The best pluviometro
Rain Gauge – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
Rain gauges are instruments that measure the amount of precipitation that falls at a given point during a specific time. For this reason, they are used in different areas, not only in specialized weather stations, but also in gardening, agriculture, among others. However, the market offer is very wide, which is why we have selected the most outstanding models, such as the Netatmo NRG01-WW, which allows connection to mobile devices, with the aim of offering real-time readings. For its part, the TFA Dostmann 47.1008 has a capacity of 70 l/m² and offers a lid to prevent evaporation.
The 9 Best Rain Gauges – Opinions 2022
Thanks to its usefulness in various areas, the rain gauge is an indispensable measuring instrument, however, there are a wide variety of options, so it can be difficult to make a decision. For this reason, we have made a list with 9 of the best rain gauges of 2022.
1. Netatmo NRG01-WW Wireless Rain Gauge Weather Station
This is a wireless rain gauge that serves as an accessory to the Netatmo Personal Weather Station, providing connectivity to connected smart devices such as smartphones and tablets. For this reason, it is possible to access precipitation level measurements in real time; In addition, it works with the virtual assistant Alexa.
This model allows you to receive alerts when rainfall starts, in this way, it is possible to adapt your activities depending on the weather. It also offers the history function, so you can track the rainfall in a specific period.
This could be the best rain gauge of the moment according to the opinion of some users, since it provides enough precision. As if that were not enough, it measures 13 x 11 x 13 cm and weighs 7.17 kg, making it very practical.
If you want a functional and easy to use rain gauge, then you will probably be interested in the Netatmo NRG01-WW. Let’s know its pros and cons.
Pros
Functions: With this model you can receive alerts as soon as the rain starts, also review the data history and know the level of rainfall.
Measurements: Its sensors have a recording frequency of every 5 minutes, with intervals from 0.2 mm/h to 150 mm/h.
Compatibility: The rain gauge is compatible with various operating systems used today.
Cons
Accessory: It works as an accessory for the Netatmo Weather Station, which is not included in the package, so you must purchase it separately.
2. TFA Dostmann 47 1008 Analog Rain Gauge
This model determines the amount of precipitation easily and accurately. For this reason, it is suitable for use in gardens and orchards. In addition, it has a large diameter and a lid to prevent evaporation. On the other hand, it is a German-made rain gauge, made under high quality standards.
This product offers a transparent glass with a capacity of 70 liters, made of plastic, therefore, it is weather resistant. Also, it has a practical bracket to fix it to a mast or insert it into the ground, which allows you to install it directly on the ground.
It is important to note that this rain gauge has an easy-to-read scale, as it offers 1mm dividing lines. Also, its dimensions of 18 x 11.7 x 11.7 cm and its weight of 227 g make it very practical.
If you want to buy the best value for money rain gauge, you should know that this model is very resistant and does not cost a lot of money.
Pros
Accuracy: You get accurate readings, because it has a removable funnel-shaped lid that protects against evaporation.
Design: It is made of a plastic resistant to extreme conditions, it is light and has a support that can be nailed directly into the ground.
Analog: Due to its non-digital feature, it is easy to use by anyone.
Cons
Scale: The numbers on this rain gauge have been embossed on the clear plastic, which could make it difficult to read with the naked eye
3. Relaxdays Pack of 2 Outdoor Rain Gauges with Support
It is a pack of 2 rain gauges that you can install in your garden or balcony, since each one offers a 16 mm diameter support for hanging. It is important to note that you can place these brackets on a rod, bar or branch, as long as it is the right size to achieve a good fixation.
These instruments are made of polypropylene and polystyrene, so that they resist extreme weather conditions. Also, each glass has a capacity of 35 liters and is graduated with large black numbers, so the data is visible from a distance.
On the other hand, each device measures 24 x 10.5 x 8.5 cm and weighs 70 g, so they are very easy to move from one place to another, thus increasing practicality.
If you are a gardening enthusiast and want to buy a rain gauge, you should know that this is one of the cheapest in the selection.
Pros
Brackets: Includes two brackets that allow the rain gauges to be easily installed in different places.
Reading: This product allows reading from afar, since it offers transparent glasses with large black numbers.
