Choosing a soil moisture meter out of the thousands that are available online is a difficult and tedious task. Who has time for that? Well, we do! We’ve reviewed some of the best soil moisture meters available on the market in 2020 and compiled a list of ten of our favorites.
Jump to:
- Comparison Table
- Our Best Soil Moisture Meter Reviews and Comparisons
- 1. Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter
- 2. Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor
- 3. PPINKA Sustee Plant Moisture Sensor
- 4. AM Conservation Group Ladybug Moisture Meter
- 5. Northfifteen Connected Home Plant Monitor
- 6. ECOWITT Soil Moisture Tester
- 7. Atree Soil Moisture Sensor
- 8. XLUX Soil Moisture Meter
- 9. GardenBasix Chirping Bird Soil Moisture Meter
- 10. MTB 3-in-1 Soil Tester
- Final Verdict
Comparison Table
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | LATEST PRICE |
|---|---|---|
1. Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter  |
| Check Price |
2. Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor  |
| Check Price |
3. PPINKA Sustee Plant Moisture Sensor  |
| Check Price |
4. AM Conservation Group Ladybug Moisture Meter  |
| Check Price |
5. Northfifteen Connected Home Plant Monitor  |
| Check Price |
6. ECOWITT Soil Moisture Tester  |
| Check Price |
7. Atree Soil Moisture Sensor  |
| Check Price |
8. XLUX Soil Moisture Meter  |
| Check Price |
9. GardenBasix Chirping Bird Soil Moisture Meter  |
| Check Price |
10. MTB 3-in-1 Soil Tester  |
| Check Price |
Our Best Soil Moisture Meter Reviews and Comparisons
1. Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter
Product Highlights
To help you monitor the amount of moisture in your plants’ soil, the Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter rates moisture in three different levels, marked by both colors and a scale of 1 through 10. Lower numbers indicate dry soil while a higher number indicates wet soil.
The meter is capable of detecting pH levels between 3.5 and 8 on the pH scale. The light sensor on this powerful meter is able to measure light between 0 and 2000 LUX.
Additionally, the Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter uses no batteries so you can test your plants anytime and anywhere without having to worry about charging your moisture meter or replacing batteries.
Features
- Multipurpose tool
- Measures moisture, pH, and light
- Battery free
- Easy to use
What We Like About Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter
The Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter is highly rated by gardeners because it’s not only efficient, but it’s incredibly accurate. You won’t ever have to worry about whether your succulents and cacti are growing in the right conditions again.
This soil moisture meter is also quite small and fits easily into your pocket, gardening apron, or toolbox. It’s easy to use for gardeners of all ages, experience levels, and abilities.
What We Don’t Like About Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter
The prongs on the Besmon Precision Soil Moisture Meter are quite delicate and can be seriously damaged if jammed into the hard or rocky soil. Care must be taken to gently press the prongs into the soil. If resistance is met, you might want to try measuring in a different area to avoid breaking the prongs.
Additionally, this soil moisture meter is designed only for quick measurements and cannot be left in the soil to monitor it long term. Prolonged exposure to moisture or placing the meter into liquid will damage the meter’s sensors.
PROS
- No batteries required
- Measures soil moisture, pH levels, and sunlight
- Portable and easy to use
- Inexpensive
CONS
- Prongs can be broken by rocky or hard soil
- Cannot be left in soil for long periods of time
2. Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor
Product Highlights
If you’re interested in combining your passion for technology with your love of gardening, the Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor is for you. This wireless plant monitor sends all of its measurements straight to your phone via the Flowers Care app.
This multipurpose meter measures soil moisture, temperature, sunlight, and even the nutrients in the soil. It works with both Android and iOS operating systems, so you can use it no matter what type of phone you have.
- Reliable and accurate: Sensing probe ensures accurate and instant testing results, matching for both indoor or outdoor use.
- Easy to read: Large and clear dial, including ten scales, plug and read.
- How to use: Simply insert the moisture meter into soil and you'll get the test result instantly. Help your plants grow...
- WATER LEAK DETECTOR detects moisture content from leaks and flooding
- PINLESS MOISTURE METER measures moisture content in building materials
- NONDESRUCTIVE DETECTION up to ¾-Inch deep using Electromagnetic field (EMF) technology
If you’re worried about having an electronic device in your garden, there’s no need to stress as the Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor is completely water-resistant. However, the monitor is designed for use indoors and may be damaged by prolonged exposure to water.
