The Best Garage Door Openers (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023 | Autance

Garage door openers provide convenience and an added layer of security to your home. Picking the right opener for your…

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The Best Garage Door Openers (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023 | Autance © The Best Garage Door Openers (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023 | Autance
Best Choice Сhamberlain B970 Garage Door Opener Сhamberlain B970 Ultra-Quiet & Strong Garage Door Opener
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Premium Pick Chamberlain Group RJO20 Garage Opener Chamberlain Group RJO20 Garage Opener
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Best Value Chamberlain MyQ Smart Garage Door Opener Chamberlain MyQ Smart Garage Door Opener
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Garage door openers provide convenience and an added layer of security to your home. Picking the right opener for your individual needs will allow you to open and close your garage door with the push of a button for years to come. Whether security, safety, or convenience is your top priority the perfect garage door opener for you is out there. Below you’ll find a comparison of five of the best garage door openers on the market as well as the individual features that set them apart.

The Best Garage Door Opener

We never ignore the Chamberlain brand whenever we are on the lookout for high-quality products. Over the years, this company has left an indelible impression in the minds of all their customers, with their top quality products which are made after rigorous research and countless testing. They have launched several door openers, but none of them can be compared to the Chamberlain B970 Garage Door Opener. This opener is the most significant model in the market, according to the various online platforms that discuss the best door openers. This unit is super active, and it is designed from durable steel, which can last ages even after regular use.

The Chamberlain B970 Garage Door Opener operates quietly, which isn’t common amongst many door openers. It comes with a reinforced steel belt drive system, which works together with the smart technology of the 21st century. Such a combination ensures that activities in your life are simplified and all your activities well managed. The construction of this unit includes an anti-vibration technology that helps it to withstand extreme conditions at all times. It also features a precision engineering system that delivers years of smooth and reliable performance. If you have attached garages, you will find this model as the perfect door opener tool. Probably the best feature of this garage door is the MyQ app that gives you all the real-time alerts, and allows you to open, close, and know the status of your garage door. A single purchase offers you a full function wall control system, wireless keypad, safety sensors, and two 3-button remotes. 

Key Features
  • Battery backup and max lifting power
  • Smart garage control
  • Strong belt drive
  • Trusted safety and security
Specification
  • Brand Chamberlain
  • Model B970
  • Weight 35 pounds
PROS

Quiet performance

User-friendly

CONS

Opens garage door slowly

From the Liftmaster, we move back to one of our beloved brands in the industry, the Chamberlain group. This brand has launched its RJ020 Garage Door Opener recently, and this unit is lowly, making a name for itself in the market. It is a one size fit all door opener model, built to exhibit reliability, durability, and function. We have nothing but deep respect for this company and all their products, which is why we have recommended several units from their family. The RJ020 garage door can be operated from any location without a sweat, thanks to their smart technology included in the setup of this system.

There are other intriguing and exciting features which set this automatic garage door apart from all competition. The first is its app, which can be used on all smart devices. Every time this door opener closes, the garage doors are dead-bolted, in a bid to enhance security for you and your household. Another feature we love is how simple installation of the unit is. It is straightforward and very versatile because the group works well in tight spaces. A single purchase provides you with an automatic door lock, a multi-function wall control, a three-button remote, safety sensors, internet gateway, and a slight light.

Key Features
  • Direct drive wall mounted
  • Space-saving
  • Automatic garage door lock
  • Smart garage control
Specification
  • Brand Chamberlain
  • Model RJO20
  • Weight 31 pounds
PROS

The infrared sensor helps prevent accidents

8-foot extension kit included

CONS

Remotes have a minimal range

Difficult to use

Meet the newest garage door opener in the market today. It is a smart opener set up by professionals to help keep your home and vehicles safe at all times. The MyQ Opener allows you to open or close your garage door from anywhere in the world, thanks to the MyQ app which works on all smartphones. The app also delivers smart notifications and alerts when your garage door is closed or opened in real-time. This helps you to know if any unauthorized individuals attempt to operate your door. The MyQ door opener is a universal tool which works well with many garage doors. Its design follows the 1993 standard for safety sensors, which are used by several other brands in the market today.