Resistant: The materials with which they are made can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Cons
Bar: The bar for installation is not included, however, it is easy to get a custom one.
4. Bresser 7002533 Rain Gauge with Base Station
If you need a professional rain gauge, then this model can be a good purchase as it offers a backlit display, which doubles as a base station. In addition, it offers a histogram with the measurements of precipitation and humidity.
This model has a range of 150 meters in the open air, so you have a long distance to place the outdoor sensor. On the other hand, the device stores the maximum and minimum values, which allows later viewing of rainfall data by hour, day, month and year.
As for the design, the base station measures 9.5 x 2.3 x 15.4 cm and weighs 198 g, while the outer sensor measures 10.9 x 10.9 x 20 cm and weighs 375 g. g, so they are very compact and light devices.
If you are looking for the best rain gauge today, then this model is likely to interest you. Let’s know its pros and cons.
Pros
Functionality: It offers functions with which you can obtain precipitation data, as well as the exterior and interior temperature in a professional way.
History: It is capable of storing rainfall data by hour, day, month, and year.
Accessories: It comes with a removable support for the base station and the material for its assembly.
Cons
Instructions: The instructions may not be in Spanish, however, you can access the manufacturer’s website to obtain them.
5. Flower 55062 Transparent Rain Gauge
It is a rain gauge from the renowned Spanish brand Flower, with more than 60 years in the gardening market. Therefore, if you are enthusiastic about the garden, this transparent model with a capacity of 40 liters can be adapted to your needs.
It is good to mention that it comes with a bar as a support to fix it directly on the ground, so you do not need additional parts. On the other hand, it is good to know that this is one of the cheapest options in the selection, however, it provides enough precision for non-professional use.
This rain gauge is very light; its weight is 60 g, so it is easy to move from one place to another. In addition, it has dimensions of 11.5 x 3 x 32 cm, so it is discreet and does not take up much space in the garden.
To measure the amount of rain in your garden or orchard, this model can be especially useful and practical. Let’s see its pros and cons.
Pros
Bar: Includes a bar to fix it to the ground, so you don’t have to spend money on an add-on.
Resistant: It has been made of quality plastic, which resists different atmospheric conditions, thus providing greater durability.
Practicality: This model is one of the lightest and smallest, which favors practicality when installing and using.
Cons
Numbers: The numbers on the graduated scale are not very visible, so they can be difficult to read.
6. TFA Dostmann Wireless Drop Rain Gauge
This model comes with a base station, so it is capable of wirelessly transmitting rainfall data. In addition, it has the History and Graphic Display functions, which allow you to see different periods of the amount of rain; of the last 7 days, of the month and of the year.
In this sense, it shows the most important data, such as the amount of rain, interior temperature, time and date at the same time. As if that were not enough, it offers an alarm function, which informs when more precipitation has fallen than the established limit value.
Regarding the design features, the measurements and weight of the base station are 9 x 3 x 8.5 cm and 93 g respectively. For its part, the external sensor measures 18 x 12 x 12.5 cm, which increases practicality.
According to the opinion of some users, TFA Dostmann is the best brand of rain gauges, however, you should know that this model has an affordable price.
Pros
Functions: It offers the function of annual history and the graphical representation of the amount of precipitation.
Range: It is possible to place the rain gauge at a distance of 100 meters from the base station.
Alarm: Includes a sound alert at the base station, for when the precipitation values have exceeded the established limit.
Cons
Illumination: The base station display does not have a backlight for viewing data in the dark.
7. Tildenet Gardenware Rain Gauge
This rain gauge is made in England and is graduated in millimeters, but it also has the numbers in inches, so you can easily measure the amount of rain that falls in your garden or orchard. In addition, the scale is painted in white, which contrasts with the green background, making it easy to read.
It is made of plastic, so that it resists different weather conditions. On the other hand, it has a capacity of 50 liters, which is enough for domestic use. It also has a plastic extension to insert it directly into the ground, in this way, you do not need additional parts.
In addition, it is a fairly accurate rain gauge, so you will get useful data on precipitation. On the other hand, thanks to its measurements of 5.5 x 24 x 24 cm, the device does not take up too much space.
