Automatic garage door openers provide unparalleled convenience, allowing homeowners to access their garages with ease and security at the touch of a button. The market offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly models priced between $125 and $175 to heavy-duty, feature-rich openers reaching up to $500. The majority of homeowners will find their ideal garage door opener in the $200 to $400 price range.
To simplify your search and help you pinpoint the Best Rated Garage Door Opener for your specific requirements, we’ve conducted thorough research on the leading models currently available. Our top recommendation overall is the Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener. This model stands out due to its comprehensive suite of features, robust lifting capability, and smart technology integration. Continue reading our guide for a detailed look at our top selections and find the perfect opener to enhance your home’s convenience and security.
[ 4.5/5
Best Overall Chamberlain B6753T Garage Door Opener
[ 4.5/5
Best for Light Doors Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Check Price](https://amzn.to/3XLwAHN)
[ 4.5/5
Best Voice Assistance Genie 7155 Garage Door Opener
Check Price](https://amzn.to/3Hiu7NY)
Compare Best Garage Door Openers
| Product | Lifting Power | Accessories | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener | Equivalent to 1.25 horsepower | Two sensors, two remote controls, 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 sensors, one 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 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 sensors, one control panel, and one remote control | 1 year |
| LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator | Equivalent to 0.5 horsepower | One control panel, one remote control, one light | 5-year limited, 1 year for battery backup |
| CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener | Equivalent to 0.5 horsepower | One dual-function wall control panel, one keypad, two lights, two remote controls | 10 Year limited warranty-motor; 1 year limited warranty-chain, parts and accessories. |
| Product | Lifting Power | Accessories | Warranty |
Top 7 Best Rated Garage Door Openers
*Links below open to product retail page.
Best Overall
Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
- $279.2
- $349.99
- 20% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
The Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener earns our top recommendation as the best rated garage door opener overall due to its blend of power, features, and smart technology. This model is engineered with a robust belt drive system and Chamberlain’s MAX Lifting power, ensuring reliable operation even with heavy or oversized garage doors. A standout feature is the integrated 130-degree wide-angle camera, which streams live video directly to the myQ smartphone app, providing real-time monitoring of your garage’s interior and surroundings. This enhances security and peace of mind, allowing you to check on your garage from anywhere.
Pros
- Integrated corner-to-corner LED lighting provides exceptional garage illumination.
- Ultra-quiet motor operation with smooth start and stop minimizes noise disruption.
- Two-way audio communication via the myQ app enables interaction with individuals in the garage.
Cons
- The sensor system can be overly sensitive, potentially causing false obstruction alerts.
- Higher price point compared to some basic garage door opener models.
- Additional costs may be associated with camera video storage and advanced features.
What Are People Saying About the Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener?
Customer feedback highlights the Chamberlain B6753T’s ease of installation, quiet operation, and robust belt drive as key advantages. Many users praise the brightness of the dual LED lighting system. The myQ app’s remote operation and camera viewing capabilities are also frequently cited as valuable features. However, some users have noted slower opening speeds and expressed concerns about the subscription fees for cloud video storage, suggesting alternative solutions like local USB 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 via Amazon
“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 via Amazon
Best For Light Doors
Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
- $276.76
Prices taken at time of publishing.
The Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener is recognized as the best rated garage door opener for light doors, delivering reliable performance for standard garage door sizes and weights. Equipped with a 0.5-horsepower-equivalent motor, it provides ample power for lighter doors while maintaining energy efficiency. A key security feature is its encrypted code transmission for remote access accessories, effectively preventing unauthorized entry and enhancing your home’s security.
Our Take
Pros
- Includes a wireless keypad for convenient access without a remote.
- Encrypted code technology safeguards against hacking and unauthorized access.
- Comprehensive online video resources simplify the installation process for DIY enthusiasts.
Cons
- Does not include a battery backup, requiring manual operation during power outages.
- Subscription may be required for full access to all app features.
What Are People Saying About the Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener?
