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, with prices spanning from budget-friendly models around $125 to $175, to robust, heavy-duty openers reaching up to $500. The majority of homeowners will find their ideal garage door opener within the $200 to $400 price bracket.
To simplify your search for the Best Garage Door Opener that perfectly matches your specific needs, I’ve conducted thorough research on the leading models currently available. My top recommendation overall is the Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener. This model stands out due to its comprehensive suite of accessories and exceptional lifting power. Continue reading for a detailed guide featuring my top selections and insights to help you make an informed decision.
[ 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)
Best Garage Door Openers Comparison
| 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 |
Discover the Top 7 Garage Door Openers of 2024
*Product links below will direct you to the respective retail page.
1. Best Overall: Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
Price: $279.2 – $349.99 (Prices may vary)
The Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener earns the title of best garage door opener for its exceptional blend of power, features, and smart technology. Equipped with a robust belt drive and Chamberlain’s MAX Lifting power, this opener is designed to handle virtually any garage door size and weight. A standout feature is its integrated 130-degree wide-angle camera, enabling you to monitor your garage’s activity through the myQ smartphone app, enhancing both security and peace of mind.
Key Features:
- Powerful Lifting Capacity: Equivalent to 1.25 horsepower, suitable for heavy and large garage doors.
- Integrated Camera: Built-in wide-angle camera for garage monitoring via the myQ app.
- Smart Home Connectivity: myQ app compatibility for remote control and monitoring.
- Ultra-Quiet Operation: Belt drive system ensures minimal noise.
- LED Lighting: Corner-to-corner LED lighting for excellent garage illumination.
- Battery Backup: Ensures operation during power outages.
- Comprehensive Warranty: Lifetime motor and belt warranty, 5-year parts, and 1-year accessories warranty.
Pros:
- Integrated corner-to-corner LED lighting provides bright, even illumination.
- Ultra-quiet motor with smooth start and stop operation.
- Two-way audio communication via the myQ app.
Cons:
- Sensor system can be overly sensitive.
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
- Camera and video storage may incur additional costs.
Customer Feedback on the Chamberlain B6753T
User reviews highlight the Chamberlain B6753T’s easy installation, quiet operation, and durable belt drive. Customers particularly appreciate the bright dual LED lighting and the convenience of remote control via the myQ app. Some users noted the sensitivity of the sensor system and the additional costs for 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 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
2. Best for Light Doors: Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Price: $276.76 (Prices may vary)
For homes with lighter garage doors, the Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener offers a perfect balance of performance and value. Its 0.5-horsepower-equivalent motor is optimized for lighter doors, ensuring smooth and reliable operation. Security is enhanced with encrypted code technology for remote access, preventing unauthorized entry.
Key Features:
- Ideal for Light Doors: 0.5 HP equivalent motor designed for lighter garage doors.
- Encrypted Remote Access: Enhanced security with rolling code technology.
- Smart Features: myQ smartphone app compatibility for remote control (subscription may be required for full functionality).
- Quiet Operation: Belt drive system minimizes noise.
- Easy Installation: Online video resources available to guide installation.
Pros:
- Includes a wireless keypad for convenient access.
- Encrypted remote access for enhanced security.
- Online video guides simplify the installation process.
Cons:
- Battery backup not included.
- Full app functionality may require a subscription.
Customer Feedback on the Chamberlain B550
Customer reviews praise the Chamberlain B550 for its excellent motion detection, quiet operation, and ease of installation. Many users appreciate the smart features and smooth performance. Some customers have expressed concerns about the subscription requirement for full app functionality and the clarity of installation instructions.
“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
3. Best Voice Assistance: Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
Price: $289.99 (Prices may vary)
The Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener is the best garage door opener for voice control enthusiasts. Its quiet DC motor and steel-reinforced belt drive make it an excellent choice for garages attached to living spaces. Compatibility with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home enables seamless voice operation. Installation is straightforward, requiring no additional hardware.
