Best Rain Gauges of 2025

Darin Boyd
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Rain gauges are essential tools for measuring rainfall. They come in different shapes and sizes, but their primary function is to collect and measure precipitation. They are commonly used by farmers, meteorologists, and gardeners to determine the amount of water received by their crops and plants. The most basic rain gauge is a simple cylinder with a flat top, which can be filled with water and measured to determine the amount of rainfall. More advanced rain gauges have electronic sensors that can transmit data to a computer or smartphone, allowing for more accurate and convenient monitoring of rainfall.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

#TOP 1
AcuRite 5" Capacity Easy-to-Read Magnifying Acrylic Rain Gauge
ftb score rating icon9.8
#TOP 2
JMBay Rain Gauge
ftb score rating icon9.7
#TOP 3
AcuRite Wireless Digital Rain Gauge with Self-Emptying Collector (00899)
ftb score rating icon9.5

Top 10 Rain Gauges

#TOP 1

AcuRite 5" Capacity Easy-to-Read Magnifying Acrylic Rain Gauge

00850A3
Blue
Magnifying
AcuRite 5" Capacity Easy-to-Read Magnifying Acrylic, Blue (00850A3) Rain Gauge
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

The AcuRite rain gauge has a 5-inch capacity and features magnified white numbers and inch markings, making it easy to measure rainfall at a glance. It is constructed of durable, weather-resistant acrylic and can be easily mounted or staked into the ground with an integrated hang hole.

What We Like
Durable in harsh sunlight
Large and easy to read
Simple to use
Inexpensive gift option
Magnifying effect for accuracy
What We Don't Like
Only measures up to 5 inches
Mounting holes may need adjustment

JMBay Rain Gauge

rain gauge
JMBay Rain Gauge Outdoor, Accurate rain gauges Outdoors Best Rated, Tall rain Gauge for Yard with Stake, Decorative rain Measure Gauge for Garden, Deck, Lawn with Large Numbers, Adjustable Height
ftb score rating icon9.7
FTB Score

The JMBay Outdoor Rain Gauge is a fashionable and stable rain gauge made of rust-proof metal stakes. It features an upgraded design with two feet ground plug for enhanced stability in high winds. The large font scale on the rain gauge tube makes it clearer and easier to read. The addition of colored metal strips at the rear of the tube ensures a blue water level, avoiding any reflection or transparency issues. With its adjustable height, you can customize the gauge to your preferred height, making it easy to read without having to squat down. Installation and use are simple, and the durable rain gauge tube is made of high-quality thick plastic that won't freeze crack or break. The JMBay Outdoor Rain Gauge is a reliable and convenient tool for measuring rainfall in your yard, garden, or deck.

What We Like
Easy to read
Sturdy construction
Large numbers
Accurate measurements
Decorative design
What We Don't Like
Flimsy stand
Not suitable for freezing
#TOP 3

AcuRite Wireless Digital Rain Gauge with Self-Emptying Collector (00899)

Multicolor
AcuRite Wireless Digital Rain Gauge with Self-Emptying Collector with Rainfall History, Alerts, and Current Date and Time (00899), Multicolor
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

The AcuRite Wireless Digital Rain Gauge with Self-Emptying Collector measures rain precipitation in inches or millimeters with rainfall history. It has a customizable rain alarm for flood watch or rain rate to warn users of potential flooding in their lawns and gardens. The wireless rain collector is self-emptying and easy to install with little maintenance. With strong wireless signal penetration, the rain gauge transmits outdoor rain totals every 60 seconds to the indoor display, which has an easy-to-read digital console that features the current date and time.