The MyQ garage door opener is simple to install, as it doesn’t require any new skills and expertise. It features a wireless installation process which is made extra easy via the supply of a step-by-step instructional in the package. With this opener, you can invite up to three people as guests to control your garage at any point in time. You can connect your MyQ account to IFTTT and Google Assistant for a limited time, with no form of payment required. The core features of the MyQ door opener include the receiving of garage doors, the opening, closing and notifications associated with all movements, at no charge.

Key Features
  • Wireless & Wi-Fi enabled
  • Smartphone control
  • Simple setup
  • Smart notifications
Specification
  • Brand Chamberlain
  • Model MYQ-G0301
  • Weight 8 ounces
PROS

The infrared sensor prevents accidents

Quiet performance

User-friendly

CONS

Extension kit required

Our next garage door opener model which we much admire and highly recommend is the NXG Opener from NEXX. We have seen different models of garage openers over the years, but this best garage door openers from NEXX tops the charts concerning functionality and durability. This is a superb garage door opener, designed with smart technology to make its use friendlier and less stressful for owners. It comes with a Wi-Fi operated remote control system, and also allows you to use an app to track the state of your garage door, control all functions and know the status of your order. The NEXX Garage Opener is highly compatible with Amazon Google Assistant and Alexa; thus; it takes a lot of stress of your hands.

There are several viable reasons why we love the NEXX Garage Opener. Firstly, it can be operated via tapping, a straightforward procedure that reduces your overall operation time. For easy use, you can install the Nexx app or make use of the voice recognition systems offered by Alex, Siri, or Google Assistant. If you have a guest at a time where you’re away, you can still open your gate for them thanks to the multi-user access system and the remote monitoring feature. We can guarantee your safety and that of your friends and family, whenever you make use of this system.

Key Features
  • With app
  • Compatible with google assistant
  • No hub required
  • Multi-user access
Specification
  • Brand Nexx Garage
  • Model NXG-100b
  • Weight 8.2 ounces
PROS

Advanced security encryption

10-year warranty

CONS

For all doors over seven feet, an extension board is mandatory

The Genie Aladdin Smart Garage Door Opener is one fantastic opener that we believe you can benefit significantly from. We love that the leading manufacturers of garage electrical manufacture this unit. The Genie brand is a globally recognized name in the industry. They focus on the needs of their customers and design each group to fit their current needs. Every item they produce is unique; thus, you are assured of high quality with every purchase. The Genie Aladdin Garage Opener features a Wi-Fi enabled garage door which can be operated via your smartphone and any other smart device. If your hands are busy, you can make use of the voice recognition systems offered by Alexa and Google Assistant.

The Genie Aladdin Connect Opener can control up to three different garage doors. The package comes with only one smartphone controller kit, but it allows you to monitor three different garage doors. This is possible when you purchase additional door position sensors, which are sold separately. Aladdin Connect will enable you to schedule your opening and closing times, such that your doors close after a particular length of time. The best feature is how easy it is to set the virtual key for your relatives, friends, and neighbors. Get to know as soon as someone operates your door manually, and if the person is an authorized user or not.

Key Features
  • Operate your door from any location of your choice
  • Compatible with Amazon Alexa and google assistant
  • Wi-Fi enabled the garage door
  • Control up to 3 garage doors
Specification
  • Brand Genie
  • Model ALKT1-R
  • Weight 1 pounds
PROS

The infrared sensor prevents accidents

10-year/15-year/1-year warranty

CONS

Extension kit must be used for doors over seven feet

LiftMaster’s 8500 side mounted garage door opener system comes with a focus on quality, longevity and dependable security. Its enclosed gear casing provides constant lubrication to moving parts to ensure a long service life which is backed up by a lifetime warranty on the motor and a 5-year warranty on other components of the opener system.

The 8500 is also compatible with MyQ technology allowing simple and easy operation from the user’s smartphone. It boasts systems which stop and reverse the garage door if the beam of light projects across the door opening is broken as well as if the opener senses that the descending door has come into contact with a person or an object.

In addition to these safety systems, the 8500 has a feature known as Security+ 2.0TM rolling code technology which uses a new and unique code every time the remote tells the garage door to open. This stops potential thieves from gaining access to the garage by repeating previously used codes.

