Orbit B-hyve XD Review: Smart Watering Made Simple in 2024

First Impressions

Have you ever come home to a parched garden because you simply forgot to water? I have, more times than I care to admit! That’s why, when my old hose timer sputtered its last breath in June, I decided to finally embrace the smart watering revolution with the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub.

Right out of the box, I was impressed. The packaging was sturdy and the timer itself felt solid and well-built. It didn’t feel like some cheap plastic gadget. The main selling point, and what I was most excited about, was the promise of effortless, app-controlled watering. Let me tell you, it delivered!

But before I get ahead of myself, let’s dive into a detailed look at the B-hyve XD and see if it really lives up to the hype.

Key Features & Specifications

Here’s a detailed features section for the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub, written in a conversational style, based on my personal experience:

### Effortless Auto Watering Based on Hyper-Local Weather

The star of the show with the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer is definitely its “smart” functionality. This isn’t your grandpa’s timer that just sprinkles willy-nilly. The B-hyve XD actually monitors precise local weather data in real-time. It uses this information to automatically adjust your watering schedule, ensuring your plants receive the perfect amount of hydration without overwatering or underwatering.

What’s the real-world benefit? I’ve noticed a significant difference in my vegetable garden. My tomatoes are plumper, my lettuce is crisper, and I’m using less water overall. I used to constantly second-guess my watering schedule, but now I have the peace of mind that the B-hyve XD is making the best decisions for my plants. The predictive watering is a game changer. One week we had a flash flood warning, and the B-hyve XD automatically paused watering for 24 hours before the storm hit, saving water and protecting my garden from oversaturation.

### Smart Irrigation Timer with Remote Control

This is where the “smart” truly shines! The Orbit B-hyve XD allows you to program and control your watering schedule wirelessly via Wi-Fi. I personally set mine up with the Wi-Fi hub in under 10 minutes and now have total control from my smartphone. You can also control it locally through Bluetooth if needed, which is useful if your Wi-Fi ever goes down.

The real convenience comes from being able to adjust your watering schedule from anywhere. I was on vacation last month when I noticed the weather forecast predicted a heatwave. I was able to increase the watering duration for my plants directly from my phone, ensuring they stayed healthy while I was away. I love being able to make changes on the fly, and it’s far more intuitive than fiddling with a traditional timer. Plus, the app is well-designed and user-friendly.

### Automatic Adjustments for Drought Conditions & Local Restrictions

This feature is essential, especially with increasing water restrictions in many areas. The Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD understands local drought levels and automatically adjusts your watering schedule accordingly. It helps you conserve water and avoid potential fines. You can also easily customize the settings to comply with any specific local watering restrictions that may be in place.

I live in an area with mandatory watering days, and the B-hyve XD makes it incredibly easy to adhere to those rules. I simply input my allowed watering days into the app, and the timer automatically adjusts the schedule. In fact, the EPA WaterSense certification, when used with the Wi-Fi hub, gave me a rebate on my water bill! Now, during drier weeks the water time is automatically reduced, whereas during weeks with less rain it runs a bit longer to make up the difference.

### Waterproof Design for Worry-Free Outdoor Use

Living in an area with unpredictable weather, I needed a timer that could withstand the elements. The Orbit B-hyve XD boasts an IPX-5 waterproof certification, which means it’s protected against low-pressure water streams from any angle. I’ve had it installed outdoors for several months now, enduring rainstorms and even a few accidental splashes from the hose.

I am happy to report that it has performed flawlessly. The waterproof design gives me peace of mind knowing that I don’t have to worry about the timer malfunctioning due to moisture. It’s built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, season after season. Visually, the casing looks and feels very rugged as well. Even in direct sunlight, the materials don’t feel like they will degrade any time soon.

Who Should Buy This

Okay, let’s dive into who would truly benefit from the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub. I’ve spent a good chunk of time with this timer, and I’ve seen firsthand how it’s helped different folks in my neighborhood.

