11 Best Oscillating Sprinklers in 2021

Melnor 65031-AMZ MiniMax Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler on Step Spike

GARDENA 1975 Aquazoom 3900-Square Foot Oscillating Sprinkler

Melnor 65078-AMZ XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler

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Providing your beautiful flowers and vegetables with enough water this summer season can be a little bit of a problem. Manual watering could be fun but could also be really tedious. Luckily, there are alternative irrigation systems that are less tasking and very reliable, one of which is an oscillating sprinkler.

The oscillating sprinkler is among the most common types of lawn sprinklers you can find around. They are popular because they can be relocated easily. The oscillating sprinkler irrigates by spraying out a fan-shaped curtain of water from its multiple nozzles aligned on a long tube, and the metal arm oscillates back and forth to cover an entire length and width of your lawn. It has an adjustment knob to adjust the spraying pattern and to spray water in the direction it is needed. It also has a base made from durable metals and a connector that allows you to connect a garden hose to it. There are things you need to look out for when choosing an oscillating sprinkler. Some of the things to consider include:

MATERIAL: The best oscillating sprinklers are made with durable metal or top-notch quality plastics. The nozzles should be made from brass. Since sprinklers are small, a lot of material is not required in making them.

AREA OF COVERAGE: A good sprinkler should be able to cover a large area. Oscillating sprinklers have been shown to cover square and rectangular shaped lawns. Keep in mind that larger is not always better. As much as it should be able to cover a large area, things shouldn’t go too far.

COMPATIBILITY: Before you get a sprinkler, ensure that it is compatible with your pre-existing irrigation systems like your hose and hose connector. Make sure to check the diameter of your hose and hose connector to ensure it fits properly into the sprinkler.

ADJUSTABILITY: A good oscillating sprinklers should be able to adjust its settings to fit the size of your lawn. An adjustable sprinkler might be a little more expensive than the non-adjustable one, but it sure is worth it.

RANGE OF SPRAY: On average, a sprinkler should be able to cover an area up to 30 feet. You won’t want to choose a sprinkler that you might have to move often to cover areas it can’t reach.

NUMBER OF NOZZLES: The number of holes or nozzles a sprinkler has, has been considered to have an effect on the spraying distance; the more spray jets or nozzles the sprinkler has, the better the coverage. If you want to conserve water and cover a reasonable distance, choose a sprinkler with about 18 nozzles.

MAINTENANCE AND USAGE: An oscillating sprinkler should be easy to set up and maintain. When buying one, ensure it has a user’s guide or instructions that are easy to understand.

In this guide, we provide pertinent information on the best oscillating sprinklers available to help you develop a more confident approach when choosing an oscillating sprinkler. Also, it incorporates answers to commonly asked questions about oscillating sprinklers. Let’s take a look at the list.

The Best Oscillating Sprinklers Are Reviewed Below

Here is a list of some of the best oscillating sprinklers on the market:


1

Melnor 65031-AMZ MiniMax Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler on Step Spike

The Melnor 6503-AMZ MiniMax Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler is a mobile oscillating lawn sprinkler that functions smoothly and comes with a compact package. It is the ideal choice when it comes to adjustability. Its sprinkler head can be rotated to spray in any direction. Irrespective of its compact size it has an imposing coverage of up to 3900 square feet.

It has a metal-based step-spike that makes it easy to secure it into the ground, and it is also available in a tripod stand or sled based option. It has a spray distance of 10 to 75 ft. Length and 10 to 53 ft. Width. It conserves water and has an easy to use control that adjusts to cover even a very narrow slip of lawn.

It features a four-way adjustment that aids precise watering where it is needed, a flow-through base that allows unit to unit connection so multiple sprinklers can be set up at the same time. It also comes with an infinity turbo drive motor for smooth operation that will not cause puddling.

Key Features:

  • Four-way adjustment
  • Zoom control
  • Quick connect product adapter
  • Flow-through base

Specification:

  • Brand: Melnor
  • Model: Melnor 65031-AMZ MiniMax Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler on Step Spike
  • Dimension: 2.75 x 4.92 x 14.17 inches
Pros
  • Minimal water usage
  • It allows for more precise control
  • It operates smoothly
  • It is very easy to adjust
Cons
  • Prone to leaking
  • It doesn’t come with an instruction manual

2

GARDENA 1975 Aquazoom 3900-Square Foot Oscillating Sprinkler

The Gardena 1975 Aquazoom is a great option for flexibility in water coverage area. You can adjust the coverage area to water big or small rectangular spaces. It is quiet, very easy to handle and it suits irrigation of both small and large gardens and lawns.