What We Like
Self-emptying feature
Accurate and adjustable measurements
Easy setup and installation
Multiple running totals
No need for manual emptying
What We Don't Like
May require occasional cleaning
Not suitable for freezing temperatures
#TOP 4

Taylor 7-inch Flexible Rain Gauge

Taylor
5293501
Teal
Teal
Taylor Capacity Break and Freeze Proof Flexible Silicone Rain Gauge, Measure and Monitor Precipitation, Easy to Read for Backyard, Patio, Garden, and Lawn, Post Mount or Ground Stake, 7-inch, Teal
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

The Taylor Flexible Rain Gauge is designed with innovative silicone material that remains unbreakable, even if water freezes inside. With a 7-inch capacity and precise 1/10 inch increments, you can easily track rainfall or monitor your watering needs. It comes equipped with a removable ground stake and brackets for easy attachment to posts, allowing you to place it wherever you need. Made from weather-resistant materials, this rain gauge is perfect for year-round outdoor use, helping you maintain a healthy lawn and garden.

What We Like
Durable silicone material
Easy to read measurements
Flexible design prevents breakage
Simple installation process
Large capacity for rainfall
What We Don't Like
Mounting base could be improved
Price slightly higher than expected
#TOP 5

Taylor 5 Inch Capacity Jumbo JR Rain Gauge

Taylor
2708
Yellow Jr
5 Inch
Taylor 2708 Jumbo JR Rain Gauge, Measure and Monitor Precipitation, Easy to Read for Backyard, Patio, Garden, and Lawn, 5-inch, Yellow
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Taylor Jumbo JR Rain Gauge is a reliable and efficient tool for measuring rainfall. With its large height of 20 inches, it provides accurate readings of up to 5 inches of precipitation. The bright red floating indicator makes it easy to read the measurements, ensuring accuracy and convenience for users. Additionally, the bright yellow increments are highly visible from up to 50 feet away, allowing users to check the rainfall from a distance. Designed, marketed, engineered, and supported by USA-based teams, the Taylor Jumbo JR Rain Gauge is a high-quality product that meets the needs of both professionals and everyday users.

What We Like
Easy to read
Simple installation
Durable with proper care
Large, visible markings
Removable bottom for cleaning
What We Don't Like
Color fading over time
Less visibility with yellow numbers
#TOP 6

Taylor Jumbo Rain Gauge

Taylor
2706
Yellow
No Size
Taylor Capacity Jumbo Rain Gauge, Measure and Monitor Precipitation, Easy to Read for Backyard, Patio, Garden, and Lawn, 5-inch, Yellow
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

The Taylor Precision Products 5 inch Capacity Jumbo Rain Gauge is an easy-to-read, accurate and functional device that measures rainfall with a 5-inch capacity and 1/10-inch precision increments. The improved design features a funnel filter to minimize debris from entering the tube and a removable threaded bottom cap for cleaning purposes. This rain gauge is easy to mount and comes with a plastic bracket for installation on most surfaces. Its decorative and functional design adds a pop of color to any yard or garden, making it a perfect gift item for outdoor enthusiasts.

What We Like
Easy to read
Sturdy and well-made
Large lettering
Accurate measurements
Held up in storms
What We Don't Like
Bracket fit issues
Fading letters over time

BIUWING Rain Gauge

rain gauge outdoor
BIUWING New Upgrade Rain gauge, Detachable Freeze Proof Glass Rain Gauge Outdoor Best Rated, Decorative for Garden, Deck, Lawn, Yard. with Two Glass Rain Gauge Replacement Tube.
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

The BIUWING Upgrade Rain Gauge is a high-quality rain gauge designed for outdoor use. It comes with two glass rain gauge replacement tubes, ensuring that you can always use it even if one tube gets damaged. The rain gauge is made of rust-proof metal stakes, making it durable and upright. With its transparent and textured glass tube, you can easily read the scale to know how much rain has fallen or how much water your plants are receiving. The addition of a colored metal strip at the back of the tube enhances the clarity of the rain amount. The rain gauge is easy to install and use, whether fixed on the ground or hung on guardrails or fences. The glass tube is detachable, making it convenient to check collected rainwater and empty the tube for the next rainfall. Overall, the BIUWING Upgrade Rain Gauge is a reliable and decorative tool for your garden, deck, lawn, or yard.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Easy to read
Accurate measurements
Attractive design
Fast shipping
What We Don't Like
Short mounting stake
Glass tube fragility
#TOP 8