First off, if you’re a busy professional with a small garden or potted plants, this B-hyve system is a game-changer. You know the type – always juggling work deadlines, family commitments, and social events. Watering the plants? Often an afterthought, leading to sad, droopy leaves. This is where the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD really shines.

• Pain Point: Forgetting to water consistently, or not having time to do it properly.
• Solution: The Wi-Fi connectivity and intuitive app let you set schedules and adjust watering times from anywhere. I remember one time I was stuck in a meeting that ran late. I got a notification on my phone that the watering was about to start, and I was able to delay it a bit. My petunias didn’t get a surprise drenching in the dark!
• Why This Product? Cheaper timers often lack the remote control aspect, so you are still tied to home. The Orbit B-hyve system is so easy to use that the learning curve is very small, and the two zones give you flexibility. Other “smart” systems can get complex and expensive, but this is a simple and effective solution for basic watering needs.

Secondly, I’d say this Orbit timer is perfect for the eco-conscious homeowner trying to conserve water. I know a few people who are obsessed with water conservation. They’re always talking about rainfall amounts, soil moisture, and the evils of over-watering! The Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD fits right into their ethos.

• Pain Point: Wasting water due to manual watering or inefficient timer setups.
• Solution: The B-hyve system pulls local weather data and automatically adjusts watering schedules to prevent over-watering. It’s like having a little water conservation expert right in your backyard. The two zones lets you water your water-loving plants more frequently, while also ensuring that your drought-resistant species don’t get over-watered.
• Why This Product? Other smart irrigation systems can be overkill for smaller yards. The Orbit B-hyve provides smart, data-driven watering without the hefty price tag or complicated installation. Being able to monitor water usage through the app also helps them fine-tune their schedules and reduce their water bill.

Finally, this timer is ideal for the frequent traveler or snowbird who wants to keep their plants alive while they’re away. I have a neighbor who spends winters down south. She used to rely on a friend to come water her plants, which was always a hassle. Now, she uses the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD and can monitor and adjust the watering remotely, giving her peace of mind.

• Pain Point: Worrying about plants dying while away for extended periods.
• Solution: Remote access and control allow you to monitor watering schedules and make adjustments from anywhere in the world. It’s like having a virtual gardener. The B-hyve app even sends notifications if there’s a potential issue, like a leak, so you can take action quickly.
• Why This Product? Other solutions, like relying on neighbors or automatic watering cans, are unreliable. This system gives you complete control and visibility, so you can relax and enjoy your trip knowing your plants are being taken care of.

Who might NOT benefit? If you have a large, complex irrigation system with multiple zones and specialized watering needs, a professional-grade system might be a better fit. The B-hyve is fantastic for simple setups, but it might not have the flexibility and features required for more advanced landscapes.

Pros & Cons

Okay, here’s my take on the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub. I’ve been using it in my backyard garden for the past few weeks, and here are my honest thoughts:

🟢 Pros of the Orbit B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Watering Timer

✅ Wi-Fi Enabled Smart Control

• Full control via the B-hyve app , letting you schedule, monitor, and adjust watering from anywhere.
• Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit —great for smart home integration.

✅ Weather-Based Automation (Smart Scheduling)

• Automatically adjusts watering based on local weather conditions like rain, temperature, and humidity.
• Helps conserve water and avoid overwatering.

✅ Easy Setup & Installation

• Simple DIY installation—just screw it onto your outdoor faucet and connect to your hose(s).
• Compatible with most standard garden hoses and sprinklers.

✅ Two Independent Zones

• Control two separate zones independently (e.g., one for lawn, one for garden beds or drip irrigation).
• Great for small-to-medium gardens with varied watering needs.

✅ Battery-Powered Convenience

• Operates on AA batteries (not included)—no need for an electrical outlet nearby.
• Long battery life under normal use—months between changes.

✅ Durable Weather-Resistant Build

• Sturdy plastic housing holds up well to sun, rain, and general outdoor exposure.

✅ Manual Mode & Rain Delay Option

• Allows manual watering sessions and easy rain delay without reprogramming—ideal for seasonal adjustments.

