Portable sprinklers are inexpensive and readily available. When used properly, they do a good job of watering. The most commonly used portable sprinkler is the oscillating sprinkler. An oscillating sprinkler consists of a horizontal tube which has several outlets along it. The tube turns slowly back and forth, applying water in a rectangular pattern.
Oscillating sprinklers apply water to medium-sized areas.
The spray pattern of many models is adjustable. Oscillating sprinklers tend to apply more water to the outer edge of the pattern than toward the center. Impulse sprinklers send out a stream of water that strikes a pin or hammer, breaking the water into droplets and causing the sprinkler head to turn in a full or partial circle. While the impulse sprinklers cover a large area, they often apply more water near the center of the pattern than at the outer edge. Also, the water is distributed with considerable force.