A rain sensor measures conditions at the property; weather-based controllers infer conditions from nearby or modeled data. Each solves a different part of the watering problem.
What matters most
A local rain sensor can respond to actual precipitation at the site, while weather-based scheduling can adjust before or after storms using forecast and evapotranspiration logic.
Where buyers get tripped up
Nearby weather data may not match a highly localized storm, while physical sensors can clog, age, or be installed in poor exposure.
What to verify before buying
Check whether the controller can combine both approaches and how rain skips, freeze skips, and seasonal adjustments interact.
How we research smart irrigation
We compare water source, delivery method, zone or plant capacity, local fallback controls, schedule logic, connectivity, sensors, pump or valve compatibility, subscriptions, and what happens when internet service is unavailable.
Prices, specifications, firmware, inventory, and configuration-driven features can change. Check the current manufacturer or retailer page and local requirements before buying or installing equipment.