Automatic garage door openers provide unparalleled convenience, allowing you to access your garage with just the push of a button. While budget-friendly models start around $125 to $175, heavy-duty and feature-rich openers can reach up to $500. The sweet spot for most homeowners seeking quality and features in garage door openers typically falls within the $200 to $400 range.
To simplify your search for the Best Garage Door Openers, I’ve conducted thorough research on the leading models available today. My top recommendation overall is the Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener. This model stands out with its robust lifting power and a comprehensive set of accessories designed for both convenience and security. Continue reading to explore my detailed guide and discover more top best garage door openers tailored to various needs.
Check Price for Chamberlain B6753T Garage Door Opener
Check Price for Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Check Price for Genie 7155 Garage Door Opener
Comparing the Top Garage Door Openers
| Product | Lifting Power | Accessories | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener | Equivalent to 1.25 horsepower | Two safety sensors, two remote controls, wireless keypad, battery backup | Lifetime motor and belt warranty, 5-year parts warranty, 1-year accessories warranty |
| Chamberlain B550 Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener | Equivalent to 0.5 horsepower | Two safety sensors, one wireless keypad, one control panel, and two remote controls | 15-year belt warranty, 10-year motor warranty, 1-year parts and accessories warranty |
| Genie 7155-TKV StealthDrive Connect Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener | Equivalent to 1.25 horsepower | One battery backup, one wireless keypad, one control panel, and two remote controls | Lifetime motor and belt warranty, 5-year parts warranty, 1-year accessories warranty |
| beamUP The Workhorse BU100 Sectional Garage Door Opener | Equivalent to 0.75 horsepower | One control panel and one remote control | 1-year belts, part, and accessories warranty |
| Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener | Equivalent to 0.5 horsepower | Two safety sensors, one control panel, and one remote control | 1 year warranty |
| LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator | Equivalent to 0.5 horsepower | One control panel, one remote control, one light | 5-year limited warranty, 1 year for battery backup |
| CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener | Equivalent to 0.5 horsepower | One dual-function wall control panel, one wireless keypad, two lights, two remote controls | 10 Year limited warranty-motor; 1 year limited warranty-chain, parts and accessories. |
Discover the Top 7 Best Garage Door Openers
*Product links below will direct you to the retailer’s page.
Best Overall Garage Door Opener
Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
- Current Price: $279.2 (Price may vary)
- Original Price: $349.99
- Discount: 20% off (at the time of review)
Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.
The Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener earns the title of best overall garage door opener due to its exceptional blend of power and smart features. Equipped with a robust belt drive and Chamberlain’s MAX Lifting power, this opener is designed to handle garage doors of virtually any size and weight. A standout feature is the integrated 130-degree wide-angle camera. This built-in camera streams live video directly to the myQ smartphone app, enabling you to monitor your garage remotely, enhancing both security and peace of mind.
Pros:
- Integrated corner-to-corner LED lighting for excellent garage illumination.
- Ultra-quiet motor operation with smooth start and stop functionality, minimizing noise disruption.
- Two-way audio communication via the myQ app, allowing interaction with anyone in the garage.
Cons:
- Safety sensor system can be highly sensitive, potentially causing false stops.
- Higher price point compared to some other models in the market.
- Camera and video storage may incur additional costs beyond the initial purchase.
Customer Feedback on the Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
User reviews highlight the Chamberlain B6753T’s ease of installation, quiet operation, and durable belt drive as significant positives. The brightness of the dual LED lighting system is also frequently praised. However, some users have noted a slower opening speed and expressed concerns about the extra costs associated with camera features and cloud storage.
“I installed this opener a year ago, and it has worked well. I love the remote open and close feature from the app. It’s literally a second delay and it opens. The camera view is helpful when needing to close the door and you’re not home (or laying in bed and don’t want to get up). The opener is belt driven and is pretty quiet. The controls are simple, and the LED light output is good. I especially like that the light comes on when someone walks through the safety beam at the base of the door opening.” – SRYAN, Amazon Customer
“Door opener works great and quiet … Connecting to Internet is terrible. Keeps disconnecting. Price of camera video storage fee to cloud is ludicrous. Better off buying a separate camera and set alarm for motion in garage. … Would have been good if they provided a USB port for free video storage” – Kim Blair, Amazon Customer
Best Garage Door Opener for Light Doors
Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
- Current Price: $276.76 (Price may vary)
Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.