Key Features
  • Protector System shines an invisible light beam across the garage door opening and reverses the garage door if the beam is broken
  • Lifetime motor warranty, 5-year parts warranty
  • Auto-force monitoring adjusts opener force based on temperature changes, floor height, and door track resistance
  • Mounts to the wall beside the door
Specification
  • Brand LiftMaster
  • Model 8500
  • Weight 65 lbs
PROS

Strong focus on safety and security

Clever design and strong warranties for a long service life

CONS

Not compatible with roll-up garage doors, only sectional

In America, the Genie Company is one of the most trusted brands in the garage door opener industry. It is also considered the most reliable company with an extensive history that displays their dedication to innovation. In North America, the Genie family has millions of its products in use today. There are several reasons why you should consider the Genie company, some of which include high quality, dependability, and nationwide service. Their latest electric garage door opener is the Genie SilentMax Belt Drive System, the most innovative garage door opener. It is a simple unit with a basic installation system, which is well suited for different types of garage doors. A single purchase comes with two garage door openers and a ¾ HPC system.

The SilentMax system provides a powerful and smooth operation at all times. It comes with a beautiful 140V DC motor that allows for the smooth operation of the opener. Concerning installation, the Genie SilentMax system doesn’t have any additional hardware included in the package; thus, installation takes a shorter time and is extremely easy. To help prevent accidents, this door opener has a self-diagnostic safe t-beam system. This system also works with an Intellicode Security technology which checks all types of access and deciphers whether they authorized or not. If you access your home through your garage, this door opener from Genie is the best system for you. Not only is it light in weight, but it is also smooth and ultra-quiet in operation, making it the world’s best and most user-friendly systems you will ever encounter. 

Key Features
  • 1200 ultra-quiet
  • Powerful and smooth operation
  • Steel-reinforced belt drive system
  • Self-diagnostic safe-t-beam system
Specification
  • Brand Genie
  • Model 4042-TKH
  • Weight 31.5 pounds
PROS

The infrared sensor helps prevent accidents

10-year/15-year/1-year warranty

CONS

Extension kit for doors over 7 feet

There are several brands in the garage door opener system industry, and the Liftmaster is one of the best. This company comes with decades of continuous expertise in their field, and they pride themselves on providing everything their customers require, through the innovative design of their products. This overhead garage door works well with the Liftmaster 8500 and 3800 models of jackshaft garage door openers. It is not compatible with other models; thus; one must take note before making a purchase. When the garage door starts a movement, under the battery power, the system emits audible signal sounds which can be detected by both you and those you share usage with. The Liftmaster door opener system has a simple installation procedure, which involves the setting of your order on top of your garage door while remaining plugged into the back of your opener.

The Liftmaster Garage Door Opener is always ready for use and fully charged. It operates well even when the power goes out, which many other models by other manufacturers can’t do. During a power outage, your Liftmaster system can open and close your garage door for up to twenty cycles, before shutting down. Included in the design of this system are the bright LED lights which inform you when the order is in operation, when it is not and when you need to replace your batteries. For safe operation, this system comes with highly functionals safety and security features, which work excellently without any issues, when the opener is in use. We will encourage all owners of garages to make use of this system, as it is highly durable and also very affordable, considering the level of service you receive. 

Key Features
  • Audible signal sounds
  • Simple to install
  • Bright LED lights
  • Always charged and ready
Specification
  • Brand Liftmaster
  • Model 475LM
  • Weight 6 pounds
PROS

Offers advanced security encryption

Backed by a lifetime warranty

CONS

Opens garage door slowly

Extension kit required

We have enlisted yet another fantastic product from the LiftMaster brand as one of the best garage door openers in the market today. This is the Liftmaster 1355 Garage Door Opener. This system beats many others on the market with its high durability and incredible functioning. It is a door opener with a difference, and this is seen globally by several customers who have grown to love the model and the brand. This garage door opener is unique in its build and use. It replaces an older model thus; it features several upgraded features which keep it at par with all modern models of today.

