Speed Reads:
- The best garage door opener in 2023 is the Genie StealthDrive Connect. Though its companion app can be buggy, it generally pairs quickly and easily with smart devices and its motor and drive belt are covered under a lifetime warranty.
- The LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series is a great garage door opener if you’re just looking for something that’s dependable and mounts to your garage wall.
- Those who want a garage door opener that comes with all the bells and whistles should consider the Chamberlain B4613T, which makes controlling your garage door a breeze.
A compact garage door opener designed to conserve space.
A versatile WiFi-enabled garage door opener with smart features.
A garage door opener equipped with an all-seeing camera.
A straightforward garage door opener with no extra gimmicks.
The best garage door openers are quiet and reliable. Most can be installed without the help of a professional and newer garage door openers have advanced features such as smartphone integration. If you need to replace your old garage door opener or are looking to install one for the first time, we’ll help you find a great option.
Our guide explains how to find the right garage door opener for your needs and explains what to expect if you decide to install one yourself. We also recommend some of the top garage door openers based on cost and performance.
Garage Door Openers Review
After spending countless hours researching garage door openers and pouring over customer reviews, our team decided that Genie offers the best garage door opener because the StealthDrive Connect is a well-designed product that will last a lifetime.
What Is The Best Garage Door Opener?
Cost, horsepower, drive type, and smart features are a few common determining factors for those looking to buy a new garage door opener.
We list the following specifications below along with a few of the best garage door openers on the market:
| Brand/Model | Approximate Cost | Horsepower | Drive Type | Smart Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genie StealthDrive | $290 | 1.25 | Steel Belt | Yes |
| Liftmaster 8500 Elite | $530 | 1.25 | Steel Belt | Yes (sold separately) |
| Chamberlain B4613T | $500 | 0.5 | Steel Belt | Yes |
| Chamberlain B6753T | $350 | 1.25 | Steel Belt | Yes |
| Skylink Atoms | $170 | 0.5 | Chain | No |
For those interested in learning more, below are detailed reviews for each of the top five garage door openers:
1. Genie StealthDrive Connect: Best Garage Door Opener
- Cost: Around $300
- Amazon review score: 4.6 out of 5 (approx. 4,000 reviews)
- Horsepower: 1.25-HPC DC Motor
- Drive type: Steel belt drive
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty for motor and belt, five-year parts warranty
- In the box: One Genie StealthDrive garage door opener, two pre-programmed three-button remotes, one wall-mounted open/close button, one wall-mounted PIN security keypad, one backup battery, and two T-beam security sensors
The Genie StealthDrive Connect is a quiet garage door opener with a wide array of features. Its built-in Aladdin Connect technology connects via Bluetooth® with both Google Home and Alexa so you can use voice control features and check on your door’s status with your smartphone.
In emergency situations, the Genie StealthDrive Connect has a built-in backup battery that allows up to 50 cycles after a power outage. This opener also comes with two pre-programmed three-button remotes, a wireless PIN keypad, and a multi-function wall control console for enhanced accessibility and security.
The StealthDrive app will alert users when their garage door is left open, so this is a good option for those who want that extra layer of security. It’s also a good buy-for-life option, as this garage door opener includes a lifetime warranty for the motor and belt and a five-year parts warranty.
Genie StealthDrive Connect: What Customers Are Saying
Satisfied customers rave about StealthDrive’s easy installation process. They also appreciate how little noise the belt makes during operation. Reviewers with negative feedback complain that it is difficult to link the Aladdin Connect app to their smart home devices and the app is occasionally buggy.
2. LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series: Best Wall Mount Garage Door Opener
- Cost: Around $530
- Amazon review score: 4.6 out of 5 (approx. 500 reviews)
- Horsepower: 1.25-HPC DC Motor
- Drive type: Steel belt drive
- Warranty: Lifetime motor warranty, five-year parts warranty
- In the box: One LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series garage door opener, one 380LM overhead remote light, one 893MAX three-button remote control, and an 889LM myQ control panel
Unlike other devices that hang from the ceiling, the LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series wall-mounted garage door opener mounts beside the garage door for improved accessibility. This also frees up overhead space for storing other items in the garage such as bikes or kayaks.
Due to its direct drive system, the 8500 Elite Series operates quietly. When closed, this garage door opener engages its Automatic Garage Door Lock that deadbolts the door shut for added protection. Users can download Liftmaster’s myQ® smartphone app to remotely enable their opener if they purchase the additional 828LM Internet Gateway feature.
LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series: What Customers Are Saying
Some customers who like the LiftMaster claim it’s the quietest garage door opener they’ve owned, while others appreciate its automatic locking feature. A few dissatisfied customers say their garage doors would randomly open and close for no reason.
3. Chamberlain B4613T: Best Smart Garage Door Opener
- Cost: Around $500
- Amazon review score: 4.7 out of 5 (approx. 5,000 reviews)
- Horsepower: 0.5-HPC DC Motor
- Drive type: Steel belt drive
- Warranty: Lifetime motor and belt warranties, five-year parts warranty, one-year accessories warranty
- In the box: One Chamberlain B4613T garage door opener, one safety sensor kit, one Battery Backup System replacement battery, one wireless keypad, and a three-button remote control
Smart devices make it easier to monitor and control your devices, and the Chamberlain B4613T does just that. It can pair to a smartphone or tablet using the myQ App and WiFi connection so a garage door’s status can be monitored from anywhere via frequent notifications. The app also provides the power status of the backup battery so it can always be ready for emergencies.
The Chamberlain’s ultra-quiet belt drive has a soft start-up to reduce excess noise. Thanks to its Max Lift Power System, this opener has extreme lifting capabilities for a smooth extension even in harsh weather conditions.
We recommend the Chamberlain B4613T garage door opener for tech-savvy individuals who appreciate a door that doesn’t squeak. While it may be prone to minor bugs, the B4613T’s overall performance is tough to beat.
Chamberlain B4613T: What Customers Are Saying
The quiet operation of this device is the main draw for many who leave positive reviews. Reviews also point out that this garage door opener is easy to install and find its WiFi capabilities useful. A couple of negative reviews discussed needing to buy replacement parts to fix a device’s broken motor after only a few months of use.
4. Chamberlain B6753T: Best Residential Garage Door Opener
- Cost: Around $330
- Amazon review score: 4.5 out of 5 (approx. 300 reviews)
- Horsepower: 1.25-HP motor
- Drive type: Steel belt drive
- Warranty: Lifetime motor and drive warranty, five-year parts warranty, one-year accessories warranty, one-year camera warranty
- In the box: One Chamberlain B6753T garage door opener, one wireless keypad, battery backup, motion-detecting control panel, and two three-button remote controls
Whether it’s used for added security or checking what time your teenagers come home, the Chamberlain B6753T’s built-in camera streams high-resolution 360-degree rotating video straight from the garage to any connected smart device. It also has two-way communication for live conversation between the garage and linked devices thanks to the myQ App.
Users can expect a sturdy design thanks to the B6753T’s steel-reinforced belt drive. Installing the device is a breeze as well, according to many reviews, thanks to the snap-lock rail system that takes minimal effort to get working.
The Chamberlain B6753T’s camera feature can be used by parents with young children or teenagers to check when they’re coming and going, or even for car owners who like the added certainty of knowing where their vehicle is at all times.
Chamberlain B6753T: What Customers Are Saying
Straightforward installation and high-quality WiFi capabilities are the two most recognized pros by customers who leave positive reviews. Negative reviews cite the camera’s quality, especially when streaming a live feed.
5. Skylink Atoms ATR-1622CK: Best Value Garage Door Opener
- Cost: Around $170
- Amazon review score: 4.3 out of 5 (approx. 250 reviews)
- Horsepower: 0.5-HP motor
- Drive type: Chain drive
- Warranty: Six-year motor warranty, one-year parts, and belt warranty
- In the box: One Skylink Atoms ATR-1622CK garage door opener, two one-button remote controls, one deluxe wall console, one wireless keypad, and a safety sensor kit
For those who appreciate simplicity, the Skylink Atoms ATR-1622CK is a no-hassle garage door opener. It can effortlessly open a 7.0-foot garage door with its powerful DC motor and durable chain drive. The Skylink uses Quiet-Drive Technology to reduce noise when running.
Although it doesn’t have smart device compatibility, the ATR-1622CK can be opened via either one of its one-button remotes or an in-car garage door remote if a vehicle has one. Skylink’s Anti Break-In Drive System also prevents unauthorized external access, providing an extra layer of security against would-be thieves. It also features integrated LED lighting.