If you are an observer of the weather, you are enthusiastic about the garden and you want to measure rainfall, this rain gauge may be a good option.
Pros
Resistant: It is made of weather-resistant plastic, so it offers a long service life.
Type: Being an analog model, it is easy for anyone to take the readings.
Practicality: The measurement of this model is 5.5 x 24 x 24 cm, which facilitates its transfer and installation.
Cons
Tip: The built-in tip for driving into the ground is not very thick, so it is advisable to use it with care for greater durability.
8. Artecsis Rain Gauge with Metal Frog Design
It is an analog model, which includes several accessories to facilitate its use. First of all, bring the graduated glass cup that allows you to measure the amount of rainfall, in this way, you can know if your plants need water or not after the rain.
The rain gauge has a detailed scale for quick data reading and has a 35ml capacity. On the other hand, the package incorporates two stakes that can be screwed together to change the height of the device; about 60 to 110 cm, so you don’t have to lean too far when reading the data.
As for the support, it has been made of metal and has the shape of a frog with a rusty appearance, for this reason, it not only facilitates installation in different places, but also serves to decorate the garden or terrace.
This model is a good option for enthusiastic gardeners, so if you are still wondering which is the best rain gauge, then it is recommended that you know the pros and cons of this product.
Pros
Decorative: It has a structure in the shape of a metal frog, making it eye-catching and suitable for decorating exteriors.
Support: The support has been made of metal so it is weather resistant.
Scale: The glass scale is in black numbers, so it is easy to see the measure of the water.
Cons
Temperature: The glass of the glass is not resistant to frost, so it is important to protect it.
9. ADE WS1907 Digital Rain Gauge Precipitation Gauge
It is an electronic rain gauge of German technology, which is designed to measure rainfall in the garden or terrace. In this sense, it offers a wireless sensor with a range of 60 meters and a base station with an LCD screen, which allows you to see the current amount of rain in millimeters and inches.
This rain gauge calculates the amount of rainfall per hour, day, week, month and year. As if that were not enough, it indicates the outside temperature to get an idea of the weather conditions. In addition, it offers a calendar, clock and programmable alarms, so that you can plan the next watering of your plants.
Regarding the size of the product, it is important to know that the rain gauge measures 18 x 11 x 13 cm. For its part, the base station measures 15 x 9.5 x 4.3 cm. Therefore, they are practical equipment to install and use.
If you are wondering which rain gauge to buy, this model may be a good option, so it is recommended that you take into account its positive and negative aspects.
Pros
Versatility: Measures the outside temperature and has a programmable alarm for greater versatility.
Memory: With this rain gauge you can store rainfall data, from the last 24 hours to the current year.
Materials: The two components of the rain gauge are made of ABS plastic, so they resist weather conditions.
Cons
Batteries: The batteries included in the package may not last very long, so it is preferable to purchase batteries separately.
Shopping guide
Rain gauges are essential whether you work in the field of meteorology, or if you are an enthusiast of gardening and urban orchards, as they offer accurate data on rainfall in your area. However, there are many options on the market today, so we have prepared this guide to buy the best rain gauge, so that you can choose the one that best suits your requirements.
Types
When making a comparison of rain gauges, it is necessary to first define the type of instrument you need. They can be classified into two large groups, the analog ones, which have a classic funnel- or cylindrical-type design, and the electronic or digital ones, which are generally connected to a base station.
The analog rain gauge is a transparent container, which brings a scale to the naked eye for greater practicality. In this sense, it is enough to observe the accumulated water to obtain the data. Also, it is good to mention that it is usually an economical device if we take into account its functionality.
For their part, digital rain gauges are usually made up of two parts and are battery-powered, so they need to be replaced periodically. In these models, one of the pieces is a container that works as an external sensor, to send data via wireless connection. The other piece is the base station, which receives the data and has various functions depending on the model you choose.
It is important to mention that electronic rain gauges are very useful for meteorology enthusiasts and even for professionals, as they display and store a large amount of information on rainfall. In some cases, the data can be sent to mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets, which is very convenient and practical.