For homeowners with lighter garage doors, the Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener provides an excellent balance of performance and value. Its 0.5-horsepower-equivalent motor is perfectly suited for efficiently operating lighter doors. Security is enhanced with encrypted code technology, which activates every time a remote-access accessory is used, effectively preventing unauthorized access and making it a secure best garage door opener option.
Key Features:
- Includes a convenient wireless keypad for easy access without a remote.
- Remote-access accessories utilize encrypted code transmission to prevent hacking and ensure security.
- Online video resources are provided to guide users through a straightforward installation process.
Considerations:
- Battery backup is not included and must be purchased separately if desired.
- Some users might find the installation instructions less clear than expected.
User Experiences with the Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Customer reviews often praise the Chamberlain B550 for its reliable motion detection, quiet operation, and ease of setup. Many users highlight its straightforward installation process. However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the need for a subscription to unlock all features within the companion app. Clarity of installation instructions has also been mentioned as an area for potential improvement.
“Solid build quality and easily installed to replace a chain drive unit that failed. The opener came with 2 remote openers, and a wireless remote opener and paired easily with 3 cars using their Homelink system. The opener is really quiet compared to the failed chain opener, and everyone comments on the quietness. The app works well and is essentially another wireless opener that can be used anywhere in the world to open, close or check the status of the door position. So far, we are very happy with this opener.” – mrblase, Amazon Customer
“I used to really like this garage door opener – I have recently bought four of them across several houses, mostly because of the Wi-Fi connectivity. However, their app is very poor. It often doesn’t work at all, it’s hard to manage or change anything once the door is set up, and it’s yet one more app to manage across my smart home ecosystem.” – CaseJ, Amazon Customer
Top Voice-Activated Garage Door Opener
Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
- Current Price: $289.99 (Price may vary)
Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.
The Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener excels as the best voice assistance garage door opener, offering seamless integration with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Its quiet DC motor paired with a steel-reinforced belt drive makes it an ideal choice for homes with attached garages, especially near bedrooms or nurseries, prioritizing minimal noise. Installation is designed to be user-friendly, requiring no additional hardware.
Advantages:
- Includes five lithium batteries for extended battery backup capability.
- Comes with two pre-programmed remote controls for immediate use.
- Powerful motor, equivalent to 1.25 horsepower, suitable for various door sizes.
Disadvantages:
- Priced higher than some other garage door openers in its class.
- Some users have reported inconsistent connectivity with Amazon Alexa voice control.
- Lacks a motion-sensing light feature, which may be a convenience factor for some users.
What Customers Say About the Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
Positive reviews frequently mention the Genie 7155-TKV’s exceptionally quiet motor and the high quality of materials used, especially considering its price point. Ease of installation is another commonly praised aspect. However, some users have encountered difficulties in establishing or maintaining a stable connection with Amazon Alexa. The absence of a motion-sensing light has also been noted as a drawback by some customers.
“…The opener works great. The wireless exterior keypad works great. The included garage door openers for your car work great and from a greater distance than my old system. I have it connected to Wi-Fi and am able to control it through the app as well as through Siri voice commands, which is nice if your hands are full. I highly recommend this device.” – jsflaw, Amazon Customer
“This is a very quiet garage door opener. I bought it to replace a 10-year-old Chamberlain, which had worked fine until it died recently…. This one, however, does not have a motion-sensing light. So if you open it, the light comes on but will turn off after a few minutes. Then you’re left in the dark. I’ve been so used to having garage openers with motion sensors for decades, so this was personally very frustrating to me.” – PT, Amazon Customer
Easiest Garage Door Opener to Install
beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
- Current Price: $179.99 (Price may vary)
Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.
The beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener is recognized as the easiest garage door opener to install, specifically designed for straightforward setup. Its sleek, all-white aesthetic adds a modern touch to any garage. To further simplify installation, beamUP provides comprehensive instruction manuals, video tutorials, and readily available tech support.
Strengths:
- Sufficient power to operate both single and double garage doors effectively.
- Available in multiple styles to match different garage aesthetics.
- Features a modern and clean all-white design.
Weaknesses:
- Compatibility issues reported by some users when connecting to HomeLink systems.
