Automatic garage door openers bring unparalleled convenience to modern living, allowing homeowners to effortlessly access their garages with just a button press. While budget-friendly options start around $125 to $175, heavy-duty models can reach up to $500, with the majority of reliable openers falling within the $200 to $400 range. Choosing the right garage door opener is crucial for smooth operation and long-term reliability.
To simplify your selection process and help you find the Best Rated Garage Door Opener tailored to your specific needs, 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 due to its robust lifting power and a suite of valuable features. Continue reading to explore my detailed guide and discover more top-rated picks.
Check Price for Chamberlain B6753T
Top Garage Door Opener Recommendations
Here’s a detailed look at the best rated garage door openers in various categories, ensuring you find the perfect match for your garage:
Best Overall Garage Door Opener
Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
The Chamberlain B6753T stands out as the best rated garage door opener overall due to its powerful performance and comprehensive feature set. 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 its integrated 130-degree wide-angle camera, allowing you to monitor your garage remotely via the myQ smartphone app. As a seasoned auto repair expert, I appreciate the added security and peace of mind this feature provides, enabling you to keep an eye on your garage’s contents, including your vehicles and tools.
Pros:
- Integrated corner-to-corner LED lighting provides excellent garage illumination.
- Ultra-quiet motor operation with smooth start and stop minimizes noise disruption.
- Two-way audio via the smartphone app enhances communication and monitoring capabilities.
Cons:
- Sensor system can be occasionally overly sensitive, potentially causing false stops.
- Higher price point compared to some basic models, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Customer Feedback:
Users consistently praise the Chamberlain B6753T for its ease of installation, quiet operation, and durable belt drive. The bright dual LED lighting is also a frequently highlighted positive aspect. However, some users have noted slower opening speeds and expressed concerns about the subscription fees associated with cloud video storage for the camera feature.
“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
Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
For garages with lighter doors, the Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener offers exceptional value and reliable performance. Its 0.5-horsepower-equivalent motor is perfectly suited for efficiently operating lighter weight garage doors. Security is enhanced with encrypted code technology, activated each time a remote-access accessory is used, effectively preventing unauthorized access. From an auto repair perspective, a smoothly operating, secure garage door is essential for protecting your vehicles and equipment.
Pros:
- Includes a convenient wireless keypad for easy access.
- Remote-access accessories utilize encrypted codes for enhanced security against hacking.
- Installation is simplified with helpful online video resources.
Cons:
- Battery backup is not included and must be purchased separately if desired.
Customer Feedback:
Satisfied users frequently commend the Chamberlain B550 for its excellent motion detection capabilities and remarkably quiet operation. Many also highlight its straightforward installation process. Some users, however, have expressed dissatisfaction with the need for a subscription to unlock the full functionality of the companion app and found the installation instructions somewhat unclear.
“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
Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
The Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener is a top choice for those seeking voice control convenience. Its quiet DC motor and steel-reinforced belt drive make it particularly suitable for garages attached to living spaces like bedrooms or nurseries. This smart, smartphone-controlled opener seamlessly integrates with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home, enabling complete hands-free voice operation. Installation is designed to be user-friendly, requiring no additional hardware. As someone who values efficiency in the garage, voice control adds a layer of convenience, especially when your hands are full.
Pros:
- Includes five lithium batteries for backup power.
- Comes with two pre-programmed remotes for immediate use.
- Powerful motor with lifting capacity equivalent to 1.25 horsepower.
Cons:
- Priced higher than some other garage door openers, reflecting its advanced features.
- Some users have reported occasional connectivity issues with Amazon Alexa.
Customer Feedback:
Positive reviews consistently highlight the Genie 7155-TKV’s incredibly quiet motor and the high-quality construction materials used for its price point. Many users also praise its ease of installation. However, some customers have encountered challenges connecting to or using the opener with Amazon Alexa, and others have noted the absence of a motion-sensing light.
“…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
beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
The beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener is designed for straightforward installation, making it an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts. Its sleek, all-white design complements modern homes. beamUP provides comprehensive support to facilitate installation, including instruction manuals, video tutorials, and dedicated tech support. From my experience in auto repair, clear instructions are invaluable, and beamUP seems to prioritize user-friendliness.
Pros:
- Powerful enough for both single and double garage doors.
- Available in multiple styles to suit different aesthetic preferences.
- Features a modern, sleek white design.
Cons:
- Some users have reported difficulties connecting the device to HomeLink systems.
- Comes with fewer accessories compared to some other models in this category.
Customer Feedback:
Positive reviews frequently highlight the beamUP BU100’s easy installation process and quiet DC motor. Customers also often praise the company’s responsive customer service. Conversely, some dissatisfied customers reported issues with HomeLink compatibility and missing installation parts or accessories.
