While its not a precision rain gauge like the Stratus, it is cheap and gets the job done.. Youll never have to go outside to take a measurement, theyre easy to read and easy to maintain. If you want to get started right away, here are our picks for the best rain gauges. Our first four recommendations offer the most accurate precipitation measurements. If youve got a sprinkler system, you can prevent overwatering to save money on your bill. Still, these totals fell within the 10% margin we consider acceptable for digital rain gauges. The Oregon Scientific RGR126N Wireless Rain Gauge Weather Station is another weather resistant, quality rain gauge with the important self-emptying feature. Has your city seen 100F+ temperatures this summer? The La Cross Waterfall Rain Gauge is interesting. It also gives it a more accurate storm alert feature that provides information about the extent and severity of an oncoming storm or flood. Ambient Weather has produced quality weather stations for years. The LCD monitor display also has a few extra features, including indoor temperature and humidity measurements. At Weather Station Advisor, I joined the team to provide you with the best reviews, recommendations and advice to get the most out of your investment. Like the ECOWITT, it stores rainfall data, but in a slightly different way. Smart home integration within the WS-2902C allows you to connect it to other devices within your home or ask for current conditions via Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. AcuRite 00899 Deluxe Wireless Rain Gauge This rain gauge is great for people who want the basic premium features at a good price. While that might seem like a lot, the measurement error will be less than a tenth of an inch in most rainstorms. Just keep in mind that you will have some splashback from your railings into the gauge, especially in heavy rain, which might skew your measurements a bit high. It keeps weather records for the current day, week and month, and year, as well as the previous day and year. With wireless transmission, you dont have to go out in the rain to obtain data and often dont even have to log records yourself. The rain gauge can measure up to six inches of rain, and the whole unit slides out of the mount for easy cleaning. The console also displays information on indoor temperature and humidity. Accuracy is on par with the Davis Vantage Pro2, and smart home connectivity a new sonic anemometer make this our top pick. Rain gauges are used to measure rainfall accurately. Were big fans of the Jumbo EZRead rain gauges debris guard to keep it from clogging.

Based on our own experience and the reviews of the WS-2902C by other owners, this latest model is also a high-quality station. NerdTechy is supported by its audience. Each of the rain gauges on this list are great options. Use a level to ensure the mouth of the gauge itself is level. Built to the National Weather Service specifications, the Stratus is exceptionally accurate. Gauge markings also affect accuracy. We strongly recommend purchasing the best model you can afford to get the most accurate results and the longest usable life. However, even the Stratus isnt challenging to useit just requires a bit more time to learn the procedure. But the option to attach it to a deck or wall makes it useful in certain situations where you might not have a clear area to place a stake. For more information on installing and using a rain gauge, please read our article about how to use a rain gauge to measure rainfall at your house. This could cause inaccurate measurements. As a bonus, measurement markings are in both US and metric measurements (our other budget recommendations are all in the US system, unfortunately sorry international readers! Placing them above the post ensures that rain hitting the post doesnt splash back into the gauge. Click here to check the price of the Ambient Weather WS-2902C on Amazon. What is the best way to mount a rain gauge? Read the manufacturers instructions before cleaning.

It is ideal for users who need to be able to analyze weather and rainfall trends over long periods of time. The funnel includes a filter to prevent debris from clogging the inner tube, and the included stake secures the gauge to the ground.

You should be able to get several years of use out of this gauge without an issue.. A rainfall alarm alerts you to events that exceed a set rate or amount, with flood watch alarms when rainfall may cause flooding conditions. Our 2022 Picks, Solar Flares: What They Are and Why They Matter.

For farmers, a longer hose is better because it collects more water. You will save yourself lots of headache in the long run. My biggest disapointment is that there is no backlight and you have to turn on a room light to see the amount of rainfall.

Plus, it comes with the option of measuring rainfall amounts in either inches or mm. There are quite a few reasons why you might want to install a rain gauge to monitor the rainfall in your backyard.

