. 

Plastic is less prone to rusting but could crack in too much direct sunlight. If you opt for a metal version and plan on having it for a long time, ensure that it's rust-proof, resistant to corrosion, and can withstand the elements. “I prefer metal sprinklers for the most part,” Cosby tells us. “They are much more durable than high-impact plastics.”

Other Lawn Sprinklers We Tested

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 Oscillating Sprinkler

The Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 Oscillating Sprinkler is a smaller version of our pick for the best sprinkler for flower beds, the Aqua Joe Oscillating Sprinkler. It’s easy to set up, with clear instructions, and offers adequate coverage, albeit with a limited range.

During testing, we found that this sprinkler would be better for use on specific areas or projects rather than the whole lawn as, in addition to its small range, there aren’t many spray adjustments. Other than the two levers that control how far left and right the sprinkler oscillates, there are no special features, and you cannot adjust the pattern or intensity of the spray. 

Melnor 4501 Traveling Sprinkler Lawn Rescue

The Melnor 4501 Traveling Sprinkler Lawn Rescue, is an easy-to-assemble unit with high-quality parts, including a brass fitting for the hose connection. Although far-reaching, the spray was hard to control. The arms can be somewhat adjusted, but the pressure has to be managed from the faucet. It also moved quite slowly (so much so that we wondered if it was actually working). 

Orbit 3-Arm High-Rise Sprinkler

The Orbit 3-Arm High-Rise Sprinkler has a telescoping pole and three-arm sprinkler head that offers an even and wide coverage of about a 50-foot diameter. It’s well-made, with a sturdy metal construction, and brass arms.

The height is adjustable, but there are no settings for spray intensity or direction. We particularly liked the two specific hose slots on either side of the unit that allows you to daisy-chain more than one sprinkler together. While lacking in adjustable settings, it's a durable and effective option for medium-sized lawns and gardens.

Your Questions, Answered

How often should you run your lawn sprinklers?

Whether you’re a new homeowner or you’re new to lawn care, knowing how often to run your lawn sprinklers takes some practice. Typically, it depends on the time of year and your area’s climate. 

On average, lawns should be watered around once a week unless there was a good amount of rain. However, in the summer, you should be watering your lawn two to three times per week. According to Cosby, lawns in areas with very hot and dry climates may need to be watered twice a day. 

In addition to the climate where you live, Khandker says that how long you should be running the sprinklers for depends on "the type of grass you have, the type of sprinkler you have, and the size of your lawn." 

For instance, warm-season grass needs less watering than cool-season grass, so check with your gardener or lawn specialist to make sure you know how much you should be watering your particular type of grass. As a reference point, the amount you should be watering your lawn usually averages 1 to 2 inches of water for most types of grass.

What is the best way to water a large lawn?

Lawn sprinklers are the best way to keep a large lawn watered. “For really big lawns, consider a sprinkler cart with an impact sprayer, or self-propelled sprinkler,” says Cosby. Impact sprayers, such as the Orbit Impact Sprinkler on Tripod Base, can reach more area quicker than other types thanks to the high water pressure. Traveling sprinklers can also access more of the yard than stationary types.

Many professionals suggest that the best way to efficiently water a lawn is to operate the sprinklers for half of the suggested watering time, wait about 20 to 30 minutes for the water to fully penetrate the surface, and then resume watering for the remaining amount of time. To further maximize watering efficiency and save water on a large lawn, Cosby advises watering your lawn “in the morning or evening to avoid fast evaporation in the midday sun.”

What is the most efficient lawn watering system?

Most water sprinklers will save you time, energy, and water, making them a worthwhile purchase. “Rotary sprinklers will be the most water-efficient, while self-propelled sprinklers will often save the most time and effort,” says Cosby. 

Again, the most efficient lawn watering system for you depends mainly on the size of your garden. To efficiently water a small garden, a stationary, rotating model, like the Dramm Premium Turret Sprinkler, will suffice, whereas larger gardens should opt for traveling or impact sprinklers. Flower beds need a gentler spray, so something like the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS20 Oscillating Sprinkler or the Flantor Drip Irrigation Kit would be best.

The way you mow your lawn in each season could also have an impact on how well it gets watered. Khandker advises that, in hot weather, you should leave your grass a little bit longer when you mow it. This encourages the grass to develop deeper roots to access more water and stay safe from the summer heat.

Who We Are

This article was written by Kat de Naoum, who has over 11 years of commerce-writing experience. She has been writing for Dotdash Meredith since 2019, and at BHG since 2021. Kat is also the commerce editor-at-large at Thomas-Xometry, the leading U.S. online platform for supplier discovery and product sourcing. 

For this article, she evaluated testing insights on lawn sprinklers we tried at home. Kat also spoke to Sean Khandker, the owner of InsideOut Gardening, Coleman Cosby, the in-house construction expert at Yardzen, and Wesley Stanton, the owner of Sierra Madre Landscape Co.

What is BHG Recommends?

Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they're worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn't an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.