The best garage door openers 2022

For thousands of Americans, the garage door opener is a critical component of their home’s automated garage door system.

As homeowners become more concerned with energy efficiency, conservation, and lower bills, they become more aware of home devices that may not be necessary or overused.

The garage door opener is one such device. An average family spends $250 a year to operate the opener, and with so many new cool gadgets on the market, the do-it-yourselfer is becoming more aware of how easy an upgrade can be.

So what are the best garage door openers in 2022? We have researched some of the leading garage door opener manufacturers and determined that three brands lead to customer satisfaction.

From a combination of their product quality, features, and overall value, these three brands of garage door openers are the best in the industry.

The types of Garage Door Openers

There are three types of garage door openers: chain drive, belt drive, and screw drive. Before choosing a new opener, it is essential to know what kind of drive system your old one has or the specifications on your current garage door opener.

Chain Drive Openers

The first type of garage door opener is the best known and most widely used. The chain-driven opener was invented in 1926, so it has been around for 90 years.

Still, this type of device is as popular today as it was when first introduced. It is estimated that 80% of all garage doors in America use a chain drive opener.

The advantages of the chain drive system are that they are:

• Less expensive to manufacture and install
• Quieter than other garage door openers.
• More durable and easier to maintain.

Another advantage is that some models have a telescoping rail system for maximum versatility, which makes it easy to change door height if you need to do so.

Screw drives typically cost more than other openers, but they have several advantages over chain and belt drives.

They require less maintenance and typically require less energy to operate, so a screw drive garage door opener can cost as little as half to run compared with many other models.

Belt Drive Openers

A belt-driven opener is very quiet and requires little maintenance, but these openers are also the most vulnerable to damage during power outages.

If your garage door is impeded on the track with a belt-driven system, it may put excessive strain on the belt, which can cause breakage and replacements.

Since they are made up of rubber belts, they can need replacement every five to seven years.

Some manufacturers claim that belts may last for 10-15 years if the garage door is properly maintained and lubricated. But a belt drive opener also has several disadvantages:

• It is the most expensive type of garage door opener.
• Less durable as compared with chain or screw drive models.

Screw Drive Opener

The final type of garage door opener is the screw drive. This system is not as common in American homes, but people are starting to catch its advantages.

The screw-driven garage door opener operates similarly to a reversible drill because it runs on a threaded steel rod that turns like a screw, pushing or pulling the trolley up and down the rail.

Compared to chain and belt drives, a screw drive opener is more robust and sturdier, allowing for heavier doors to be lifted, which makes it ideal for heavy garage doors or those made of steel.

Another advantage of a screw-driven system over other opener types is that they are typically lower maintenance and require less energy since there are no rubber parts.

Certain types of screw drives, such as AC and DC models, include built-in safety sensors which allow your door to detect objects in its path then stop before it hits them.

This feature is beneficial if you have children who play around the garage or pets that like to run back and forth behind the door while it’s closing.

Garage Door Opener Brands

In terms of brands, there are several options to consider when buying an automatic new garage door opener.

Chamberlain Openers

Chamberlain makes the best known and most widely used garage door openers. They have been manufacturing quality garage door openers and accessories for more than 80 years.

Before introducing the world’s first electric garage door opener in 1926, people had to get out of their cars and manually lift the door.

Today, Chamberlain continues to be a leader in the garage door opener industry, with new products being introduced regularly.

They manufacture garage door openers and accessories for homes as well as commercial use. The models they offer vary in horsepower and features, but they are all durable and reliable.

The Best Chamberlain Belt Drive Garage Door Openers

B6765

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain B6765 includes:

• Secure View – Integrated HD-Quality camera
• Video Storage and live streaming
• Ultra-bright 3100 lumens LED lighting
• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• MAX lift motor 1-1/4 HP
• Works with Key by Amazon
• Silent drive
• Battery backup

B1381

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain B1381 includes:

• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Works with Key by Amazon
• Ultra-bright 3100 lumens LED lighting
• MAX lift motor 1-1/4 HP
• Battery backup
• Silent drive

B4545

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain B4545 includes:

• Secure View – Integrated HD-Quality camera
• Video Storage and live streaming
• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• PLUS lift power motor 3/4 HP
• Works with Key by Amazon

B970

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain B970 includes:

• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• MAX lift motor 1-1/4 HP
• Battery backup
• Works with Key by Amazon

The Best Chamberlain Chain Drive Garage Door Openers

C870

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain C870 includes:

• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• MAX lift motor 1-1/4 HP
• Battery backup
• Works with Key by Amazon

C450

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain C450 includes:

• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Medium lift motor 1/2 HP
• Works with Key by Amazon

C273

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain C273 includes:

• Medium lift motor 1/2 HP
• Battery backup
• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Works with Key by Amazon

