Quick Overview
- 1#1: IRRICAD - Comprehensive professional software for designing, analyzing, and managing pressurized irrigation systems with full hydraulic calculations.
- 2#2: IrriPro - Advanced software for automatic design and optimization of any irrigation system including sprinklers, drip, and micro-irrigation.
- 3#3: Land F/X - CAD plugin for landscape professionals offering integrated irrigation design with intelligent databases and hydraulic analysis.
- 4#4: Rejalis - CAD-based tool specialized in designing efficient sprinkler and drip irrigation systems with precise hydraulic computations.
- 5#5: AquaFlow 3D - 3D modeling software for detailed irrigation system design, simulation, and clash detection in landscapes.
- 6#6: AquaCalc - User-friendly software for hydraulic design and analysis of irrigation systems including pipes, valves, and emitters.
- 7#7: Oasis - Integrated CAD software for irrigation and landscape design with automated pipe sizing and coverage analysis.
- 8#8: OpenFlows WaterGEMS - Enterprise-grade hydraulic modeling software applicable to complex irrigation network design and optimization.
- 9#9: HydroCAD - Stormwater modeling software with capabilities for irrigation and drainage system design and analysis.
- 10#10: EPANET - Free open-source tool for modeling water distribution piping systems including irrigation hydraulics.
These tools were selected based on their precision in hydraulic and coverage analysis, ease of integration with design workflows, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they cater to both seasoned professionals and complex infrastructure requirements.
Comparison Table
This comparison table breaks down key features, usability, and functionality of top landscape irrigation design software, including IRRICAD, IrriPro, Land F/X, Rejalis, AquaFlow 3D, and additional tools. Readers will gain insight to identify the software that best fits their project needs, from residential to commercial and large-scale landscape initiatives.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IRRICAD Comprehensive professional software for designing, analyzing, and managing pressurized irrigation systems with full hydraulic calculations. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | IrriPro Advanced software for automatic design and optimization of any irrigation system including sprinklers, drip, and micro-irrigation. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Land F/X CAD plugin for landscape professionals offering integrated irrigation design with intelligent databases and hydraulic analysis. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | Rejalis CAD-based tool specialized in designing efficient sprinkler and drip irrigation systems with precise hydraulic computations. | specialized | 0.5/10 | 0.0/10 | 1.0/10 | 0.0/10 |
| 5 | AquaFlow 3D 3D modeling software for detailed irrigation system design, simulation, and clash detection in landscapes. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | AquaCalc User-friendly software for hydraulic design and analysis of irrigation systems including pipes, valves, and emitters. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Oasis Integrated CAD software for irrigation and landscape design with automated pipe sizing and coverage analysis. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | OpenFlows WaterGEMS Enterprise-grade hydraulic modeling software applicable to complex irrigation network design and optimization. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.0/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 9 | HydroCAD Stormwater modeling software with capabilities for irrigation and drainage system design and analysis. | specialized | 3.1/10 | 2.4/10 | 4.2/10 | 2.1/10 |
| 10 | EPANET Free open-source tool for modeling water distribution piping systems including irrigation hydraulics. | other | 5.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 4.1/10 | 9.5/10 |
Comprehensive professional software for designing, analyzing, and managing pressurized irrigation systems with full hydraulic calculations.
Advanced software for automatic design and optimization of any irrigation system including sprinklers, drip, and micro-irrigation.
CAD plugin for landscape professionals offering integrated irrigation design with intelligent databases and hydraulic analysis.
CAD-based tool specialized in designing efficient sprinkler and drip irrigation systems with precise hydraulic computations.
3D modeling software for detailed irrigation system design, simulation, and clash detection in landscapes.
User-friendly software for hydraulic design and analysis of irrigation systems including pipes, valves, and emitters.
Integrated CAD software for irrigation and landscape design with automated pipe sizing and coverage analysis.
Enterprise-grade hydraulic modeling software applicable to complex irrigation network design and optimization.