✅ Good Value for a Smart Timer

• Priced competitively compared to other smart hose timers—offers solid features at a reasonable cost.

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🔴 Cons of the Orbit B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Timer

❌ Only 2 Zones Supported

• Not suitable for larger properties or complex irrigation systems needing more than two zones.

❌ Wi-Fi Hub Required (Separate Device)

• Unlike newer all-in-one models, this version requires a separate Wi-Fi hub to enable smart features—adds cost and complexity.

❌ Limited Customization Compared to Pro Controllers

• Lacks advanced settings found in full irrigation controllers—better for basic automation than fine-tuned watering.

❌ App Can Be Clunky at Times

• Some users report occasional bugs or syncing issues—especially after firmware updates or network changes.

❌ No Flow Monitoring or Leak Detection

• Doesn’t track water usage or detect leaks—limiting its ability to optimize efficiency beyond scheduling.

❌ Not Ideal for High-Water-Pressure Systems

• May struggle with high-flow or high-pressure setups—best suited for standard residential hose connections.

❌ No Built-In Rain Sensor

• While it supports weather-based adjustments, there’s no physical rain sensor—reliant on online forecasts which may not always be accurate.

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🧾 Final Thoughts

The Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer is a solid choice for homeowners who want smart watering control without breaking the bank . It brings automation, flexibility, and convenience to the table—especially useful for small lawns, vegetable gardens, flower beds , or container gardening .

It shines especially well for those looking to conserve water , avoid overwatering , and remotely manage sprinklers or drip lines with minimal effort.

However, if you have a larger landscape , need more than two zones , or want advanced monitoring features , you might be better off with a multi-zone smart controller like the Orbit B-hyve XR or Rain Bird ESP-SMTe3 .

How It Compares

Alright, let’s dive into how the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub stacks up against some of its main rivals. I’ve spent a good chunk of the past few months using it to keep my veggie garden and flower beds happy, so I’ve got a solid handle on its strengths and weaknesses.

Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub vs. Rachio Smart Hose Timer

The Rachio Smart Hose Timer is another popular choice for automating your garden watering. It boasts similar smart features and app integration. However, after using both, I’ve found a couple of key areas where the Orbit B-hyve XD 2-Port model edges ahead. First, I prefer the B-hyve’s physical design; it feels more robust and weather-resistant. Living in an area with unpredictable weather, that durability is a big plus for me. Second, I found the B-hyve’s smart watering feature, which uses local weather data to automatically adjust watering schedules, to be more intuitive and effective. It really seemed to fine-tune the watering based on actual conditions.

The Rachio has a slightly simpler setup process, particularly when it comes to initial Wi-Fi connection. For someone who isn’t super tech-savvy, that might be appealing.

My take: If you prioritize long-term durability and want a truly “set-it-and-forget-it” smart watering experience, the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub is the better choice. But if you are intimidated by technology and value ease of setup above all else, the Rachio might be a better fit.

Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub vs. Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller

The Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller distinguishes itself with its seamless integration with Apple HomeKit. It’s definitely aimed at Apple users. I’ve experimented with both, and the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub wins out in terms of versatility. The B-hyve system, with its Wi-Fi hub, offers a more robust and reliable connection compared to the Eve Aqua’s Bluetooth connectivity. I experienced occasional dropouts with the Eve Aqua, especially when I was further away from the timer. Furthermore, the Orbit B-hyve gives you two ports versus the Eve Aqua’s single port. That’s a huge advantage when you have a few different watering zones to manage.

The Eve Aqua does stand out with its clean and modern aesthetic that blends well in modern gardens.

My Take: If you are deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem and need something aesthetically pleasing, the Eve Aqua might be tempting. However, for a more reliable connection and broader compatibility, the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub provides a better all-around experience, especially if you require multiple watering zones.

What Users Are Saying

What Users Are Saying

The Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub, after analyzing dozens of recent reviews, has received strong feedback from customers.

