Automatic garage door openers provide unparalleled convenience, allowing homeowners to effortlessly access their garages with the simple push of a button. While budget-friendly options start around $125 to $175, heavy-duty models can reach up to $500. The majority of homeowners will find a suitable garage door opener in the $200 to $400 price range.
To simplify your search for the ideal system, we’ve conducted extensive research into the leading models available. Our top pick overall is the Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener. This model stands out due to its powerful lifting capability and comprehensive suite of accessories, ensuring smooth and reliable operation. Explore our detailed guide below for more of our recommended garage door openers.
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Chamberlain B550 Smartphone Controlled Garage Door Opener
Top Garage Door Openers Compared
| Product | Lifting Power | Key Features | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener | 1.25 HPS | Integrated Camera, LED Lighting, Battery Backup, myQ App | Lifetime motor & belt, 5-year parts, 1-year accessories |
| Chamberlain B550 Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS | Quiet Operation, Security Encryption, myQ App Compatible | 15-year belt, 10-year motor, 1-year parts & accessories |
| Genie 7155-TKV StealthDrive Connect Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener | 1.25 HPS | Voice Control (Alexa/Google Home), Battery Backup, Quiet DC Motor | Lifetime motor & belt, 5-year parts, 1-year accessories |
| beamUP The Workhorse BU100 Sectional Garage Door Opener | 0.75 HPS | Easy Installation, Sleek Design, Customer Support | 1-year belts, parts, and accessories |
| Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS | Infrared Sensors, Keychain Remote, Budget-Friendly | 1 year |
| LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator | 0.5 HPS | Wall-Mount Design, Space-Saving, Security Features | 5-year limited, 1 year battery backup |
| CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS | Smartphone Control, Wireless Keypad, Long Range Remote | 10-year motor, 1-year parts & accessories |
Detailed Reviews of the Top Garage Door Openers
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Best Overall Garage Door Opener
Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener Product Card
Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
Price: $279 – $350
The Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener earns our top recommendation as the best overall garage door opener due to its combination of power, features, and reliability. Equipped with a robust belt drive system and Chamberlain’s MAX Lifting power, this opener can handle virtually any residential garage door size and weight. A standout feature is the integrated 130-degree wide-angle camera, allowing homeowners to monitor their garage remotely via the myQ smartphone app. This adds a layer of security and convenience, enabling users to visually confirm the garage’s status from anywhere.
Pros:
- Integrated corner-to-corner LED lighting for excellent garage illumination.
- Ultra-quiet motor with smooth start and stop operation, minimizing noise disruption.
- Two-way audio communication via the myQ app, facilitating communication with anyone in the garage.
Cons:
- Safety sensor system can be overly sensitive, potentially causing false stops.
- Higher price point compared to some basic models, reflecting its advanced features.
Customer Feedback:
Users consistently praise the Chamberlain B6753T for its straightforward installation, quiet operation, and durable belt drive. The bright LED lighting and convenient smartphone app control are also frequently highlighted as major advantages. Some users note occasional connectivity issues and express concerns about the subscription fees associated with extended video storage for the integrated camera.
“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 Product Card
Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Price: $277
The Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener is our pick for the best garage door opener for light doors. Its 0.5-horsepower-equivalent motor is perfectly suited for lighter single-layer garage doors, providing reliable operation without unnecessary power. Security is a key feature, with encrypted code technology activated each time a remote-access accessory is used, preventing unauthorized entry. Chamberlain also provides online video resources to assist with DIY installation, making it accessible for many homeowners.
Pros:
- Includes a wireless keypad for convenient external access.
- Encrypted remote-access technology enhances security against hacking.
- Online video tutorials simplify the installation process for DIYers.
Cons:
- Does not include a battery backup, requiring manual operation during power outages.
- Some advanced app features require a subscription.
Customer Feedback:
Customers appreciate the Chamberlain B550 for its quiet operation, effective motion detection, and ease of installation. The wireless keypad and included remotes are also well-received. Some users find the app subscription model for full feature access to be a drawback, and others mention that the installation instructions could be clearer.
