Expert Pick #05

Netro Sprite.

Netro Sprite — the cheapest EPA WaterSense controller you can buy, and a genuinely smart one. Builds a custom schedule from soil type, plant mix, sun exposure and local forecast; claims up to 50% water savings. Lifetime cloud service, no subscription. Alexa + Google only.

Netro Sprite

The Verdict.

8.3/ 10

Gavler Meta-Score

The cheapest WaterSense controller on the list, with a genuinely smart ML-driven schedule. The right pick when WaterSense + budget beat HomeKit + ecosystem.

The Gavler Verdict

Precision Engineering

ML-Driven Watering Schedule

Builds a custom schedule from soil type, plant mix, sun exposure, and local forecast. Claims up to 50% water savings vs dumb-timer baseline.

EPA WaterSense Certified

Cheapest WaterSense-certified controller currently sold — unlocks utility rebates in drought-prone regions.

Lifetime-Free Cloud Service

No subscription gate on ML schedule features — unusual at the sub-$100 price point.

Technical Specifications

Form FactorIndoor backbox controller
Zones6 (SPRITE-6) or 12 (SPRITE-12)
ConnectivityWi-Fi (2.4 GHz)
Apple HomeKitNot supported
MatterNot supported (firmware as of 2026)
VoiceAlexa, Google Assistant
EPA WaterSenseCertified

The Scoreboard

Expert Consensus84%
Community Rating85%

Reviewed 2026 runner-up behind Rachio. Expert consensus reflects WaterSense + ML-driven schedule + lifetime-free cloud; community scores reflect the budget price point relative to the lack of HomeKit + Matter.

Cast Your Vote

Do you think Netro Sprite deserves the #5 spot in Best Smart Sprinkler Controllers?

Best Price Availability.

Prices checked April 2026

Global Critique

Netro Sprite is the cheapest WaterSense smart controller you can buy, and it earns its WaterSense status.

Reviewed

The ML schedule actually works — once you give it accurate soil and plant inputs, the savings show up on the next water bill.

Bob Vila

No subscription. No HomeKit. Just a cheap, smart controller that saves water.

The Spruce