If youre planning to join a rainfall reporting network like CoCoRAHS, this is the preferred rain gauge to use. There are many rain gauges out there that fulfill a range of different needs depending on the user. We recommend the WS-2902C overall if youre going the digital route. Unlike some other options, this electronic rain gauge cant connect to the internet to share your data. They are also used in scientific applications. Lets take a look at the factors you need to consider and the features you should look for when buying a rain gauge so you end up with the best model for your specific needs. The problem with shopping for a rain gauge is that these devices are often used by professional weather analysts or horticulturalist who require very sophisticated and specific equipment. Thats right some rain gauges dont hold up in harsh weather as well as others, so be on the lookout for cheap rain gauges that cant fulfill their most basic function. A level should be used to ensure that the mouth of the gauge is level. This is displayed on the included console, along with rain rate, daily rainfall (weekly, monthly, and yearly), a graphical display and the support for metric measurements for those outside the US. The Oregon Scientific has the best wireless transmission range of the group. Youll get precise rainfall readings to .01, and the rain gauge is built to National Weather Service standards. Lucky for you, there are tons of rain gauges marketed toward the everyday consumer. It also comes with a rainfall alarm. Rain gauges should be purchased with a minimum capacity of 4 inches. It is also ideal to get a rain gauge that provides wireless data transmission.

Hi, thanks for stopping by. If you live in a wetter area, those errors can add up over time. One of the best standout features of the 01089M is its long term data recording. All prices are in USD. We dont have wifi in our home. Also, in light rainfall, they may fill up too slowly and under measure. So finally, which rain gauge is best for you? Ecowitt licensed its stations to Ambient Weather here in the US, but you can still purchase a few weather instruments that Ambient Weather doesnt sell here in the states from Amazon. A garden hose should be about 5-6 inches long. We think the AcuRite Digital Rain Gauge is a great budget option for those just interested in an accurate rain gauge without breaking the bank. They all boast premium features like self-emptying rain collectors, high weather resistance, and wireless data transmission to monitor displays with clocks that you can keep conveniently indoors. Made of UV-resistant polycarbonate plastic, the Stratus can measure up to 11 of rain (1 in the inner tube and up to 10 in the outer cylinder. Rain gauges measure rainfall by measuring how much water falls onto a surface. Measuring in at a massive 26-inches tall, this extra-large rain gauge can be read from over 50 feet away (thats not a typo). Best for Metric Measurements: OutdoorHome 6 Rain Gauge, 9. Plus, this features does still include the heavy rainfall warning which in most cases is the more important feature. The AcuRite 00899 Deluxe Wireless Rain Gauge transmits data every 16 seconds with an enhanced 433 MHz signal. Editors Note: Our first four suggestions are intended for those looking for more accurate measurements. The AcuRite 01089M Rain Gauge comes with the same basic features as the 00899 model, such as a self-emptying rain collector, measurements in inch or millimeter accuracy, and a wireless LCD display. The next four below are much cheaper and better if youre looking for a budget rain gauge. I do like the size of the readout letters. 12 Animals That Can Supposedly Predict the Weather. But you still need to know how to operate them properly. What Is Hail and How Does It Form? The most common mechanism for digital rain gauges is a tipping bucket construction. As I've found out on my own, weather stations aren't cheap, and it's easy to make a costly mistake. Most of us have. The first recorded rain gauges date back as far as Ancient Greece, meaning many different methods of rain collection have developed over time. Once the buckets reach a certain level, they tip over and release the contents. Youll be able to place the self emptying rain gauge anywhere within about 300 feet of the console. The Netatmo device shines with its smart home capabilities, offering access via IFTTT or the Amazon Alexa digital assistant. The flexibility this rain gauges accuracy makes it a great product for a broad spectrum of users, from the casual observer to the more serious gardener. One of the benefits of a digital model is an unlimited measuring capacity. Youll get accurate readings, but as the rain rate increases, the tipping buckets fill quickly, and in some cases, they may not be able to keep up. But for most users this is a minor fallback since youre always a window-look away from determining for yourself whether its raining. It will not crack or discolor due to heat, cold, or sunlight, and long-term owners report years of use without replacing it. What is necessary and what isnt?