“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
Best Garage Door Opener with Voice Assistance
Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener Product Card
Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
Price: $290
For homeowners seeking seamless smart home integration, the Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener is the best voice-activated garage door opener. Its quiet DC motor and steel-reinforced belt drive make it an excellent choice for garages attached to living spaces, such as bedrooms or nurseries. Compatibility with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home enables complete voice control, adding a layer of modern convenience. Installation is designed to be straightforward, minimizing the need for extra hardware.
Pros:
- Includes a battery backup for operation during power outages.
- Comes with two pre-programmed remotes for immediate use.
- Powerful 1.25 HPS motor, suitable for heavier doors.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other smart garage door openers.
- Some users report inconsistent connectivity with Amazon Alexa voice commands.
Customer Feedback:
Positive reviews frequently mention the Genie 7155-TKV’s exceptionally quiet motor and the high-quality construction for its price point. Ease of installation is another commonly praised aspect. However, some customers have experienced challenges with consistently connecting to and controlling the opener via Amazon Alexa, and the lack of a motion-sensing light is noted as a minor drawback by some.
“…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 to Install Garage Door Opener
beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener Product Card
beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
Price: $180
The beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener is designed for quick and easy setup, making it the easiest garage door opener to install. Its sleek, all-white aesthetic complements modern homes. beamUP prioritizes user-friendliness by providing comprehensive instruction manuals, video tutorials, and readily available tech support to guide homeowners through the installation process.
Pros:
- Powerful enough for both single and double garage doors.
- Available in multiple style configurations.
- Modern, clean white design.
Cons:
- Some users report compatibility issues with HomeLink systems.
- Fewer included accessories compared to some competing models.
Customer Feedback:
Users consistently praise the beamUP BU100 for its remarkably easy installation and quiet DC motor operation. Many reviewers also commend the company’s customer service for being helpful and responsive. A recurring issue for some users is difficulty connecting the opener to HomeLink vehicle integration systems, and some report missing parts 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 Sensors
Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener Product Card
Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
Price: $150
The Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener prioritizes safety with its best-in-class sensors. In addition to a standard one-button remote and keychain remote, it includes two infrared safety sensors to detect obstructions and prevent the door from closing on objects or people. An integrated LED light enhances visibility within the garage, adding to its safety and convenience features.
Pros:
- More affordable than many comparable garage door openers.
- Includes a convenient keychain remote for portability.
- Compatible with in-car remote systems without requiring additional hardware.
Cons:
- Battery backup is sold separately.
- Lacks smart home technology integration.
Customer Feedback:
Positive reviews frequently highlight the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C’s quiet operation, responsive motion detection, and user-friendly installation. Many customers consider it a high-value option for its price. Negative feedback occasionally mentions units ceasing to function after a short period, and some users find the motion sensor to be overly sensitive in certain situations.
“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 Product Card
LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
Price: $589
The LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator stands out as the best garage door opener for large vehicles and garages with limited headroom. Its wall-mounted jackshaft design eliminates the traditional ceiling-mounted rail, maximizing overhead space – crucial for accommodating trucks, vans, or storage. Smartphone control allows for customized schedules and real-time alerts, while advanced security features and motion-activated lights enhance safety and convenience.
Pros:
- Provides both audio and visual warnings during door closure.
- Rolling code technology sends a new security code with each use for enhanced protection.
- Motion detector automatically activates garage lights upon entry.
Cons:
- Not compatible with roll-up style garage doors.
- Premium price point reflects its unique design and features.
Good for: Owners of trucks and vans who need a wall-mounted opener to maximize garage ceiling space.
Customer Feedback:
Customers consistently praise the LiftMaster 8500 for its exceptionally quiet operation and relatively straightforward installation, considering its jackshaft design. Its robust construction and ability to handle heavy doors are also frequently mentioned as positives. Some users have noted the additional cost and complexity involved in integrating older car remotes due to compatibility issues, and a few have reported problems with the emergency release cord.
