9 Best Rain Sensors for Weather Stations (November 2026)
The best rain sensors for weather stations include the AcuRite Iris for replacing an AcuRite 5-in-1 sensor, the AIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station with Outdoor Wireless for a large color display, and the Sainlogic 5G&2.4G WiFi Weather Station for Wi-Fi rain tracking.
On this page (6 sections)
The AcuRite Iris is the best rain sensor for a compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 station. If you're setting up a new system, choose a complete station with the rain gauge, display or app features you need.
A replacement sensor must communicate with your existing console. A complete station pairs its outdoor sensor with a display, which can suit you if your current system is incompatible.
Our picks at a glance
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1
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2
Best for a large color displayAIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station with Outdoor Wireless
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for Wi-Fi rain trackingSainlogic 5G&2.4G WiFi Weather Station
8.9/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itVEVOR 7-in-1 Wi-Fi Weather Station with APP
Best for app-based yard monitoring - 5
Check itLa Crosse Technology Professional Smart Wi-Fi Weather
Best for rain history and alerts - 6
Check itAIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station with Dual Display
Best for viewing rain data in two rooms - 7
Check itAIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station
Best for basic screen-based weather data - 8
Best for a compatible system needing aspirated temperature readingsCheck it - 9
Check itRaddy VP7 APP Weather Station Wireless Indoor
Best for app alerts and extra outdoor readings
How we chose rain sensors for weather stations
Choose the AcuRite Iris for a compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 display, or a complete station if you also need a display. We compared compatibility, rainfall measurement, wireless connection, display or app options, and other weather data each system provides.
Our score weighs specs and features against what you're shopping for. These products serve different setups: the AcuRite sensors work with specified AcuRite equipment, while the other picks are complete station systems.
For a sensor replacement, identify your console model and check the compatibility list before ordering. If you're new to rain measurement, how a tipping bucket rain gauge works explains the basic mechanism used by many weather station gauges.
For Davis models, see our Davis tipping bucket gauges.
| Product | Best for | Measures | Transmission | Compatibility | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AcuRite Iris | replacing an AcuRite 5-in-1 sensor | Rain, wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity | 433 MHz, every 36 seconds | AcuRite 5-in-1 weather station displays | 9.7 |
| AIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station with Outdoor Wireless | a large color display | Rainfall, wind, temperature, humidity and more | 9.6 | ||
| Sainlogic 5G&2.4G WiFi Weather Station | Wi-Fi rain tracking | Rain, wind, temperature, humidity and pressure | 8.9 | ||
| VEVOR 7-in-1 Wi-Fi Weather Station with APP | app-based yard monitoring | Rainfall, wind, sunlight, temperature and humidity | 8.9 | ||
| La Crosse Technology Professional Smart Wi-Fi Weather | rain history and alerts | Rain, wind, temperature and humidity | 8.5 | ||
| AIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station with Dual Display | viewing rain data in two rooms | Rainfall, wind, temperature, humidity and pressure | 8.5 | ||
| AIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station | basic screen-based weather data | Rainfall, wind, temperature, humidity and pressure | 8.2 | ||
| AcuRite Iris PRO+ | a compatible system needing aspirated temperature readings | Rain, wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity | 433 MHz, every 36 seconds | AcuRite Access and 5-in-1 displays | 7.6 |
| Raddy VP7 APP Weather Station Wireless Indoor | app alerts and extra outdoor readings | Rain, wind, UV index, light, temperature and humidity | 7.5 |
The best rain sensors and weather stations
The AcuRite Iris is the highest-scoring replacement option here for a compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 display. The other picks are complete stations with a matched outdoor sensor and indoor readout.
AcuRite Iris: Best for replacing an AcuRite 5-in-1 sensor
- Measures rainfall, wind, temperature and humidity
- 433 MHz transmission
- Up to 330 ft range
- Compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 displays
A focused replacement for a compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 system. Confirm your display model before buying.
Pros
- Compatible with a broad range of AcuRite 5-in-1 displays
- Includes mounting hardware
Cons
- Display sold separately
- Requires 4 AA batteries
The AcuRite Iris is the most direct choice when a compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 sensor needs replacing. It measures rainfall, wind speed, wind direction, temperature and humidity, so one outdoor unit covers several local weather readings.
It sends data every 36 seconds over a 433 MHz wireless signal, with a range of up to 330 ft. AcuRite lists compatibility with a range of its 5-in-1 displays, so match your console model to the compatible-model list before buying.
This is a sensor only, and the display is sold separately. It requires 4 AA alkaline or lithium batteries, which are not included.
Choose the Iris for a known compatible system. If you need a full setup, compare station bundles instead of assuming this sensor will pair with a different brand's console.
AIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station with Outdoor Wireless: Best for a large color display
- Rainfall and wind measurements
- 8.5-inch color LCD
- Up to 328 ft wireless range
- No Wi-Fi
A complete weather station for buyers who want rainfall and wind data on a large indoor screen without Wi-Fi.
