Sprinkler heads have different designs to suit varying needs. And the Hunter MP Rotator and Rainbird Rotary nozzle designs offer two distinct irrigation experiences. But both brands have built a respectable reputation in the lawn care community. So, let’s compare the Hunter MP Rotator VS Rainbird Rotary to see which one might be best for you.
Which is better, Rainbird or Hunter? From an aesthetic point of view, Hunter’s sprinkler nozzles look more elegant than Rainbird’s. They are also quieter than most of its competitors, including the Rainbird rotary spray head. On the other hand, you do not need a tool to adjust the latest RB rotary models, making Rainbird’s products more practical. It is a tough battle!
Hunter MP Rotator VS Rainbird Rotary: A Fair Comparison
As mentioned above, the Hunter MP rotator requires a tool to control the precipitation rate. Instead, you only need to use your hands to modify the spray pattern and precipitation rate with Rainbird products.
The main difference between these two brands’ sprinkler heads is that Hunter’s nozzles require low, steady pressure. Why? Because they are built to give you more coverage—up to 35 feet. On the other hand, all Rainbird rotary models need more water per minute to operate correctly.
While the standard MP rotator is approximately 0.4 inches/hour, the Hunter MP800 rotator reaches 0.8 inches/hour. These data assume a steady pressure at 40 psi—the optimal operating pressure.
Rainbird rotary nozzles have an average precipitation rate of 0.60 inches/hour as long as they operate within the recommended pressure range. That is, between 20 and 55 psi. The official precipitation range is valid across the maximum radium range of 24 feet.
Color-coded Sprinkler Heads
Even though most people compare the Hunter MP Rotator VS Rainbird Rotary from a technical point of view, it would be nice to consider one similarity they share. Both brands use color-coded sprinkler heads to represent different distances and arcs.
Color-coding helps you design your irrigation system carefully. And depending on what grass type you use, you might lean towards one or the other. Soil water thresholds also depend on soil texture. But there is another factor you might want to consider before making your purchase: ease of cleaning.
The Hunter MP rotator nozzle design does not allow for easy cleaning. As soon as an MP rotator gets dirty, you may have to throw it out. Instead, you can always clean a Rainbird rotary nozzle because it is flushable. All you need to do is pull the top part.
Rainbird adjustable nozzles also have a white line just below the sprinkler head. For clarity, the white tick mark indicates the left margin, where the sprinkler head starts to rotate.
Why Choose The Hunter MP Rotator
Hunter MP Rotators are the premier rotator heads that came out a decade ago. More importantly, they deliver a fine mist of water droplets quietly and efficiently. And the MP rotator patented double-pop nozzle makes it the most durable sprinkler head for the toughest conditions. This technology does not clog as frequently as the Rainbird rotary, making the Hunter the winner of the Hunter MP Rotator VS Rainbird Rotary comparison for people with sandy soils.
Because the MP Rotator has only one moving part, this sprinkler head can resist sudden pressure changes up to 100 psi. Such design also allows it to achieve a faster rotation speed, going a full circle in 31 seconds.
Why Choose The Rainbird Rotary
After removing the old sprinkler head to install the new Rainbird rotary, you only need to set the left margin. As soon as the white mark aligns with the desired starting position, you can turn on the sprinklers and adjust the head. You press down on it and change the stream. No extra tools or keys are necessary. And the best part is that it takes less than 30 seconds from installation to adjustment per sprinkler head.
Most homeowners will find there is no contest in the Hunter MP Rotator VS Rainbird Rotary clash after seeing the continuous strings of water that the Rainbird rotary pushes out. Without a doubt, the Rainbird rotary puts out more water more efficiently. So, if you need a higher flow rate, this is your pick!