Greenhouse Controllers That Work with Portable Structures
The Inkbird ITC-308 takes the top spot for most portable greenhouse owners. It offers dual relay control for heating and cooling, works with standard outlets, and is simple to set up. Its main limitation is that it only controls temperature, not humidity.
Portable greenhouses are great for extending your growing season, but they can quickly overheat or freeze without proper monitoring. Smart controllers help you maintain ideal conditions, even when you are away.
We looked at the most popular smart controllers on Amazon that work with portable greenhouses. Our focus is on real functionality, not marketing claims, to help you choose the right one for your setup.
The best picks, ranked
Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller
This dual relay controller is a favorite among greenhouse hobbyists. It lets you plug in a heater and a cooling device, with independent settings for each. The large display shows current temperature and set points clearly.
Pros
- Simple plug-and-play design
- Accurate sensor with long probe
- Affordable for the features
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or app control
- Does not monitor humidity
Govee WiFi Thermometer Hygrometer
The Govee sensor tracks temperature and humidity and sends real-time alerts to your phone. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. The built-in battery lasts months, and the display is easy to read.
Pros
- Wireless monitoring from anywhere
- Email and app alerts
- High accuracy (±0.54°F)
Cons
- Cannot control devices directly
- Requires consistent Wi-Fi signal
BN-LINK Wireless Thermostat for Seed Germination
This thermostat is designed for heat mats but works well for controlling space heaters in small greenhouses. It has a single outlet and a temperature probe. The digital display is straightforward, and the price is hard to beat.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to use with heat mats
- Compact size
Cons
- No cooling control
- No Wi-Fi or smart features
WiFi Smart Temperature Controller with App
This controller from Inkbird combines the reliability of the ITC-308 with Wi-Fi connectivity. You can set schedules, create temperature alerts, and monitor from your phone. It supports both heating and cooling devices.
Pros
- Full remote control
- Dual heat and cool
- Works with Alexa and Google
Cons
- Slightly complex setup
- Requires stable Wi-Fi
AC Infinity Controller 76
The AC Infinity Controller is designed for inline fans and ventilation systems. It automatically adjusts fan speed based on temperature and humidity, making it ideal for larger portable structures that need airflow. It has a sleek touchscreen interface.
Pros
- Precise fan control
- Built-in temp/humidity sensors
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Only works with AC Infinity fans
- No Wi-Fi or app
SensorPush HT.w Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer
SensorPush is a small wireless sensor that records temperature and humidity data over long periods. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and can log data for weeks. It is not a controller but a monitoring tool that pairs well with other devices.
Pros
- Long battery life
- High accuracy and data logging
- Easy to export data
Cons
- No direct device control
- Bluetooth range may be limited
Bayite BT-116 Digital Thermostat Controller
This thermostat offers dual relay control similar to the Inkbird but at a lower price point. It has a clear LED display and separate settings for heating and cooling. It is a reliable choice for basic greenhouse automation.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Works with many devices
- Clear display
Cons
- No smart features
- Some users report sensor drift
How to choose
How they compare
| # | Model | Control type | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller | Dual relay (heat/cool) | Basic temperature control for heaters and fans | 9.2 | Check price |
| 2 | Govee WiFi Thermometer Hygrometer | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi | Remote monitoring with alerts | 8.8 | Check price |
| 3 | BN-LINK Wireless Thermostat for Seed Germination | Single relay (heat only) | Heat mats and simple heating | 8.5 | Check price |
| 4 | WiFi Smart Temperature Controller with App | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) | App-based control with scheduling | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | AC Infinity Controller 76 | Variable fan speed | Grow tents and larger portable greenhouses | 8.2 | Check price |
| 6 | SensorPush HT.w Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer | Bluetooth 4.2 | Data logging and mobile alerts | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | Bayite BT-116 Digital Thermostat Controller | Dual relay (heat/cool) | Dual stage control with simple display | 8.0 | Check price |
Common questions
Can I use a regular thermostat for a greenhouse?
Yes, but you need one that is compatible with the devices you want to control. Portable greenhouse thermostats are designed for heaters and fans, and they have temperature probes that can be placed inside the structure.
What is the difference between single and dual relay controllers?
A single relay controller only manages one device, usually a heater. A dual relay controller has two outlets, one for heating and one for cooling, allowing you to maintain a temperature range by switching between heat and fan.
Do smart controllers require a subscription?
Most controllers like the Inkbird Wi-Fi and Govee do not require a subscription. The companion apps are free. However, some advanced systems might offer optional cloud services for a fee, but that is not common for basic greenhouse controllers.
How accurate are the temperature sensors?
Most sensors are within ±1°F. Higher-end models like SensorPush claim accuracy of ±0.5°F. For typical greenhouse use, this level of accuracy is sufficient.
Can I control multiple devices with one controller?
Dual relay controllers can control two devices: one for heating and one for cooling. If you need to control more, you might need multiple controllers or a more advanced system like a grow room controller.
What is the maximum wattage I can connect?
It depends on the controller. Most have a rating of 10 amps at 120V, which is about 1200 watts. Check the specifications of your devices and ensure the combined wattage does not exceed the controller’s rating.
Do these controllers work with heat mats?
Yes, many controllers like the BN-LINK are specifically designed for heat mats. They have a probe that sits on the soil or mat to regulate temperature accurately.
How do I position the sensor probe?
Place the probe at the height of your plants or in the root zone for heat mats. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as it will give a false reading. For humidity sensors, keep them away from wet surfaces.
Can I use a smart plug instead of a thermostat?
A smart plug can turn devices on and off, but it does not measure temperature or humidity. You would need a separate sensor and a routine, which is less precise. A dedicated thermostat is better for maintaining consistent conditions.
Are these controllers safe for outdoor use?
Most controllers are not waterproof and should be kept in a dry location. If your greenhouse is outdoors, place the controller in a weatherproof enclosure or mount it under a cover. The sensor probes are usually waterproof, but the main unit is not.
The verdict
For most portable greenhouse owners, the Inkbird ITC-308 offers the best balance of functionality and cost. If you need remote monitoring and alerts, the Govee WiFi Thermometer Hygrometer is an excellent addition. For those who want app control for both heating and cooling, the Wi-Fi Smart Temperature Controller from Inkbird is the top choice.