Pros
- Large adjustable-brightness screen
- Includes display and outdoor sensor
Cons
- Not a standalone replacement sensor
- No Wi-Fi
The AIRAIN TECH station is a fit if you want rain and wind information on a large indoor display. Its 8.5-inch color LCD presents readings from the included outdoor sensor, along with temperature, humidity, pressure and other weather information.
The outdoor sensor has a range of up to 328 ft. AIRAIN TECH describes this as a no-Wi-Fi model, so the display is the way to check readings.
This is a complete system, not a sensor for an existing console. Check where you'll mount the sensor and whether the indoor display will be in range.
Choose it when a large screen matters more than remote app access. For a phone-based option, see our guide to the best wireless rain gauge with app access.
Sainlogic 5G&2.4G WiFi Weather Station: Best for Wi-Fi rain tracking
- Rainfall and wind monitoring
- 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Up to 443 ft open-area range
- Local data storage and Excel export
This complete system suits buyers who want to view weather data remotely and keep local records for later review.
Pros
- Supports remote monitoring
- Stores up to 2 years of data locally
Cons
- Includes a display and outdoor sensor
- Check app and platform needs before choosing
The Sainlogic station suits buyers who want rainfall records and remote access. It supports 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and offers local storage for up to 2 years of weather data, with Excel export.
Its outdoor sensor measures rainfall, wind speed and direction, temperature and humidity, among other conditions. Sainlogic gives a wireless range of up to 443 ft in open areas, so walls and placement can affect the usable distance.
This complete station includes a display console and outdoor sensor. Check that its app and connected platforms fit your needs before choosing it for data sharing.
VEVOR 7-in-1 Wi-Fi Weather Station with APP: Best for app-based yard monitoring
- Rainfall, wind, sunlight, temperature and humidity
- Smart Life app
- Up to 492 ft transmission distance
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
A complete weather station with app access and a 7.5-inch display. Its Wi-Fi connection supports 2.4 GHz only.
Pros
- Smart Life app support
- Solar-powered outdoor sensor
Cons
- 5 GHz Wi-Fi is not supported
- Adapter must stay plugged in for Wi-Fi sync
The VEVOR 7-in-1 station combines rainfall readings with wind, sunlight, temperature and humidity measurements. It pairs with the Smart Life app and includes a 7.5-inch indoor display.
VEVOR gives the outdoor sensor a transmission distance of up to 492 ft. Its app connection supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only, and the adapter must remain plugged in for Wi-Fi sync.
This is a full station rather than an add-on rain gauge for another console. Consider the outlet location for the display and check your router band before choosing it for app access.
La Crosse Technology Professional Smart Wi-Fi Weather: Best for rain history and alerts
- Rain graph and historical records
- Custom alerts
- Up to 400 ft transmission range
- La Crosse View app
A complete station for buyers who want rain graphs and historical records alongside wind and indoor-outdoor readings.
Pros
- Rain graph and historical records
- Custom alerts and app access
Cons
- Not a standalone replacement sensor
- Enhanced features depend on Wi-Fi
The La Crosse Technology station is a fit when you want rainfall history alongside current conditions. It includes a rain graph and historical records, plus custom alerts and app access through La Crosse View.
The system also measures wind and indoor-outdoor temperature and humidity. Its transmission range is up to 400 ft, and Wi-Fi adds enhanced features.
The bundled wind and rain sensor is part of a complete station setup. It is not described as a standalone replacement for another brand's console, so consider it for a new or matching system.
AIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station with Dual Display: Best for viewing rain data in two rooms
- Rainfall and wind measurements
- Two color displays
- Up to 328 ft wireless range
- No Wi-Fi
This complete system sends outdoor readings to two displays, making it easier to check rainfall from separate rooms.
Pros
- Two displays included
- Adjustable outdoor sensor bracket
Cons
- No Wi-Fi
- Not a standalone replacement sensor
The dual-display AIRAIN TECH system lets you check rainfall from more than one room. One outdoor sensor transmits weather readings to two color displays, each with a 6.5-inch screen.
It measures rainfall and wind along with temperature, humidity and barometric pressure. The wireless range is up to 328 ft, and the station does not use Wi-Fi.
Choose it for a two-room viewing setup without app access. Since the sensor is bundled with its own displays, it is not a replacement part for an unrelated station.
AIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station: Best for basic screen-based weather data
- Rainfall, wind and indoor-outdoor readings
- 6.5-inch color LCD
- Up to 328 ft wireless range
- No Wi-Fi
A complete wireless station for home rainfall and weather readings on one indoor display, without app setup.
Pros
- Includes outdoor sensor and display
- Adjustable mounting bracket
Cons
- No Wi-Fi
- Not a standalone replacement sensor
The AIRAIN TECH wireless station suits buyers who want rainfall and other outdoor readings on one screen. Its 6.5-inch color LCD displays data from the included outdoor sensor, and the system also tracks wind, temperature, humidity and pressure.
The sensor's range is up to 328 ft. The model does not include Wi-Fi, so readings appear on the station display rather than a phone app.
Use it as a complete home setup if you don't need a second display or remote access. If you need to identify the console before buying, our guide to what a weather station console does explains its role.
