Consumer Reports Garage Door Openers
For anyone in the market for a new garage door opener, there is no shortage of options. With more and more advanced features available, it can be hard to narrow down which one will meet your needs and fit into your budget. By taking some time to compare different models and consider what you need from an opener, you’ll have a much better chance of finding the perfect choice – one that provides everything you need while also giving you peace of mind when it comes to safety, convenience, reliability, noise levels and cost. In this blog post we’ll look at the best garage door openers on the market today – their features, capabilities and prices – so that you can make an informed decision before investing in yours.
Top 10 Garage Door Openers
Chamberlain B2405 Smart myQ Smartphone Controlled-Ultra Quiet, Strong Belt Drive, Wireless Keypad Included, Blue Garage Door Opener , White
3 used from $204.46
Features
- Smartphone control: Control, secure, and monitor the garage with the myQ app-anytime, from anywhere
- Quiet operation: Quiet AC motor and strong belt drive system ensures for comfortable living spaces near the garage
- Next generation garage technology: Improved Wi-Fi connectivity and enhanced memory to support new myQ features
- Integrated Bluetooth technology: Reduces set up time and makes it even easier to connect to the myQ app, other myQ devices, and smart home technology solutions
- Trusted security: Security plus 2.0 technology provides unmatched encryption (100 billion codes)
Chamberlain B4643T Smart Built in Camera-myQ Smartphone Controlled-Ultra Quiet, Strong Belt Drive, Blue Garage Door Opener
$223.20 in stock
4 used from $220.97
Features
- Built-in camera: 140⁰ wide angle camera lets you see and hear what’s happening in your garage through the myQ app
- Smartphone control: Download the myQ app and follow the steps to connect your new garage door opener so you can control, secure and monitor the garage from your smartphone – anytime, from anywhere
- Integrated advanced LED lighting: Purposely brightens high traffic areas of the garage, motion activated, 1,000 lumens
- Quiet operation: An ultra-quiet DC motor and soft start/stop smooth operation ensures for comfortable living spaces near the garage
- Next generation garage technology: Improved Wi-Fi connectivity and enhanced memory to support new myQ features and solutions
Chamberlain C2405 Smart Garage Door Opener, myQ Smartphone Controlled-Long Lasting Chain Drive
$178.45 in stock
3 used from $172.53
Features
- Smartphone control: Control, secure, and monitor the garage with the myQ app- anytime, from anywhere
- Drive Type: Long-lasting chain drive
- Next generation garage technology: Improved Wi-Fi connectivity and enhanced memory to support new myQ features and solutions
- Integrated Bluetooth technology: Reduces setup time and makes it even easier to connect to the myQ app, other myQ devices, and smart home technology solutions
- Trusted security: Security plus 2.0 technology provides unmatched encryption (100 billion codes
Genie 7155-TKV Smart Garage Door Opener StealthDrive Connect – Ultra Quiet opener, WiFi, Battery Backup – Works with Alexa & Google Home
2 used from $270.15
Features
- Genie Smart Garage Door Openers Work with Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery: Genie smart garage door openers now allow you to choose to have Amazon packages or groceries delivered inside your garage with the Aladdin Connect App and Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery.
- STRONG AND QUIET: The 1 1/4 HPc DC Motor on the Stealth Drive Connect smart garage door opener is paired with a steel-reinforced belt drive making this garage door opener perfect for garages that are attached to bedrooms and/or nurseries.
- SMART GARAGE SYSTEM WORKS: The Integrated Aladdin Connect smart technology allows you to monitor, open and close your garage door from anywhere with your smartphone. You can also open and close your garage door with voice control, and have packages left in your garage with In-Garage Delivery.
- BATTERY BACKUP INCLUDED: The Stealth Drive Connect smart garage door opener, has an integrated battery backup that allows for this Genie garage door opener to be used when the power is out.
- EASY TO INSTALL: This smart garage door opener features a strong 5-piece rail system that snaps together for easy installation. It’s lightweight with no added hardware needed. Plus, this smart garage door opener works with BILT intelligent 3D interactive instructions, for extra easy assembly
Chamberlain Smart Garage Door Opener – Wall Mounted with Battery Backup – Bright LED Lighting – myQ Smartphone Controlled Ultra Quiet Space Saving Direct Drive, Model RJO70, Black
Features
- Wall mount design frees up ceiling space for extra storage, light fixtures, ceiling fans and more.
- Smooth, quiet operation virtually eliminates noise and vibration into living spaces.
- Monitor and control your garage from anywhere with built-in Wi-Fi and the myQ App.
- Automatic Garage Door Lock deadbolts your garage door every time it closes.
- Open and close your garage door even when the power is out with battery backup.
