Any at-home meteorology buff would do well to get themselves a rain gauge. This device will help you keep track of the conditions around you, which can help you cut your water bill, adapt farming patterns, or just sate your curiosity. There’s no doubt you want one that is accurate and reliable to make sure you get the best readings, but there are also other things to consider, like visibility, convenience, and style. So if you need a rain gauge, check out our picks for the best options out there. AcuRite 5-Inch Capacity Easy-Read Magnifying Rain Gauge Keep it SimpleSimplicity wins out with this durable, accurate, easy-to-use gauge. Best OverallFind on Amazon Sometimes a no-frills approach can make for the best things, and this device is proof of that. The numbers are magnified by 35%, so they are easy to read whether you’re near or far. And the gauge itself is perfect for gardeners, as it can be staked into the ground or mounted on a post — wherever provides you with the best viewing opportunity. The acrylic material is weather-resistant and will stand the test of time and the elements. The affordable price is something we love, along with the fact that it can measure up to 5″ of rain. Pros: Magnifies numbers by 35% for easy reading Can stake into the ground or mounted on a post or wall Weather-resistant Affordable Able to measure up to 5″ of rain Cons: Cannot determine accuracy greater than to the 10th of an inch La Crosse Waterfall Rain Gauge Easy PeasyThis gauge is clear to let you easily check the precipitation level with no fuss.Easiest to UseFind on Amazon This rain gauge by La Crosse gives you hassle-free measuring, so you can easily mount it on your deck or fence rail and slide it on and off the bracket. Able to measure up to 6″ of rainfall, this device features a floating rain level to make the rain measurement clear to see, and thanks to the large numbers on the gauge, no guesswork is involved. The simple, low-key appearance of this gauge makes it able to go unnoticed in a variety of places in your yard, including your deck, without obstructing your view. Pros: Able to measure up to 6” of rain Floating rain level makes it easy to see where the rain is Large numbers show the rain measurement from far away Rain collector slides off easily to clean and empty Cons: The red floating level changes color after time in the sun AcuRite Wireless Rain Gauge Check the DigitsClearly see rain levels and more with this easy-to-read digital display. Best DigitalFind on Amazon Sometimes you don’t want to go out in the rain to check the level, and with this digital rain gauge from AcuRite, you can get an accurate measurement from your warm, dry home. This wireless device transmits the rain amount every 16 seconds to the display inside your home and can keep track of rain readings for the last seven days. With the occasional recalibration, this device provides highly accurate readings and even features a flood watch alarm to let you know when danger is on its way. Pros: The wireless ability allows you to read the rainfall without having to stand out in the rain Transmits data every 16 seconds and stores up to 7 days’ worth of data Track daily, weekly, and monthly rainfall Features flood watch alarm to keep you safe Cons: You’ll have to change the batteries every so often Stratus Precision Rain Gauge Professional PrecisionThis rain gauge gives accurate readings down to the one-hundredth of an inch. Best AnalogFind on Amazon Are you looking to get rain measurements that are down to 1/100th of an inch? If your answer is yes, then the solution is this rain gauge from Stratus. This thing matches National Weather Service (NWS) standards, so it is the real deal when it comes to correct readings. It can hold up to 11″ of rain, so get ready to enjoy watching a major downpour knowing you’ll get an accurate measurement. And it is made of UV-resistant polycarbonate, which means it will stand the test of frost and heat. Easily install this on a post with the bracket that makes it easy for you to take the cylinder off to read and empty with no problem. Pros: Measures to 1/100th of an inch Built to NWS standards Able to hold up to 11″ of rain Resistant to frost and heat Cons: If water inside the cylinder freezes, it can crack Headwind Jumbo EZRead Rain Gauge I Can See Clearly NowFor a no-squint solution come rain or shine, this large-print gauge is a clear choice.Best Large-SizedFind on Amazon While it may not have many bells and whistles, this jumbo-sized rain gauge will let you see its measurement from up to 50 feet away. This model’s high-visibility float and water level magnification, along with the bright yellow numbers, make it a great choice for a no-fuss way to get rain readings without straining your eyes or having to journey outside every time there’s a downpour. This gauge also features a funnel that keeps out any debris that could result in an inaccurate reading. Installation of this won’t take you long either, thanks to the included mounting bracket and hardware. Pros: Jumbo size makes it easy to see from far away Funnel keeps out debris Water level magnification makes it clear where the water stands Cons: Oversized design doesn’t make for the most precise readings Frequently Asked Questions How is rainfall measured in a rain gauge? A funnel collects the rain into a graduated cylinder with level markings on it that show the level in inches. Where should I put my rain gauge? The best place to put this device is in an open area such as your yard or a flower bed. Be sure to keep it away from fences or anything else that could block the rain from getting caught in the cylinder. Related posts: The Best Dog Raincoats The 5 Best Weather Predictors The Best Dog Raincoats In 2024