The Liftmaster 1355 Door Opener is built to last; therefore it comes with a purposefully designed ½ HP AC motor system, which does a great job of extending the life span of the unit, despite regular use. It delivers excellent industrial strength and steady performance at all times, thanks to the inclusion of a chain drive system in its design. Anyone looking for a model with a secure connection should look no further than this magnificent universal garage door opener. It connects to your garage easily thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi system and also offers the best security service you will ever come across.

Key Features
  • Built to last
  • Chain drive system
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • New code with every remote click
Specification
  • Brand LiftMaster
  • Model 1355
  • Weight 21 pounds
PROS

Infrared sensor to prevent accidents

Backed by 6-year/1-year warranties

CONS

Difficult to use

Expensive

We love all things Chamberlain because they’re immensely durable and offer the best service you can ever encounter. This brand understands the needs of customers and designs accordingly. They pride themselves in identifying issues around them, researching and testing new models which will act as the perfect solutions to these problems. Their latest invention, the Chamberlain C450 Garage Door Opener, was birthed from the need to feel more secure while at home. It is a long-lasting door opener designed with help from various experts. 

This garage door motor features a rugged and exclusive steel construction which delivers a dependable performance always. It also uses precision fabrication, which isn’t common in most existing brands. We love that the Chamberlain C450 can be used with garage doors of up to seven feet heights. If you’re fed up with the physical handling of the door opener, you can install the mobile app of this garage door on any smart device of your choice, which will allow you to have control from anywhere. The range of this Chamberlain system is very superior to other models. This is made possible only by the Exclusive Triband Technology system, which offers a remote range of up to 1,500 feet. Such a range is excellent for a faster exit or entrance to your home.

Key Features
  • Smartphone-controlled
  • Durable chain drive
  • Med lift power system 1/2 hp
  • Superior remote range
Specification
  • Brand Chamberlain
  • Model C450
  • Weight 35 pounds
PROS

½ HP AC motor

An infrared sensor helps prevent accidents

Backed by lifetime warranties

CONS

Extension kit required

Sommer’s 1052V000 utilizes an innovative design which locates the motor at the door instead of at the far end of the opener track. This placement, coupled with Sommer’s Direct Drive system which eliminates the need for chains, belts, or screws in the driveline and makes the 1052 a very quiet garage door opener indeed.

Backed up by a lifetime warranty the 1052 is designed to lift doors between 7-8 feet in height silently and free of annoying vibrations which makes it ideal for houses with bedrooms or offices above the garage. Security has been given careful consideration too with the twin opener remotes operating on a rolling code system which changes the codes each time the door is opened and closed as we have seen with other garage door openers on this list.

The 1052 is also compatible with the HomeLink in-car opener system to allow you more options in how you open and close your garage doors.

Key Features
  • Powerful 1 HP motor
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Direct drive system
  • Rolling code security technology
Specification
  • Brand Sommer
  • Model 1052V000
  • Weight 42.5 lbs
PROS

Extremely quiet operation with almost no vibrations

Opens doors 7-8 feet in height

CONS

Not smartphone control compatible

The Liftmaster Elite Series Garage Door Operator is one of the best door openers in the market today. This is one fantastic opener that has been designed to be classic, sleek, and economical with space, regarding storage. You can make use of this unit if you need to free up some ceiling space. It can be mounted onto your garage wall easily, besides your garage door. This door opener comes fully equipped with a security 2.0 system, which allows the unit to operate flawlessly. Motors installed in this unit are p3 motors, one of the most durable and reliable performances, you can ever encounter. 

Other features we love about this Liftmaster garage door is its ultra-quiet operations. The quiet garage door opener eliminates all vibrations and sounds through the ceiling, to prevent you from being disturbed at random times. This door opener is well suited for use with low headroom tracks, roll-up doors, and the Wayne Dalton Torquemaster. Keep your opening possibilities readily available, thanks to this ultimate garage access solution. This unit comes with a 5-year warranty and a one-year guarantee on battery and accessories.