AcuRite Iris PRO+: Best for a compatible system needing aspirated temperature readings
- Measures rain, wind, temperature and humidity
- Solar-powered internal fan
- 433 MHz transmission
- Up to 330 ft range
This sensor adds a solar-powered internal fan while retaining rainfall measurement. Check display compatibility before replacing a sensor.
Pros
- Solar-powered internal fan
- Compatible with AcuRite Access and 5-in-1 displays
Cons
- Display or Access sold separately
- Requires 4 AA batteries
The AcuRite Iris PRO+ is an option for compatible AcuRite equipment when you want a sensor with a solar-powered internal fan. It measures rain, wind, temperature and humidity, and transmits readings every 36 seconds over 433 MHz.
Its wireless range is up to 330 ft. The sensor works with AcuRite Access and specified 5-in-1 displays, so verify the exact console model before choosing it.
Like the standard Iris, the PRO+ is not a complete station. Choose it when its compatibility and fan feature fit your system, rather than as a universal rain sensor.
Raddy VP7 APP Weather Station Wireless Indoor: Best for app alerts and extra outdoor readings
- Rainfall and wind measurements
- Tuya Smart app
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Up to 330 ft open-range transmission
This complete system combines rainfall readings with app access and added outdoor measurements such as UV index and light intensity.
Pros
- App access and alerts
- Tracks UV index and light intensity
Cons
- Requires 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi for app access
- Not a standalone replacement sensor
The Raddy VP7 APP combines rain measurement with app access and extra outdoor readings. Its 7-in-1 sensor tracks rainfall, wind, UV index, light intensity, temperature and humidity, while the Tuya Smart app supports remote viewing and alerts.
The system uses 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi for app access and has a transmission range of up to 330 ft in open range. It includes a display console and outdoor sensor, so it's a complete setup rather than a sensor upgrade for another station.
Choose it if app alerts and several outdoor measurements matter to you. For a broader view of station bundles, compare our best automatic rain gauge stations.
What should you check before replacing a rain sensor?
Check the console model and the sensor's compatibility list first. A matching radio frequency alone does not mean a sensor will pair with your station.
Next, decide whether you need a sensor by itself or a complete station. A replacement sensor can work with your current display when compatible; a bundle includes its own display and may fit better when you're replacing the whole system.
Also consider where the rain gauge will sit. Choose an open mounting location away from obstructions that could affect rainfall collection, and make sure the sensor can transmit to the console from that position.
Should you choose a standalone sensor or a complete station?
Choose a standalone sensor when your console still works and the manufacturer confirms compatibility. The AcuRite Iris and Iris PRO+ are the options here specifically described as matching AcuRite 5-in-1 displays.
Choose a complete station if you want a matched console and outdoor sensor, or if you need app access and rainfall history. For readings shared online, our guide to a Weather Underground rain gauge covers questions to consider.
How do rain gauge design and placement affect readings?
Place a rain gauge in an open area with a stable mount so nearby surfaces or movement are less likely to interfere with collection. Keep leaves and debris from blocking the opening, and inspect the gauge after storms if a reading seems out of line with nearby conditions.
Some weather station gauges use a tipping bucket, which collects water in a small chamber and tips after it reaches a set amount. Read what sensors come with a home weather station to see how rainfall fits with other outdoor measurements.
Which rain sensor should you choose?
Choose the AcuRite Iris if you have a compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 display and need a direct sensor replacement. Choose the Sainlogic or VEVOR station if app access is central, or the AIRAIN TECH dual-display system if you want to view readings in two rooms.
Before ordering, confirm console compatibility for a replacement or check Wi-Fi and display needs for a complete station. If you're also planning indoor environmental monitoring, our air quality monitor guide and NOAA weather band radio guide cover two useful additions to a home weather setup.
How do I choose the best rain sensor for a weather station?
Choose by compatibility first if you already own a station. Match the sensor to the console model, then check transmission range and mounting needs.
If you're replacing the full setup, compare complete stations by display, app access, data history and other measurements rather than treating their outdoor sensors as interchangeable.
Can I use a different brand's rain sensor with my weather station?
Only if the sensor maker confirms compatibility with your exact console. Similar frequencies or a wireless connection do not guarantee that two brands will pair or report rainfall in the same way.
Check the model numbers and compatibility details before buying a replacement.
Is a rain sensor the same as a complete weather station?
No. A replacement sensor collects outdoor readings for a compatible console, while a complete station generally includes an outdoor sensor and an indoor display.
Some complete systems also offer app access, alerts or historical data, so compare those features if you want to monitor readings away from home.
Where should I mount an outdoor rain sensor?
Mount it in an open area where buildings, trees and other obstructions are less likely to block rainfall. Use a stable mounting point and check that the sensor can communicate with the indoor console from that position.
Keep the collection opening clear of debris.
Does every wireless rain gauge work with an app?
No. Wireless transmission to an indoor display does not automatically mean the station supports phone access.
Check for a named app or Wi-Fi feature if you want remote readings, and confirm your home network band is supported by that model.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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1
-
2
Best for a large color display
AIRAIN TECH Wireless Weather Station with Outdoor Wireless
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for Wi-Fi rain tracking
Sainlogic 5G&2.4G WiFi Weather Station
8.9/10 our score
See it on Amazon