C253

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain C253 includes:

• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Medium lift motor 1/2 HP
• Works with Key by Amazon

Chamberlain Wall-Mount Garage Door opener

RJO70

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain RJO70 includes:

• Wall-mount design
• Quiet operation and smooth
• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Automatic garage door lock
• Battery backup
• Works with Key by Amazon

RJO20

Here are some of the features that Chamberlain RJO20 includes:

• Quiet operation and smooth
• Wall-mount design
• Automatic garage door lock
• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones

LiftMaster Openers

Liftmaster has been a leading manufacturer of garage door openers for more than 50 years and offers an extensive line of models to choose from, including belt-driven, screw-driven, and chain drive openers in both 1/2 HP and hp sizes.

They also manufacture commercial-grade openers that are suitable for use at the workplace for overhead doors.

Liftmaster garage door openers are famous for their durability, and the company offers a wide variety of features to choose from, including lights on the opener itself.

The Best LiftMaster Belt Drive Garage Door Openers

85503-267

Here are some of the features that LiftMaster 85503-267 includes:

• Integrated video camera – records when detects motion
• Battery backup
• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Works with Key by Amazon

87504-267

Here are some of the features that LiftMaster 87504-267 includes:

• Built-in HD-Quality camera with two way audio
• Integrated 360 LED lighting ring – 2000 lumens
• Battery backup
• Ultra-quiet DC motor
• Works with Key by Amazon

84501

Here are some of the features that LiftMaster 84501 includes:

• Integrated LED lighting – 1500 lumens
• Works with Key by Amazon
• Ultra-quiet DC motor
• myQ control using smartphones

8155W

Here are some of the features that LiftMaster 8155W includes:

• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Works with Key by Amazon
• Standard AC belt drive motor

The Best LiftMaster Chain Drive Garage Door Openers

8580WLB

Here are some of the features that LiftMaster 8580WLB includes:

• Elite series motor for heavy doors
• Battery backup
• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• The automatic garage door lock is optional
• Works with Key by Amazon

8160WB

Here are some of the features that LiftMaster 8160WB includes:

• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Ultra-quiet DC motor
• Chain drive industrial strength
• Works with Key by Amazon

84602

Here are some of the features that LiftMaster 84602 includes:

• myQ control using smartphones
• Integrated LED lighting – 1500 lumens
• Battery backup
• Works with Key by Amazon
• Powerful chain drive

LiftMaster Wall-Mount Garage Door opener

8500W

Here are some of the features that LiftMaster 8500W includes:

• Wall-mount design
• Built-in Wi-Fi for myQ control using smartphones
• Battery backup
• myQ remote with LED light included
• Automatic garage door lock
• Works with Key by Amazon

Linear Openers

Linear has been in business since 1982. Linear manufactures a line of garage door openers explicitly designed for home use.

Linear garage door opener incorporates the latest technology with the best benefits for homeowners. It is an excellent addition to homes that have an attached garage. With various features, it will surely depend on your needs whether it will be ideal for you or not.

One of the best parts about Linear products is they’re easy to use. They have several different models available with various features, and one thing they all have in common is how user-friendly they are.

Linear AC Garage Door Openers

LSO50

The top-of-the-line 1/2 HP garage door opener has special mounting brackets with vibration isolation and noise dampening acoustic foam, which is compatible with the chain and belt drive system.

LDO33

Single-lamp 1/3 HP garage door opener that works with belt and chain drive tracks. The LDO33 features include:

• A quiet and smooth operation.
• Built-in MegaCode receiver.
• MCT -3 visor with three buttons.
• A wall station.

Linear DC Garage Door Openers

The Linear LDCO801 is a DC-powered garage door opener with a variable speed motor that is energy-efficient and has ultra-quiet performance. It includes a 100-watt courtesy light (bulb not included). For added peace of mind, the Optional Battery Backup (BBU) may be purchased. Its self-diagnostic system checks for the status of the door and opener regularly.

Genie Openers

Genie is another popular brand known for manufacturing quality garage door openers and accessories. They have manufactured award-winning products since 1990 that are both innovative and built to last.

Their garage door openers come in a variety of horsepower options, but they offer only screw drives. Genie classifies garage door openers into three categories: belt, chain, and screw.

Each type has its unique benefits, and you will be the one to determine which will work best for you.

The Best Genie Belt Drive Garage Door Openers

SilentMax 1200-4042

The SilentMax 1200, ultra-quiet garage door opener with 140V DC motor features motion detection lighting and an opening rate of up to 9″ per second, making it an excellent choice for most garages.