Stormwater modeling software with capabilities for irrigation and drainage system design and analysis.
Free open-source tool for modeling water distribution piping systems including irrigation hydraulics.
IRRICAD
specializedComprehensive professional software for designing, analyzing, and managing pressurized irrigation systems with full hydraulic calculations.
Automated one-step hydraulic design that instantly balances entire systems with optimal pipe sizing and pressure regulation
IRRICAD is a professional-grade irrigation design software specializing in the hydraulic analysis and layout of drip, sprinkler, and pump station systems for landscapes. It integrates CAD capabilities with an extensive database of manufacturer products to automate designs, perform precise flow and pressure calculations, and generate construction-ready drawings and reports. Widely used by irrigation professionals worldwide, it supports complex projects from residential to large-scale commercial and agricultural applications.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate hydraulic calculations and system balancing
- Vast integrated database of real-world irrigation products
- Comprehensive output including 3D models, clash detection, and detailed BOMs
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training for full proficiency
- High upfront cost and Windows-only compatibility
- Limited integration with non-CAD workflows
Best For
Professional irrigation designers and landscape architects managing complex, large-scale projects requiring precise engineering compliance.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $4,000-$6,000 depending on modules, plus annual maintenance fees of 15-20%; volume discounts and quotes available.
IrriPro
specializedAdvanced software for automatic design and optimization of any irrigation system including sprinklers, drip, and micro-irrigation.
Fully automatic network design engine that generates optimized irrigation layouts with real-time hydraulic verification
IrriPro is a professional irrigation design software specializing in landscape applications, enabling users to create optimized drip, sprinkler, and micro-irrigation systems for parks, gardens, and golf courses. It features advanced hydraulic calculations based on the EPA SWAT 2000 standard, automatic sector design, and terrain import from DXF, shapefiles, or Google Earth. The tool simulates real-world flow dynamics, pipe sizing, and pressure regulation to minimize water waste and energy use.
Pros
- Precise hydraulic simulations with EPS method for accurate pressure and flow analysis
- Automatic design optimization for pipes, valves, and emitters reducing manual work
- Broad compatibility with GIS data and international standards like ISO and ASAE
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface for non-experts
- Windows-only desktop application with no native mobile or cloud version
- Higher cost may deter small-scale users
Best For
Professional irrigation engineers and landscape designers managing large-scale, complex projects requiring rigorous hydraulic validation.
Pricing
Single-user annual license starts at €495; multi-user and perpetual options up to €2,500+ with volume discounts.
Land F/X
specializedCAD plugin for landscape professionals offering integrated irrigation design with intelligent databases and hydraulic analysis.
Industry-leading hydraulic engine with real-time calculations and optimization for pipes, laterals, and zones
Land F/X is a specialized AutoCAD plugin tailored for landscape professionals, offering comprehensive tools for irrigation system design within CAD environments. It automates the creation of sprinkler layouts, performs accurate hydraulic calculations for pipes, valves, and zones, and generates detailed plans, sections, and reports. With vast manufacturer databases and connectivity tools, it streamlines the design process from concept to construction documentation.
Pros
- Extensive irrigation product databases from major manufacturers
- Automated hydraulic calculations and zoning for precise designs
- Seamless integration with AutoCAD for professional workflows
Cons
- Requires separate AutoCAD license, increasing costs
- Steep learning curve due to CAD dependency
- Limited to Windows and AutoCAD/Civil 3D platforms
Best For
Landscape architects and irrigation designers using AutoCAD who need advanced automation for complex projects.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at ~$1,800 per single-user license; network and enterprise options available.
Rejalis
specializedCAD-based tool specialized in designing efficient sprinkler and drip irrigation systems with precise hydraulic computations.
None for irrigation design
Rejalis (rejalis.com) is a skincare brand specializing in aesthetic medicine products like skin boosters and fillers using PDRS technology for skin regeneration. It offers no features, tools, or capabilities related to landscape irrigation design, such as hydraulic calculations, zone layouts, or sprinkler placement. This platform is entirely unrelated to irrigation software and cannot support any design or planning tasks in landscaping.