“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 Sensors
Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
The Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener prioritizes safety with its enhanced sensor system. In addition to a standard one-button remote and keychain fob, it includes two infrared safety sensors to ensure the door’s path is clear of obstructions. An integrated LED light further enhances garage visibility. From a safety standpoint, especially in a busy family garage, reliable sensors are non-negotiable.
Pros:
- More affordable than many comparable garage door openers.
- Includes a convenient keychain remote fob.
- 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 often emphasize the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C’s quiet operation, responsive motion detection, and ease of installation. Many reviewers also consider it a high-value option given its price point. Negative feedback sometimes mentions units failing after a short period and occasional frustration with the sensitivity of the motion sensor.
“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
LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
For owners of trucks, vans, or garages with limited headroom, the LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator is an ideal solution. This wall-mounted opener delivers powerful and reliable operation while maximizing ceiling space. Smartphone control allows for customized open/close schedules and real-time alerts. Its space-saving design and reduced vibration levels are particularly beneficial in garages located beneath living areas. From a garage management perspective, freeing up ceiling space can be a significant advantage for storage or vehicle lift installation.
Pros:
- Provides audio and visual warnings during door closure for enhanced safety.
- Utilizes rolling code technology, changing the access code with each use for increased security.
- Integrated motion detector automatically activates garage lights upon entry.
Cons:
- Not compatible with roll-up style garage doors.
- Carries a higher price tag compared to standard ceiling-mounted openers.
Good for: Truck and van owners needing a wall-mounted opener that maximizes ceiling space.
Customer Feedback:
Users who are satisfied with the LiftMaster 8500 often cite its quiet operation and straightforward installation. Many also appreciate its robust design and ability to handle heavy garage doors. Some users, however, have expressed frustration with additional costs associated with compatibility for older car remotes and issues with the emergency cord functionality.
“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
CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
The CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener provides excellent value, offering a balance of features and affordability. Priced lower than many comparable models, it features a chain drive system with durable steel construction and sufficient horsepower for lifting standard seven-foot garage doors. Smartphone compatibility via the myQ app allows for convenient monitoring and control. For homeowners seeking smart features without breaking the bank, this Craftsman model is a solid choice.
Pros:
- Includes a long-range three-button remote with a 1,500-foot range.
- Employs rolling code technology for enhanced security.
- Comes with a wireless keypad for keyless entry.
Cons:
- Not recommended for heavier garage doors.
- Wi-Fi connectivity may be less reliable compared to some premium models.
Good for: Homeowners seeking a straightforward, smartphone-compatible garage door opener at a competitive price.
Customer Feedback:
Positive reviews frequently mention the CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener’s easy assembly and quiet operation. The bright integrated lighting is also a commonly appreciated feature. Some users, however, feel the construction quality is less durable and more budget-oriented. Occasional issues with remote functionality have also been reported.
“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 the specific models, understanding the core components and features of garage door openers is essential for making an informed decision. Let’s delve into the key factors to consider:
Understanding 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 typically the most affordable option. They use a metal chain to move the door along a track. While robust, they can be noisier and require occasional maintenance to ensure the chain remains lubricated and in good working order.
- Direct/Screw Drive: Direct drive openers, sometimes referred to as screw drive, utilize a threaded steel rod to move the door. They are slightly more expensive than chain drives but offer quieter operation and require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts.
- Belt Drive: Belt drive garage door openers employ a rubber or polyurethane belt reinforced with steel cords. They are the quietest and smoothest operating type, known for their durability and minimal maintenance needs. While often carrying a higher price point, the reduced noise and longevity can make them a worthwhile investment.
- Jackshaft Drive: Jackshaft drives are typically found in commercial or industrial settings with heavy doors. They mount on the wall beside the garage door and directly turn the torsion bar. While highly secure, they can be louder and require professional installation.
Motor Types: AC vs. DC
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 cost-effective but can be larger and generate more noise during operation.
- DC Motors: DC motors represent a newer technology in garage door openers. They are generally smaller, quieter, and often incorporate features like soft start and stop, which reduces wear and tear on the door and opener components. Many modern smart garage door openers utilize DC motors for their efficiency and quiet operation.
Garage Door Opener Power Levels
The power of a garage door opener motor is crucial for lifting different door weights and materials.
- Horsepower (HP) for AC Motors: AC motor power is measured in horsepower (HP).
- Horsepower Similar/Comparable (HPS/HPC) for DC Motors: DC motors technically aren’t rated in HP, so manufacturers use HPS or HPC to provide a comparable power rating to AC motors.
Here’s a general guide to power levels and door types:
- ¼ HP: Suitable only for very lightweight aluminum doors and may operate slowly.
- ½ HP: A versatile option for most garage door materials, excluding solid wood. This is a common and often sufficient power level for many residential doors.
