The 10 Best Oscillating Sprinklers

This wiki has been updated 27 times since it was first published in December of 2018. Oscillating sprinklers are affordable and easy to use, which makes them one of the most popular methods of maintaining lush lawns and gardens. Today’s models provide a great deal of adjustability, so you’ll only use as much water as you need based on the size and shape of your yard. Our list ranks the best choices, taking into account factors like price, durability, and available controls. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 27 times since it was first published in December of 2018. Oscillating sprinklers are affordable and easy to use, which makes them one of the most popular methods of maintaining lush lawns and gardens. Today’s models provide a great deal of adjustability, so you’ll only use as much water as you need based on the size and shape of your yard. Our list ranks the best choices, taking into account factors like price, durability, and available controls. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Melnor XT4200M

Thanks to its Infinity Drive turbo motor, the Melnor XT4200M (appx. $40) proves to be a reliable selection that will help ensure a beautiful green lawn for many seasons. Through a simple adjustment, it can handle large yards, narrow flower beds, or anything in between.

Sturdy metal bottom
No hose adapter needed
Backed by lifetime warranty

2. Gardena ZoomMaxx

If you have an irregularly-shaped plot of grass, consider the Gardena ZoomMaxx (appx. $56), which is capable of covering 3 to 36 feet in length and 8 inches to 20 feet in width. Its controls are intuitively designed, and its double row of nozzles helps prevent dry spots.

Can be daisy chained
Highly customizable
Weighted sled base

3. Orbit 56762

Look to the Orbit 56762 (appx. $20) for a low-priced choice that performs well consistently, thanks to its state-of-the art, gear-driven motor. You’ll appreciate the longevity afforded by its metal components, including the frame and a brass coupling.

Side screen keeps out debris
Ergonomic rubber attachment grip
Delivers precise coverage

4. Sun Joe SJI-OMS16 Indestructible

The Sun Joe SJI-OMS16 Indestructible (appx. $22) keeps your garden green without wasting water, thanks to its leak-resistant connection that prevents overspray. And if your kids tend to play roughly, rest assured this one has been tested to withstand some weight.

Eye-catching blue finish
Operates quietly
No switch for changing pressure

5. Melnor XT Turbo

The Melnor XT Turbo (around $20) reaches up to an impressive 25 feet in each direction, and with its patented one-touch levers, you truly can just set it and forget it. While it’s made of strong plastic, it likely won’t give you as many years of use as some of the metal-based options.

Allows for pattern positioning
Two-stage long-life motor
Tabs are somewhat fragile

6. Green Thumb 4200MGT

The Green Thumb 4200MGT (around $27) is made with a durable aluminum base, and its one-touch width setting ensures you won’t be wasting water on your sidewalk or driveway. As an added bonus, its low profile makes it perfect for kids to jump over, for hours of good old-fashioned fun.

Handy shutoff knob
Clog-resistant nozzles
Prone to breaking

7. Dramm 15004 ColorStorm

The sturdy Dramm 15004 ColorStorm (around $44) features a metal construction and a heavy-duty, rubber-coated aluminum connector. It’s simple to use and to clean, so the hardest part just might be deciding which of the six available color options to order.

From a well-respected company
Fittings made of brass
Bar known to get stuck

8. Orbit 56133 Easy-Click

The Orbit 56133 Easy-Click (appx. $10) is a basic, no-frills model that’s priced accordingly and sprays evenly in a rectangular pattern. You don’t need to fight over whose turn it is to reposition it, since its wide plastic bottom slides smoothly and won’t tip.

Compact and lightweight
An affordable choice
Dial is difficult to move

9. Gardena Aquazoom 1973

The Gardena Aquazoom 1973 (appx. $53) is a breeze to set up and customize, so you’ll be relaxing in your lawn chair in no time. It boasts one of the longest spray ranges around, but note that it does not provide any means of adjusting the flow.

Dismantles easily for cleaning
No instructions included
Puts a dent in your wallet

10. Gilmour Heavy Duty Rectangular

The Gilmour Heavy Duty Rectangular (around $27) is a cinch to handle, as it features an easy-to-grip connector that spins and attaches to your hose in just a few seconds. With a metal base and a weight of 1.7 pounds, it’s not as likely to move around from water pressure as some.

Made from durable plastic
2 separate tabs for width control
Does not always rotate smoothly

Last updated by Christopher Thomas

Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.

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