Genie QuietLift Connect – WiFi Smart Garage Door Opener with Added Wireless Keypad, ¾ HPC Smart Belt Drive – Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, Model 3053-TKV
7 used from $225.90
Features
- ULTRA-QUIET OPERATION: The Genie QuietLift Connect is an ultra-quiet garage door opener that is ideal for garages attached to living spaces.
- SMART GARAGE SYSTEM COMPATIBLE WITH ALEXA & GOOGLE ASSISTANT: The Integrated Aladdin Connect technology allows you to monitor, open and close your garage door from anywhere with your smartphone. New features allow you to operate the door with voice control using the Aladdin Connect custom skill for Alexa or Google Assistant
- EASY TO INSTALL: This smart garage features a strong 5-piece rail system snaps together for easy installation. It’s lightweight with no added hardware needed. Plus, pre-programmed remotes are ready to use out of the box to eliminate additional steps.
- ¾ HPC POWER: The DC motor will smoothly and quietly lift a sectional garage door up to 7’ tall, up to 500 lbs. (or 8’ tall with additional extension kit – sold separately). Plus, the steel-reinforced belt drive system adds strength, durability & value.
- GARAGE DOOR ACCESSORIES: This smart garage door opener comes with built-in Aladdin Connect, two pre-programmed 3-button remotes, a wireless keypad, and a multi-function wall console.
Chamberlain B4603T Smart myQ Smartphone Controlled-Ultra Quiet, Strong Belt Drive, Wireless Keypad Included, Garage Door Opener , Blue
$249.99 in stock
4 used from $225.58
Features
- Smartphone control: Download the myQ app and follow the steps to connect your new garage door opener so you can control, secure and monitor the garage from your smartphone – anytime, from anywhere
- Integrated advanced LED lighting: Purposely brightens high traffic areas of the garage, motion activated, 1,000 lumens
- Quiet operation: An ultra-quiet DC motor and soft start/stop smooth operation ensures for comfortable living spaces near the garage
- Next generation garage technology: Improved Wi-Fi connectivity and enhanced memory to support new myQ features and solutions
- Integrated Bluetooth technology: Reduces setup time and makes it even easier to connect to the myQ app, other myQ devices and smart home technology solutions
Genie B6172H Wall Mount Smart Garage Door Opener, DC Motor Lifts up to 14ft high 850lbs, Black
Features
- The built-in Aladdin Connect technology allows you to monitor, open and close your garage door from anywhere with your smartphone. Works with Smart Home Automation platforms Amazon In-Garage Delivery, Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, URC, Control4 and many more
- The Genie Wall Mount Smart Garage Door Opener with battery backup is equipped with a strong 24v DC motor that provides quiet and powerful operation to lift up to 850LB residential garage doors. Works on standard, high lift and vertical lift doors up to 14ft in height and max 180 sq feet
- The Safe-T-Pulse Internal slack cable monitor ensures safe door travel by taking measurements and checking for slack in the cables electronically, pulsing the garage door prior to closing
- The Genie Wall Mount Garage Door Opener with battery backup is Compact design measuring 6.8 in. wide x 12 in. tall x 9 in. deep making the Genie wall mount garage door opener the smallest available, Proper installation requires a standard outlet within 6 ft. of the wall mount garage door opener
- The Genie Wall Mount Garage Door Opener is compact and space saving, directly mounts to the side of the garage doors tube spring saving space on the ceiling. Will not work on reverse wound springs, or low headroom outside hook-up, doesn't work with extension springs or one piece doors
Chamberlain B4613T Smart Battery Backup-myQ Smartphone Controlled-Ultra Quiet, Strong Belt Drive and MAX Lifting Power, Wireless Keypad Included, Black Garage Door Opener
4 used from $236.86
Features
- Smartphone control: Download the myQ app and follow the steps to connect your new garage door opener so you can control, secure and monitor the garage from your smartphone – anytime, from anywhere
- Integrated advanced LED lighting: Purposely brightens high traffic areas of the garage, motion activated, 1,000 lumens
- Quiet operation: An ultra-quiet DC motor and soft start/stop smooth operation ensures for comfortable living spaces near the garage
- Battery Backup: Open/close the garage door even when power is out
- Next generation garage technology: Improved Wi-Fi connectivity and enhanced memory to support new myQ features and solutions
Genie 6072H-O Residential Wall Mounted Garage Door Opener, Black
Features
- SPACE SAVING: The Genie wall mount garage door opener clears up ceiling space by eliminating rail & powerhead from the ceiling, the wall mount, mounts to the side of the garage doors torsion spring. You can use the freed-up space for extra storage or just enjoy the clean, uncluttered look.