Key Features:
- Voice Control Ready: Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home for voice commands.
- Ultra-Quiet Operation: DC motor and belt drive for minimal noise.
- Powerful Motor: 1.25 HP equivalent lifting power.
- Battery Backup Included: Ensures operation during power outages.
- Easy Installation: Designed for simple setup with included hardware.
Pros:
- Includes five lithium batteries for backup power.
- Comes with two pre-programmed remotes for immediate use.
- Powerful motor suitable for various door sizes.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other models.
- Amazon Alexa connectivity may be inconsistent for some users.
- Lacks motion-sensing light feature.
Customer Feedback on the Genie 7155-TKV
Positive reviews emphasize the Genie 7155-TKV’s quiet motor and high-quality construction for its price point. Users also appreciate the easy installation process. Some customers have reported difficulties with Amazon Alexa integration and expressed disappointment with 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 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
4. Easiest Installation: beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
Price: $179.99 (Prices may vary)
The beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener is recognized as the best garage door opener for its user-friendly installation. Its sleek, all-white design complements modern homes. beamUP provides comprehensive support, including instruction manuals, video tutorials, and dedicated tech support, ensuring a smooth installation experience.
Key Features:
- Easy to Install: Designed for quick and straightforward DIY installation.
- Sleek Design: Modern all-white aesthetic.
- Versatile Power: Suitable for both single and double garage doors.
- Comprehensive Support: Includes manuals, video tutorials, and tech support.
- Quiet DC Motor: Minimizes operational noise.
Pros:
- Suitable for single and double garage doors.
- Available in multiple styles to match home aesthetics.
- Sleek white design for modern homes.
Cons:
- HomeLink connectivity issues reported by some users.
- Fewer included accessories compared to some competitors.
Customer Feedback on the beamUP BU100
Customer reviews consistently praise the beamUP BU100 for its exceptionally easy installation and quiet DC motor. Many users also commend the company’s responsive customer service. Some negative feedback mentions HomeLink connectivity problems and missing installation components.
“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
5. Best Sensors: Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
Price: $149.99 (Prices may vary)
The Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener is the best garage door opener if safety sensors are a top priority. It includes two infrared safety sensors, a one-button remote, and a keychain fob. The integrated LED light enhances garage visibility, and it offers compatibility with in-car remotes without extra hardware.
Key Features:
- Enhanced Safety Sensors: Two infrared safety sensors for obstruction detection.
- Keychain Remote Included: Convenient keychain fob for easy access.
- In-Car Remote Compatibility: Works with existing in-car remote systems.
- Integrated LED Light: Provides garage illumination.
- Affordable Price: Budget-friendly option.
Pros:
- More affordable than many comparable garage door openers.
- Includes a keychain remote for added convenience.
- Compatible with in-car remotes without extra equipment.
Cons:
- Battery backup sold separately.
- Lacks smart home technology features.
- Motion sensor sensitivity may be too high for some users.
Customer Feedback on the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C
Positive reviews highlight the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C’s quiet operation, sensitive motion detection, and simple installation. Many users consider it a high-value option given its price. Negative reviews mention instances of models malfunctioning after a short period and 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 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
6. Best for Large Vehicles: LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
Price: $588.99 (Prices may vary)
For owners of trucks or vans, the LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator is the best garage door opener. This wall-mounted unit offers powerful operation and smartphone control for customized schedules and alerts. Its space-saving design frees up ceiling space and reduces vibration, ideal for garages needing extra headroom or storage.
Key Features:
- Wall-Mount Design: Jackshaft operator mounts on the wall, freeing ceiling space.
- Smartphone Control: myQ app compatibility for remote access and monitoring.
- Space-Saving: Ideal for garages with limited headroom.
- Security Features: Audio and visual warnings, rolling code technology.
- Motion-Activated Lights: Lights activate upon garage entry.