Key Features
  • 8500w jackshaft
  • Space-saving design
  • Elite series model
  • Not compatible with roll-up doors
Specification
  • Brand LiftMaster
  • Model 8500W
  • Weight 38 pounds
PROS

Quiet performance

Requires little maintenance

Includes rail extension for 8-foot garages

HomeLink compatible

CONS

Can be challenging to obtain repairs

Remotes have a minimal range

Difficult to use

From Nortek, we present to you the most compatible garage door in the market today. This is the Go Control Garage Door Opener. It is a controlled system that makes use of smart technologies and innovative measures to keep the unit at par with many other competing models. At a range of up to 100 feet, this door and many products designed by Go Control will provide precise functionality, thanks to its wireless controlling system and the closest z-wave device.

This garage door remote has a high and impressive frequency of 345 MHZ, which cannot be achieved by several other models in the market. Once you have any automatic garage opener garage door with a w-section, you can make use of this garage door opener. You can never go wrong with the Go Control Z-Door Opener; this is a unit that ensures safety and security via its audible and visual notifications that keep you abreast with your door’s movement. We can guarantee that this garage door will be the best opening device for a garage you will ever invest in. 

Key Features
  • Imported
  • Wireless controller
  • 345 MHz
  • Compatible with all Z-Wave-certified devices
Specification
  • Brand Linear
  • Model GD00Z-4
  • Weight 1.63 pounds
PROS

Infrared sensor prevent accidents

8-foot extension kit included

CONS

Car remotes have a minimal range

Turn your garage into a high-tech and highly innovative garage with the Genie QuietLift Smart Garage Door Opener. This system has an ultra-quiet unit designed to be the best attachment to all living spaces. This opener from Genie allows hands-free operations by being highly compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa. This compatibility is possible, thanks to the integrated Aladdin Connect Technology feature, a system which allows you to keep tabs on the movement of your gate while you’re away. 

The QuietLift garage opener comes with a five-piece railing system, a sturdy and durable feature that aids in easy and swift installation. The entire unit is naturally light in weight and doesn’t require the use of any hardware. An additional feature includes the pre-programmed remotes that eliminate all other steps as are necessary for installation. The result is a garage door opener which is ready to use. For durability and added value, the Genie Smart Garage Door Opener has its steel-reinforced belt drive system. Other features included in the package are a wireless exterior keypad, an independent light button, a wall control panel, and a vacation lock.

Key Features
  • Wireless exterior keypad
  • Wall control pane
  • Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Model 3053-TKV
Specification
  • Brand Genie
  • Model 39626S
  • Weight 28.7 pounds
PROS

Ultra-quiet operation

Easy to install

Two pre-programmed 3-button remotes

Wireless keypad

CONS

Doors over seven feet need extension kits

Chamberlain’s MyQ-G0201 garage door opener system allows you to control your garage door from your smartphone without having to buy a whole new opener system. Assuming your garage door opener was manufactured after 1993 and features safety sensors the G0201 is able to integrate and control the system without the financial outlay required to purchase a brand new motor and other components.

The system is compatible with all Apple and Android equipped handsets and also features a mobile website for users running other smartphone operating systems. The G0201 allows you to open and close your garage door from anywhere to provide you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your home is secure.

You can also choose to receive notifications when your garage door opens and closes giving you the ability to open it for deliveries and to provide family members shelter should they forget or lose their house key. Installation is quick and easy meaning that any homeowner can have a smartphone-controlled garage door opener in around 30 minutes.

Key Features
  • Easily installed in under 30 minutes
  • Compatible with safety sensor equipped garage door openers manufactured after 1993
  • Open, close, and monitor your garage door from anywhere
  • Android and Apple compatible, mobile website available for other devices
Specification
  • Brand Chamberlain
  • Model MyQ-G0201
  • Weight 1lb
PROS

Allows the user to control their garage door from their smartphone without having to buy an entirely new opener system

Receive smartphone notifications when the garage door is opened and closed

CONS

Not compatible with garage door openers manufactured before 1993

Genie’s PowerLift garage door opener brings heavyweight lifting capability to the garage door opener market. Utilizing a screw drive system the PowerLift is capable of lifting garage doors up to 500 lbs without the drive chains or belts that can become worn out and fail over time.

Featuring a Safe-T Beam sensor system, the PowerLift will stop and reverse the garage door if it senses that there is something below the door that could be damaged were it to close. The multi-function wall-mounted control console features a vacation lock setting which provides you peace of mind while you’re out of town while the Itellicode Security system sends a different code each time the door is opened or closed to defeat potential thieves.