- ¾ HP: Provides ample power to smoothly and quickly lift residential garage doors of all common materials, including heavier insulated doors.
- 1 HP and Higher: Primarily used in commercial settings or for exceptionally heavy residential doors. For most standard residential garages, ¾ HP is generally sufficient.
Control and Access Options
Modern garage door openers offer a range of control options for convenience and security:
- Remote Controls: Standard remote controls allow you to open and close the garage door from your vehicle. Most openers include at least one or two remotes.
- Keypads: Wireless keypads mounted outside the garage provide keyless entry using a PIN code, offering an alternative access method for family members or trusted individuals.
- Smartphone Apps and Smart Home Integration: Many newer garage door openers incorporate smart features, enabling control and monitoring via smartphone apps. Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote operation from anywhere, notifications, and integration with smart home platforms like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control.
Installation Considerations
Garage door opener installation can range from DIY-friendly to requiring professional assistance:
- DIY Installation: Many garage door openers are designed for relatively straightforward DIY installation, especially when replacing an existing opener. Manufacturers typically provide step-by-step instructions and sometimes online video resources.
- Professional Installation: If you are uncomfortable with electrical wiring, lack experience with mechanical installations, or are installing a new opener for the first time, professional installation is recommended. Professional installers ensure proper and safe operation and can handle any unforeseen challenges.
For detailed cost information, research “the cost to install a garage door”.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Garage Door Opener
Replacing a garage door opener can be a manageable DIY project with the right guidance. Here’s a simplified step-by-step process based on expert advice from Scott Caron, master electrician for Ask This Old House:
- Safety First: Disconnect Power: Completely turn off the power to your garage door opener circuit at your home’s electrical panel. This is crucial for safety.
- Disconnect and Lower Old Opener: Unplug the existing garage door opener. Loosen the mounting brackets securing it to the ceiling and carefully lower the unit.
- Remove Door Bracket: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the bracket attached to the garage door itself.
- Install New Door Bracket: Attach the new door bracket (supplied with your new opener) to the garage door using a screw gun.
- Attach Track: Slide the track assembly into the door bracket and secure it with a wrench.
- Mount New Motor Unit: Lift the new motor unit and screw it into the existing ceiling mounting brackets.
- Connect Lifting Arm: Attach the lifting arm from the door to the track, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wire Keypad (Interior): Wire the interior keypad according to the wiring diagram.
- Connect Wiring to Motor: Run the keypad wire through conduit to the garage door motor and connect it.
- Mount Exterior Keypad: Securely mount the wireless keypad outside the garage using a screw gun.
- Install Safety Sensors (Electric Eyes): Mount the safety sensors (electric 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 to the circuit. Test the opener to ensure it operates smoothly and safely.
For a visual guide, refer to the Ask This Old House video demonstrating garage door opener replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Door Openers
Q: Will my garage door opener work during a power outage?
A: Most standard garage door openers rely on your home’s electrical power and will not function during an outage. However, many models include a manual release handle, allowing you to manually open and close the door. Some advanced models also offer battery backup options, providing temporary operation during power interruptions.
Q: Do garage door openers come with lights?
A: Yes, virtually all modern garage door openers include integrated lights that activate when the opener is in use. These lights typically have a timer and automatically turn off after a few minutes. Some models feature LED lighting for brighter and more energy-efficient illumination.
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 incorporate a safety reverse mechanism. This system uses sensors to detect obstructions in the door’s path. If an obstruction is detected, the reverse mechanism automatically stops the door and reverses it to the open position, preventing injuries and damage.
Our Product Review Methodology
This Old House is dedicated to providing homeowners and DIY enthusiasts with reliable and expert home improvement guidance, built on over four decades of experience across television, print, and digital platforms. Our product review team is committed to delivering thorough, objective, and independent evaluations of home products and services. We have published over 1,600 in-depth reviews covering a wide range of home-related products, emphasizing product quality and practical value to our readers.
Our rigorous selection process for product recommendations relies on a multi-faceted approach:
Initial Product Research: We begin by compiling a list of garage door openers that have garnered a significant volume of verified customer reviews and maintain a high average rating (4-5 stars). Our analysis includes both positive and negative reviews to gain a balanced understanding of product performance and user experiences.
Expert and User Insights: In addition to our in-house expertise, we consult reputable publications, independent product testers, and subject matter experts. We also value reader contributions and feedback to ensure our recommendations are well-rounded and reflect real-world user experiences.
Product Selection and Refinement: We continuously update our product lists to incorporate the latest models and remove discontinued items. We then conduct a detailed feature comparison of shortlisted products to identify best-in-class options for various needs, budgets, and scenarios.
Our ultimate goal is to deliver comprehensive, user-friendly articles that empower our readers to make informed purchasing decisions.
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