“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 Product Card
CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
Price: $219
The CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener offers exceptional value, making it our pick for the best value garage door opener. Priced lower than many comparable smart models, it combines reliable chain drive operation with rugged steel construction, providing ample power to lift standard seven-foot garage doors. Smartphone compatibility via the myQ app allows for convenient monitoring and control, bridging the gap between affordability and modern features.
Pros:
- Long-range three-button remote with an operating range up to 1,500 feet.
- Rolling code technology for enhanced security.
- Includes a wireless keypad for keyless entry.
Cons:
- Not recommended for heavy or solid wood garage doors.
- Smart connectivity may be less robust than premium models.
Good for: Homeowners seeking a dependable smart garage door opener at a budget-conscious price.
Customer Feedback:
Many customers who are satisfied with the CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener highlight its straightforward installation process and surprisingly quiet operation for a chain drive model. The bright integrated lighting is another appreciated feature. Some negative reviews cite concerns about the overall durability and perceived cheaper construction compared to older models, and occasional issues with remote functionality are mentioned.
“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 When Choosing a Garage Door Opener
Beyond specific models, understanding the core components and features of garage door openers is crucial for making an informed decision. Factors like drive type, motor type, power, control options, and installation should all be considered.
Garage Door Opener Drive Types
The drive mechanism is what physically moves your garage door. Residential garage door openers primarily utilize three drive types:
- Chain Drive: Chain drives are the most common and typically the most affordable. They use a metal chain to pull the trolley that opens and closes the door. While robust, they can be noisier and require occasional lubrication.
- Belt Drive: Belt drive openers use a rubber or steel-reinforced belt instead of a chain. This results in significantly quieter operation and smoother performance, often with less vibration. Belt drives typically come at a higher price point but offer enhanced durability and reduced maintenance.
- Direct/Screw Drive: Direct drive openers have fewer moving parts. A motor directly rotates a threaded steel rod (screw) that moves the trolley. They are known for being low-maintenance and relatively quiet, offering a good balance between chain and belt drives in terms of noise and cost.
- Jackshaft Drive: While less common in standard residential settings, jackshaft openers are gaining popularity, especially for garages with high ceilings or limited overhead space. They mount on the wall beside the garage door and directly turn the torsion bar, eliminating the need for a ceiling-mounted rail system. These are often quieter and more secure but can be more expensive.
Garage Door Opener Motor Types
Garage door openers utilize either AC (Alternating Current) or DC (Direct Current) motors:
- AC Motors: AC motors have been the industry standard for decades. They are reliable and generally less expensive. However, they can be larger, heavier, and noisier compared to DC motors.
- DC Motors: DC motors are a more modern advancement, offering several advantages. They are typically smaller, lighter, and significantly quieter than AC motors. Many DC motor openers also include soft start/stop features, reducing wear and tear on the door and opener components. While often slightly more expensive initially, DC motors can offer energy efficiency and smoother operation.
Determining Garage Door Opener Power
The power of a garage door opener motor is measured in horsepower (HP) for AC motors. DC motors often use “horsepower equivalent” (HPS) or “horsepower comparable” (HPC) ratings to allow for comparison. The appropriate power level depends on the size and material of your garage door:
- 1/4 HP: Suitable only for very lightweight aluminum doors and may operate slowly.
- 1/2 HP: A versatile option for most standard residential garage doors made of steel, aluminum, or fiberglass. Avoid using for solid wood doors.
- 3/4 HP: Recommended for all standard residential garage door materials, including solid wood and insulated doors. Provides smooth and quick operation for heavier doors.
- 1 HP and Higher: Primarily found in commercial or industrial settings for very heavy doors. Residential applications are rare unless dealing with exceptionally heavy custom doors.
Garage Door Opener Control and Access
Modern garage door openers offer a variety of control options beyond basic wall buttons and remotes:
- Remote Controls: Most openers include at least one or two handheld remote controls for in-car or keychain use.
- Wireless Keypads: Keypads mounted outside the garage provide secure keyless entry using a PIN code.