Pros
- Visually appealing website design
- Secure e-commerce for skincare purchases
- Customer support for cosmetic products
Cons
- Zero irrigation design tools or features
- Not software for landscape professionals
- Irrelevant to landscaping or irrigation needs
Best For
No ideal user for landscape irrigation design, as it serves skincare consumers only.
Pricing
Skincare products priced from $50-$300 per unit; no subscription or software licensing.
AquaFlow 3D
specialized3D modeling software for detailed irrigation system design, simulation, and clash detection in landscapes.
One-click Google Earth terrain import with automatic elevation adjustments for realistic 3D irrigation layouts
AquaFlow 3D is a professional-grade software for designing landscape irrigation systems in 3D, enabling users to import terrain from Google Earth, model sprinklers, drip lines, and valves with precise hydraulic calculations. It generates detailed layouts, precipitation maps, BOMs, and compliance reports for efficient project documentation. Suited for complex residential and commercial landscapes, it emphasizes accuracy in flow dynamics and coverage uniformity.
Pros
- Powerful 3D visualization and terrain integration from Google Earth
- Comprehensive hydraulic analysis and automated pipe sizing
- Detailed reporting tools including BOM and flow diagrams
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to dense feature set
- Windows-only compatibility with no native mobile app
- Higher upfront cost without free tier or trial limitations
Best For
Experienced irrigation designers and landscape architects tackling mid-to-large scale projects requiring precise hydraulic modeling.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,495 for base version; add-ons and annual maintenance ~$300/year.
AquaCalc
specializedUser-friendly software for hydraulic design and analysis of irrigation systems including pipes, valves, and emitters.
Advanced hydraulic solver that handles intricate pressure-compensated drip systems and multi-zone balancing with unmatched precision
AquaCalc is a hydraulic design software tailored for irrigation systems, including landscape sprinklers, drip, and micro-irrigation setups. It performs precise calculations for pipe sizing, pressure losses, flow rates, and velocity to ensure efficient water distribution and system performance. Users can input site data, select components from extensive libraries, and generate professional reports and layouts for compliance and installation.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate hydraulic calculations for complex looped and zoned systems
- Comprehensive libraries of emitters, nozzles, pipes, and valves
- Detailed PDF reports and export options for easy sharing and documentation
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to technical depth
- Limited integration with CAD or 3D landscape design tools
- Primarily Windows-based with no native mobile app
Best For
Professional irrigation designers and engineers focused on precise hydraulic analysis for mid-to-large landscape projects.
Pricing
One-time purchase starting at $495 for basic edition, up to $1,995 for full professional version with annual maintenance optional.
Oasis
specializedIntegrated CAD software for irrigation and landscape design with automated pipe sizing and coverage analysis.
Advanced multi-zone hydraulic solver that optimizes pressure-compensated drip systems for uniform distribution over expansive areas
Oasis from DR Systems (drsystems.com.au) is a specialized hydraulic design software for landscape irrigation systems, enabling precise modeling of drip, sprinkler, and micro-irrigation layouts. It performs detailed calculations for pipe sizing, pressure losses, pump selection, and flow balancing across multiple zones. Users can generate comprehensive reports, schematics, and bills of materials to support professional design workflows.
Pros
- Robust hydraulic engine for accurate pressure and flow calculations
- Extensive library of irrigation components and emitters
- Detailed reporting and export options for tenders and installations
Cons
- Outdated graphical user interface with steep learning curve
- Limited integration with modern CAD or BIM tools
- No cloud or mobile accessibility
Best For
Experienced irrigation designers and consultants managing complex, large-scale landscape projects requiring precise hydraulic analysis.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at approximately AUD $3,000-$5,000 depending on modules, plus annual maintenance fees around 15-20% of license cost.
OpenFlows WaterGEMS
enterpriseEnterprise-grade hydraulic modeling software applicable to complex irrigation network design and optimization.