- SAFE-T-PULSE SYSTEM: The Genie wall mount garage door opener has a Patent-pending system that provides internal tension monitoring of door cables with an electronic pulse during initial door travel.
- STRONG, COMPACT DESIGN: The Genie Wall Mount garage door opener, has a compact design measuring 6.8 in. wide x 14.5 in. tall x 9 in. deep making this wall mounted garage door opener the smallest available, Proper installation requires a standard outlet within 6 ft. of the wall mount garage door opener
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: Features a Genie wireless wall console, Wireless LED light, Intellicode remote, and remote door lock
- INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS: Only requires 2.5 in. above and 7 in. to the side of the garage doors spring tube for installation.
What are garage door openers?
A garage door opener is a motorized device used to open and close a garage door. Most are controlled using remote controls that use radio frequency (RF) technology, but there are also models that can be operated with buttons located on the inside of the garage or with an external wall switch. Garage door openers provide convenience and security by allowing people to enter and exit their garages without having to manually lift the heavy garage door.
Factors to consider before buying garage door openers:
Safety: The most important factor to consider when buying a garage door opener is safety. Look for models that are equipped with safety features such as an auto-reverse feature, which will reverse the motion of the door if it detects something in its path, and sensors that detect movement or obstructions before closing.
Noise Level: Garage door openers can be noisy, so you should look for ones that offer quieter operation. This can be especially important if your home has bedrooms located above or near the garage.
Power Source: Garage door openers come in two varieties – AC powered and DC powered motors. AC versions are typically more powerful and tend to last longer than their DC counterparts but require access to a power source.
Ease of Installation: If you’re not handy with tools, it’s important to look for an opener that is easy to install and comes with detailed instructions. Many models come with mounting hardware and pre-programmed settings, so setup should be relatively straightforward.
Remote Controls: Most garage door openers come with at least one remote control device, which allows you to open and close the door from inside your car or another room in your home. Look for models that offer multiple remotes or keypads if needed.
Warranty: Many garage door openers come with limited warranties that cover parts and labor costs associated with repairs or replacement parts within a certain time period. Make sure to check the warranty coverage on a particular model before you make your purchase.
Cost: Garage door openers come in a variety of price points, so it’s important to set a budget and shop around for models that offer features you need while still staying within your budget. By considering these factors before buying, you’ll be able to find an opener that meets all your needs.
Wireless Connectivity: Many newer models come with the ability to connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control the opener remotely via a smartphone app. This feature can be extremely convenient and can add an extra layer of security. Look for openers that offer this type of connectivity if desired.
Security Features: Some garage door openers come with additional security features such as rolling code technology or keypads which require a unique PIN for operation. These features can help protect against unauthorized access and should be considered if added security is desired.
Compatibility: It’s important to make sure that any garage door opener you purchase will work with your existing garage door. Many openers are only compatible with specific types or brands of doors, so make sure to check compatibility before buying.
Accessories: Some models come with additional accessories such as wall consoles or keypads, which can be useful for controlling the opener from other locations outside of your car. Look for models that offer these features if desired.
Energy Efficiency: If you’re looking for an energy-efficient option, look for openers that feature LED lighting and other energy-saving features like soft start/stop technology, which slows the motor when opening and closing, reduces noise and saves energy.
Benefits of garage door openers:
– Convenient: With a garage door opener, you can open and close your garage door from anywhere in the world. You don’t have to worry about getting out of your car and walking over to your garage, or having to go all the way back inside your house just to get your keys.
– Secure: Garage door openers can be programmed to only work when you’re home or when you’re away. This means that if someone tries to break into your house through the front or back door, they won’t be able to get into the garage without a key fob or code.
– Safe: When used with an automatic shutoff system—which uses sensors to detect whether someone is near your garage—garage door openers will automatically close after a certain amount of time has passed since they opened. This means that if someone were trying to break into your house through your garage, they wouldn’t be able to get inside because they wouldn’t have enough time before being discovered by the sensor and having the door close on them!
– Cost-efficient: With a garage door opener, you don’t have to worry about replacing or repairing your existing door or manually opening and closing the door every time you come home. This means that you can save money on energy bills while still ensuring that your property is secure.
– Versatile: Garage door openers can be programmed to work with many different types of doors, including manual ones! That way, if you ever decide to upgrade your garage into an automated one, you won’t have to replace the entire system—just the opener! So no matter what type of door you have, garage door openers are a great investment for any homeowner.
Pros and Cons of garage door openers
The pros:
– Garage door openers allow you to open your garage door without having to get out of your car. This is great if you’re carrying something heavy or need to take care of other tasks while you’re in the garage.