- Comes with fewer included accessories compared to some other models reviewed.
Customer Opinions on the beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
Many positive reviews emphasize the beamUP BU100’s remarkably easy installation process and the quiet operation of its DC motor. Excellent customer service from the company is also frequently mentioned. Conversely, some dissatisfied customers have reported difficulties in establishing a connection with HomeLink. A few users also noted missing components or accessories upon delivery.
“Not only is this opener very powerful for its size, but it’s also quiet, and the instructions were extremely clear and easy to follow. The whole process only took about 45 minutes. I absolutely recommend this opener. It works flawlessly. The LED light in this is really bright!” – R Pangle, Amazon Customer
“..Parts were missing (supposed to come with 6 nuts and bolts only came with 4 of each). We also got halfway through installation and found we needed some type of bar to mount the opener to the ceiling. At the beginning, it stated we may need a hack saw, but never said we may need anything else until halfway through, and even then, it didn’t clearly say we would need it. My husband had to try to install it to find we absolutely needed it. Also, the wireless portion would not work.” – Ashley Hendrickson, Amazon Customer
Best Garage Door Opener with Safety Sensors
Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
- Current Price: $149.99 (Price may vary)
Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.
The Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener stands out as the best sensor equipped garage door opener due to its enhanced safety features. It includes not only a standard one-button remote and keychain fob but also two infrared safety sensors. These sensors are crucial for detecting obstructions in the door’s path, ensuring safe operation. Additionally, it features an integrated LED light to improve visibility within the garage.
Advantages:
- More affordable than many comparable garage door openers on the market.
- Includes a convenient keychain fob for portable operation.
- Compatible with in-car remote systems without requiring additional hardware.
Disadvantages:
- Battery backup functionality is not included and must be purchased separately.
- Lacks smart home technology integration, which may be a limitation for some users seeking connected features.
Customer Reviews on the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
Users frequently commend the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C for its quiet operation, highly sensitive motion detection, and straightforward installation process. Many reviewers also believe it offers excellent value for its price. In contrast, some negative reviews mention instances of the unit ceasing to function after a short period. The sensitivity of the motion sensor has also been a point of frustration for some users.
“I was a little skeptical about the power of the unit since it’s so small. But it made a believer out of me. It opens and closes my garage door with ease. And best of all, it’s super quiet. That’s what amazed me the most. I wouldn’t even know it was operating if I didn’t see the garage door going up. The installation takes a little bit of figuring out, but nothing more than another opener would entail. Putting together the track and figuring out where everything goes overall took me about 45 minutes to an hour, so not bad.” – Amazon Customer
“I don’t like that when someone trips the sensor when the door is opening, the door automatically closes. It closed on my car when I tried to enter the garage because it must not have opened completely, so when I crossed that line, it just closed on my car. But other than that, it’s working fine.” – joshua sutton, Amazon Customer
Best Garage Door Opener for Large Vehicles
LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
- Current Price: $588.99 (Price may vary)
Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.
For those needing to accommodate larger vehicles or maximize garage ceiling space, the LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator is the best garage door opener for large vehicles. This wall-mounted unit delivers robust performance and smart capabilities controllable via smartphone. Users can set custom open/close schedules and receive alerts directly to their phones. Its space-saving design mounts on the wall, freeing up overhead space and reducing vibration.
Advantages:
- Provides both audible and visual warnings when the garage door is in motion, enhancing safety.
- Employs rolling code technology, sending a new security code with each use to prevent hacking.
- Features a built-in motion detector that automatically activates garage lights upon entry.
Disadvantages:
- Not compatible with roll-up style garage doors.
- Carries a higher price tag compared to traditional garage door openers.
Ideal For: Owners of trucks and vans who require a wall-mounted opener to maximize ceiling clearance.
User Feedback on the LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
Customers who are satisfied with the LiftMaster 8500 often cite its quiet operation and relatively straightforward installation process as key benefits. Durability and the ability to handle heavy doors are also frequently praised. However, some users have expressed frustration with the additional costs required to ensure compatibility with older car remote systems. Issues with the emergency release cord have also been reported by a few customers.
