Automatic garage door openers bring unparalleled convenience to modern homes, allowing effortless access with just the push of a button. The market offers a wide range of options, with budget-friendly openers starting around $125 to $175, while heavy-duty, feature-rich models can reach up to $500. For most homeowners, a good garage door opener will fall within the $200 to $400 price range, balancing features and affordability.
To simplify your search for the ideal garage door opener, 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 suite of helpful accessories. Continue reading for a detailed guide and more of my top selections for Good Garage Door Openers.
Check Price for Chamberlain B6753T Garage Door Opener
Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener Logo
Check Price for Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Check Price for Genie 7155 Garage Door Opener
Comparing Top Garage Door Openers
| Product | Lifting Power | Key Accessories | Warranty Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener | 1.25 HPS Equivalent | 2 Sensors, 2 Remotes, Keypad, Battery Backup | Lifetime Motor/Belt, 5-Year Parts, 1-Year Accessories |
| Chamberlain B550 Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS Equivalent | 2 Sensors, Keypad, Control Panel, 2 Remotes | 15-Year Belt, 10-Year Motor, 1-Year Parts/Accessories |
| Genie 7155-TKV StealthDrive Connect Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener | 1.25 HPS Equivalent | Battery Backup, Keypad, Control Panel, 2 Remotes | Lifetime Motor/Belt, 5-Year Parts, 1-Year Accessories |
| beamUP The Workhorse BU100 Sectional Garage Door Opener | 0.75 HPS Equivalent | Control Panel, Remote Control | 1-Year Belts, Parts, and Accessories |
| Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS Equivalent | 2 Sensors, Control Panel, Remote Control | 1 Year |
| LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator | 0.5 HPS Equivalent | Control Panel, Remote Control, Light | 5-Year Limited, 1 Year Battery Backup |
| CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS Equivalent | Dual-Function Wall Control, Keypad, 2 Lights, 2 Remotes | 10-Year Motor, 1-Year Chain/Parts/Accessories |
| Product | Lifting Power | Accessories | Warranty |
7 Top-Rated Garage Door Openers for Your Home
*Product links below will take you to the retail page.*
1. Best Overall: Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
The Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener stands out as the best overall choice due to its powerful performance and comprehensive feature set. Equipped with a robust belt drive system and Chamberlain’s MAX Lifting power, this opener is capable of handling virtually any garage door size. A standout feature is its integrated 130-degree wide-angle camera, allowing homeowners to monitor their garage environment remotely via the myQ smartphone app. This adds a layer of security and convenience, letting you see what’s happening in your garage from anywhere.
Priced from $279.2 to $349.99 (prices may vary), and often available with a 20% discount, the Chamberlain B6753T offers excellent value considering its features.
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, enabling interaction with anyone in the garage.
Cons:
- Highly sensitive sensor system might trigger unnecessarily in some setups.
- Higher price point compared to some basic models.
- Camera and video storage features may require additional subscription costs.
Customer Feedback on the Chamberlain B6753T
Customer reviews highlight the Chamberlain B6753T’s ease of installation, quiet operation, and durable belt drive. Many users praise the bright and effective dual LED lighting. The myQ app’s remote operation and camera view are also frequently cited as valuable features. However, some users noted a slower opening speed and expressed concerns about the additional 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 Reviewer
“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 Reviewer
2. Best for Light Doors: Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
The Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener is a great choice for homes with lighter garage doors. Its 0.5-horsepower-equivalent motor is optimized for efficiency with less heavy doors, making it a reliable and cost-effective option. Security is enhanced with encrypted code technology, activated each time a remote access accessory is used, preventing unauthorized entry. Currently priced at $276.76 (price subject to change), it offers a balance of performance and value.
Pros:
- Includes a convenient wireless keypad for easy access without a remote.
- Encrypted remote access technology enhances security against hacking and unauthorized entry.
- Online video resources simplify the installation process for DIY enthusiasts.
Cons:
- Does not include a battery backup, meaning it won’t function during power outages without an additional purchase.
Customer Perspectives on the Chamberlain B550
Customer feedback indicates high satisfaction with the Chamberlain B550, particularly noting its excellent motion detection capabilities and quiet operation. Ease of installation is frequently praised. However, some users have expressed frustration with the need for a subscription to unlock the full functionality of the companion app, and others 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 Reviewer
“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 Reviewer
3. Best Voice Assistance: Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
For smart home integration and voice control, the Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener is a top contender. Its quiet DC motor and steel-reinforced belt drive make it ideal for garages near bedrooms or nurseries, minimizing noise. This smartphone-compatible model seamlessly integrates with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home, providing complete voice-activated control. Installation is straightforward, requiring no additional hardware. Available at $289.99 (price may fluctuate), it provides advanced features for a competitive price.
Pros:
- Includes five lithium batteries for reliable operation.
- Comes with two pre-programmed remotes for immediate use.
- Powerful motor with 1.25 horsepower equivalent lifting capacity.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other garage door openers in its class.
- Some users have reported inconsistent connectivity with Amazon Alexa.