Design
The design of a rain gauge responds to the type of instrument, in this sense, analog models often need a support that is fixed to the ground, to prevent strong winds from knocking the device down. However, the number of included plugins can influence how much the product costs, so it is good to check this feature before making the purchase, since in some cases you have to purchase the support separately.
On the other hand, it is important to take into account the material from which the rain gauge is made, since the most flexible ones, such as polypropylene and polystyrene, can resist weather conditions, while glass is usually more fragile. Digital rain gauges are usually made of very strong plastics, however base station displays can be delicate so care is important to extend their lifespan.
Regarding the measurements of the rain gauge, we must make sure that the upper opening has a good diameter, so that the instrument can collect as much water as possible. However, it is worth mentioning at this point that most rain gauges are compact and lightweight, so they can be easily moved from one place to another.
functionality
Each rain gauge has specific functions that we must take into account. In general, the analog one is quite practical to use, so that by making a visual reading of the amount of water, the level of precipitation is determined over a period of time, thus fulfilling its main objective.
On the other hand, digital rain gauges have various functions, such as recording the amount of rain for the day, week, month, and year. Also, there are models that offer graphs with the data to get an idea of the values over a period of time, in this sense, they can have a more professional use.
Also, there are other rain gauges with the rain alert function, which are capable of indicating when rainfall begins, so they allow us to adapt our activities based on the weather. In addition, they offer temperature values in °C and °F.
If you need to keep an eye on rainfall in real time, then you can opt for a rain gauge that has the function to connect to other smart devices such as phones and tablets. Similarly, these models can offer compatibility with various operating systems and some work with the Alexa virtual assistant, so they are very functional. On the other hand, we mentioned that if you do not have mobile devices, you can review the data on a computer.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to make a rain gauge?
Making a rain gauge can be very easy, so if you want to make it experimentally, all you need is a clear bottle, scissors, a ruler, a permanent marker, small rocks, and a measuring cup to measure the volume of water. The first thing is to make a cut in the bottle at 2/3 of the length measured from its base. Then, you have to place the stones inside the container and add water to cover them, in this way, the level that marks will be the zero of the scale.
Next, we must identify it with the permanent marker. However, it is necessary to fit the other part of the funnel-shaped bottle, in this way, evaporation is avoided. Later, with the graduated glass, you have to pour a specific amount of water into the bottle, for example, 20 milliliters, and with the marker draw the corresponding line, to refill the glass, repeating the process until completing 300 milliliters, of so that the scale of the rain gauge can be obtained.
Once you have the scale, you must know the equivalence in liters per square meter or millimeters, which is the measure in which rainfall is expressed; in this sense, you must know the diameter of the opening of the rain gauge to calculate the surface of the circle. Finally, you have to divide the amount of water in ml that the rain gauge stored by the surface of the circle, in order to obtain the precipitation value expressed in milliliters per square centimeter, then it is possible to convert the result to liters per square meter.
Q2: What is a rain gauge for?
The pluviometer is an instrument used to measure the amount of water that falls in precipitation, at a specific time and in a certain location. In this sense, it is essential for meteorology, which is why it is used in agriculture and gardening to obtain rainfall data. In this way, it is possible to correctly dose the irrigation of crops and plants.
Q3: How does the rain gauge work?
In the analog rain gauge, the water enters through an upper opening and is stored in the container. In this case, it is possible to make a visual reading of the amount of water that has fallen, thanks to the fact that the collector has a graduated rule. For its part, the digital rain gauge has a rocker inside that moves from one side to the other with the weight of the water deposited. This movement causes a magnetic sensor to activate and send the signal to the built-in battery-powered circuit. In this sense, the signal is sent by radio frequency, from the circuit to the base station, which in turn transforms the data into mm of water.
Q4: Who invented the rain gauge?
The rain gauge was invented by the Korean scientist Yang Yeong-sil in the year 1441, however, the Greeks 500 years a. C. made the first measurements of rainfall. Many years later, in India they measured the rain in buckets.
Similarly, in 1636 Benedetto Castelli made the first measurements of precipitation in Europe. Later, in the year 1662, the Englishman Christopher Wren invented the first tipping bucket rain gauge and by the year 1670 the rain gauges improved in design while maintaining the basic principles that we know today.
