Why is drip irrigation more efficient than sprinklers?

Drip irrigation is considered more efficient than sprays for a couple reasons. First, drip systems deliver water directly to the base of the plant, minimizing evaporation and water waste due to wind. Second, drip irrigation provides slow, targeted flow, allowing the soil to absorb water gradually, preventing runoff.  A properly designed and installed drip system can achieve over 90% effeciency. In contrast a properly designed and installed traditional sprinkler system can only achieve a maximum efficiency of 70%