La Crosse Waterfall Rain Gauge

705-109
Multicolor
La Crosse 705-109 Waterfall Rain Gauge
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

The La Crosse 705-109 Waterfall Rain Gauge has an innovative design that slides on and off the bracket for ease of use. It can be mounted on a deck, fence rail, or the top of a stake to measure backyard rainfall up to 6 inches. The rain gauge has a large width waterfall design and a plastic frame, making it durable and long-lasting.

What We Like
Easy to read
Good construction
Accurate measurements
Fun design
Easy to install
What We Don't Like
Plastic may warp in sunlight
Needs winter storage

BoArt Rain Gauge

BA-020
ransparent
BoArt Rain Gauge, 7" Freeze-Proof Thickened Transparent Plastic Rain Gauge Outdoor, Large Clear Numbers and Adjustable Height Rain Measuring Tool for Garden, Lawn, Patio, and Farm Use
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

The BoArt Rain Gauge is a reliable and convenient tool for measuring rainfall in your garden, lawn, patio, or farm. With its upgraded rain gauge tube made of thick transparent plastic, you don't have to worry about freezing cracks or breakage. The large font scale and 1/2 scale identification make it easier to read the gauge data from a distance. The adjustable height feature allows you to customize the height up to 28.8 inches, ensuring that it is not obstructed by flowers or grass. The freestanding design with high stability ensures that the rain gauge stays upright even in harsh weather conditions. Made of heavy-duty metal steel material, this rain gauge is built to withstand the elements and last for a long time.

What We Like
Large and easy to read
Sturdy construction
Easy to check and empty
Flexible installation heights
Included cleaning brush
What We Don't Like
Flimsy pole
Not freeze proof
#TOP 10

World's Coolest Rain Gauge, Genuine Copper, Easy to Read

World's Coolest Rain Gauge Company
A24-CRB
Stake
Stake
World's Coolest Rain Gauge Copper Rain Gauge Outdoor w/Steel Stake - Accurate, Decorative Garden Rain Gauges for Yard, Shatterproof, Winter-Safe - The Original Floating Rain Gauge
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

Measure rainfall, monitor sprinkler output and save water easily with World's Coolest Rain Gauge. Made in the US with quality components, the unbreakable polycarbonate measurement tube is winter safe and the bright blue tube floats up in the genuine copper tube to show rainfall or irrigation amounts. Big numbers make it easy to read from the deck, patio, garden, or lawn. Ideal for vegetable gardens, perennial beds and landscapes, lawns and flower beds. A great gift for gardeners, weather watchers, gadget geeks and backyard enthusiasts, and an educational tool for teaching kids about water displacement.

What We Like
Durable construction materials
Accurate rainfall measurements
Easy to read and use
Low maintenance requirements
Attractive design
What We Don't Like
Foam float issue reported
Buying Guide Image

Decide Which Rain Gauges Are Best for You

What is a Rain Gauge?

A rain gauge is a device used to measure the amount of precipitation that falls in a particular area. It is an important tool for weather monitoring and forecasting, as well as for agricultural, hydrological, and environmental research.

Types of Rain Gauges

There are several types of rain gauges, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common type is the standard rain gauge, which consists of a funnel that collects the precipitation and channels it into a measuring container. This type of rain gauge is relatively inexpensive and easy to use, but it has a limited capacity and is susceptible to errors due to evaporation and wind.

Another type of rain gauge is the tipping bucket rain gauge, which uses a mechanism to measure the amount of precipitation by tipping a small bucket when a certain amount of water has accumulated. This type of rain gauge is more accurate and has a larger capacity than the standard rain gauge, but it is also more expensive and requires regular maintenance.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rain Gauge

When choosing a rain gauge, there are several factors to consider, including accuracy, capacity, cost, and maintenance requirements.

