Best Garage Door Openers Reviews 2021

The demand for automatic garage door openers is increasing nowadays, perhaps because many homeowners give importance and priorities to the safety, security, and privacy of the family. With all the door openers being available in the market nowadays, it will be confusing to know which is the best one to install, especially that each of them offers different advantages and benefits.

The safety of your family is an important priority that you should consider when constructing your house. Because it is an essential part of the house, you need to get the best garage door opener that will not only serve as an opener for the overhead garage door but will also protect and secure your home.

With this in mind, you have to be careful when choosing which garage door opener to buy and install in your garage. Garage door openers are widely available around the world, but when deciding which top rated garage door opener to get, there are several factors to consider. We provide garage door opener reviews of top rated products available on the market.

Decide the Type of Horsepower

Automatic motors for the door openers are powered to become not just as powerful as they should be to be able to lift the garage doors, but also as quiet and smooth to avoid distraction. The first thing that you need to decide is what type of power you want to get that can handle the garage door you already have at home.

  • 1/2 Horsepower – Most of the 1/2 HP motors are designed to handle the standard type of garage doors. If you have a single garage door, a large motor with this horsepower is enough to function well and to last for a longer period of time. This is the type that most homeowners prefer for home security.
  • 3/4 Horsepower – Most of the 3/4 HP motors belongs to the higher end ones and can handle double doors and operates even quickly, which is a great way to reduce waiting time in your car. These types of motors are usually quiet and multi-functional. Built to be heavy-duty, this type of motor can lift heavy garage doors.
  • 1 Horsepower – If you want maximum performance and an efficient unit, this type of motor is the best one because it can also handle even the heaviest garage doors.

Consider the Type of Drive

The garage door openers are built and constructed with different types of drives. If you will know how each drive functions and performs for the efficiency of the opener, it will be easier for you to choose the best garage door opener for your garage.

  • The belt drive – the ultimate and premium type of drive that uses a sturdy and rubber-like belt, and it is designed for satisfaction when it comes to performance that is quiet and smooth. This drive is ideal for garage doors located near or under a bedroom. The belts for this type of drive are usually made from the best quality and most durable steel belted drives, making the system to last a lifetime.
  • The chain drive – the type of drive that uses metal chains similar to that of the bicycle, and it suits different types of garage doors. It can lift the heaviest doors with its industrial-strength performance. Although it is louder than the other drives, and it requires regular maintenance due to the chain, this type of drive is mostly picked and chosen by homeowners because this is more affordable as compared to other drives.
  • The screw drive – the type of drive that uses a long and sturdy metal rod, usually threaded like any screw. The screw works louder than other types of drive. This drive has fewer parts that function together to open and close the garage door.
  • The direct drive – the type of drive that uses a stationary and self-drive moving motor. It has the small parts and a rail, circuit board, and a chain. The lifetime warranty is an inclusion to the package because of the small parts.