Features
- Sends information straight to your phone
- Works with both Android and iOS devices
- Monitors soil moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and temperature
- App contains information about most common houseplants
What We Like About Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor
The Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor makes it easy to keep track of your precious plants’ care by sending all its measurements directly to your mobile phone. The app is available to both Android and iPhone users and contains care information for thousands of indoor plants.
Not only does this device measure the moisture levels of the soil, but it also keeps track of the nutrients available to your plant, sunlight levels, and temperature. This information can be particularly helpful when caring for picky or delicate succulents and cacti that need specific care.
What We Don’t Like About Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor
Although the Xiaomi Smart Plant Monitor is IPX5 waterproof rated, it’s not designed for prolonged exposure to moisture. This means it’s probably a bad idea to use it outdoors, where it will be exposed to rain.
Some users have experienced difficulties with the Flowers Care app. However, there are just as many positive reviews of the app, so it’s difficult to tell whether the blame should be placed on a poorly designed app or if the problems are due to user error.
PROS
- Connects to your phone via Bluetooth
- Works with both Android and iOS
- Measures soil moisture, nutrients, sunlight, and temperature
- App contains care information for 3,000+ common plant species
- IPX5 waterproof
CONS
- Battery powered
- Some users experienced difficulty with app
- Can only be used indoors
3. PPINKA Sustee Plant Moisture Sensor
Product Highlights
The IPPINKA Sustee Plant Medium-Sized Moisture Sensor is a minimalistic moisture meter that’s best suited for pots between 4.7 and 7 inches in diameter. It’s a battery-free product that won’t detract from the beauty of your garden.
This simple and budget-friendly moisture meter uses a color indicator to let you know when your plants need to be watered again. White means the soil is too dry and blue means your plant has plenty of moisture.
This unique design was created at the Tokyo University of Agriculture and has won multiple international design awards.
Features
- Minimalistic design
- Battery free
- Best for medium sized pots
- Uses a color indicator to denote moisture levels
What We Like About PPINKA Sustee Plant Moisture Sensor
The IPPINKA Sustee Plant Moisture Sensor comes in a set of two and is ideal for any species of succulent or cactus.
The simple design fits well in any décor and will not distract you from your beautiful succulents.
What We Don’t Like About PPINKA Sustee Plant Moisture Sensor
This is not a completely maintenance-free product as the refillable core of each meter will need to be replaced every 6 to 9 months.
The IPPINKA Sustee Plant Moisture Sensor only measures moisture levels so if you want to keep track of other aspects of your plants’ care, you’ll need other meters.
PROS
- Unique design
- Simplistic appearance
- Battery free
- Inexpensive
CONS
- Only measures moisture
- Refillable core needs replaced every 6-9 months
4. AM Conservation Group Ladybug Moisture Meter
Product Highlights
The AM Conservation Group Ladybug Moisture Meter is as adorable as it is functional. The accurate readings are given on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being very dry and 10 being very wet. The display is also color-coded to make it easier to read.
If you’re searching for an inexpensive gift for a young gardener, this cute meter might be just what you’re looking for. It’s also a great way to add a touch of whimsy to any garden.
No batteries are required to take moisture measurements and the compact size allows you to take the moisture meter anywhere. Simply insert the probe into the soil and after just a few moments, you’ll have your reading.
Features
- Cute ladybug design
- Inexpensive
- Accurate Readings
- Easy to use and read
What We Like About AM Conservation Group Ladybug Moisture Meter
The AM Conservation Group Ladybug Moisture Meter is ideal for gardeners who want to add a fun and unique touch to their garden while keeping track of the moisture levels of their soil.
The simple design makes it easy to understand the readings, so you’ll always know how much moisture your succulents are getting.
This adorable ladybug themed moisture meter is also one of the most inexpensive options on this list, so if you’re on a budget look no further.
What We Don’t Like About AM Conservation Group Ladybug Moisture Meter
The AM Conservation Group Ladybug Moisture Meter isn’t designed for prolonged exposure to moisture, so you’ll need to take your measurement and then clean and dry the meter, rather than leaving it in your succulent’s planter.
The probe of this moisture meter is only about 5 ½ inches long, so it won’t work for particularly large or deep pots. However, it will work just fine for shallow containers.
PROS
- Adorable ladybug design
- Accurately measures moisture levels
- Easy to read
- Battery free
CONS
- Can’t leave in pots for long periods of time
- Short probe
5. Northfifteen Connected Home Plant Monitor
Product Highlights
The Northfifteen Connected Home Plant Monitor is another technological gardening wonder. It helps you keep tabs on your plant’s health and sends that information directly to your Android or iOS device via a Bluetooth connection.
