Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers · head-to-head
Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone) vs Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor WiFi Irrigation Timer
A sourced, side-by-side spec comparison. Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor WiFi Irrigation Timer is cheaper at $169. Every spec and price links to its source.
Side by side
| Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone) | Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor WiFi Irrigation Timer | |
|---|---|---|
| US price | $199.99 (MSRP on rachio.com as of 2026-06-20) | $169 (Current price on store.rainbird.com (list price $199.23) as of 2026-06-20) |
| Brand | Rachio | Rain Bird |
| Released | 2018 | 2019 |
| zones | 8 | 8 |
| hub required | false | false |
| weather intelligence | true | true |
| indoor outdoor rating | indoor; outdoor enclosure sold separately | indoor only (ST8O-2.0 is outdoor variant) |
| works with alexa google | true | true |
| works with homekit | false | false |
| epa watersense | true | true |
| app control | true | true |
| expandable zones | false | false |
Sources — Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller (8-Zone): rachio.com (verified 2026-06-20). Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor WiFi Irrigation Timer: store.rainbird.com (verified 2026-06-20).