- Lacks motion-sensing light feature.
User Experiences with the Genie 7155-TKV
Positive reviews frequently mention the Genie 7155-TKV’s exceptionally quiet motor and high-quality construction for its price point. Many customers also highlight its ease of installation. However, some users have encountered challenges with Amazon Alexa integration, and the absence of a motion-sensing light has been noted as a 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 Reviewer
“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 Reviewer
4. Easiest Installation: beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
The beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener prioritizes ease of installation, making it an excellent option for DIYers. Its sleek, all-white design complements modern home aesthetics. beamUP provides comprehensive support for installation, including instruction manuals, video tutorials, and dedicated tech support, ensuring a smooth setup process. Priced at $179.99 (prices may vary), it offers a user-friendly experience without compromising on performance.
Pros:
- Powerful enough for both single and double garage doors.
- Available in multiple styles to match different garage aesthetics.
- Modern, sleek white design enhances garage appearance.
Cons:
- Some users have reported difficulties connecting the device to HomeLink systems.
- Comes with fewer accessories compared to some competitors.
What Customers Say About beamUP BU100
Customer reviews consistently praise the beamUP BU100 for its straightforward installation and quiet DC motor. Many users also commend the company’s responsive customer service. However, some have reported issues with HomeLink compatibility, and a few mentioned missing installation 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 Reviewer
“..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 Reviewer
5. Best Sensors: Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
The Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener excels in safety features with its advanced sensor technology. In addition to a standard one-button remote and keychain fob, it includes dual infrared safety sensors to reliably detect obstructions and prevent accidents. An integrated LED light enhances visibility within the garage. Priced affordably at $149.99 (price may vary), it offers essential features and safety at a competitive price point.
Pros:
- More budget-friendly than many comparable garage door openers.
- Includes a convenient keychain fob for easy remote access.
- Compatible with in-car remote systems without needing extra hardware.
Cons:
- Battery backup is sold separately, not included.
- Lacks smart home technology integration for app control or voice commands.
User Reviews for Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C
Positive reviews emphasize the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C’s quiet operation, responsive motion detection, and straightforward installation. Many users consider it a high-value option given its cost. Conversely, some negative reviews cite instances of the opener malfunctioning after a short period, and others found the motion sensor to be overly sensitive.
“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, Amazon Reviewer
“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 Reviewer
6. Best for Large Vehicles: LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
The LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator is designed for garages needing extra space and power, especially beneficial for owners of larger vehicles. This wall-mounted unit delivers robust operation and can be controlled via smartphone, allowing for customized schedules and mobile alerts. Its space-saving design mounts beside the garage door, freeing up ceiling space and reducing vibrations, making it a good garage door opener for specific needs. Priced at $588.99 (price subject to change), it’s a premium option with specialized benefits.
Pros:
- Provides both audio and visual warnings during door closure for enhanced safety.
- Utilizes rolling code technology, sending a new security code with each use to prevent hacking.
- 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 traditional ceiling-mounted openers.
Good for: Owners of trucks and vans who need a wall-mounted opener to maximize ceiling space.
Customer Opinions on LiftMaster 8500
Customers who are satisfied with the LiftMaster 8500 often cite its quiet operation and relatively straightforward installation process. Its durability and ability to handle heavy doors are also frequently praised. However, some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the additional costs required to ensure compatibility with older vehicle remotes. Others have reported issues with the emergency release 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 Reviewer
“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 Reviewer
7. Best Value: CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
The CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener provides excellent value, offering smart features at a more accessible price point of $219 (price may vary). It features a chain drive system with robust steel construction and sufficient horsepower for standard seven-foot doors. Smartphone compatibility via the myQ app allows for convenient monitoring and control. For homeowners seeking a good garage door opener that balances cost and smart functionality, the CRAFTSMAN model is a strong contender.
Pros:
- Includes a long-range three-button remote with up to 1,500 feet of operational range.
- Utilizes rolling code technology for enhanced security against hacking.
- Comes with a wireless keypad for keyless entry.
Cons:
- Not recommended for heavier garage doors.
- Connectivity may be less reliable compared to some premium models.
Good for: Homeowners seeking a straightforward, smart-enabled garage door opener without a premium price.
Customer Reviews on CRAFTSMAN Smart Opener
Many positive reviews of the CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener highlight its easy assembly and quiet performance. The brightness of its integrated lighting is also appreciated. However, some users have expressed concerns about its long-term durability and perceived cheaper construction compared to older models. Remote functionality has also been reported 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, Amazon Reviewer
“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 Reviewer
Key Considerations Before Purchasing a Garage Door Opener
Choosing a good garage door opener involves more than just selecting a drive and motor type. Controls, accessories, installation, and smart features are crucial factors to consider. This buying guide will help you navigate these considerations to find the best garage door opener for your home.
Understanding Garage Door Opener Drive Types
The drive mechanism is what physically moves your garage door. Residential garage door openers primarily use three drive types:
- Chain Drive: Chain drives are typically the most affordable, using a metal chain to move the door. They require periodic maintenance to ensure chain functionality and can be noisier than other types.
