Best Soil Moisture Meters

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 2, 2024
When you own more than a couple of different plants, it can be challenging to remember how often they need to be watered. Thankfully, there is a simple tool that will help you with that job - a soil moisture meter. A fairly simple, yet highly effective device, it delivers accurate data on ground moisture around the plant roots. For your convenience, we've reviewed 5 top models to help you choose the best soil moisture meter. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Type
Stem Length
Measuring Range
Stem Material
Power Source
Warranty
 
PROS

Features an extra-long probe thick in diameter to control the moisture level in all soil types, from dense ground to soft sand. What is more, it is made of stainless steel, which excludes the risk of premature rusting.

CONS

You'll have to buy replacement batteries on a regular basis.

OUR VERDICT

The meter from REOTEMP is an essential tool for any gardener. Light, versatile, extremely easy-to-use, and perfectly precise, it will come in handy for measuring soil water levels in your garden, lawn, greenhouse or simple house plant pots. 

detailed parameters
Type

Moisture meter

Stem Length

15"

Measuring Range

0-10 units

Stem Material

Stainless steel 

Power Source

1 x AAA battery (included)

Warranty

1 year

PROS

This model combines three meters in one unit and boasts exceptional precision of all meters. Plus, it has a study plastic housing which protects electronics from damage and quick wear-off.

CONS

The pH gauge leaves something more to be desired.

OUR VERDICT

The Yoyomax is a multifunctional measuring device that will help you control all essential parameters including moisture, light, and pH levels to get a healthy crop. Additionally, it can be customized to be used with different types of soil using the switch on its body.

detailed parameters
Type

Moisture / pH / Light meter

Stem Length

7"

Measuring Range

0-10 units (moisture)

0-2000 units (LUX light sensor)

3.5-8 units (pH)

Stem Material

Metal

Power Source

No batteries needed 

Warranty

1 year

PROS

An easy-to-read gauge with color-coded dry-wet levels will help you check the moisture humidity in a matter of seconds and make it a breeze to differentiate between results.

CONS

The user manual could be written a tat better.

OUR VERDICT

This is a great model that scores high both on the functionality and practically and can be used to fulfill most of your needs. It can work with all types of soil and can be used as a stationary model thanks to a hanger on top of the device.

detailed parameters
Type

Moisture meter

Stem Length

7.7"

Measuring Range

1-10 units

Stem Material

Metal 

Power Source

No batteries needed 

Warranty

18 months replacement warranty, Lifetime support

PROS

The kit comes with a thorough plant watering guide that will be useful for beginner gardening enthusiasts, horticulturists, and greenhouse farmers.

CONS

The initial measurement might be inaccurate and need double checking.

OUR VERDICT

The soil water tester from XLUX features a pretty standard design with a testing probe and a plastic ergonomic handle. Reasonably priced and distinguished by a highly sensitive measuring tip, it's an efficient basic tool that will complete the arsenal of any gardener.

detailed parameters
Type

Moisture meter

Stem Length

7"

Measuring Range

1-10 units

Stem Material

Metal 

Power Source

No batteries needed 

Warranty

18 months

PROS

Albeit having a delicate measuring tip, the device is extremely easy to clean and maintain. The hang loop on top of the housing also makes it convenient to store along with other garden equipment.

CONS

Not the sturdiest stem for the solid ground.

OUR VERDICT

Thanks to a built-in sustainable solar capacitor, this simple device needs no added power source and is highly reliable. What is more, its long measuring rod is suitable for checking a relative moisture level near almost any garden plant. The model will match the needs of both seasoned professionals and those who simply care for their home plants.

detailed parameters
Type

Moisture meter

Stem Length

7.65"

Measuring Range

1-10 units

Stem Material

Metal 

Power Source

No batteries needed 

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

X

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REOTEMP Moisture Meter

A Precision to Match

This soil moisture meter from REOTEMP is one of the most versatile models on the market. And it is not only a long test stem that makes this particular meter a must-have for every gardener. There are more things that make it a sound choice for a lot of people.

First things first, this soil moisture meter can be used with different soil types and deliver highly accurate measurements, requiring putting in minimum effort. You will only need to do two things: change batteries when they run flat and calibrate the tester according to the type of soil you're about to put the stem into. Unfortunately, it seems the device goes through batteries more quickly than usual, but in all other respects it's definitely good and you don't have to be a tech-savvy to use it: all is simple and can be done by anyone.

Another thing that catches the eye when looking at the REOTEMP moisture meter (besides the aforementioned 15-inch test stem, obviously) is an all-metal body of the tester. The stainless steel body and stem make this tester a truly heavy-duty model without any exaggeration.

All in all, the REOTEMP plant moisture meter offers a reliable way to accurately test the relative moisture content in soil, which is essential when dealing with delicate plants in need of regular watering. Robust, simple and highly effective these are the features make REOTEMP the best soil moisture meter in its class.

Review of REOTEMP Moisture Meter Garden and Compost (15 Inch Stem), Garden Tool Ideal for Soil, Plant, Farm and Lawn Moisture Testing

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $35.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07DM4LS1D

 

yoyomax Soil Test Kit pH

All-In-One

Unlike similar products in the range, the Yoyomax professional test kit utilizes two tester stems instead of one. And it's not without reason since the tester's intended use goes far beyond the functionality of a simple water meter.

With this test kit, you'll get 3 different meters in one box including a moisture tester and indoor light and soil pH indicators. What is more, the device doesn’t require any alkaline batteries or electricity for operation. Instead, the unit is equipped with a single solar battery that is self-rechargeable, subject to enough direct light access during the day.