This unique plant monitor measures soil moisture, light, fertilizer, and temperature. The user-friendly app contains the specific care needs for thousands of the most popular indoor plants, including succulents.
The minimalistic design will also look great no matter where you put it, without drawing anyone’s attention away from your beautiful succulents and cacti.
Features
- Minimalistic design
- Works with both Android and iOS
- Monitors soil moisture, light, fertilizer, and temperature
What We Like About Northfifteen Connected Home Plant Monitor
The accurate readings help gardeners of all experience levels keep track of their plants’ needs. This is particularly useful with difficulty to. care for plants. Additionally, the Flower Care app contains care information for thousands of indoor plants.
Not only does the Northfifteen Connected Home Plant Monitor keep track of soil moisture levels, but it also monitors sunlight, fertilizer levels, and temperature to help you keep your plants as healthy as possible.
What We Don’t Like About Northfifteen Connected Home Plant Monitor
Some users have reported problems connecting their plant monitors to their mobile phones. However, this doesn’t seem to be a problem with the majority of buyers.
Since this device connects to your phone via Bluetooth, you’ll need to be in the area to receive readings, unlike with Wi-Fi. This just means you won’t be able to monitor your plants while away from home.
PROS
- Monitors soil moisture, sunlight, fertilizer, and temperature
- App contains care information for 3000+ species of plants
- Sends plant health information directly to your phone
- Works with both Android and iPhone devices
CONS
- Some users have experienced difficulties connecting with the app
- Uses Bluetooth rather than Wi-Fi so you need to be close by
6. ECOWITT Soil Moisture Tester
Product Highlights
The ECOWITT Soil Moisture Tester is a two-piece meter that measures soil moisture levels in just over a minute. It can be easily calibrated to ensure accurate measurements every time.
This meter stands out from the crowd with its LCD screen and a separate moisture sensor. Simply place the sensor into the soil and watch the screen for results. In addition to moisture levels, the LCD screen also features a time display that can be set for either 12- or 24-hour formats.
Features
- Unique two-piece design
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Can be calibrated for more accurate results
What We Like About ECOWITT Soil Moisture Tester
The best quality of this product is having the ability to calibrate it. With a properly calibrated moisture meter, you can be sure that your readings are as accurate as possible.
The two-piece system is also great for outdoor gardens or heavy pots placed on the ground. You won’t need to bend down to read the moisture levels since you can place the sensor in the soil and simply hold the LCD screen in your hand.
What We Don’t Like About ECOWITT Soil Moisture Tester
Unfortunately, the ECOWITT Soil Moisture Tester is battery powered, so you’ll always need to make sure the batteries have enough juice before testing your soil. Each piece requires a single AA battery, which is not included in the purchase.
The probe is also quite delicate and can be easily damaged by rocky or hard soil, so you’ll need to use extra care when inserting it into the soil.
PROS
- Two-piece design
- Can be calibrated
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Easy to read display
CONS
- Battery powered
- Batteries not included
- Probe easily damaged
7. Atree Soil Moisture Sensor
Product Highlights
The Atree Soil Moisture Sensor is a battery-free moisture meter that is ideal for small or shallow containers. It takes only ten minutes to get an accurate reading. Your results will be visible on the easy to read display, which is color-coded and rates the moisture levels from 1 to 10, or very dry to very wet.
This moisture meter is incredibly easy to use, and the single probe design won’t harm your beloved succulent’s root system.
Features
- Inexpensive
- Single probe design
- Easy to read display
- Results in only 10 minutes
What We Like About Atree Soil Moisture Sensor
Buyers love this moisture meter because it’s easy to use and the display is easy to understand. The number scale and color coding make it easy to understand when you should water your succulents.
What We Don’t Like About Atree Soil Moisture Sensor
Unfortunately, this isn’t a soil moisture meter that can be left in your pots long term. It will need to be cleaned and stored in a dry place between uses.
The probe is also quite delicate and care must be taken when inserting it into the hard or rocky soil.
PROS
- No battery needed
- Easy to read display
- Ideal for small or shallow containers
- Single probe design won’t damage roots
CONS
- Probe is easily damaged by hard or rocky soil
- Cannot be left in soil long term
8. XLUX Soil Moisture Meter
Product Highlights
This budget-friendly meter tests soil moisture levels as well as light and pH. Each function can be used by simply moving the switch to the desired option.