User reviews consistently praise the Chamberlain B550 for its excellent motion detection capabilities and remarkably quiet operation. The ease of installation is another frequently mentioned positive aspect. However, some users express dissatisfaction with the subscription model required to unlock all features within the accompanying app. Clarity of installation instructions has also been cited 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 via Amazon
“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 via Amazon
Best Voice Assistance
Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
- $289.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
For homeowners seeking seamless smart home integration, the Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener stands out as the best rated garage door opener for voice assistance. Its quiet DC motor, coupled with a steel-reinforced belt drive, ensures smooth and discreet operation, making it ideal for garages adjacent to living spaces. This smartphone-controlled model offers comprehensive voice control compatibility with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home, enabling hands-free operation and integration into your smart home ecosystem. Installation is simplified with no additional hardware requirements, making it a user-friendly choice for upgrading your garage door opener.
Our Take
Pros
- Includes a set of five lithium batteries for extended battery backup performance.
- Comes with two pre-programmed remotes for out-of-the-box convenience.
- Powerful motor with lifting capacity equivalent to 1.25 horsepower, suitable for heavier doors.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some non-smart garage door openers.
- Some users report inconsistent connectivity with Amazon Alexa voice control.
- Lacks motion-sensing light feature.
What Are People Saying About the Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener?
Positive customer reviews emphasize the Genie 7155-TKV’s exceptionally quiet motor and the high quality of its components relative to its price. Many users also highlight the straightforward installation process. However, some customers have experienced challenges with Amazon Alexa integration, and the absence of a motion-sensing light has been noted as a drawback by some users accustomed to this feature.
“…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 via Amazon
“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 via Amazon
Easiest Installation
beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
- $179.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
The beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener is recognized as the best rated garage door opener for ease of installation, making it an excellent choice for DIYers and those seeking a hassle-free setup. Its sleek, all-white design adds a modern aesthetic to any garage. beamUP prioritizes user support, providing comprehensive instruction manuals, step-by-step video tutorials, and readily available tech support to guide users through every stage of the installation process.
Our Take
Pros
- Powerful enough for both single and double-car garage doors.
- Available in multiple style configurations to suit various garage setups.
- Modern, all-white design enhances garage aesthetics.
Cons
- Connectivity issues reported by some users with HomeLink systems.
- Fewer included accessories compared to some competing models in this category.
What Are People Saying About the beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener?
User reviews frequently commend the beamUP BU100 for its remarkably easy installation and quiet DC motor operation. Many customers also express satisfaction with the company’s responsive and helpful customer service. However, some users have encountered difficulties connecting the opener to HomeLink systems, and reports of missing installation components or accessories have surfaced in some reviews.
“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 via Amazon
“..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 via Amazon
Best Sensors
Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
- $149.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
The Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener is our pick for the best rated garage door opener with superior sensors, prioritizing safety and reliability. Beyond its one-button remote and keychain fob, this model incorporates dual infrared safety sensors to ensure obstruction-free door operation, preventing accidents and damage. An integrated LED light enhances garage visibility, adding to both safety and convenience.
Our Take
Pros
- More affordable than many comparable garage door openers in the market.
- Includes a convenient keychain fob for portable remote access.
- Compatible with in-car remote systems without requiring additional hardware.
Cons
- Battery backup is sold separately, requiring an additional purchase for battery functionality.
- Does not offer smart home technology integration for advanced control and monitoring.
What Are People Saying About the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener?
Customer reviews frequently highlight the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C’s quiet operation, responsive motion detection, and straightforward installation. Many users consider it a high-value option given its quality and price point. Conversely, some negative reviews report premature product failure, and a few users found the motion sensor to be overly sensitive, triggering unintended door reversals.
“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 via Amazon
“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 via Amazon
Best for Large Vehicles
LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
- $588.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
For owners of large vehicles or garages with limited ceiling space, the LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator is the best rated garage door opener solution. This wall-mounted opener delivers powerful and reliable operation while maximizing ceiling space and minimizing vibration. Smartphone control enables custom open/close schedules and real-time alerts, enhancing both convenience and security. Its space-saving design is particularly beneficial for garages with high ceilings or obstructions.
Pros
- Provides audible and visual warnings during door closure for enhanced safety.