Pros:
- Audio and visual warnings during door closure for safety.
- Rolling code technology for enhanced security.
- Motion detector activates lights upon entry.
Cons:
- Incompatible with roll-up garage doors.
- High price point.
- Additional costs for compatibility with older car remotes may apply.
Good for: Truck and van owners needing a wall-mounted opener for ceiling space optimization.
Customer Feedback on the LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
Customers who are satisfied with the LiftMaster 8500 highlight its quiet operation and straightforward installation. Many praise its robust design and capability to handle heavy doors. Some users express dissatisfaction with extra fees for compatibility with older car remotes and issues with the emergency 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 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
7. Best Value: CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
Price: $219 (Prices may vary)
The CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener is the best garage door opener for budget-conscious buyers seeking smart features. Priced lower than many comparable models, it offers chain drive reliability with rugged steel construction and sufficient horsepower for standard seven-foot doors. Smartphone compatibility via the myQ app allows for convenient monitoring and control.
Key Features:
- Exceptional Value: Affordable price with smart features.
- Smartphone Connectivity: myQ app for remote control and monitoring.
- Chain Drive Reliability: Rugged steel chain drive system.
- Wireless Keypad Included: Convenient keypad access.
- Long-Range Remote: 1,500-foot remote range.
- Security Features: Rolling code technology to prevent hacking.
Pros:
- Three-button remote with a long 1,500-foot range.
- Rolling code technology for enhanced security.
- Includes a wireless keypad for keyless entry.
Cons:
- Not recommended for heavy garage doors.
- Connectivity may be less reliable than some premium models.
- Durability concerns raised by some users.
Good for: Homeowners seeking a balance of smart features and affordability in a garage door opener.
Customer Feedback on the CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
Positive reviews commend the CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener for its easy assembly and quiet operation. Users also appreciate the bright lighting. Some negative feedback concerns perceived lower durability and occasional remote control issues.
“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
Essential Factors to Consider Before Buying a Garage Door Opener
Choosing the best garage door opener involves more than just selecting a drive and motor type. Controls, accessories, installation, and smart features are crucial considerations. This buying guide provides essential information to help you make the right choice for your home.
Understanding Garage Door Opener Drive Types
The drive mechanism is what physically lifts your garage door. Residential garage door openers primarily utilize three drive types:
- Chain Drive: Chain drives are typically the most affordable but require periodic maintenance to ensure chain functionality. They are known for being robust and reliable for heavy doors.
- Direct/Screw Drive: Direct drive openers are a step up in price from chain drives, offering maintenance-free and quieter operation. They have fewer moving parts, increasing reliability.
- Belt Drive: Belt drive garage door openers are often more expensive but offer superior durability, silent operation, and require minimal maintenance. The belt system provides a smoother and quieter lift.
- Jackshaft Drive: Primarily used in commercial settings or garages with specific space constraints, jackshaft openers are powerful and secure but can be louder and require maintenance.
Exploring Garage Door Opener Motor Types
Garage door openers use two main types of motors: AC and DC.
- AC Motors: AC motors have been the industry standard for years, known for their reliability and lower cost. However, they can be larger and noisier than DC motors.
- DC Motors: DC motors are a newer technology, offering smaller size, quieter operation, and often include features like soft start and stop. They are generally more energy-efficient.
Determining Garage Door Opener Power Level
Garage door opener power is measured in horsepower (HP) for AC motors. DC motors use horsepower similar (HPS) or horsepower comparable (HPC) ratings for comparison. Choosing the right power level is crucial for efficient operation:
- ¼ HP: Suitable only for very light aluminum doors and slow operation.
- ½ HP: Works well with most garage door materials except solid wood. This is a common choice for many residential doors.
- ¾ HP: Provides smooth and quick operation for all residential garage door materials, including heavier doors.
- 1 HP: Primarily used in commercial applications or residential settings with exceptionally heavy garage doors.