Garage Door Opener Comparison

Garage Door OpenerFeaturesPowerType of DrivePrice
8500 LiftMaster 2-Pack Side Mount- Ultra-quiet
- Wall mount design
- Lifetime motor
- MyQ technology
- MyQ mobile app
- Motion detector
- Power Lock Deadbolt
N/AN/A$$$$
LiftMaster 3800 Residential Jackshaft- Ultra-quiet
- Wall mount design
- Lifetime motor
- MyQ technology
- MyQ mobile app
- Motion detector
- Power Lock Deadbolt
N/AN/A$$$
Chamberlain WD962KEV- Works even during power outages
- Can close garage door automatically if you forget
- Smooth start and stop to reduce noise
- Backed by a lifetime motor warranty
- Quietest opener available
- MyQ Home Activation Technology
- Timer-to-Close
- Low Energy Consumption
- Motion-detecting
0.75 HPBelt$$
Chamberlain PD610D
- Protector System Safety Sensors
- Installation Assembles in 60 Seconds
- Delivers 200-Watt of Light with Adjustable Light Time Delay
0.5 HPChain$
Marantec Synergy 380 1.1 HP DC Motor 8' Belt Drive Garage Door Opener- Easy to assemble 2-piece belt rail for garage doors up to 8 ft. height
- 500 Lumens of integrated LED lighting
- LED lighting does not attract insects
- Integrated battery back-up system
- Quiet operation motor
- Limited lifetime warranty
- LCD display guides you through the basic programming process
- Two 315 MHz 2-button remote controls
- Soft start and soft stop functionality
- Wireless keyless entry system equipped
- HomeLink compatible
1.1 HPBelt$$$
Chamberlain PD210D- Industrial-strength chain-drive garage door opener
- For easy garage door operation and increased security
- Includes protector system and security plus technology for added security
- Includes a single-button remote control with battery and visor clip
- Comes with handy multi-function wall-mount panel
0.5 HPChain$
Marantec Synergy 270 3/4 HP DC Motor 7' Belt Drive Garage Door Opener- Easy to assemble 2-piece belt rail for garage doors up to 7 ft. height
- 756 Lumens of integrated LED lighting
- LED lighting does not attract insects
- Quiet operation motor
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- LCD display guides you through the basic programming process
- Two 315 MHz 2-button remote controls are included
- Soft start and soft stop functionality
- HomeLink compatible
0.75 HPBelt$$
Chamberlain PD212D- 2 Single Button Remotes
- Wall Control Panel
0.5 HPChain$
MarantecSynergy 270 3/4 HP DC Motor 8' Chain Drive Garage Door Opener- Easy to assemble 2-piece chain rail for doors up to 8 ft. height
- 756 Lumens of integrated LED lighting
- LED lighting does not attract insects
- Quiet operation motor
- Limited lifetime warranty
- LCD display guides you through the basic programming process
- Two 315 MHz 2-button remote controls
- Soft start and soft stop functionality
- HomeLink compatible
0.75 HPChain$$
LiftMaster 3265-267 Premium Series- Includes two remotes (373LM) and a wall control (78LM)
- NO RAIL ASSEMBLY
0.5 HPChain$
Genie 1022-2TX- Patented enclosed in-line chain design for smooth operation
- Easier installation-fewer parts to assemble
- Low maintenance-factory-installed chain, no lubrication required
- Intellicode access security system helps prevent unauthorized entry
- 1-button remote
- 5 year motor and 2 year parts warranty
0.5 HPChain$
Genie 1022- Patented enclosed in-line chain design for smooth operation
- Low maintenance-factory-installed chain--no lubrication required
- Intellicode access security system helps prevent unauthorized entry
- One-button remote
- 5-year motor and 2-year parts warranty
0.5 HPChain$

Don’t Forget About Accessories

To choose the best garage door openers, you will also need to determine the accessories included in the package. If you know which accessories are included, you will be able to choose the best one that offers more than just security and performance, but also convenience. Some of the accessories are the remote control.

All these automatic garage door openers have remote controls. Some units have one remote control with two buttons, while some units have two remote controls with two to three buttons. For double garage doors, these multiple buttons are useful and helpful. Also, remote controls vary in size, and there are units with small remote controls that can fit into the chains of a key chain.

The wall mount box or button is also one of the effective accessories for the functions of the garage door openers. These units have a doorbell-like button or box that is mounted on the wall, inside or outside the garage, for easy access. It can be reached upon whenever the remote is not available.

The keypads are also helpful as they allow the owner to set the lock for a specific time, especially if they will intend to lock the door while they are on vacation. Some key pads also have the time delay to close the beam. This is designed to give you enough time to go out of the door before it closes to lock.

Consider the Safety and Security Features

When choosing the best unit, the safety and security system should be considered. Some units have the rolling code technology, which ensures that the code is secured from the access of the owner, and that no intruder can have an access to it. For each time the unit is accessed, a new code will roll out for the next access.

For security purposes, the program should also be a computer-controlled system. This will be easier for the owner to monitor and control the unit, especially when there is an obstruction against the beam.

For the safety of the kids, pets, or anyone, the sensor in the beam will stop from closing and reverses to avoid accidents. Some units also come with a battery backup that allows the unit to function well even during a power outage.