- Rolling code technology transmits a unique code with each use, preventing code theft and unauthorized access.
- Integrated motion detector automatically activates garage lights upon entry.
Cons
- Not compatible with roll-up style garage doors.
- Premium price point reflects its advanced features and specialized design.
Good for: Truck and van owners seeking a wall-mounted opener that maximizes garage ceiling space.
What Are People Saying About the LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator?
Users who are satisfied with the LiftMaster 8500 frequently cite its quiet operation and straightforward installation process. Its robust design and ability to handle heavy garage doors also receive positive feedback. However, some users have expressed frustration with the additional costs associated with compatibility for older car remotes, and concerns about the reliability of the emergency cord have been raised in some reviews.
“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 via Amazon
“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 via Amazon
Best Value
CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
- $219
Prices taken at time of publishing.
The CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener is recognized as the best rated garage door opener for value, providing a balance of essential features and smart functionality at a competitive price point. This model utilizes a chain drive system with robust steel construction, offering sufficient horsepower for lifting standard seven-foot garage doors. Smartphone compatibility via the myQ app allows for remote monitoring and control, adding modern convenience without a premium cost.
Pros
- Includes a three-button remote with an extended range of up to 1,500 feet.
- Rolling code technology enhances security by changing the access code with each use.
- Comes with a wireless keypad for keyless entry.
Cons
- Less suitable for heavier or solid wood garage doors due to its horsepower rating.
- Connectivity may be less reliable compared to higher-end smart garage door openers.
Good for: Homeowners seeking an affordable smart garage door opener with essential features and smartphone integration.
What Are People 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. Users also appreciate the brightness of its integrated lighting. However, some customers express concerns about the long-term durability and perceived lower build quality compared to older models. Remote functionality is also mentioned as occasionally inconsistent.
“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 via Amazon
“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 via Amazon
What To Know Before Buying a Garage Door Opener
Selecting the best rated garage door opener involves considering several key factors beyond the drive and motor types. Controls, accessories, installation considerations, and smart features all play a crucial role in determining the ideal opener for your home. Our comprehensive buying guide below provides essential information to help you make an informed decision.
What are the types of drive types in garage door openers?
The drive mechanism is the core component responsible for lifting your garage door. Residential garage door openers primarily utilize three drive types:
- Chain: Chain drive openers are the most budget-friendly option but require periodic maintenance to ensure chain functionality and can be noisier than other types.
- Direct/Screw: Direct drive openers offer a balance of cost and performance. They require minimal maintenance and operate more quietly than chain drives.
- Belt: Belt drive openers are typically the most expensive but offer superior durability, minimal maintenance needs, and exceptionally quiet and smooth operation.
- Jackshaft: Primarily used in commercial applications with heavy doors, jackshaft drives are robust and secure but tend to be loud and require regular maintenance.
What are the various motor types in garage door openers?
Garage door openers are powered by either AC or DC motors:
- AC: AC motors are the traditional choice, known for their affordability and reliability. However, they can be bulkier and generate more noise compared to DC motors.
- DC: DC motors represent a newer technology, offering advantages in size and noise reduction. They are generally smaller and quieter than AC motors, contributing to smoother operation.
How do you determine the power level of a garage door opener?
Garage door opener power is measured in horsepower (HP) for AC motors. DC motors are often rated using horsepower similar (HPS) or horsepower comparable (HPC) to allow for performance comparisons. Understanding horsepower ratings helps determine the appropriate opener for different garage door weights and materials:
- ¼ HP: Suitable only for very light aluminum doors and may operate slowly.
- ½ HP: A versatile option for most garage door materials, excluding solid wood.
- ¾ HP: Provides ample power for smooth and quick operation with all residential garage door materials.
- 1 HP: Primarily found in commercial settings or for exceptionally heavy residential doors.
How are garage door openers controlled?
Modern garage door openers typically feature keyless entry systems, including:
- Remote Control: At least one remote control is usually included, allowing operation from inside the garage or vehicle. Additional remotes can be kept on keychains or in vehicles for convenience.