Just like its older models, it features an adjustment knob that should be changed from time to time. It has 18 nozzles and an incredible coverage area of 301.4 to 3767.4 square feet and an adjustable spray distance of 23 to 69 feet in length and 13 to 55 feet width.

Its spraying height can be regulated by increasing and decreasing the pressure depending on what you need. It is also made of durable plastic, reduces wastage of water and provides explicit irrigation that keeps your lawn green.

Key Features:

  • 18 nozzles
  • Adjustable length
  • Adjustable width
  • Rectangular coverage

Specification:

  • Brand: Gardena
  • Model: Gardena 1975 Aquazoom 3900-Square Foot Oscillating Sprinkler
  • Dimension: 6.6 x 3.6 x 22.4 inches
Pros
  • Easy to adjust
  • Operates quietly
  • It has great coverage
  • Its oscillation is smooth
  • It does not leak
Cons
  • It may start clicking

3

Melnor 65078-AMZ XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler

The Melnor 65078-AMZ XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler is one of the top and most reliable sprinklers. It has a coverage area of about 4200 square feet and is suitable for both residential and commercial irrigating purposes. It can handle pressure as high as 100 PSI, conserves water and does not leak. It features a twin touch control that allows you to adjust the width to fit both small and large areas.

This sprinkler has 20 clog-resistant precision nozzles that allow for better control of the width and range. It comes with a turbo drive motor that ensures smooth operation while watering your lawns, prevents puddling and also ensures extended life.

The Melnor 65078-AMZ XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler is easy to adjust, giving the user complete control over the spray distance and coverage area. It is also very easy to set up, runs smoothly and provides an even dispersal of water across your lawn. You can quickly connect and disconnect the adapter with an included quick connect product adapter which works better with a quick connect product end connector.

Key Features:

  • 20 precision nozzles
  • Twin touch control
  • Infinity turbo drive motor
  • Quick connect product adapter

Specification:

  • Brand: Melnor
  • Model: Melnor 65078-AMZ XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler
  • Dimension: 6.65 x 17.32 x 3.46 inches
Pros
  • Has a good coverage
  • Easy to adjust
  • Built-in nozzle cleaner
  • Does not waste water
  • Even water distribution
Cons
  • Could get stuck spraying the same area

4

GARDENA ZoomMaxx Oscillating Sprinkler on Weighted Sled Base

The Gardena ZoomMaxx Oscillating Sprinkler is among the most popular options in the market. It is capable of effectively watering your lawn irrespective of the shape and size. It is compact, lightweight and stable because of its large sled base.

It has 16 nozzles for even water distribution of water while sprinkling and can cover areas ranging from 76 square ft to 2300 square ft. It has an adjustable spray distance of about 10 – 60 ft to 10 – 40 ft in length and width respectively. It may take some time to get accustomed to the controls, but its adjustment features ensure that you get the right width, length and pattern.

It is made up of high quality durable metal; it operates smoothly and is very easy to install. Its oscillating action is driven by a sealed turbo gear unit which works well with sufficient water pressure. Its nozzles are built with a fine mesh filter that prevents blockage caused by sand or dust and reduces the chances of clogging.

Key Features:

  • 16 flexible rubber nozzles
  • Adjustable width, length and water flow
  • Compact oscillating sprinkler
  • Sealed Turbo gear driven unit

Specification:

  • Brand: Gardena
  • Model: Gardena ZoomMaxx Oscillating Sprinkler on Weighted Sled Base
  • Dimension: 1.5 x 3 x 11 inches
Pros
  • Can be moved to any area of your lawn
  • It is compact
  • Flow range and height can be adjusted easily
  • Its large sled base keeps it stable during watering
  • Works perfectly under low water pressure
Cons
  • Prone to leakage
  • Does not come with an instruction manual

5

Melnor 65055-AMZ XT Metal Turbo Oscillator

The Melnor 65055-AMZ XT Metal Turbo Oscillator is a three-way oscillating sprinkler primarily made up of plastic and a durable metal. It is very easy to adjust. It has a twin touch control that can adjust the width and range of the watering pattern cover an entire yard or a narrow flower bed.