“This is a great product. I was able to install in a few hours (most of the work was in hiding the wiring, not the installation itself.) I had a small space to install but it fit right in. Now I don’t have the ugly old garage door opener hanging from my ceiling. I now have a super quiet, clean installation opener and couldn’t be happier. I love the ability to have the door close itself after a predetermined time, as well as the internet connectivity (I also purchased the My-Q internet gateway). I set it up to message me each time the door opens and am able to customize times to allow this. The app is free, and no subscription is required. Another bonus is the auto-locking feature when the door is closed.” – Frederick Irvine, Amazon Customer
“Chamberlain’s new interface is not compatible with older vehicle integrated garage door openers and require a $120 additional investment in MyQ Bridge and a repeater to make it work. Chamberlain documentation is poor and you have to find a knowledgeable tech to find out how to make this work. Shame on Chamberlain for not making this product backward compatible*.” – Rocket Man, Amazon Customer
Best Value Garage Door Opener
CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
- Current Price: $219 (Price may vary)
Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.
The CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener is recognized as the best value garage door opener, providing a robust chain drive system with rugged steel construction at a competitive price point. It offers sufficient horsepower to lift standard seven-foot garage doors and includes smartphone compatibility via the myQ app for monitoring and control.
Pros:
- Features a long-range three-button remote with an operating range of up to 1,500 feet.
- Utilizes rolling code technology, changing the access code with each use to enhance security.
- Includes a wireless keypad for convenient exterior access.
Cons:
- Not recommended for heavier garage doors due to its horsepower limitations.
- Wi-Fi connectivity may be less reliable compared to some higher-end models.
Good Choice For: Homeowners seeking a reliable, smart-enabled garage door opener without a premium price.
What Customers are Saying About the CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
Positive reviews for the CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener often highlight its easy assembly and quiet operation. The brightness of its integrated lighting is also a frequently appreciated feature. However, some users have expressed concerns about the overall durability and perceived cheapness of materials. The remote control’s reliability has also been questioned by some users.
“Unit works great. Easy to install if you [are] swapping out an old unit. Easy to set up and adjust. Love that I can open it and get notifications with my smartphone. Have had a couple of months and no issues. Great quality.” – D. Porter, Amazon Customer
“This unit seems to function ok, the (only issue) is that compared to the Craftsman opener I am replacing, which is around 20 years old, this one is made as cheap as possible. The old one is heavy duty compared.” – edwin, Amazon Customer
Key Considerations Before Purchasing a Garage Door Opener
Choosing the right garage door opener involves more than just selecting the drive and motor type. Several other factors are crucial to consider, including control options, accessories, installation requirements, and smart features. This buying guide provides essential information to help you choose the best garage door opener for your home.
Understanding Drive Types in Garage Door Openers
The drive mechanism is what physically lifts your garage door. Residential garage door openers primarily use three drive types:
- Chain Drive: Chain drive openers are typically the most economical option. However, they require periodic maintenance to ensure the chain operates smoothly and can be noisier than other types.
- Direct/Screw Drive: Direct drive openers are a step up in price from chain drives but offer quieter operation and require less maintenance.
- Belt Drive: Belt drive garage door openers often come with a higher initial cost but are prized for their durability, minimal maintenance needs, and exceptionally quiet and smooth operation.
- Jackshaft Drive: Jackshaft drives are primarily used in commercial settings with heavy doors. They offer security but are generally louder and require regular maintenance.
Motor Types: AC vs. DC in Garage Door Openers
Garage door openers utilize two main types of motors: AC and DC.
- AC Motors: AC motors have been the standard in garage door openers for many years. They are known for their reliability and lower cost, but they can be larger and produce more noise.
- DC Motors: DC motors are increasingly common in newer garage door openers. They offer improvements over AC motors, being smaller, quieter, and often more energy-efficient.
Determining Garage Door Opener Power: Horsepower Explained
The power of garage door openers with AC motors is measured in horsepower (HP). DC motors, technically, cannot be rated in HP, so manufacturers use “horsepower similar” (HPS) or “horsepower comparable” (HPC) ratings. These ratings allow for comparison between AC and DC motors. Here’s a breakdown of horsepower categories and their suitability for different garage door types:
- ¼ HP: Suitable only for very light aluminum garage doors and will operate slowly.
- ½ HP: A versatile option that works well with most garage door materials, excluding solid wood.
