Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 review: a robust lawn sprinkler offering ample coverage

The Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 is a sturdy lawn sprinkler that gives great coverage and is built to last

Aqua Joe sprinkler in use on lawn
(Image: © Aqua Joe)

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

The Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 is a solid choice of lawn sprinkler offering ample coverage. It’s perfect for gardeners who pride themselves on a lush, green lawn. Not only does it make short work of garden maintenance, but it also sports a clever design to extend the lifespan of the product, giving great value for money. The Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 is undoubtedly a step up from your average all-plastic lawn sprinkler. While it can’t rival the convenience of an in-ground irrigation system, this is a superb choice if you’re on a budget and an above-ground model is sufficient for your needs.

Pros

  • +

    Durable

  • +

    Lightweight

  • +

    Great value

Cons

  • -

    Not suited to large yards

  • -

    Not ideal for uneven ground

  • -

    Few reports of faults

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If you want an upgrade from flimsy plastic lawn sprinklers, the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 could be the one for you. This affordable above-ground sprinkler has a solid metal base, giving you peace of mind that you can rely on it for seasons to come. That means you don’t have to worry about this sprinkler letting you down when you need it most.  

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16: Key specs

Close up on Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 on grass

(Image credit: Amazon)

Type: Above ground
Style: Oscillating
Coverage: 3600 square foot
Material: Metal base
Nozzles: 16
Maximum spray distance: 70 feet
Maximum flow: 6.65 GPM
Weight: 1.7 Ib

The Aqua Joe has got your back when watering flower beds, shrubs, and lawns. It offers a decent coverage of 3600 feet to keep your garden lush and healthy. If you’re concerned about water consumption, you’ll be pleased to know you can adjust the range to reduce waste.

Picking the right lawn sprinkler can be tricky. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. Here we’ll take a closer look at what the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 has to offer. You’ll learn about the pros and cons of this model compared to others on the market. We’ll go into depth on the design and features and consider user and expert views so you can decide whether this is the one for you.  

Want to find out more about the alternatives? Our guide to the best lawn sprinklers rounds up the top picks and provides buying advice on the main considerations.

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16: Design

A big plus for the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 is the robust metal base. Compared to all-plastic models, it’s much more sturdy, giving you the confidence that it will last. The manufacturer goes so far as to say it’s indestructible. Bold claims aside, the metal base makes it less likely to tip over than an all-plastic alternative. 

Be aware that the top part is plastic, which is not as durable as metal. There is a trade-off - the plastic has the advantage of being lightweight, making it easy to move around the yard.

As for looks, the top part is a cheerful aqua color. In practical terms, it stands out on the lawn, reducing the risk of someone tripping over it.

Aqua Joe Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 spraying water on lawn

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16  (Image credit: Amazon)

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16: Features

As an oscillating lawn sprinkler, the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 is the ideal choice for rectangular yards. This is good news if you want to keep a traditional lawn in top condition. 

As for coverage, it has a reach of 3600 feet, ideal for small to medium plots. It takes the chore out of your watering regime thanks to the maximum spray distance of up to 70 feet.

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16: Price and availability

The Aqua Joe falls into the mid-range of above-ground lawn sprinklers. It’s a steal considering the time and effort you’ll save on watering. Unlike the cheapest above-ground sprinklers, it boasts a sturdy metal base, adding longevity. You can find more expensive all-metal above-ground sprinklers, though the positive user reviews should give reassure you about the quality of this product.

It’s available to buy from Amazon and Home Depot for $20.97.

hand adjusting Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 lawn sprinkler on lawn

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16  (Image credit: Amazon)

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16: User reviews

Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16: What the experts say

black and white headshot of Bryan Clayton, co-founder of GreenPal

(Image credit: GreenPal)

“Metal lawn sprinklers are a great choice for those who want a durable and long-lasting sprinkler system. They are heavy-duty and can withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions. The trade-off is that metal sprinklers are more expensive than plastic sprinklers," says Bryan Clayton, CEO of GreenPal.

The Aqua Joe scores 4.6 out of 5 with 27 046 ratings on Amazon. People are impressed with the build quality compared to the average plastic sprinkler. One reviewer says it’s “by far the best sprinkler I’ve ever owned.” Customers feel they get bang for their buck, with one describing it as a “superb investment for the money.”

The negatives? A few customers report faults, though these are a minority. People say it’s tricky to position on sloping ground, so it’s best for flat plots. 

Should you buy the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16?

If you want to save time on garden maintenance without breaking the bank, the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 is a solid choice. The sturdy metal base is certainly an upgrade on your average plastic sprinkler. It’s easy to see why so many customers rate it as value for money at the affordable price of $23.00.

How does the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 compare to competitors?

The Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 holds its own against competitors. While all-plastic options like the Psinzmk Garden Sprinkler for Yard are often cheaper, the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 sports a superior build quality. 

The Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 is a cheaper alternative to the Melnor Premium Metal Oscillating Sprinkler, though the Melnor just inches it on coverage, reaching 3900 feet compared to 3600. 

If you’re after true luxury, the Aqua Joe SJI-OMS16 cannot beat the convenience of a set-and-forget irrigation kit like the Rain Bird In-Ground Automatic Sprinkler System. But at a fraction of the price of an in-ground model, the Aqua Joe is undoubtedly an affordable way to hydrate your garden. 


black and white headshot of Bryan Clayton,  co-founder of GreenPal
Bryan Clayton

Bryan Clayton is the CEO of GreenPal, an online marketplace that connects homeowners with local lawn care and landscaping professionals. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Bryan has become a leading expert in lawn care and landscaping. He is passionate about helping homeowners create beautiful outdoor spaces that they can enjoy year-round.


Louise Bond

Louise Bond is a UK-based writer and the founder of The Cove Copy. She has been published in The Guardian, Breathe, Fit & Well, Top Ten Reviews, and more. When she’s not writing, you can usually find her out in nature, whether hiking in the woods or pottering in the garden.