Guide | Best Garage Door Openers / Expert Reviews

If you’re looking for quality and value all rolled up into one, choose either one of these two models as they are beloved by consumers — two excellent garage door openers by brands you can trust — and that matters more than ever, in a world of cheap brands flooding the market.

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Security, Convenience & Peace of Mind

If your home has a garage you will want to invest in a quality garage door opener with technology that will make your life easier and safer. Here’s why. Aside from protecting your vehicles and valuables, a garage also serves to allow you to get in and out of your car without having to face the elements. Who wants to get out of their comfortable vehicle in freezing rain or snow to open up the garage!? You might be if you don’t have one installed or fails when the power is out.

A garage door opener also provides an added security measure to your home. If you manually open and close your garage so could anybody else! Many homeowners utilize their garages to store items that aren’t kept inside. When you think of the typical things most people store in their garages besides vehicles – bikes, gym equipment, power tools, etc. these are generally expensive items. If you leave home for a vacation or weekend getaway you could be taking a costly chance without a secure system in place. Some systems can alert you when your garage door has been opened or even if it isn’t closed properly.

A garage door opener may also be a necessity if physical conditions make it difficult or near impossible to open manually. These systems can clearly provide more than mere convenience. Newer systems have become much more reliable and are relatively inexpensive. You can even install them yourself if you’re pretty handy.

VIDEO : Learn about ► Chamberlain B1381

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Common Features : Explained

Garage door opener features to Consider in 2023?

Standard features that most garage door openers come with include a remote control system such as a touchpad or keypad for remote entry, as well as overhead lights. Many modern systems can provide advanced features for added security and safety. For instance, some feature light sensors that come on when motion is detected. Others have mechanisms like deadbolts built in to securely lock your garage each time the door closes. The following features are some valuable functions you may want to consider when opting for the best garage door opener.

Automatic stop – This is a basic feature most garage door openers have when a door is descending. Safety sensors are included in the kit to install for detecting a solid object present while the door is closing, such as a person or a pet, and automatically stops to prevent injury or an accident from happening.

Remote control reliability – modern garage door opener systems include a remote device that you can conveniently operate from your vehicle to open and close the door. If you live in a residential neighborhood that is heavily populated you can run the chance of possible interference with the neighbors’ systems. You want to look for an opener that features dual frequency to minimize this from happening. Another feature to look for to ensure reliability and security is rolling code security technology. It chooses a unique access code each time you activate the remote, preventing potential thieves from guessing your opener’s code. 

Internet connectivity – this is a neat and convenient feature many modern systems are beginning to offer with the prevalence of smart home technology. This feature allows homeowners to activate their garage door remotely using an Internet-connected controller. It can also allow you to check the status of your garage door if it’s open or closed. Some models offer a built-in Internet gateway that allows users to connect to their home network. If not, you will have to opt for one that is compatible.

Battery Backup – if you purchase a garage door opener without a battery backup system you may end up having to manually operate the garage door in a power outage. This is an advanced feature typically only found in higher-end models. If you are in an area prone to power outages it may be worth the extra investment.

External Keypad – a garage door opener with an external keypad allows you to access the garage from outside. This feature is an added convenience to keep from having to switch out remotes in vehicles or if you’re outside and need access into your garage without a remote or phone.

Noise Level – Some models are much quieter to operate than others based on the drive system. This may not bother some, but if you have a living space or bedroom that is adjacent to the garage you may want to consider a low-noise option.

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What size garage door opener do you need?

Size matters! This is an important factor to consider in choosing the best garage door opener for your needs. Check the product info on the model prior to making your final decision to ensure the garage door opener will be compatible with your current garage doors. If you don’t know the specifications of your doors beforehand get ready to do some measuring!

Garage openers are rated in horsepower indicating how much lifting power the model operates. These range from ½ horsepower to 1 ½ horsepower. The greater the horsepower the more efficiently it operates and lifts. This reduces the impact of wear and tear on your opener. They also run higher in cost comparison to models with a lower HP rating.  Based on your garage door and your needs you may not need to spend the extra cost on a higher horsepower model unnecessarily.

The size of your garage door and frequency of use can help you determine what size model you need. If you have a sectional garage door opener made with a lightweight material ½ horsepower might be sufficient. Standard, uninsulated steel doors may not require more than ½ horsepower to lift efficiently if it’s a single door. Single garage doors measure 10-feet wide by 8-feet tall. Doors larger than this are considered double-car garage doors.

Keep in mind the frequency your garage door opener will run, as well.  If the garage is the primary entrance into your home or you have multiple drivers coming and going, a greater horsepower rating might be your best bet to reduce strain on the motor. The weight of your garage door is an additional factor. The springs on the door are designed to take on the actual lifting and help in balancing the weight. If the doors are made with materials that add weight, however, a higher HP motor is recommended. These include doors that are made of wood, insulated doors, and double car garage doors.

