gman,
There really is a distinct difference between the two. On the main issue with the IntelliFlo, it comes down to the IntelliTouch (IT) being a direct plug in for the 3.2 pump. You have all of the access to the pump that you would on the LED screen. You do not have that with the EasyTouch (ET). Now there is one thing that few know. IF you plug in a 3.2 into your ET, the controller will recognize it as a 4x160 and control it as that. You can pre-set speeds but like any ET/3.2 combo, you do not have access to reading,setting the advanced features of the 3.2 unless you go to the pump.
The IT is way more advanced than the ET. If you're a techy, you'd like the IT. Macro features, advanced lighting features and valve features on the +3 options are not available on the ET. My personal opinion is that the IT is a great option in the i5+3 or i7+3 models as they are pretty competitive with other similar products and deliver more if you have a 3.2 pump. The added cost is usually about $500. Companies like to charge more if you want the IT but in reality, that's the difference.
If you have a large system and it's got a lot to do, the IT is it. The simpler system works great on the the ET but I would not buy the ET4, I'd go with the ET8. It has room for future expansion and both come salt ready if you want that. I say avoid the ET 4 as if you're just looking for some simple automation, the Pentair SunTouch is the absolute cheapest way in. It's basically a dumbed down ET4 but allows the addition of a QuickTouch simple wireless remote.
On remotes, the IT requires an interface. You will need to buy an indoor controller, or the super expensive MobileTouch. ET allows you to install without any interface as it has a screen onboard where IT does not. But, why would you want to go over there every time to do something. I suggest the wireless controller with the ET over the indoor controller as it keeps installation costs down.
My sales to customers go that way. If they truly want a wireless system and they have a need for more than simple automation, they have two choices. ET or IT. If they cannot afford $1200 for the IT unit, they are now ET shoppers. Then we go from there. Yes, IT has some pretty cool things you can do with your computer but few are in that market. You could be out of town and get a call from you family that they heard a noise in the yard. The IT would allow you to dial in, turn on a light, turn on a camera, see the issue, and automatically open a gate to release the hounds! Can't to that with an ET. But, who really wants to?