• 3/4 HP power plus motor
• Up to 9 inches per second opening speed
• Motion detection lighting
• 2 LED light bulbs
• GenieSense Diagnostic and Monitoring Technology
• Intellicode Security
• Car2U & HomeLink compatible

SilentMax 1000

• 3/4 HP power plus motor
• Motion detection lighting
• Up to 7 inches per second opening speed
• 2 LED light bulbs
• GenieSense Diagnostic and Monitoring Technology
• Intellicode Security
• Car2U & HomeLink compatible

StealthDrive Connect

The StealthDrive Connect is a ½ HP garage door opener with belt drive technology.

It features a Genie QuietLift system that makes operating without thinking about the noise level when closing and opening the door convenient.

• GenieSense Diagnostic and Monitoring Technology
• Intellicode Security
• Compatible with Aladdin Connect
• Car2U & HomeLink compatible

The Best Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Openers

ChainMax 1000

The ChainMax 1000 provides a clever design for the homeowner looking for a quiet, efficient operation with a beautiful appearance.

• 3/4 HP power plus motor
• Up to 7 inches per second opening speed
• 2 LED light bulbs
• GenieSense Diagnostic and Monitoring Technology
• Intellicode Security
• Car2U & HomeLink compatible

Chain Drive 750

The Genie Chain Drive 750 garage door opener is powerful, dependable, and easy to install. There will be no unexpected lockouts when the electricity goes out because it has a 24-Volt integrated battery backup.

• 3/4 HP power plus motor
• Battey backup that is integrated
• Precision machined gearbox and motor
• 2 LED light bulbs
• Intellicode Security
• GenieSense Diagnostic and Monitoring Technology
• Car2U & HomeLink compatible

Chain Glide Connect

The Chain Glide Connect is a heavy-duty, chain drive garage door opener with Aladdin Connect smart technology for years of dependable service.

• 1/2 HP power plus motor
• Intellicode security
• Remotes that are pre-programmed
• 2 LED light bulbs
• GenieSense Diagnostic and Monitoring Technology
• Integrated Aladdin Connect smart device system
• Car2U & HomeLink compatible

The Best Genie Screw Drive Garage Openers

MachForce Connect

The MachForce Connect garage door opener takes power and dependability to the next level with Aladdin Connect integrated smart home functions, making it an industry leader in 2 HP 140V DC motor performance.

• 2 HP motor
• Up to 12 inches per second opening speed
• 2 LED light bulbs
• Screw drive rail – maintenance-free
• Intellicode security
• GenieSense Diagnostic and Monitoring Technology
• Alladin Connect included
• Remotes that are pre-programmed

Buying Guide

When you’re ready to shop for a new garage door opener, several factors are to consider.

Here is our buying guide and reviews of the best automatic garage door openers:

• The Number Of Doors You Have – If you have two doors in your garage, then buy a double-car garage opener that can handle two doors.
• How Big Your Door Is – Garage door openers come in different horsepower options, so you must buy one capable of lifting your door. 1/2 HP is sufficient for most standard garage doors, and other models are also available.
• The Type Of Drive You Need Three common garage door openers: belt, chain, and screw. The type you need will depend on the weight of your door and where it is located. A belt-driven opener is suitable for homes with a detached garage with enough room for the motor around the door’s perimeter.

How much does a garage door opener cost?

Most garage door openers cost between $100 and $500.

For a basic opener, you should expect to pay at least $120. The most advanced models can go for up to $800 or more.

What is the best automatic garage door opener brand?

The answer to this question will depend on the features you want and your budget.

Some of the best brands on the market are Liftmaster, Linear, Genie, and Chamberlain. It would be best to choose a brand with products that you can afford and meet your needs.

What happens if my garage door opener doesn’t work?

In many cases, all it takes to get a garage door opener running is a new battery or fresh alignment of the opener’s sensors.

If you’ve tried both and it still doesn’t work, then your opener likely needs to be replaced or repaired.

PROS And CONS of Garage Door Openers

Garage door openers offer homeowners many benefits over manually opening garage doors, including convenience and safety. However, some people aren’t fans of the devices.

With a garage door opener, you no longer have to get out of your car in bad weather or lift heavy doors. Plus, it’s much easier for seniors and people with disabilities to operate an automatic garage door opener than one manually opened.

However, some people feel that garage door openers can also create a potential security risk. While most openers have built-in safety mechanisms, and some models will even shut the door if it is opened from outside, homeowners should still be cautious when they are away.

One of the best ways to prevent burglaries when you’re gone is to install motion sensors that will make your garage lights turn on whenever someone walks by.

How do I maintain my garage door opener?

Once you purchase a new automatic garage door opener installed, your professional installer will do the necessary maintenance and repairs. You should also make sure that you clean the track regularly to help it run smoothly.

Be sure to ask for recommendations from family & friends about the best garage door opener brands, and follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation and use.

If you follow these tips, your garage door opener will work smoothly for many years to come.

Need more help? Contact Ben’s Garage Door experts