Digital rain gauges do not require you to be at the rain gauge itself to take a measurement. Digital rain gauges work by funneling rain into buckets. Using the provided mounting bracket, you can mount them on fence posts, patio rails, or other elevated spots. In turn, an accurate rain gauge can even save you money in water usage. Weather Station Reviews and Buying Advice. This feature is also great for the curious enthusiast, who might be using the rain gauge for basic weather analysis. There are many different types of rain gauges available, but there are some things you should know before purchasing. . So, what should you be looking for in your rain gauge? Rainfall is collected from the top, falling into the gauge itself (thus the waterfall name). For the best results, use a model with a mounting bracket and install the gauge 2-5 feet off the ground on the side of a fence post or pole. The numbers on the back of the gauge are magnified by about a third thanks to the half-circle shape of the front. Do all of these gauges need wifi to transmit? It has the same conical design as AcuRites model above. The data goes to an indoor LCD monitor display that also includes a clock and calendar for increased functionality and convenience. I consent to be e-mailed by The Weather Station Experts. Why are we recommending a weather station in a rain gauge buying guide? What Is the Best Barometric Pressure for Fishing? The way a gauge is marked will affect your accuracy as well. Or, if you have an interest in monitoring the weather, then a rain gauge is a must-have instrument in your weather-watching toolkit. It also records temperature and humidity for a slightly more advanced data record. Some rain gauges only read as small as inches, which can be a disadvantage to landscapers, gardeners and farmers whose plants require specific watering needs. Plus, rain gauges have a long history. If youd like to see our review and comparison of the WS-2902C against other models on the market, please read our home weather station guide. The WS-5000 is Ambient Weather's top-of-the-line weather station, and it shows. Ideally, place the gauge in an area at a distance twice as far away as the height of the nearest obstruction (e.g., set the gauge 20 feet away from 10-foot tall trees). They can help you improve the health and sustainability of your garden, give you a deeper understanding of your regions weather conditions, or offer important data that gives you information about the local environment as a whole. Rain gauges should be accurate because they are used to measure rainfall accurately. Learn more. Not surprisingly, rain gauges are used by many people including homeowners, hobbyists, farmers, green keepers, government agencies, schools, agricultural and horticulturalists, and the list goes on! The console stores the last seven in its memory along with time and date. It is important to find a spot for your rain gauge that isnt obstructed by trees or walls, and this long range gives you more flexibility with placement options. And most importantly, you dont have to get soaked to read it in the middle of a torrential downpour to read it! Best Wireless Rain Gauge: ECOWITT WH5360B High Precision Wireless Digital Rain Gauge, 4. The rain gauge comes with a mounting bracket that you can place on a post and easily slide the Stratus on and off the bracket to measure rainfall and clean the gauge. We think the self-emptying WH5360B is one of the best rain gauges for gardeners and farmers who want accurate measurements but dont need a fully-featured weather station. We may receive a small commission as a result on clicks on the above links. While the conical design does introduce some error into your readings, its not enough for us to shy away from recommending it. This is the best bang for your buck rain gauge and ideal for casual landscapers and gardeners working with smaller areas. If youre looking for a digital rain gauges convenience and internet connectivity, we recommend the Ambient Weather WS-2902C weather station. Many cheap analog rain gauges are marked to the tenth of an inch, whereas official measurements are taken to the nearest hundredth of an inch. Rain gauges are much easier to use than analog ones.