- Smartphone Apps: Smart garage door openers connect to Wi-Fi and allow control, monitoring, and scheduling via smartphone apps. Features often include remote operation, activity logs, and notifications.
- Voice Control: Compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant enables hands-free operation via voice commands.
- Battery Backup: Integrated battery backups ensure operation during power outages, a valuable feature for security and convenience.
Garage Door Opener Installation Considerations
While many homeowners opt for professional installation, many garage door openers are designed for DIY installation. Manufacturers typically provide detailed step-by-step instructions. If you are comfortable with basic home repairs and electrical wiring, DIY installation can save on labor costs. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable, professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and proper functionality.
Learn more about garage door installation costs.
Replacing Your Garage Door Opener: A DIY Guide
Replacing an existing garage door opener can be a manageable DIY project for experienced homeowners. Following safety precautions and step-by-step instructions is essential.
Refer to this detailed guide on replacing a garage door opener for comprehensive instructions.
Key steps in garage door opener replacement include:
- Disconnect Power: Turn off the power to the garage door opener circuit at your electrical panel.
- Detach Old Opener: Unplug the existing opener and carefully disconnect it from the mounting brackets and door.
- Install New Mounting Bracket: Attach the new mounting bracket supplied with your new opener to the garage door header.
- Assemble and Mount Track: Assemble the rail track and attach it to the mounting bracket and the opener motor unit.
- Secure Motor Unit: Mount the new motor unit to the ceiling joists using appropriate brackets.
- Connect Door Arm: Attach the door arm from the garage door to the trolley on the rail track.
- Wire Safety Sensors and Controls: Install and wire the safety sensors (photo eyes) near the floor and connect the wall control panel.
- Wire Motor Unit: Wire the motor unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Install Wireless Keypad (Optional): Mount and program the wireless keypad outside the garage.
- Reconnect Power and Test: Restore power and test the opener’s operation, safety reversal system, and remote controls.
Watch a video tutorial on garage door opener replacement from Ask This Old House.
Garage Door Opener FAQs
Q: Will my garage door opener work during a power outage?
A: Most standard garage door openers will not function during a power outage unless they are equipped with a battery backup. Models with battery backup will continue to operate for a limited number of cycles. All openers should have a manual release handle to disengage the opener and allow manual operation of the door in case of power loss.
Q: Do garage door openers have lights?
A: Yes, virtually all garage door openers include integrated lights that illuminate the garage when the opener is activated. These lights typically have a timer and automatically turn off after a few minutes.
Q: Are garage door openers required to have a safety reverse mechanism?
A: Yes, since 1993, U.S. law mandates that all garage door openers must include a safety reverse mechanism. This system uses sensors to detect obstructions in the door’s path. If an obstruction is detected while closing, the door will automatically reverse direction and open, preventing injury or damage.
Our Review Methodology
This Old House has a long-standing commitment to providing homeowners with reliable and expert-backed home improvement advice. Our product review process is designed to deliver unbiased, objective, and helpful recommendations.
Our methodology includes:
- Extensive Product Research: We begin by identifying a broad range of garage door openers, considering factors like brand reputation, customer reviews, features, and specifications. We prioritize products with consistently high user ratings (4-5 stars) and a significant volume of verified buyer feedback.
- Analyzing Customer Reviews: We delve into both positive and negative customer reviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of real-world performance, identifying common praises and complaints.
- Expert Consultation: We supplement our in-house expertise by consulting with industry professionals, reviewing trusted publications and independent product testing reports, and incorporating insights from experienced homeowners and readers.
- Product Comparison and Selection: We narrow down our list by comparing key features, performance metrics, and value propositions of top-rated models. We focus on identifying best-in-class options for various needs, budgets, and use cases.
- Regular Updates: We continuously update our reviews to reflect new product releases, model updates, and evolving market trends, ensuring our recommendations remain current and relevant.
Our goal is to provide readers with well-researched, trustworthy, and actionable information to empower them to make informed purchasing decisions for their homes.
Feedback and Inquiries
For questions or feedback regarding this article, please contact our reviews team at [email protected].