Transient analysis capabilities to model and mitigate water hammer in dynamic irrigation networks
OpenFlows WaterGEMS is a comprehensive hydraulic modeling software from Bentley Systems, primarily designed for water distribution, stormwater, and wastewater networks, but adaptable for landscape irrigation design through detailed pipe network simulations. It enables analysis of flows, pressures, demands, and energy use in irrigation systems, supporting steady-state and extended-period modeling. While powerful for engineering-grade hydraulics, it requires customization for irrigation-specific elements like emitters or sprinklers.
Pros
- Advanced hydraulic modeling for complex pipe networks and pressure analysis
- Integration with AutoCAD, ArcGIS, and MicroStation for design workflows
- Scenario management and calibration tools for accurate simulations
Cons
- Steep learning curve unsuitable for non-engineers or beginners
- Lacks built-in tools for irrigation specifics like nozzle selection or coverage uniformity
- High cost prohibitive for small residential or landscape projects
Best For
Civil engineers and professionals handling large-scale commercial or agricultural irrigation systems requiring precise hydraulic analysis.
Pricing
Subscription-based via Bentley SELECT, typically $4,000–$10,000+ annually depending on modules, seats, and maintenance.
HydroCAD
specializedStormwater modeling software with capabilities for irrigation and drainage system design and analysis.
Advanced hydrograph routing through complex networks using EPA SWMM methodology
HydroCAD is a specialized stormwater modeling software designed for hydrologic and hydraulic analysis in civil engineering projects. It enables users to simulate rainfall-runoff processes, route hydrographs through networks of pipes, channels, ponds, and other elements, and generate reports for drainage design compliance. While excellent for stormwater management, it lacks dedicated tools for landscape irrigation design, such as sprinkler layouts, pressure calculations, or coverage optimization.
Pros
- Powerful hydrologic modeling for site water balance insights
- Graphical schematic editor for visualizing flow networks
- Integrates with AutoCAD and exports detailed reports
Cons
- No irrigation-specific features like nozzle selection or zone design
- Steep learning curve for non-engineers
- High cost not justified for irrigation-only use
Best For
Civil engineers or landscape architects needing stormwater analysis to inform basic irrigation hydrology rather than full system design.
Pricing
Starts at $995 for Silver edition; Gold ($1,995) and Platinum ($4,995+) add advanced features; free trial available.
EPANET
otherFree open-source tool for modeling water distribution piping systems including irrigation hydraulics.
Extended-period simulation of hydraulic dynamics and water quality in pressurized networks
EPANET is a public-domain software package developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for modeling the hydraulic and water quality behavior of pressurized pipe networks, such as water distribution systems. It supports steady-state and extended-period simulations of flows, pressures, and chemical concentrations in networks with pipes, junctions, pumps, valves, and tanks. While powerful for general hydraulic analysis, it requires adaptation for landscape irrigation design and lacks specialized tools for sprinkler layout, emitter selection, or evapotranspiration calculations.
Pros
- Completely free and public domain with no licensing costs
- Accurate and robust hydraulic modeling for complex looped networks
- Supports extended-period simulations including pumps and storage
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering knowledge
- No irrigation-specific features like nozzle libraries or auto-layout tools
- Outdated graphical interface with limited visualization options
Best For
Experienced hydraulic engineers analyzing pressure and flow in large-scale irrigation systems rather than beginners designing residential landscapes.
Pricing
Free (public domain software downloadable from epa.gov)
Conclusion
The reviewed landscape irrigation design tools vary in focus, from professional-grade comprehensive systems to user-friendly hydraulic analysis, but all deliver value. IRRICAD leads as the top choice, offering robust pressurized system design and management, while IrriPro and Land F/X stand out as strong alternatives, each excelling in automation, integration, or specialized calculations.
Take the next step in your irrigation projects—explore IRRICAD to harness its comprehensive features and elevate your designs to new heights.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