A gauges size affects how much water it can hold. No worries if you cant do this, just put the gauge in the most open area of your property for best results! It the most aesthetically pleasing of the group, which also makes it great for those whose gardens are on display. So whether you are a serious gardener or landscaper, or a weather analysis enthusiast, this is the rain gauge for you. I'm the lead contributor here at Weather Station Advisor. Best Budget Option: AcuRite 00850A2 5-Inch Easy-Read Rain Gauge, 5. The only downside to this model is that it doesnt inform you when it starts raining, which means that readings under 1 mm might go unnoticed.

They might not have the precise readings of the more expensive models but still works well for general applications. First, pick a rain gauge that is very weather resistant. Even the best rain gauges wont be able to overcome a lousy install, meaning your readings will be inaccurate if you dont place the unit in an optimal position. If you dont mind getting a little wet, and would like more accuracy than either of the two options above, the Australian-made OutdoorHome 6 Rain Gauge is a good buy. Rainfall is measured to .01, and an extra-large funnel ensures more accurate rainfall readings than most other weather stations on the market. More serious users might be a bit turned away because of this. What Is the Ideal Humidity Level for a Babys Room? The indoor data also keeps a record of all-time highs and lows with time stamps. Everyone uses their rain gauge for slightly different purposes, but regardless of which category you fall under, you will need something more accurate than a simple bucket. As a result, we may earn an affiliate commission via the links on our site at no additional cost to you. These include tipping bucket rain gauges, optical rain gauges, acoustic rain gauges and more! However, a professional analog gauge like the Stratus Precision, has an 11 capacitywhich youll likely never exceed during its useable life. We have narrowed down the most important functions that you should look for in any rain gauge you decide to purchase. These features make the 01089M ideal for more involved landscapers and horticulturalists who have a variety of plants that are affected by sensitive weather conditions. What Is the Ideal Indoor Humidity Level in Winter at Home? A digital model may offer unlimited capacity, however, a professional analog gauge such as the Stratus Precision has a maximum capacity of 11 inches. While its as expensive as some digital rain gauges, youll be able to measure both rain and snow; something digital gauges cannot do. Davis Instruments AirLink Review: Great, But You Need to Buy Into the Ecosystem, Ambient Weather WS-2902C Review: Best Budget Weather Station, Davis Vantage Vue vs Vantage Pro2: Its a Tough Choice, Prime Day is Happening: Here The Best Weather Station Deals, What Ambient Weather Station Should I Buy? Please consider sharing: Oregon Scientific RGR126N Wireless Rain Gauge Weather Station, Oregon Scientific RGR126N Wireless Rain Gauge, AcuRite 01089M Rain Gauge with Thermometer & Humidity, Foscam DBW5 2K/4MP Video Doorbell Camera Review, Dreame Spring Cleaning Deals: Save on Dreametech Stick, AXIS Gear Smart Blinds In-Depth Review and Analysis, Levoit LVAC-120 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner Review, Huion Kamvas 24 Plus Review (Unboxing, Testing, How-to Guide: Best PS4 Replacement Disc Drive. Submit your weather station pictures to us! An integrated hang hole allows you to hang it from a post, but you can also place it on the ground using the included stake. For gardeners and weather enthusiasts alike, a rain gauge is an essential tool to have. Our Rain Gauge Recommendation: We recommend the Stratus Precision Rain Gauge because it provides the most accurate results. But other data can trigger your smart lights, blinds, and more. This gives you the most freedom to put the rain collector wherever you want, and is an especially useful feature for large yards or properties.