The PowerLift is compatible with both HomeLink and Car2U in-vehicle garage door opener systems. Genie backs up the PowerLift garage door opener with a stout 15-year warranty on the motor and a 3-year warranty on its other components.

Key Features
  • Screw drive system provides heavy lifting power for doors up to 500 lbs
  • Safe-T beam sensor system stops the garage door if the beam across the opening is broken
  • Wall-mounted control console with vacation lock function
  • Intellicode Security uses a unique code each time the door is opened or closed
Specification
  • Brand Genie
  • Model PowerLift
  • Weight 40 lbs
PROS

Able to lift garage doors up to 500 lbs

Screw drive eliminates chains and belts which can become worn out

CONS

No smartphone compatibility like other openers on this list

The final garage door opener under review is the Craftsman Garage Door Opener, though it is the last, it is not the least, concerning its functionality, reliability, and durability. It features a wireless keyless entry pad system, for easy entry to your garage when you don’t have a remote or key. Also, the unit allows you to install a secure 4-digit PIN, which can be changed to suit your style and preference. For quick installation and fast operations, you can make use of the Quick Install Rail System included in the design of this door opener.

The Craftsman garage door opener is a safe and secure garage door opener that can be maintained easily, just as it is easy to install. It provides you with several years of dependable service, helping you to save money for other necessities. It is extra convenient and offers you the most exceptional access to your garage even at the furthest distance. A bonus for this unit is its anti-burglary technology system, for excellent security.

Key Features
  • ½ Hp chain drive
  • Wireless keyless entry pad
  • Easy installation
  • Simple user interface
Specification
  • Brand CRAFTSMAN
  • Model 00954985000P
  • Weight 36.2 pounds
PROS

½ HPF DC motor

Quieter than other AC motors

Comes with two remote controls

CONS

Open garage door slowly

Chamberlain’s B730 promises quiet operation thanks to its use of a belt driven system over the noisy chains used to drive older garage door openers. Its built-in battery ensures that you’ll never be stuck inside or out during power outages while the included twin opener remotes mean you won’t have to choose who can open the door and who has to go without the ability to do so. In addition, Chamberlain’s wifi-enabled MyQ technology allows the user to control the garage door opener through their smartphone for added convenience.

The B730 also features a Timer-to-Close function which automatically closes the garage door after a period of 1, 5, or 10 minutes to ensure that your garage won’t be wide open all day long should you forget to close it for any reason. Additional MyQ hardware can even control the lights in your garage meaning you won’t have to fumble around for your house keys in the dark after a long day.

Key Features
  • Battery backup allows the opener to operate during power outages
  • ¾ HP motor
  • Belt driven for reduced operating volume
  • MyQ technology allows the opener to be operated from a smartphone
Specification
  • Brand Chamberlain
  • Model B730
  • Weight 36.3 lbs
PROS

Battery backup for operation even during power cuts

Can be operated from the owner’s smartphone

CONS

Belt drive can wear out over time

Best Garage Door Opener Buying Guide & FAQ

Types of Garage Door Opener Motors

The variations between different types of garage door opener motors essentially boil down to how they transfer power from the motor to lift and lower the garage door. Different operating styles, of course, have different characteristics. Below you’ll find a list of the different drive styles and the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Chain Driven

Chain driven garage door openers are the simplest and most commonly found style of opener. This means that they are also the cheapest kind of opener. Chain driven openers use reliable chains to haul up and lower your garage door. Their simplicity means that they are very reliable; however one drawback is that they can be quite noisy during operating. This drawback means they are less than ideal for garages which have bedrooms, living rooms or offices above them.

Belt Driven

Belt driven openers replace the noisy chain with a belt made of rubber or another durable and flexible material. They operate much more quietly than chain driven garage door openers but can be less reliable than simplistic chains as rubber is inherently softer than metal. Another drawback of belt driven openers is that they can be more expensive than their chain driven cousins to buy and install.