Accuracy is an important factor to consider, as it determines the reliability of the measurements taken with the rain gauge. The accuracy of a rain gauge is typically expressed as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating more accurate measurements. Tipping bucket rain gauges are generally more accurate than standard rain gauges, but they may also be more expensive.

Capacity is another important factor to consider, as it determines how much precipitation the rain gauge can measure before it needs to be emptied. Standard rain gauges have a relatively small capacity, while tipping bucket rain gauges have a larger capacity.

Cost is also an important factor to consider, as rain gauges can vary greatly in price depending on their type and features. Standard rain gauges are generally less expensive than tipping bucket rain gauges, but they may not be as accurate or have as large a capacity.

Maintenance requirements are also an important factor to consider, as some rain gauges require regular cleaning and calibration to ensure accurate measurements. Tipping bucket rain gauges, for example, require regular maintenance to ensure that they are functioning properly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several factors to consider when choosing a rain gauge, including accuracy, capacity, cost, and maintenance requirements. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a rain gauge that is right for your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best size for a rain gauge?

The standard size for a rain gauge is the 203mm (8 inch) rain gauge. It consists of a circular funnel with a diameter of 203mm, which collects the rain into a graduated and calibrated cylinder capable of recording up to 25mm of precipitation.

2. Do people still use rain gauges?

Yes, rain gauges are still widely used today to measure weather conditions, climate patterns, and monitor hazards like floods and droughts. They have been in use since 1441 and continue to be an essential tool for measuring rainfall for various purposes, including agriculture.

3. What is the most common rain gauge?

The most common rain gauge is the tipping bucket rain gauge. It is widely available and used in standalone versions or incorporated into weather station models. Its rain collection mechanism, ease of use, and low maintenance make it a popular choice.

4. Are store bought rain gauges accurate?

Store-bought rain gauges can vary in accuracy. Tipping bucket systems tend to be more accurate, displaying rain totals down to 0.01 of an inch. Standard gauges may measure in 0.25 or 0.1-inch increments. For extremely accurate readings, more high-tech models should be considered.

5. How can I tell if my rain gauge is accurate?

To check the accuracy of a rain gauge, you can pour a set amount of water into it at a specific flow rate to simulate rainfall. The data logger should measure a fixed amount of rainfall. Any difference from the expected amount would indicate an error in accuracy.

6. What are the disadvantages of a rain gauge?

Rain gauges have limitations. They may not collect accurate data during extreme weather conditions like hurricanes due to high winds. Additionally, rain gauges can only measure precipitation within a localized area and may not provide a comprehensive picture of rainfall in a larger region.

7. Does the shape of a rain gauge matter?

Research suggests that the shape of a rain gauge can impact its accuracy. Conventionally shaped rain gauges may interfere with airflow, causing turbulence and reducing the amount of precipitation caught by the gauge.

8. What is the alternative to a rain gauge?

An alternative to a rain gauge is a pluviometer, ombrometer, or udometer. It is another device used to measure rainfall by recording the amount in millimeters or centimeters for a specific region.

9. Where is the best place to put a rain gauge?

The best location for a rain gauge is an open area, away from walls, trees, or other obstacles that can affect the amount of rain collected. A general rule is to place the gauge as far from an obstacle as the obstacle's height. It should also be level to ensure accurate measurement.

Editor's Notes

During our rain gauge research, we found 24 rain gauge products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 197,729 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rain gauges list. We found that most customers choose rain gauges with an average price of $12.52.

The rain gauges are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rain gauges, including AcuRite, JMBay, Taylor, BIUWING, La Crosse Technology. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Darin Boyd runs a small pest control business in Texas, and he is a regionally renowned pest control expert. His areas of expertise include pest control, gardening and outdoor gear. He is willing to share some practical tips on how to protect plants and vegetables from pests.