Garage Door Opener Control Systems
Modern garage door openers offer various control options:
- Remote Control: Standard remotes allow operation from a vehicle or short distance. Most openers include at least one or two remotes.
- Keypad Entry: Wireless keypads mounted outside the garage provide keyless entry using a PIN code.
- Smart Features: Many new openers offer Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone app control, enabling remote operation, monitoring, and integration with smart home systems like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Garage Door Opener Installation Considerations
Garage door openers typically come with detailed step-by-step installation instructions. DIY installation is possible for many homeowners. However, professional installation is recommended for those less comfortable with home projects or electrical wiring.
For detailed cost information, research the cost to install a garage door.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Replace Your Garage Door Opener
Replacing a garage door opener can be a DIY project with the right guidance. Scott Caron, a master electrician from Ask This Old House, provides these steps for a successful replacement:
- Safety First: Turn off power to the garage at the circuit breaker panel.
- Disconnect Old Opener: Unplug the existing opener and loosen mounting brackets. Carefully lower it from the ceiling.
- Remove Door Bracket: Using an adjustable wrench, detach the bracket above the garage door.
- Install New Door Bracket: Secure the new bracket (included with the new opener) above the door using a screw gun.
- Attach Track: Slide the track into the door bracket and secure it with a wrench.
- Mount Motor Unit: Screw the new motor unit into the existing ceiling brackets using your wrench.
- Connect Lifting Arm: Attach the lifting arm from the door to the track.
- Wire Interior Keypad: Wire the interior keypad and run the wire through a conduit to the motor.
- Mount Exterior Keypad: Mount the wireless keypad outside the garage using a screw gun.
- Install Safety Sensors: Mount electric eyes (safety sensors) about six inches above the floor inside the garage.
- Power Up and Test: Plug the motor into a power outlet, restore power, and test the opener for proper operation.
For a visual guide, watch this video from Ask This Old House demonstrating how to replace your garage door opener.
Garage Door Opener FAQs
What happens to my garage door opener during a power outage?
Most garage door openers rely on your home’s electrical power and will not function during outages. However, most models have a manual release handle allowing you to open and close the door manually. Some openers include battery backup features to maintain operation temporarily during power loss.
Do garage door openers come with lights?
Yes, almost all garage door openers include built-in lights that activate when the opener is used. These lights typically have timers and automatically turn off after a few minutes.
Are garage door openers equipped with a safety reverse mechanism?
Yes, since 1993, U.S. law mandates that all garage door openers must have a reverse mechanism. This safety feature automatically reverses the door’s descent if it detects an obstruction, preventing injuries and damage.
Our Review Methodology
This Old House has been a trusted source for home improvement advice for over four decades, delivering expert guidance through television, print, and digital platforms. Our product review team is dedicated to providing objective, independent, and honest assessments of home products and services. To date, we have published over 1,600 in-depth reviews covering power tools, outdoor equipment, appliances, and more, focusing on product quality and reader helpfulness.
Our rigorous selection process for recommending the best garage door opener involves several key steps:
Initial Research: We start by compiling a list of garage door openers with high customer review ratings (4-5 stars) and a significant number of verified buyer reviews. We analyze both positive and negative feedback to gain a balanced understanding of each product’s strengths and weaknesses.
Expert Insights: In addition to our in-house expertise, we consult reputable publications, independent testers, and subject matter experts. We also consider reader feedback and contributions to ensure a comprehensive perspective.
Product Selection: We refine our initial list by updating to the latest models, removing discontinued products, and comparing features to identify best-in-class options across various needs, budgets, and scenarios.
Finally, we develop user-friendly, comprehensive articles like this one, providing detailed product recommendations and buying advice to help our readers make informed purchasing decisions for the best garage door opener for their homes.
Questions or Feedback?
For questions or feedback regarding this article, please contact our team at: [email protected].