Something else to consider upon choosing your opener system is the current the motor runs on. While these both plug into a standard outlet, some motors run on Alternating Current (AC) while others operate on Direct Current (DC). Openers that run on DC-power function by converting the AC power to DC and offer a few slight advantages. DC power-driven motors use smaller motors, have a quiet operation, and feature soft starts and stops. Some opener systems that have a DC motor also come with battery backup! In DC-powered motors the lifting power is typically indicated as HPS (horsepower similar) or HPC (horsepower comparable).

When choosing the right model garage door opener you will also need to check the product information on modifications to ensure it suits the ceiling of your garage. If you have high ceilings, for example, and your garage door height is more than 7-ft you will most likely need an extension kit for your garage door opener.

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The Role Garage Door Openers will Play in the future of Amazon deliveries

With the growing popularity in online shopping more homeowners are seeking out measures to ensure the security of their packages. Smart home technology has helped in bringing down the rate of porch pirates running off with your packages. Thanks to motion sensing cameras and internet capabilities a homeowner can be alerted when someone is at their door. Modern garage door openers are going a step further to ensure safe delivery for your Amazon packages. Chamberlain, one of the leading manufacturers in garage door openers, has a device that works with most opener brands to enable deliveries in your garage.

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Do you really need a new garage door opener? You might like this…before replacing your current old garage door opener consider this product from Chamberlain which allows you gain full control over garage door openers made after 1993.

SAVE MONEY — Chamberlain MYQ-G0301

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The MYQ Smart Garage Hub allows you to add smartphone control to most garage door opening systems manufactured after 1993. It offers convenience and peace of mind with features your existing garage door may not have such as:

• Set up schedules for your garage door to open and close
• Receive status alerts when it’s operated or left open
• Links to your smartphone and provides video access to see who’s coming and going

It’s easy to install and uses your home’s wireless internet connection to link up to your network. With smartphone control you can monitor and control your garage door as well as the myQ lights using the enabled app. What’s even better is an added feature for Amazon Prime members. The Key by Amazon app is available for eligible Amazon members that can be downloaded to your phone and linked to your myQ account. You can monitor deliveries in real-time from your smartphone and have your packages delivered in your garage, keeping them safe and secure.

You will need to check the signal strength of your WiFi network in your garage. For optimal efficiency, you need a signal strength of at least 75%. You will also need your home WiFi password before installing the device.

Check the myQ site to see if your eligible for Amazon Prime Member deliveries delivered to your garage.

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Best Garage Door Openers in 2020

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Best Value Overall —

Chamberlain B970

This belt-driven model is powerful and reviewed as one of the best garage door opener systems for overall value. It operates on a 1.25HPS motor to provide sufficient lifting power for nearly any type of residential garage door. It features built-in Internet connectivity. You can use your smartphone to monitor and control your garage door with the myQ app. The Chamberlain Group Chamberlain B970  is also compatible with Key by Amazon for eligible members to utilize for safe package deliveries.

It comes with two 3-button remotes with Triband frequency for an impressive range up to 1,500 feet. The system also features the highest level of encryption to protect against potential hackers. A wireless keypad provides easy setup without the need to run electrical wires along the side of the garage door. The keypad is also encrypted with Security +2.0 and features Posilock anti-theft protection. The remotes are pre-programmed and videos on installation are available to make installing a cinch to do yourself. This garage door opener system also comes equipped with battery-backup so you can still operate it during power outages.

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Best Quiet Garage Door Opener

Craftsman CMXEOCG981

This belt-drive garage door opener kit is designed with top quality materials that are flexible for the quietest operation. It also features wireless monitoring capability to control your garage door from anywhere using the myQ app. The Craftsman 1 ¼ HPS belt-drive garage door opener has no problem lifting a solid 7-ft. garage door with smooth operation. It features motion-activated lighting on each end of the motor. Battery backup has also been integrated so even during a power outage getting in and out is no problem.

The kit includes two 3-button remote controls, an outdoor wireless keypad, an LCD wall controller and a set of 2 safety sensors. You can program up to 3 garage doors on the remote controls with secure access and features a frequency range up to 1500 feet. You can easily access your garage from outside when you aren’t in your car or have your phone using the wireless keypad. You can program up to 24 permanent and temporary PINs for single-use access. The wall controller serves as the main hub to control and program your garage door opener. You can program it to automatically close your garage door after a set period of time to ensure security.

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Best Cheap Garage Door Opener, with battery backup

Genie Chain Drive 750

For a more economical garage door opener that fits your budget and needs the Genie Chain Drive 750 is hard to beat. It has lifting capability for standard 7-foot residential garage doors up to 500lbs with a ¾ HPC DC motor. Standard features are equipped to provide ease-of-use and security. It has superior encryption technology integrated that continuously seeks new codes for protection against hackers. Another convenient feature is integrated monitoring and diagnostic technology to alert you of any significant changes.