The WS-2902C offers more value for money than a wireless rain gauge with its smart home connectivity and an extensive list of instruments that provide a complete view of the weather conditions. Although, the complete weather stations can be more helpful to farmers. If youre already in the market for a rain gauge, you might be reading this page because you have been so overwhelmed with how many different kinds of rain gauges are out there. Weather Station Advisor readers come from around the world, so wed be remiss not to include a metric rain gauge in our list. They also require manual checking. On top of rainfall data, the 01089M also records outdoor conditions like temperature and humidity. There are many options to choose from, but theyre not all built to a high standard. Large numbers are printed on the front of the La Crosse gauge in .1 increments, and a floating piece of red plastic allows you to take a quick measurement from a distance. Learn more by checking out our about us page. It is also perfect for those who have a wide variety of plants growing, because it is the only unit that offers indoor temperature and humidity data. A red float moves up the inside of the gauge to indicate water level, and it has a maximum capacity of five inches. From an ease-of-use perspective, a digital rain gauge is far more convenient. Take at a look at our list and find the best rain gauge for you. Its a great function that can significantly increase the functionality and efficiency of your data recording. An included mounting bracket can be attached to a fence post or porch railing. A good, accurate rain gauge can help you keep track of how much water your plants are getting naturally, and how much you should provide yourself. These features give it great durability and better accuracy than most mid-range rain gauges on the market. Built to National Weather Service and CoCoRAHS standards, it can measure up to 11" of rain. My interests lie in severe weather and climate change. Wireless gauges are easier to use and maintain. Some will find the WS-2902Cs IFTTT support very useful. A gauges construction affects the accuracy of the gauge itself. Things to Do in Roswell NM: More than just UFOs, How the Sunspot Cycle Affects Us Here on Earth, The Life Cycle of a Thunderstorm: From Formation to Dissipation, Includes rain gauge, and indoor temperature and humidity sensor in console, Tracks rain rate and 24 hour and weekly rainfall, Easy to read measurements, even from a distance, Mounts easily to porch railings or staked to the ground, Floater inside makes it easy to read from a distance. The Stratus can even be used to measure snowfall.