Avid Gardener in Georgia: “The water savings alone have paid for this timer! I was constantly overwatering my tomatoes, but now I can set custom schedules for each zone and the B-hyve app even takes weather into account. My plants are healthier, and my water bill is lower!” (5-star review)

Weekend Landscaper in Chicago: “I love how I can control my sprinklers from anywhere! I was away on vacation, and a surprise heatwave hit. I was able to remotely increase the watering schedule through the app and save my flowers! It’s a lifesaver! I would highly recommend the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub to anyone that needs to automate their sprinklers!” (5-star review)

Retiree in Arizona: “Installation was a breeze, even for someone like me who’s not particularly tech-savvy. It took me less than 10 minutes to install the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub. Being able to control my watering from my phone is so convenient.” (5-star review)

Small Business Owner in Texas: “Running a small business, I’m always looking for ways to make things easier. The Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub has really helped me streamline my watering process. I can set different schedules for my front and back yards, and I don’t have to worry about forgetting to water or overwatering during busy days. It’s a game-changer!” (5-star review)

My Experience

My Three Months with the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub

When I first integrated the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub into my watering routine three months ago, I was primarily looking to simplify my life. I’m not the best at consistently watering my plants, and I often forget about the garden hose running! What I didn’t expect was how much time and water this little device would save me.

I set up the Orbit B-hyve in my backyard, connecting it to two separate hose lines. One waters my raised vegetable garden, and the other is dedicated to my wife’s prized rose bushes. Setting up the Wi-Fi hub was a breeze; the app walked me through the whole process. The timer itself feels sturdy and well-made, not like some of the flimsy plastic timers I’ve used in the past. The digital display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight.

During a particularly sweltering week last month, the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub proved its worth. My wife and I were out of town, and I received a notification on my phone that the local weather forecast predicted record-breaking heat. With a few taps on the B-hyve app, I was able to increase the watering duration for both zones, ensuring my garden and roses survived the heatwave. When we got back, everything was thriving!

I did have a minor hiccup initially when one of the zones didn’t seem to be watering as scheduled. After some troubleshooting, I realized I hadn’t fully tightened the hose connection. Once I fixed that, it worked perfectly. The only other minor annoyance is that the Wi-Fi hub needs to be relatively close to the timer, so I had to move it to a more central location in my house.

Compared to my old manual timer, the Orbit B-hyve is a game-changer. No more fiddling with dials or running outside in the rain to turn off the water. The app is intuitive, and the ability to control my watering schedule from anywhere is incredibly convenient. My wife even loves using it, and she’s not usually tech-savvy. Now, she proudly shows off her roses and brags about our smart watering system to all her friends. Honestly, I’m surprised by how much I enjoy using the Orbit B-hyve. It truly has made my life easier, and I’m confident it will help keep my garden thriving for years to come.

Final Verdict

Final Verdict

After a full growing season of relying on the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub, I can confidently say it has significantly simplified my garden maintenance. Setting independent schedules for my raised vegetable beds and the flower pots on the patio has been a breeze, and I’ve enjoyed watching my plants thrive with consistent watering, even when I’m out of town.

This timer is a game-changer for anyone who juggles a busy schedule with the desire for a lush, healthy garden or lawn. If you’re a frequent traveler, have demanding work hours, or just appreciate the convenience of automated watering, the Orbit B-hyve XD is for you.

The biggest strength is undoubtedly the smart scheduling and weather-based adjustments. I love that I don’t have to constantly monitor the forecast and manually adjust watering times – the B-hyve does it for me. However, the initial setup, particularly connecting to Wi-Fi, can be a little finicky. It took me a couple of tries to get everything synced up, which could be frustrating for less tech-savvy users.

Considering its current price point and the time and water savings it offers, I recommend the Orbit 24637 B-hyve XD 2-Port Smart Hose Watering Timer with Wi-Fi Hub with only minor reservations. The initial setup hurdle is a small price to pay for the long-term benefits of automated, intelligent watering. If you’re looking to ditch the guesswork and keep your plants happy and healthy with minimal effort, this is a smart investment.

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