It features 20 precision nozzles and has a maximum coverage of 4500 square feet. It has an adjustable length, width and flow pressure. Its metal base provides firmness to the sprinkler so it would not be tipped when the water pressure is high. It also comes with a nozzle needle to unclog the nozzles when it is blocked and an infinity turbo drive which provides smooth operation for even watering and extended life.

Key Features:

  • 20 nozzles
  • Twin touch control
  • Zoom control
  • Infinity turbo drive
  • Quick connect product adapter

Specification:

  • Brand: Melnor
  • Model: Melnor 65055-AMZ XT Metal Turbo Oscillator
  • Dimension: 6.65 x 17.2 x 3.46 inches
Pros
  • Maintains low water use
  • Easy to adjust
  • Very easy to use for desired coverage
  • It has a metal base for stability
Cons
  • May stop oscillating
  • It is prone to leakage

6

Green Thumb 4200MGT Green Thumb Heavy Duty Metal Oscillating Sprinkler

With a maximum coverage of up to 3900 square feet, the Green Thumb 4200MGT Green Thumb Heavy Duty Metal Oscillating Sprinkler is perfect oscillating sprinkler for a rectangular shaped lawn. It has a one touch width control which makes it simple and easy to operate. The length, width as well as the pressure can be adjusted right on the unit to which helps you fine-tune the settings more easily.

Setting it up for use is very easy because it comes with an instruction manual that is very easy to understand. It also has 18 rubber nozzles which are highly resistant to corrosion and clogging and a sturdy aluminium base that helps it maintain its stability when watering and makes it lightweight.

Key Features:

  • One touch width control
  • Turbo drive motor
  • Clog resistant
  • Sturdy aluminium base

Specification:

  • Brand: Green Thumb
  • Model: Green Thumb 4200MGT Green Thumb Heavy Duty Metal Oscillating Sprinkler
  • Dimension: 18.7 x 4.1 x 7.7 inches
Pros
  • Nozzles have a filter that prevents it from clogging
  • Its flow range and width can be easily adjusted
  • The metal base maintains its stability and its coated to prevent corrosion
  • Instruction manual is easy to understand
Cons
  • May stop oscillating if it’s not handled properly
  • Its nozzles may come off

7

Rocky Mountain Goods Metal Oscillating Lawn Sprinkler

The Rocky Mountain Goods Metal Oscillating Lawn Sprinkler is a reliable heavy-duty sprinkler made of a rust-proof aluminium frame that supports it firmly to the ground, a plastic tube and 20 jets made of brass. Its width can be adjusted by using three buttons on both sides of the machine. Its range and depth can be very easily adjusted to suit your garden or lawn.

This highly effective sprinkler has a maximum coverage of about 4100 square feet and features a coverage adjuster that can regulate its spraying distance. You can also fine-tune its oscillation with an accessible slide button.

Its nozzles are clog-resistant because of the inbuilt water filter at the tip of the hose connector that prevents sand and dust from getting into it. It also has a pressure control that allows for easy regulation of the amount of water that enters the sprinkler.

Key Features:

  • Heavy duty rust-proof aluminium base
  • 20 jets
  • Built in cleaning needle
  • Adjustable flow control
  • Lifetime warranty

Specification:

  • Brand: Rocky Mountain
  • Model: Rocky Mountain Goods Metal Oscillating Lawn Sprinkler
  • 18.4 x 7.4 x 3 inches
Pros
  • It can be adjusted to fit the garden or lawn area
  • Comes with a spray jet cleaning needle
  • Designed with an aluminium frame
  • Easily adjustably spray or range control
Cons
  • Does not come with a user manual
  • Hose connector is too tight

8

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 Indestructible Metal Base Oscillating Sprinkler

The Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 Indestructible Metal Base Oscillating Sprinkler is a durable and efficient oscillating sprinkler which will keep your garden or lawn green with its incredible and customizable coverage pattern of 3600 square feet. It has an adjustable range width control to reach every corner of your lawn. It has 16 plastic clog-resistant nozzles that provide an even water flow and precise dispersal.

The Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 oscillating sprinkler has a leak resistant connection to your standard hose that keeps your mind at rest when watering. Its sealed turbo gear-driven unit has a very reliable performance, and its sturdy indestructible metal base keeps it stable to the ground and maintains its durability. It has a built-in cleaning that clears out the nozzles and keeps it unclogged for an even better efficiency and continuous operation after every season. It also works well under low water pressure.

Key Features:

  • Customizable coverage patterns
  • Superior range width control
  • 16 clog resistant nozzles

Specification:

  • Brand: Aqua Joe
  • Model: Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 Indestructible Metal Base Oscillating Sprinkler
  • Dimension: 15.86 x 5.24 x 2.44
Pros
  • It is leak resistant
  • Indestructible metal base that maintains stability
  • Aluminium frame
  • Customizable width and range
  • Incredible coverage area
Cons
  • Gear box is plastic

9

Melnor XT4100 Deluxe Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler

The Melnor XT4100 Deluxe Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler is one of the most popular models of the Melnor XT turbo oscillating sprinkler series. It conserves water, saves time and energy and could cover a very large lawn of up to 4200 square feet. The best part is that it is very easy to set up by a first time installer.

This sprinkler comes with 20 precision rubber nozzles to cover the maximum area and a twin adjustment that controls the width of the watering pattern to cover up the whole yard or a narrow flower bed. It also features a 2-way adjustment system that helps you water your lawn at your convenience range, and its width and height can be customized to fit your desired taste. It has a built in cleaning tool to keep the nozzles free of debris and dust to ensure even water flow and make it more effective.

The Melnor XT4100 oscillating sprinkler also comes with an infinity drive turbo motor that provides a smooth operation for uniform watering and to make certain its performance is at its best for a long period of time. It handles pressure well, and the spray pattern is equally good.

Key Features:

  • 20 precision rubber nozzles
  • Twin touch adjustment control
  • Infinity turbo drive

Specification:

  • Brand: Melnor
  • Model: Melnor XT4100 Deluxe Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler
  • Dimensions: 17.8 x 7.13 x 3.23 inches
Pros
  • Has a built in cleaning tool
  • Easy to install and operate
  • Good spray pattern
Cons
  • Made entirely of plastic
  • Can stop oscillating
  • Has no regulator

10

Dramm 15005 ColorStorm Premium Metal Oscillating Sprinkler

Finally, we have the Dramm 15005 ColorStorm Premium Metal Oscillating Sprinkler. This sprinkler made up of zinc and brass is best known for its sturdiness. It features 18 brass nozzle jets for even dispersal of water and a needle plug which can be used to clean out the nozzles and ensure it is not clogged with dust or debris.

This oscillating sprinkler could cover an area as large as 3036 square feet and a variable setting which allows you to fine-tune its range to the most suitable option. Due to its durable metal construction, knocks, impacts and high water pressure quite well. It has a good spraying distance and oscillates really well.

It also has a flow control knob that for precision in watering small areas, an heavy duty rubber coated aluminium hose connector and an adjustable dial and tab which delivers various water pattern and spray distance. It is available in 6 rainbow colours: red, orange, yellow, green, blue and berry.

Key Features:

  • Needle plug
  • Durable all metal build
  • 18 heavy duty brass nozzle jet

Specification:

  • Brand: Dramm
  • Model: Dramm 15005 ColorStorm Premium Metal Oscillating Sprinkler
  • 6.10 x 2.60 x 10.20 inches
Pros
  • Cleaning pin to clean out the nozzle
  • Comes in six colours
  • Its metal material makes it stable
  • Has a good spraying distance
Cons
  • Flow control knob may not work properly
  • May get stuck spraying in the same direction

11

RAINWAVE Turbo Gear Oscillating Sprinkler

The RAINWAVE Turbo Gear Oscillating Sprinkler is a firm and sturdy oscillating sprinkler that has a strong and durable metal base that makes it stable and able to withstand pressure. It includes an integrated easy to use timer and a spray tube of high impact plastic. It provides great flexibility because you can use the timer to create a watering schedule and set the sprinkler to work for your desired number of minutes.

This oscillating sprinkler is capable of covering up to 3,700 square feet and approximately 362 square meters. It also features a nozzle cleaning tool that is integrated with the end plug to clean the nozzle jets and prevent it from getting clogged by debris or dust. The adjustable range control allows you to control the oscillating motion and spray angle making it effective for the narrow and broader areas of your lawn to prevent over watering or under watering.