In a world run by smart devices, the Skylink Atoms ATR-1622CK demonstrates that simplicity can still be effective. This opener is best suited for those who don’t need extra bells and whistles with their garage door opener. However, it still features a diagnostic display to help guide you through programming your garage door and makes troubleshooting a breeze by displaying diagnostic code.
Of the garage door openers we selected to feature in this guide, the Skylink is the most affordable.
Skylink Atoms ATR-1622CK: What Customers Are Saying
The most common positive comment from customers is that the ATR-1622CK’s small size doesn’t take up much space. There are also some reviewers who admire the motor’s quiet operation. A frequent criticism regards the ATR-1622CK’s lack of speed, especially with heavy doors.
Garage Door Opener Buying Guide
When choosing a garage door opener, you’ll want to consider the drive type as well as horsepower. You might also consider whether you care about noise level, or want extra features such as a camera and smartphone integration.
Garage Door Opener Drive Types
Broadly, there are three common drive models for garage door openers:
- Chain drive: The most common type of opener, chain drives use a metal chain to pull or push a trolley that moves the door up and down. Chain drive openers are reliable and inexpensive but can be noisy.
- Belt drive: Belt-driven openers work similarly to chain drives, but use a rubber belt instead of a chain. Belt drive garage door openers are relatively quiet but can be expensive. A belt drive can be mounted on the wall, rather than the garage ceiling, potentially saving space.
- Screw drive: Screw drive openers rotate a threaded steel rod to move your garage door. While they have fewer moving parts than other openers, they can be very loud during operation.
Garage Door Opener Horsepower
The lifting power for a garage door opener is described by the horsepower of its motor. A 0.5-horsepower motor is typically strong enough to lift most garage doors. Heavier doors made of materials such as wood may require a stronger motor that can run at 0.75 HP. Industrial-grade garages need motors that are as high as 1.0 or 1.5 HP.
It should also be noted that more horsepower also means that a garage door opener can operate faster. Below, we detail the maximum lift weight of various levels of horsepower:
| Horsepower | Maximum Lift Weight |
|---|---|
| 1/3 HP | 150 pounds |
| 1/2 HP | 300 pounds |
| 3/4 HP | 600 pounds |
| 1 HP | 750 pounds |
Garage Door Makes Loud Noise When Opening?
Some garage door openers are louder than others. If noise is one of your concerns, look for a belt drive opener that operates on DC power. These are the quietest type of garage door openers.
Garage Door Opener Features
If you’re concerned with security, you may look into a garage door opener with built-in alarm systems or cameras for added protection. Many new garage door openers can pair with your smartphone to provide you with alerts about the goings-on in your garage.
Garage Door Opener Safety
Automatic garage door openers have gotten safer and safer with new technological advancements such as electric eyes to detect motion, door edge sensors, and other similar devices. Nevertheless, there is a risk of injury if misused or handled improperly. For more information on this subject and on how to check if your garage door opener is safe, consult this helpful guide from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Garage Door Opener Installation
Installing a garage door opener yourself is possible for most people, though it can take several hours. Installation steps vary depending on the garage door opener you purchase. Most likely, you’ll need the following tools:
- Ladder
- Drill
- Wrench set
- Utility knife
- Staple gun
You may also need a perforated angle to attach a ceiling-mounted garage door opener.
Installation will require assembling the unit and mounting it to your garage door and ceiling. You may also need to strip and connect wires. A staple gun is useful to anchor wires leading from the motor to the control panel.
Garage Door Opener Installation Cost
The cost to hire a professional to install your garage door opener can vary based on location and contractor, but you might expect to pay between $150 and $200 for this service.
Garage Door Opener Cost
The lowest-priced garage door openers typically start at around $150. You can get a quality opener in this price range, though you’ll need to spend upwards of $300 if you want extra features such as increased lift speed, soft starting, smartphone integration, and quiet operation. Below is generally what to expect in each price range, but keep in mind that every product is unique.
- $150 – $180: In this price range, you can get a basic chain drive garage door opener with 0.5 horsepower. Don’t expect any extras like smartphone integration or security cameras. Shop in this range if you just need something that works and you don’t care about noise.
- $180 – $250: In this price range, you’ll find belt drive garage door openers as well as chain drive openers with 0.75 horsepower motors. These openers often have features like smartphone connectivity, wifi, and LED lighting.
- $250 – $400: If you’re looking for a garage door opener with a camera, you’ll need to shop in this price range. Most garage door openers in this range use quiet DC motors and feature steel-reinforced belt drives. You’ll also find some high-horsepower chain drive units in this price range.