If AcuRites Easy Read Rain Gauge isnt large enough for you to read at a distance, then Taylors Jumbo Jr. 20 Easy Read is a great alternative solution. Click here to check the price of the most accurate rain gauge: the Stratus Precision on Amazon. Wed recommend placing it on the included stake to prevent splash back from your deck railing that will hurt your accuracy by overmeasuring rainfall. It is built to be hung over your deck railing or fence, with large numbers on the front and a floating marker to make the rain gauge easier to read at a distance. Rain gauges allow people to measure rain without having to go outside. Cheap gauges may be marked to the tenth degree, but official measurements are taken to a hundredth degree. Our Privacy PolicyOur Affiliate Link Policy. Rain gauges are suitable for gardening and weather enthusiasts alike. The La Crosse 705-109 waterfall gauge is similar to the above recommendations, and its a decent low-priced alternative that you can attach to your deck. Deeper, less frequent watering are often more beneficial to the plants than light, regular watering. Rain gauges are very important tools used by farmers to measure rainfall. ), This rain gauge is made of heavy-duty plastic material, which wont turn yellow or crack with age. International users will be directed to their local retailer if available. You can place the monitor anywhere you like it can stand on a countertop or is wall mountable for easy reading. Some of these are as simple as plastic measured tubes, while others come with wireless recording screens. You can set customizable alerts to have the WH5360B sound an alarm when rain rate, rain event, indoor temperature, and humidity exceed preset levels, so you know when dangerous flood conditions are present or when to turn off the sprinklers. Generally, we dont recommend analog devices on Weather Station Advisor, as their digital counterparts have become as accurate and arguably more convenient. I've written quite a bit! La Crosse 705-109 Waterfall Rain Gauge, Ambient Weather WS-2902C WiFi Smart Weather Station, best overall option for a weather geek and meteorologist, ECOWITT WH5360B High Precision Wireless Digital Rain Gauge, weather stations can be more helpful to farmers, AcuRite 00850A2 5-Inch Easy-Read Rain Gauge, 7 Best Freezer Alarm Monitoring Systems in 2022, 7 Best Remote Vacation Home Monitoring Systems, 7 Best Infrared Thermometer Reviews in 2022. Using an analog gauge is the official method to measure rainfall, and models like the Stratus Precision above are designed to official standards for use in scientific applications. It is much cheaper to buy than the WS-5000 so if you want the accuracy of the WS-5000 but dont need all the bells and whistles of a weather station, the Ecowitt WH5360B is a good choice. But rainfall isnt the only thing the WS-5000 can measure: the station measures indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, with optional sensors for lightning detection, air quality, and more. The gauge can be slid off the mounting bracket, and as one of the larger models on our list, can measure up to 6 of rain. While measurements in smaller rain events wont be affected as much, heavier rainstorms will have a greater error. Event Mode is useful to monitor specific rainfall events, whether they be a brief 10-minute rain shower or a two-day deluge. The Eye of a Hurricane: How Does an Eye Form? While youll still need to make sure none of that captured debris accumulates which could prevent the funnel from draining, that is something you should do with any gauge, and its easy to remove to clean. 11 Benefits of an Air Purifier: Do I Need to Use One? For more information on installing and measuring rainfall correctly, please read our article on how to use a rain gauge to measure rainfall at your home. The WS-2902C provides more advanced functionality as well, including: While more expensive than your standard wireless rain gauge, we feel the WS-2902C is worth it because it provides a full home monitoring experience, and that is why we think its the best overall option for a weather geek and meteorologist. However, if precision is vital to you, then the Stratus Precision Rain Gauge is your best bet. Thanks for the review of the Acurite 00899. You might have seen my work on Digital Trends, PC World, VentureBeat, or even the New York Times website. Best Overall: Ambient Weather WS-2902C WiFi Smart Weather Station, 3. The cheapest models are usually the shortest-lasting ones. For anyone that will benefit from extensive data history, this feature is easy and helpful. Some models include spikes for securing them directly into the ground. Be sure to position the unit away from obstructions that can block precipitation like tall buildings and trees. An Indoor Air Quality Monitor is a Must for Staying Healthy, Best Handheld Weather Stations and Anemometers. While the Ambient Weather WS-5000 weather station isnt just a rain gauge, we include it here because it is the top-of-the-line Ambient weather station and arguably one of the best on the market right now. Youll want the rain gauge opening to be at least four inches in diameterthis is why you see the large funnels on the top of many gauges. While this rain gauge requires a bit of preparation to use correctly and obtain accurate measurements, you will not get this level of accuracy from even the best digital models. Be sure to purchase an accurate rain gauge with a durable construction that can withstand harsh weather conditions. What Is a Blizzard and What Is a Blizzard Warning? Rain gauges should measure rainfall accurately. A rain gauge should be placed 5 feet above the ground and away from obstructions. Its regularly on sale on Amazon and is one of the best-reviewed as well. Be sure to position the gauge away from obstructions that could block precipitation like tall buildings or trees. However, if youre willing to spend more money, then youll be rewarded with a longer-lasting gauge. Based on these great functions, we have narrowed down three of the best rain gauges on the market, each offering slightly different advantages for different users. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Where is the best place for a rain gauge? Here at NerdTechy, we try to make tech simple for the everyday person. But if youre willing to trade that off for being able to read it at a considerable distance (and stay much drier as a result), wed recommend considering The Jumbo Jr. Easy Read. That said, the console itself can store up to two years of rain records and display information on maximum rain rate, hourly and last 24-hour rainfall, daily, weekly, monthly, yearly precipitation records, and more. Rain gauges should be cleaned gently with soap. This gauge can measure up to five inches of rain at a time, and as rain falls, the shape of the rain gauge causes the water to magnify the printed measurement lines on the back of the unit by about 35%. Disclosure Statement: Its personal watering analysis is another great feature that makes it the best unit for intermediate enthusiasts, because it offers a more well-rounded analysis of the amount of water getting to your plants. A digital model automatically records and transmits data to an indoor unit. Owners can set alerts to trigger when a high rain rate occurs or when the potential exists for flood conditions. The possibilities are endless. If you live in an area with lots of rain, then a longer hose is better. The rain gauge above is designed to official standards for measuring rainfall.