Screw Drive

Screw driven garage door openers do away with the chains and belts altogether, instead relying on a steel screw to move the opener’s trolley along its track which raises and lowers the garage door. Screw drive systems have fewer moving parts than their belt and chain driven cousins which means better reliability and less maintenance over the course of the opener’s lifetime. Some screw drive systems can be quite noisy, although there are examples on the market that claim to have quieter operating volumes. Screw drive opener systems have the capability to lift heavier doors than do chain or belt driven systems as their design makes them inherently stronger than either of the others.

Direct Drive

Direct drive garage door opener systems are the new kids on the block. Boasting extremely quiet operating volumes, the direct drive system turns the traditional garage door opener setup on its head. Instead of having a stationary motor which pulls the opener’s trolley towards it, a direct drive system has its motor move along the stationary track with the door. That means that the door and the motor always stay the same distance apart with the motor gliding silently along. The fact that direct drive systems rely on just one moving part means that they should be incredibly reliable over a long service life. The only downside to direct drive technology is that it is newer and more advanced so therefore more expensive. However, if the garage door opener lasts for decades to come the extra money will have been well spent.

Features to Look Out for when Buying a Garage Door Opener

There are a number of features to look out for when buying a new garage door opener. Obviously individual needs will vary but there are some features that are universally useful to have. These features fall into three major categories: safety, security, and ease of use.

Safety

Garage doors are big, heavy objects that, when opened, are suspended overhead. As such, safety is a major consideration for someone who is in the market for a new opener. You should look out for openers that project a light beam across the opening of the garage and will stop the door from closing if that beam is interrupted. Some systems are also able to sense when the door has touched something or someone on its path towards the ground and will again reverse the closing of the door. Systems like this, while simple, keep children, pets, and other less important things like cars, same from damage.

Security

The average garage is often filled with valuable items like gardening equipment, tools and other items that thieves would like to get their hands on without having to go further into your house. Luckily, modern garage door openers come equipped with a raft of security systems to make sure that this doesn’t happen. Look out for openers that vary the codes sent between the opener remote and its receiver. These systems will stop thieves from electronically recording and mimicking the remote’s code after you’ve left for work in the morning. Some garage door openers also come with a vacation mode setting to ensure that nobody can open your garage while you’re out of town.

Ease of Use

Many modern garage door openers take advantage of today’s age of smartphones and connectivity to provide you with ease of access and peace of mind when you’re not home. These systems allow you to use your smartphone as a door opener remote as well as allowing you to open, close, and monitor it when you’re far from home. This is advantageous as it allows you to open your garage door for deliveries as well as allowing access to family members who have lost their house keys. There are also systems such as HomeLink and Car2U which provide in-car alternatives to using the remotes that come with modern garage door opener systems.

How to Install a Garage Door Opener

Due to the weight of the average garage door installation of a new opener system should only be undertaken by people who are qualified to perform such work. If you are unsure of how to go about installing your new garage door opener it’s better to have a professional come out and install it for you. If you are confident in your abilities installation shouldn’t be too difficult. If you are replacing an old opener unit you can often reuse or modify the mounting brackets from the old system which will cut down on installation time and make the process easier. If you are installing a new opener system where one was not previously present you’ll need to make sure that the mounting brackets are securely anchored to the garage ceiling and that you have read and followed the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure that your new opener is rated to lift the weight of your garage door and perform a few trial runs under manual power before you use the motor in your new system. Better to find any pinch points or problems when you can immediately stop the door from moving rather than risk damaging the tracks or motor by testing it under power.

Safety and Security Considerations

As mentioned above, you’ll want to purchase a garage door opener that will be safe and secure for years to come. Identify your individual needs and wants before shopping for an opener to make sure that you’ll have peace of mind in the security of your garage and the fact that the heavy garage door will not be able to come down on anyone or anything that could be damaged by it. By knowing your individual needs your garage door opener will do all the work while you are free to think about other more important matters in life.

Our Top Pick

Our best choice product is the Chamberlain B970 Garage Door Opener. It is a well-constructed unit built with an anti-vibration technology system for optimum performance. A product of the best manufacturer in the garage door system, the Chamberlain B970 model has a reinforced steel belt drive system that makes it the best innovative garage door opener for the 21st century. Make use of this unit and experience security and safety at all times.

Sources:

  1. Types of Garage Door OpenersGaraga
  2. MyQ Compatibility Tool – Chamberlain
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