- Direct/Screw Drive: Direct or screw drive openers use a threaded steel rod to move the door. They are slightly more expensive than chain drives, require less maintenance, and operate more quietly.
- Belt Drive: Belt drive garage door openers use a rubber or polyurethane belt, reinforced with steel cords, to lift the door. While often pricier, they are known for their durability, minimal maintenance needs, and exceptionally quiet and smooth operation.
- Jackshaft Drive: Jackshaft drives are generally used in commercial settings with heavy doors. They mount on the wall beside the door, offering security but are typically louder and require more maintenance.
Motor Types: AC vs. DC
Garage door openers utilize two main types of motors: AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current).
- AC Motors: AC motors have been the traditional choice for garage door openers for many years. They are cost-effective and reliable but can be larger and noisier.
- DC Motors: DC motors are a newer technology in garage door openers, offering improvements over AC motors. They are generally smaller, quieter, and often include features like soft start and stop.
Determining Garage Door Opener Power
The power of a garage door opener motor is crucial for lifting different door weights and materials. AC motors are rated in Horsepower (HP). DC motors use Horsepower Similar (HPS) or Horsepower Comparable (HPC) ratings to allow for comparison.
- ¼ HP Motors: Suitable only for very light aluminum doors and will operate slowly.
- ½ HP Motors: Adequate for most residential garage doors made of materials other than solid wood.
- ¾ HP Motors: Recommended for smoothly and quickly operating residential garage doors of all materials, including heavier doors.
- 1 HP Motors: Primarily used in commercial applications or for very heavy residential doors.
Garage Door Opener Control Systems
Modern garage door openers are typically equipped with keyless entry systems. Standard controls include:
- Remote Control: At least one remote control is usually included, designed for in-garage use. Additional remotes can be kept in vehicles or on keychains.
- Keypad: A keypad, typically installed outside the garage door, allows access using a PIN code.
- Smart Features: Many newer openers incorporate smart technology, offering Wi-Fi connectivity and control via smartphone apps. Compatibility with voice assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa is also common.
Garage Door Opener Installation Considerations
Garage door openers generally come with detailed, step-by-step installation instructions. For those comfortable with DIY projects, self-installation is feasible. However, professional installation is recommended if you are unsure or prefer expert setup.
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 DIY project. Scott Caron, a master electrician from Ask This Old House, provides these steps for safely replacing your garage door opener:
- Safety First: Disconnect power to the garage at the circuit breaker panel.
- Remove Old Unit: Unplug the existing opener, loosen mounting brackets, and carefully lower it from the ceiling.
- Detach Door Bracket: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the bracket above the door.
- Install New Door Bracket: Secure the new bracket (included with the new opener) above the garage door using a screw gun.
- Attach Track: Slide the track into the door bracket and secure it with a wrench.
- Mount New Motor: 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.
- Wire Interior Keypad: Wire the interior keypad and run the wiring through a conduit to connect to the motor.
- Mount Exterior Keypad: Mount the wireless keypad outside the garage door using a screw gun.
- Install Safety Sensors: Mount the electric safety eyes about six inches from the floor inside the garage.
- Final Connections & Testing: Plug the motor into a power outlet, restore power at the circuit panel, and test the opener to ensure proper function.
For a visual guide, watch the Ask This Old House video on how to replace a garage door opener.
Garage Door Opener FAQs
Will my garage door opener work during a power outage?
Most garage door openers rely on your home’s electrical system and will not function during power outages. However, most models include a manual release handle, allowing you to open and close the door manually. Some advanced models offer battery backup options to maintain functionality during power interruptions.
Do garage door openers come with lights?
Yes, nearly all garage door openers include built-in lights that activate when the opener is used. These lights typically operate on a timer, automatically turning off after a few minutes.
Do garage door openers have safety reverse mechanisms?
Yes, since 1993, U.S. law mandates that all garage door openers must have a reverse mechanism. This safety feature automatically reverses the door’s direction if it detects an obstruction, preventing injury or damage.
Our Methodology for Garage Door Opener Reviews
This Old House has a long-standing reputation for providing trusted home improvement advice. Our product review process is designed to offer unbiased and helpful recommendations.
Our Review Methodology Includes:
- Initial Product Research: We start by compiling a list of garage door openers with high average customer review ratings (4-5 stars) and significant numbers of verified buyer reviews. We analyze both positive and negative feedback to understand real-world performance and user experiences.
- Expert and User Insights: We supplement our in-house expertise by reviewing content from trusted publications, independent product testers, and consulting with subject matter experts. We also incorporate insights from reader contributions and user reviews.
- Product Selection and Updates: We continuously refine our product lists, updating older models with newer versions and removing discontinued products. We compare features across models to identify top performers for various needs and budgets.
Through this rigorous process, we aim to deliver comprehensive, user-friendly articles that empower our readers to make informed purchasing decisions.
Questions or Feedback?
For questions or feedback about this article, please contact our team at [email protected].