– You can set up a remote control so that you can open your garage door from inside your house or even from another room (like the kitchen). This is helpful if you have a dog that likes to run out into the street when there are cars passing by.
– Some garage door openers also come with a keypad so that you can manually open the door if your remote isn’t working. This can be helpful if someone accidentally leaves their remote at home or if they forget it at work.
The cons:
– Garage door openers require electricity to work, which means that they’ll cost more than an old-fashioned manual opener would. In addition, they may also require extension cords or even separate power sources (depending on how far away from the house itself they are located).
– Garage door openers are not foolproof—they still require regular maintenance checks and adjustments for optimal performance over time.
How to use garage door openers?
Using a garage door opener to open and close a garage door is an easy and convenient process. Here are some steps you can take to make sure your door opener is used safely and properly.
- Before installing the garage door opener, ensure that the power source has been disconnected. This will help to prevent electric shocks or any other accidents during the installation process.
- Once the power source is disconnected, mount the garage door opener onto the wall according to the instructions provided in the manual. Depending on which type of unit you have purchased, it may need to be mounted either inside or outside of the garage itself.
- Follow all safety instructions provided with both your motorized opener and manual lock system when wiring each device into place. Make sure they are securely tightened so they won’t come apart while in use.
- Carefully program your remote control for use with your new system, if applicable. If a keypad is included, also program this into your unit as well for added security and convenience when entering or leaving your property through the garage entrance.
- Check that any mechanical components are securely connected and properly lubricated to reduce noise levels during operation but also increase its lifespan overall by reducing wear and tear over time due to friction between moving parts.
- Ensure that all emergency release systems are functioning correctly before using it for the first time; these should be tested on a monthly basis around once per month from then on as part of regular maintenance checks.
- When using your garage door opener, always stand at least 2 meters away from it when it’s in motion; this helps to prevent any accidents or injuries caused by objects being struck by moving parts such as chains or pulleys while operating them manually or with a motorized opener installed in your property’s main entrance area/garage space itself!
Common mistakes when using garage door openers
Garage door openers are one of the most useful tools in your toolbox. They make opening and closing your garage door quick, easy, and efficient. However, there are a few mistakes that can be made when using these devices that can make your life more difficult. Here are some common mistakes people make when using garage doors and how to avoid them:
-Using the wrong code: If you have multiple people using the same gate, make sure everyone knows the code for opening and closing it. If someone forgets or loses their code, it could cause problems for everyone else who uses the same device.
-Not knowing how much weight your device can handle: Garage doors come in many different sizes and materials. You should know what type of material yours is made from so you don’t overload your opener with too much weight or cause damage by using a device that’s not strong enough for your door.
-Forgetting to check the batteries: Your opener will work better if its battery is fresh and strong, but if yours has been sitting around unused for too long—or if you’ve just installed a new battery—it might not be working at full capacity right away. To get back up to speed as quickly as possible, check the battery regularly.
-Not maintaining your garage door opener: Like any other tool, garage door openers need regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Make sure to check for debris or dirt buildup on the device and lubricate all moving parts as needed. This will help ensure that your opener continues to operate smoothly and reliably.
-Using a remote control or keypad without the safety sensors: Garage door openers are designed with safety sensors that detect when something is in their way and stop the door from closing. Without these, you may be putting yourself or others at risk of injury if someone gets caught in between the door as it’s trying to close. Make sure your device has these installed before using it!
FAQs:
What is the useful life of a garage door opener?
The useful life of a garage door opener can vary depending on the brand and type of opener. Generally speaking, you should expect your garage door opener to last for about 10-15 years before it needs replacing. Many modern openers are more durable than in the past, and some may even last up to 20 years if they’re well-maintained and serviced regularly.
What causes a garage door opener to fail?
A malfunctioning garage door opener can be caused by a few different issues, such as a broken chain or belt, stripped gears, misaligned sensors, and more. A broken chain or belt is typically the result of an old door opener that has become worn down over time due to normal wear and tear. If the metal chain or belt becomes too loose over time and snaps, the garage door will no longer open properly. Stripped gears are another common issue encountered with older garage door openers that have been in use for many years. This occurs when the metal gears become worn down due to friction between them and other parts of the opener. If this happens, then it can cause misalignment in the pulley system which will prevent it from operating correctly.
Conclusion:
There are a lot of different garage door openers on the market, which can make it hard to know which one to buy. This blog post has hopefully helped you narrow down your search by providing information on some of the best garage door openers available. Remember to consider your specific needs before making a purchase, and feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions. We’re always happy to help our readers find the perfect product for their homes.
I’m Ella Andrews, owner of the website https://bestconsumerstips.com/
I give you valuable information about good products to help you choose the best product.