- Keypad: A keypad, typically installed outside the garage door, provides secure access using a PIN code.
- Smart Features: Newer openers often incorporate Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone app control, enabling remote operation, scheduling, and integration with smart home platforms like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
What’s the installation process like for a garage door opener?
Garage door openers are designed for relatively straightforward installation, often accompanied by detailed step-by-step instructions. Many manufacturers also offer online resources and customer support to assist with DIY installation. For those who prefer professional installation, contacting the manufacturer or a local garage door service provider is recommended.
For detailed cost information, explore resources on the cost to install a garage door.
How To Replace a Garage Door Opener
Replacing a garage door opener can be a manageable DIY project with the right guidance. Scott Caron, a master electrician from Ask This Old House, provides a step-by-step guide to safely and efficiently replace your garage door opener:
- Safety First: Begin by disconnecting power to the garage door opener at the circuit breaker panel.
- Disconnect and Lower Old Opener: Unplug the existing opener and carefully detach it from its mounting brackets. Gently lower the unit from the ceiling.
- Remove Door Bracket: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the bracket connecting the opener to the garage door.
- Install New Door Bracket: Secure the new bracket (included with the new opener) to the garage door using a screw gun.
- Attach Track: Slide the new opener’s track into the door bracket and secure it with a wrench.
- Mount New Motor: Using a wrench, mount the new motor unit to the existing ceiling brackets.
- Connect Lifting Arm: Attach the lifting arm from the door to the track assembly.
- Wire Interior Keypad: Wire the interior keypad according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Run Wiring: Route the keypad wiring through a conduit to the garage door motor unit.
- Mount Exterior Keypad: Secure the wireless keypad to the exterior of the garage using a screw gun.
- Install Safety Sensors: Mount the electric safety eyes approximately six inches above the floor on either side of the garage door opening.
- Reconnect Power and Test: Plug the motor into a power outlet and restore power at the circuit breaker. Test the opener to ensure proper operation.
For a visual guide, Ask This Old House offers a video demonstration on how to replace a garage door opener.
Garage Door Opener FAQs
Will my garage door opener work if the power is out?
Most standard garage door openers rely on your home’s electrical power and will not function during a power outage. However, most models include a manual release handle, allowing you to manually open and close the door. Certain garage door openers are equipped with battery backup systems to provide temporary operation during power outages.
Do garage door openers have lights?
Yes, virtually all modern garage door openers include integrated lights that activate when the opener is used. These lights typically operate on a timer, automatically turning off after a few minutes to conserve energy.
Do garage door openers have a reverse mechanism?
Yes, safety regulations in the United States mandate that all garage door openers manufactured after 1993 must incorporate a reverse mechanism. This safety feature automatically reverses the closing door if it detects an obstruction in its path, preventing injuries and damage. Refer to the United States law for detailed information on garage door opener safety requirements.
Our Methodology
This Old House has been a trusted source of home improvement expertise for over four decades, delivering high-quality advice through television, print, and digital platforms. Our product review team is dedicated to providing comprehensive and unbiased evaluations of home products and services. To date, we have published over 1,600 in-depth reviews, covering a wide range of home-related products, including tools, appliances, electronics, and more. Our reviews prioritize product quality and practical value for our readers.
Our rigorous methodology for product selection and review involves several key steps:
Initial Research: We begin by identifying garage door openers with a substantial number of verified customer reviews and consistently high ratings (4-5 stars). Our analysis includes both positive and negative reviews to gain a balanced understanding of product performance and user experiences.
Expert Insights: In addition to our in-house expertise, we consult reputable publications, independent product testers, and subject matter experts. We also incorporate feedback from reader contributions to ensure a comprehensive perspective.
Final Product Selection: We refine our product lists by prioritizing the latest models and removing discontinued products. We then compare features and specifications to identify top-performing models across various categories, catering to diverse buyer needs, budgets, and scenarios.
Our ultimate goal is to provide our readers with well-researched, user-friendly articles featuring the best rated garage door openers and essential buying information to facilitate informed purchase decisions.
Questions or Comments?
For feedback or inquiries regarding this article, please contact our team at [email protected].