Key Features:

  • Integrated easy to use timer
  • Sturdy and stable wide base
  • Nozzle cleaning tool
  • Long life turbo gear motor
  • Durable spray tube of high impact plastic

Specification:

  • Brand: RAINWAVE
  • Model: RAINWAVE Turbo Gear Oscillating Sprinkler Set with Timer
  • Dimensions: 18 x 7 x 3 inches
Pros
  • Comes with a timer
  • Precision jets for even water dispersal
  • Easy to use
  • Nice water pressure
  • Good for both narrow and broad lawn sizes
Cons
  • Water output is low
  • It is expensive
  • May stop oscillating

Buying Guide Questions

How long should I water my lawn with an oscillating sprinkler?

While using an oscillating sprinkler, it is best to water your lawn for an hour once a week. This is because the oscillating sprinkler puts out 1 inch of water in an hour, and that is what is needed for your lawn or garden to thrive. More frequent watering is required when the weather is dry because the soil dries out quickly in such conditions. You could tell if your lawn is getting enough water by poking with a soil sampling tube, your lawn is getting enough water if the soil is moistened one to two inches below the surface after the initial watering.

Why is my sprinkler not oscillating?

An oscillating sprinkler highly depends on the regulated water pressure for constant dispersal of water; therefore, having low or high water pressure plays a huge role in its operation.

If the water pressure is too low, this may cause no oscillation because there isn’t enough pressure to move the distribution bar back and forth. This may also depend on how low the water pressure is, the sprinkler can move slowly to one side and may not have enough pressure to pivot back.

If the pressure is too high, it can work against the gears, causing them to work contrary to their design specs. When this happens, it can result in the bar not moving at all or moving in an inconsistent motion. This can result in permanent damage or breakage.

What is the most efficient lawn sprinkler?

The oscillating sprinkler is the most efficient lawn sprinkler because it conserves water, sprays out a fan-shaped curtain of water and oscillates back and forth to cover a large distance and large areas of up to 4000 square feet. The best part is their durability, sturdiness and ability to work effectively for a long period of time.

What sprinkler covers the most area?

From the list above, the Melnor 65055-AMZ XT Metal Turbo Oscillator covers the most area of about 4500 square feet.

Is it bad to water grass at night?

It’s absolutely not bad to water your grass at night. In fact, some consider it a good time to water your lawn because unlike watering during the day when the water could evaporate quickly, watering at night allows water to stay in the ground for a longer period of time. Personally, the best time to water your plants is in the morning before the sun comes up.

How do you unclog an oscillating sprinkler?

Debris, sand or rust may clog your sprinklers nozzle jets and prevent it from dispersing water evenly across your lawn; therefore, cleaning your sprinkler is very important in maintaining its functions and ensuring it lasts long. Follow these tips on how to unclog your sprinkler.

  • Wipe the sprinkler head clean: Disconnect the sprinkler from the water hose and use a clean, dry cloth to wipe it clean
  • Examine the sprinkler head: Pay attention to the openings in which the water sprouts from, that is, the jets and check for any obstruction
  • Remove debris with a paper clip or nozzle needle: Bend one end of a paper clip and carefully insert into the opening of the sprinkler head. Some sprinklers come with a nozzle needle; follow the same procedure using the needle. This is enough to remove dirt and other debris that has built up in the small openings of your oscillating sprinkler

Are rotary sprinklers better?

Rotary sprinklers are the type of lawn sprinklers that rotate to throw streams of water in different directions at the same time. The main difference between a rotator sprinkler and an oscillating sprinkle is that the former rotates in order to throw water in a circular motion, in contrast, the latter uses a moving arm to spray water back and forth. Rotary sprinklers cover a larger area than oscillating sprinklers; however, if you are looking to save money, getting an oscillating sprinkler is the best choice because it’s cheaper and more common than the rotary sprinklers.

Conclusion

Finding the best oscillating sprinklers will help you keep your lawn green and your plants growing during the hot summer days. The best oscillating sprinkler must be reliable, durable, affordable, quality made and flexible. It is important to get one that fits the length of your yard and has a warranty in case you ever need it.

We hope this review on the best oscillating sprinklers in 2020 has given you more insights and information on choosing the best sprinklers that would keep your lawn looking green and beautiful.