This garage door opener kit comes with a pre-programmed remote for convenience during installation. You can use them right out of the box without having to program them. The garage door opener system is also compatible with vehicles equipped with HomeLink and Car2U systems. A 24V battery backup is equipped for the convenience of use even without electricity. The kit is easy to install for the do-it-yourself without any complex mechanisms.

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Best Side-Mount Garage Door Opener

A side-mount or wall mounted garage door opener is a different type of garage door in a class of its own. These are not as common as typical overhead but they can serve ideal for a number of situations. Circumstances where a side-mount system would be the best garage door opener for your needs include:

• Unusually high ceilings
• Oversized vehicles
• Free up overhead storage
• Light fixtures that would compromise installing an overhead system

Not all garages are built alike. If your garage’s ceiling height is greater than your garage doors you will need this type of system to lift the doors. It’s also an ideal system if you use overhead storage for things like canoes or bicycles. A side mount system uses a jackshaft rather than a belt, chain, or direct-drive mechanism. The wall mount opener is attached to the garage door’s torsion bar to operate lifting and closing the door. It is really important to check the specifications and requirements on the side-mount garage door opener model you choose to ensure compatibility with your existing garage doors and rail height.

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Chamberlain RJO70

The Chamberlain Next-Gen WiFi Garage Door Opener boasts a slim design that conveniently saves space. It features a built-in myQ LED light with monitoring capability using the app from your phone. Built-in Wifi lets you utilize myQ connectivity so you can schedule times for your garage door to open and close and receive alerts from your phone. Simply connect to your home’s Internet network and sync the system to common smart devices. You can also use the Key by Amazon app with your garage door opener system for in-garage deliveries.

Safety has been integrated with a deadbolt system which locks the garage door each time it is closed. Safety sensors are also included to stop the garage door from closing when an obstacle is detected. A motion-detecting wall control panel comes with the kit as well as a battery backup system.

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Make Your Garage Door Alexa Compatible

Let’s say your home already has an existing garage door opener that is an older model. If you like the convenience and features an upgrade can provide but lack the budget to spring on a new one, meet your next best option.

Meross MSG100

This little device can allow you to have the function and convenience of a modern garage door opener. With the meross Smart Garage Door opener remote you can turn your outdated garage door system into a smart opener without the expense. Be able to monitor the status of your garage door and control it from anywhere with your phone using the Meross app. It also supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant voice control and Smart Things so you can actually tell your garage door what to do.

The device connects to your garage door opener’s system through wiring and connected to your home’s Wireless connection. It uses MediaTek loT chipset to provide you a reliable connection even where your wifi doesn’t have a strong connection. The entire installation is quick and easy.

When you want to keep your belongings safe and secure, a reliable garage door opener system should be in place. Enjoy the convenience of features provided in some of the best garage door openers in 2020.

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Types of Garage Door Openers

Typical garage door openers are similar in design. A trolley is attached to the garage door and driven along a rail by a motor. The trolley pulls the door open and pushes the door closed as it is moved across the rail. The primary difference among types of garage door openers lies in the drive system. This is what controls how the motor operates the trolley. The two most common drive systems are belt-drive and chain-driven.

Belt-Drive

A belt-drive garage door opener system uses a metal-enforced rubber belt which moves the trolley across the rail. It offers a much quieter operation providing an ideal system if your garage is adjacent to a bedroom or living space. These systems are one of the most reliable and most popular on account of their strong reliability. This type suits well if you have a heavy or double car garage door to lift. There are minimal moving parts on a belt-drive system so there is less maintenance required. It can pose a bit of a challenge to install so if you aren’t much of DIYer you might want to budget for professional installation.

Chain-Drive

This type of garage door uses a chain similarly to a bicycle. The chain loops around the rail to move the trolley for lifting and closing the door. This is a more budget-friendly model and provides dependable durability. These models do generate more noise and vibrations when operating, so this may be more suitable for detached garages. Periodic maintenance is required with chain drives to withstand chain stretch.

Direct-Drive

This model operates a little differently than belt and chain-driven systems where the motor is stationary. In a direct drive garage door opener the motor actually serves as the trolley. It moves along the rail with a spring-tension chain to pull and close the garage door. It provides a much smoother and quieter operation with one single moving part. There is also minimal maintenance required. These models are on the higher end of the price scale in comparison to chain-driven and even some belt-driven systems.

Screw-Drive

This is a different type of direct-drive garage door opener which uses a threaded steel rod (like a screw) to move the lifting mechanism. The rod rotates moving the trolley along the track to lift and close the garage door. These models function with minimal noise and are fast.