The 5 best soil moisture meters that will help gardeners of all skill levels keep their plants alive

The ECOWITT Soil Moisture Tester delivers rapid readings and works in both indoor and outdoor settings. 

What we like: Waterproof, easy-to-read LCD display, cute flower pot icon

The weather-resistant sensor on this soil meter takes accurate moisture readings in about 72 seconds and displays them on a convenient LCD display. Soil moisture level is depicted in two formats: numerically and visually, with a clever flower pot icon. The display receives information wirelessly, as long as the sensor is within 300 feet. You can also calibrate the unit to accommodate different soil types and ambient humidity levels. At 2.3 inches tall (5.3 inches from bottom to tip) when stuck in the soil, the sensor won't stick out like a sore thumb. 

The XLUX Soil Moisture Meter is a simple, no-frills moisture meter at an attractive price.

What we like: Analog display is clear and easy to read, good value

Sometimes the topsoil appears wet, but deeper down plant roots may be struggling to access water. Use this soil moisture meter to check whether your garden needs watering. The sensor has a basic single probe design and a color-coded dial display. It works without batteries, so you never have to worry about it shutting off while you're out digging in the dirt and its affordable price tag makes it a great choice for gardeners on a budget. Some adjusting may be necessary to ensure the probe is at the correct depth to detect moisture. 

This simple set of IPPINKA Aquameters helps forgetful gardeners know when to water thanks to color-changing sensors.

What we like: Ultra-simple design, easy-to-read indicator

Pop these little sticks at the base of your houseplants to know when plants are thirsty. The sensors have indicators that turn blue when the soil is wet and white when the soil is dry. Root rot is a common cause of death for houseplants and these mini sensors are excellent for gardeners who frequently overwater and kill their plants. The set of four sensors lasts about six to nine months; each stick features a replaceable core.

The award-winning moisture meters are ideal for houseplants and can measure moisture levels in various types of soil. They're also available in small, medium, and large sizes to accommodate different sized pots. 

The durable Netro Whisperer is tough enough for outdoor use and reads for moisture levels, ambient temperature, and sunlight exposure.

What we like: Durable, capable of creating a customized watering schedule

The curved design of this solar-powered sensor allows it to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day. It detects soil moisture levels, ambient temperature, and sunlight exposure, all key for ensuring proper plant growth. The wireless sensor is Wi-Fi-enabled (2.4GhZ), so you can access data stored in the iOS or Android app anywhere you go. It has a weather-resistant design, so you can leave it in the garden 24/7.

This soil meter is also compatible with intelligent watering systems like the Netro Sprite. Once it manages to grab a few readings and analyze weather patterns, the app delivers a recommended watering schedule. The app also sends plant care notifications and reminders to perform important gardening tasks. 

With its multiple sensors, the Sonkir Soil Meter provides a snapshot of soil and light conditions.

What we like: Convenient, takes quick soil and light readings

Three sensors are better than one. You likely won't use the pH probe as often as the light and moisture sensors, but it's convenient to have the option at your fingertips. The small soil meter has two probes — to read moisture and pH levels — and a sensor at the top to measure light intensity. The display doesn't provide ultra-accurate readings, but it's enough to give you a ballpark measurement that you can work with. The sensor doesn't require batteries and it's lightweight enough to travel with, making it ideal for use in community garden plots. The probe is also quite long at 7.9 inches, allowing users to take deeper readings than other meters.