The XLUX Soil Moisture Meter is battery-free and suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardens. The unique two probe design ensures accurate results with minimal root damage.
The display is easy to read, even with all three options shown. The color-coded scales will help you determine the best way to care for your succulents.
Features
- Tests soil moisture, light, and pH levels
- Two prong design
- Accurate measurements
- Minimal root damage
What We Like About XLUX Soil Moisture Meter
This is one of the more inexpensive soil moisture meters on this list so it’s ideal for gardeners on a budget. It’s also incredibly easy to use and does not require a battery to function.
The two-prong design ensures accurate readings with minimal damage done to the root system of your precious plants.
What We Don’t Like About XLUX Soil Moisture Meter
The prongs can be easily damaged if placed in rocky or hard soil, so it’s important to be careful when inserting the meter.
PROS
- Inexpensive
- Accurate results
- Battery free
- Easy to read display
CONS
- Prongs are easily damaged
- Results are not as accurate in loose soil
9. GardenBasix Chirping Bird Soil Moisture Meter
Product Highlights
This uniquely designed soil moisture meter differs from many others because it does not feature a numbered display. Instead, the battery-powered meter chirps when the soil is dry and goes quiet once it detects moisture.
The birds are a decorative addition to any garden and are available in three different colors: red, blue, and yellow. The meter also features a light sensor so that the birds will not chirp at night, even if the soil is dry.
Features
- Unique bird-shaped design
- No numbered display
- Uses chirps to notify you of dry soil
- Battery powered
What We Like About GardenBasix Chirping Bird Soil Moisture Meter
If you’ve ever wanted a moisture meter that stands out from the crowd, this is it. The unique bird design, which is available in three different colors, is sure to be a conversation starter.
The use of a chirping noise, rather than a numbered display, is a great option for gardeners with impaired vision or those who forget to check their meters often. The light sensor also ensures that the birds never disturb your beauty rest.
What We Don’t Like About GardenBasix Chirping Bird Soil Moisture Meter
The lack of a numbered or color-coded display means that you’ll never be able to tell exactly how dry or wet your soil is. Additionally, the birds are battery powered so you’ll need to monitor their battery life.
PROS
- Adorable bird design
- Great for gardeners with vision problems
- Inexpensive
- Available in three different colors
CONS
- No numbered or color-coded display
- Battery powered
10. MTB 3-in-1 Soil Tester
Product Highlights
The MTB 3-in-1 Soil Tester is a battery-free multipurpose tool that tests your soil for moisture and pH, while also monitoring light levels. This is a pack of two, so you’ll be able to test your succulent collection more quickly. The meters are available in two color options: pink and dark green, and light green and yellow.
The light sensor is able to detect light from 0 to 2000 LUX. The pH sensor ranges from 3.5 to 8 on the pH scale and the moisture sensor gives results ranging from 1 (very dry) to 10 (very wet). The results are found on the easy to read numbered and color-coded display.
Features
- Pack of two meters
- Two color sets to choose from
- nexpensive
- Battery free
What We Like About MTB 3-in-1 Soil Tester
The MTB 3-in-1 Soil Tester is a great multipurpose tool to have in your gardening toolbox. The two-prong design ensures accurate results while minimizing damage to your succulents’ roots.
The pack of two meters means you’ll be able to test your entire succulent collection twice as fast. You also get two options of bright and fun colors. Since the meters are battery-free, you never need to worry about whether or not they’ll work when you pull them out of storage.
What We Don’t Like About MTB 3-in-1 Soil Tester
Like quite a few other moisture meters, the prongs can be easily damaged if inserted into the hard or rocky soil.
These meters are also not designed for prolonged exposure to moisture. The soil may corrode the sensors over time so it’s best to clean them after use and store in a dry place.
PROS
- Inexpensive
- Fun color options
- Pack of two
- Measures soil moisture, pH, and light
CONS
- Prongs are easily damaged
- Cannot be left in pots for long periods of time
Final Verdict
Of all the great options listed here, the Northfifteen Connected Home Plant Monitor is the clear winner. It’s not much more expensive than the others, but you get the benefit of having your plant’s information delivered directly to your cell phone.
Additionally, it monitors all aspects of your plant’s health, not just soil moisture. The Flowers Care app is easy to use and incredibly informative, making this soil moisture meter the best that 2020 has to offer.
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