- $400 and up: Many wall-mounted garage door openers cost upwards of $400. The benefit of this type of garage door opener is that it attaches to the side of your garage door rather than the ceiling. Wall-mounted openers take up much less space than ceiling-mounted openers but require more headroom. This is a good option for garages with high ceilings.
How To Program: Garage Door Opener
Practically all garage door openers are programmed the same way, using a radio signal to communicate between the motor and remote. To program a garage door remote, you’ll need to have access to the garage door opener itself, so may need a ladder.
Somewhere on your garage door opener should be a button labeled “learn” or “pair.” This will ready your garage door opener to remember your remote’s signal. The learn button may be located underneath the light cover.
Press the learn button until it begins to blink, at which point you’ll have several seconds to press the open button on your garage door remote. Wait about a minute and then test your garage door opener remote.
If your remote still does not work, you may need to try pairing a second time. Be sure that the brand of your garage door remote matches the brand of your garage door opener, and make sure to read any instructions that came with the product.
Best Garage Door Openers: Bottom Line
We think that the Genie StealthDrive Connect is a great garage door opener for most people. It operates quietly, has a powerful motor able to lift heavy doors, and includes useful extra features like a backup battery and smartphone integration. If you want to keep your ceiling space clear, you might opt for a wall-mounted unit like the LiftMaster 8500 Elite. Those who want an inexpensive but reliable garage door opener should consider the Skylink Atoms.
Best Rated Garage Door Openers
- Best Garage Door Opener: Genie StealthDrive Connect
- Best Wall Mount Garage Door Opener: LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series
- Best Smart Garage Door Opener: Chamberlain B4613T
- Best Residential Garage Door Opener: Chamberlain B6753T
- Best Value Garage Door Opener: Skylink Atoms ATR-1622CK
Other Top-Rated Garage Door Openers
Need more options to compare? The following garage door openers also come highly recommended by customers on Amazon and other retailers.
Chamberlain RJ070
This is another option for a wall-mounted garage door opener. If the LiftMaster 8500 is a little too pricey, you might consider the Chamberlain RJ070. This opener costs around $500 and has all the bells and whistles – smartphone integration, quiet operation, backup battery power, and security features.
With more than 2,000 ratings, the RJ070 has an average Amazon review score of 4.7 out of 5. Reviewers say it is easy to install, works like a charm, and operates silently. However, some have described issues utilizing the smart features.
Genie Chain Drive 500
The Genie Chain Drive 500 is another option for a low-cost garage door opener. A chain-drive opener doesn’t have quite the power or smooth operation as belt-drive models but can cost significantly less (the 500 goes for around $150). While lacking extra features like smartphone integration, this model is reliable, according to customer reviews. With around 800 ratings on Amazon, it has an average review score of 4.5 out of 5.
Craftsman 1/2 HP Chain Drive Garage Door Opener
The Craftsman garage door opener offers a few more features than the Genie Chain drive. It is another chain-operated garage door opener at a low cost (around $210) but includes features like smartphone integration and additional security safeguards. With more than 220 ratings on Amazon, it has an average review score of 4.5 out of 5. Users say this opener is “whisper quiet” and simple to install.
Our Review Standards
To select the garage door openers featured in this buyers guide, our team first combed through dozens of resources such as DIY mechanic and auto enthusiast forums, manufacturer and garage-specific websites, instruction manuals from manufacturers, and reviews from online retailers. We pay particularly close attention to quality reviews and recommendations that highlight the quality of warranties, customer service support, build quality, materials, and overall reliability.
We also factored in the quantity and quality of online retailer reviews from websites such as Amazon, RealTruck, Advance Auto Parts, and more. We looked at factors such as standout customer reviews, prices, meaningful superlatives, and discount shipping eligibility.
Why You Can Trust Us
Since 2020, we have published over 200 auto product reviews in an effort to make shopping for auto products easier. Our team of writers, editors, researchers, and product experts collaborates to thoroughly vet top products. We try to perform in-house testing on real vehicles whenever possible before making our recommendations.
When testing is not feasible, however, our aim is to make your life easier by doing all the online research for you and presenting that research in the form of easy-to-read product comparisons and buyers guides, rather than outright recommendations. For more information on our testing methodology and how we evaluate every product, check out our methodology page here.
Best Garage Door Opener: FAQ
Below are some common frequently asked questions about garage door openers:
*Data accurate at time of publication.