- ¾ HP: Capable of smoothly and quickly operating residential garage doors made of any material.
- 1 HP: Primarily found in commercial applications or residential settings with exceptionally heavy garage doors.
Control and Access Options for Garage Door Openers
Keyless entry is standard for modern residential garage door openers. Typically, you will receive at least one remote control and a keypad with your purchase. The remote allows operation from inside your car or a short distance away, while the keypad is usually installed outside the garage for coded entry. Newer garage door openers often incorporate smart features, including Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone app control. Some are also compatible with voice control via smart home devices like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Garage Door Opener Installation: What to Expect
Most garage door openers are designed for DIY installation and come with detailed step-by-step instructions. However, if you encounter difficulties or prefer professional installation, manufacturers often provide support, or you can hire a professional installer.
For more detailed cost information, you can explore resources about garage door installation costs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Garage Door Opener
Replacing a garage door opener can be a DIY project with the right guidance. Scott Caron, a master electrician from Ask This Old House, provides these detailed steps for a smooth replacement:
- Safety First: Begin by disconnecting power to the garage door opener at the circuit breaker panel.
- Remove Old Unit: Unplug the existing garage door opener and carefully detach it from its mounting brackets. Gently lower it from the ceiling.
- Bracket Removal: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the bracket attached to the door and above it.
- Install Door Bracket: Using a screw gun, install the new bracket that comes with your new opener above the garage door.
- Attach Track: Slide the track into the newly installed bracket and secure it with your wrench.
- Mount Motor Unit: Screw the new motor unit into the existing ceiling brackets using your wrench.
- Connect Lifting Arm: Attach the lifting arm from the door to the track mechanism.
- Wire Keypad (Interior): Wire the interior keypad, typically located inside the garage.
- Run Wiring: Route the keypad wiring through a conduit to connect it to the garage door motor unit.
- Mount Keypad (Exterior): Securely mount the wireless keypad on the exterior of your garage.
- Install Safety Sensors: Mount the electric eyes (safety sensors) about six inches above the floor on either side of the garage door opening.
- Power Up and Test: Plug the motor unit into a power outlet and restore power at the circuit panel. Test the opener to ensure it is functioning correctly.
For a visual guide, Ask This Old House offers a video tutorial demonstrating how to replace a garage door opener.
Garage Door Opener FAQs
Will my garage door opener function during a power outage?
Most garage door openers rely on your home’s electrical system and will not operate during a power outage. However, many models include a manual release handle that allows you to manually open and close the door. Some best garage door openers also offer battery backup options to maintain functionality during power interruptions.
Do garage door openers typically include lights?
Yes, almost all garage door openers are equipped with built-in lights that activate when the opener is used. These lights are usually timer-activated and automatically turn off after a set period, typically a few minutes.
Are garage door openers equipped with a safety reverse mechanism?
Yes, since 1993, U.S. law mandates that all garage door openers must have a reverse mechanism. This safety feature ensures that the door automatically reverses direction if it detects an obstruction, preventing injuries or damage. You can review the U.S. safety regulations for garage door openers for more information.
Our Review Methodology
This Old House has been a trusted source for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts for over four decades, providing expert home improvement advice through various media. Our team is dedicated to producing comprehensive and unbiased product and service reviews. To date, we have published over 1,600 reviews covering a wide range of home-related products, focusing on product quality and their usefulness to our readers.
Our methodology for recommending the best garage door openers involves a rigorous process:
Initial Research: We begin by compiling a list of garage door openers that have received a high volume of positive verified buyer reviews, averaging between 4 and 5 stars. We analyze both positive and negative feedback to gain a balanced understanding, paying close attention to insights from both satisfied and critical users.
Expert Insights: To supplement our in-house expertise, we consult trusted publications, independent testers, and subject matter experts. We also consider feedback and contributions from our readers to ensure a well-rounded perspective.
Product Selection: We refine our initial list by updating to the latest models and removing any discontinued products. We then compare features across the shortlisted models to identify the top performers for various needs, budgets, and scenarios, ultimately selecting the best garage door openers in each category.
Our final output is a detailed, user-friendly article presenting our top product recommendations, along with valuable information to assist our readers in making informed purchasing decisions.
Questions or Feedback?
For questions or comments regarding this review, please contact our team at [email protected].