Since there is only one pointer for all three gauges, you will need to cycle through the units before testing the soil. Luckily, the device features a handy push switch to select the necessary meter, so, the whole process will take just a few seconds.

The light sensor, on the other hand, is located under the gauge and, as a result, has to be pointed upwards or put in a tilted position facing the light source in order to perform a correct measurement.

By using this device, you will be able to cut all the guesswork out of measurement tasks. You will know precisely how often you should water your home plants, what is the best spot for each of the pots under the light, and how acidic the soil actually is. Without any doubt, this test kit from Yoyomax is a multifunctional device that will be essential for any gardener out there.

Review of yoyomax Soil Test Kit pH Moisture Meter

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $9.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07HP4FGYG

 

Dr.Meter Moisture Meter

The Garden Savior

The moisture meter from Dr.Meter might seem kind of oddly shaped at first glance, however, its appearance by no means impacts the performance of the tester.

First things first, the tester has a standard 0-10 unit gauge that will inform you how wet or dry the tested soil is. Thanks to a sturdy metal stem and high-quality tester point, the measurement is quite precise for such a budget-friendly device. On top of that, it will take only a few seconds to get the results after you stick the device into the ground. Although the stem does look sturdy, it is not recommended for use on hard or extremely dry soil types.

Meanwhile, the housing of the tester that encases all the electronics including a solar battery is made of plastic. Due to that, it is best to use the device with care. What makes this tester stand out, though, is an easy-to-read gauge with color-coded dry-wet levels to help you check the moisture humidity in a matter of seconds and make it a breeze differentiating between results. Besides, there is a special loop hanger that you can use for stabilizing the unit during prolonged testings.

The only minor issue with this model is an incomplete user manual that seems to lack some information important for first-time and inexperienced users. Other than that, the hygrometer from Dr.Meter has no noticeable flaws. It's an affordable, precise and very easy in use device that should find its respective place in the toolset of any gardener.

Review of Dr.Meter Moisture Meter Hygrometer Moisture Sensor for Garden, Farm, Lawn Plants Indoor & Outdoor(No Battery Needed), S10

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $8.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00PTLGKSQ

 

XLUX Soil Teste

No Need for Batteries

Being one of the simplest models available on the market today, the soil tester from XLUX is by no means a bad product. Alternatively, like most of the standard heavy-duty models out there, the T10 features a regular solar battery that will keep the device going even after the warranty period ends.

If you are looking for a solution on how to organize a better watering schedule for all of your plants, then T10 from XLUX will be your product to go. The stem length of 7 inches will be more than enough to penetrate to the root level and accurately figure out the right amount of water needed for grass and flowers, house plants, and even small trees in your garden.

The tip of the tester is quite sensitive, so it is better to be used on soft or rather wet soil types. Additionally, it is highly recommended to wash the probe after each measurement to achieve the most precise results. Otherwise, you will have to perform tests twice or even three times in a row to get the correct measurement. Aside from that, when used properly, you won’t run into any issues with the device. An ergonomic plastic handle and easy-to-read gauge also contribute to the ease of use.

To wrap things up, the XLUX T10 is a reliable basic model that will come in handy for home use, in greenhouses, gardens, and on the lawns.

Review of XLUX Soil Teste T10 Soil Moisture Sensor Meter
Last updated price $12.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B014MJ8J2U

 

Alotpower Moisture Meter

Simplicity Is the Key

In order to get maximum correct measurement using a moisture meter, you need to reach the soil layer on the root level of a plant. Luckily, the 7.65-inch long probe of this model will get there without an effort to deliver proper measurement. Of course, you won’t be able to reach deep roots of trees and bushes but it will be more than enough for regular house plants and vegetables in your garden, as well as for flowers and grass on your lawn.

Being a standard soil water tester, this model features a professional-grade solar battery, which allows using the unit without the need to replace batteries every now and then. The only thing left for you to do in order to keep the device in a good working condition is clean it each time you finish the measurements.

What's more, the long metal stem of the device is copper coated to prevent the device from premature rusting. The issue with the copper, though, it is not the strongest material out there. Hence, extra care is needed when using the tester on dense or hard soil types to avoid copper coating damages.

In conclusion, due to its simplicity, effectiveness and high precision of soil moisture measurements, this modestly priced soil hydrometer is a go-to pick for farmers and gardening enthusiasts

Review of Alotpower Moisture Meter Soil Moisture Sensor Meter
Last updated price $10.69
Stock In stock
ASIN B06XC6QD3B

 

What Is a Soil Moisture Meter?

If you are a seasoned horticulturist or at least have some basic knowledge of plants, you know how important it is to water them. What is more important, though, is to follow an individual watering schedule for each type of plant.

Since vegetables don’t talk, you will need a tool that will help you determine how much water a specific plant or herb needs. That said, there is no better candidate for this role than a soil moisture reader. Light, small, and easy to wield, it is by far the most useful tool in terms of moisture detecting.

These devices may come in different designs; however, their detection technology is usually pretty much similar, regardless of model. A regular meter features a simple gauge and a testing rod. While the first one is self-explanatory, the latter is a different beast.

Unlike the direct measurement of soil moist level that requires drying and weighing a soil sample, moisture sensors usually measure the amount of water in the ground indirectly.

If you are looking to make your garden tools arsenal complete, we also recommend taking a look at top fertilizer spreaders out there. Additionally, to improve the watering process you can also opt for a watering can.

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Publish Date: 2019-03-04 15:21:41