Some units also have the lighting system that can be set to turn on when the code is accessed. It can stay on for several minutes until you park the car properly. The remote can also turn the light on even when the door opener is not intended to be opened.

Things to Consider in Choosing on of the Best Garage Door Openers

  • Easy installation – The units are designed for easy do-it-yourself installation. If you prefer to do it yourself, make sure you understand the manual and that you have the tools at home. It only takes a few tools and a little effort because the units are lightweight and can be installed in just a few simple steps. But if you are not sure, might as well ask the supplier or retailer to do the job for you.
  • Height – Aside from the safety and security features of the garage door openers for the overhead door, you will need to look for one that will fit the height of your garage door. Some units are designed to fit any garage doors with a standard height of 7 feet. But there are also some modern designs that will fit your 8 foot or 10-foot high garage doors. Before you get one, make sure you know the size of your garage door and the ceiling.
  • Quiet Operation – Automatic door openers are now modernized with motors that operate with less the noise. But there is a lot of horsepower motors and drives that operate quietly. If you want a quiet one, you should look for one that uses the belt drive or screw drive because they are a lot quieter than the chain drive.
  • Multi-functional remote system – From one button remote controls to multi-button ones, the functions vary depending on the necessity. You can use the remote to access the system of the unit for your convenience and safety. These remote controls also come in various sizes to maximize its purpose. If you want one that you can use in your car so that you will not need to go out and access the system, look for one with the built-in radio frequency.
  • Warranty – See to it that the warranty applies to each part of the unit as a package. Some parts may tend to fail or malfunction along the operation, and it should be covered by the warranty if it needs a replacement. Some warranties are also not totally disclosed, which makes some customers complain and feel disappointed.

Garage Door Opener Reviews

Chamberlain WD962KEV Whisper Drive Door Garage Opener

The Chamberlain garage door opener WD962KEV Whisper Drive uses the 3/4 HPS motor and the belt drive system. This type of motor offers a quietest garage door opener. And because it has the 3/4 horsepower, you can expect that this unit is a heavy-duty one and can be so strong to lift any type of garage doors. This unit also has the MyQ Home Activation Technology, which a system technologically designed to allow point to point communication through its multi-function remote control and systems.

Whether you are in or out of your garage, you can have an easy access to your security system. It also has the backup power through the battery. You can still operate the unit even during brownouts or power shortage.

Check Price from

Chamberlain PD610D

The Chamberlain PD610D Power Drive uses the 1/2 Horsepower motor with an industrial strength Power Drive motor. It also uses the chain drive system. Being a unit that uses this type of drive, you can expect that this one is very affordable and that the chain may not be as quiet as with the belt drive. Also the chain drive may demand regular maintenance to ensure that the unit is functioning properly.

The remote control has 3 buttons for maximum function and access to the system. It has an access system through the Protector System, which is designed with a safety sensor and rapid-snap brackets for maximum safety and security. This system refers to the invisible light beam placed across the opening of the unit and is designed to sense if an object is blocking the beam. The system will automatically stop and reverse the door to avoid accidents or injury.

Check Price from

Chamberlain PD212D

The Chamberlain PD212D uses the 1/2 Horsepower motor and the chain drive system for its automatic operation. It is designed to be powerful enough to lift any standard 7 foot size garage doors. In case your garage door is higher than the standard size, the Chamberlain offers an extension kit that will fit your garage and the unit. I

t also has two remote controls with one button designed for easy access to the system. You can place the illuminated wall control panel to any point in the garage where you can easily reach for its handle and manually operate the unit when the electricity power is down. This unit also has a lighting system that you can set to turn on when the system is accessed, and whenever you want to turn it on.

Check Price from

LiftMaster 8500 

The 8500 Liftmaster Garage Door Opener uses the 2 pieces of 895MAX transmitters, 2 pieces 888LM wall consoles, and 2 pieces 380 LM Light Kits. It has the Security Plus system and the MyQ Technology compatibility that is intentionally designed to allow you to connect to the system through your computers and laptops for maximum security. You can even connect the system to your smart mobile phones through the application and use it as your remote control.

This one is considering one of the best residential Liftmaster Garage Door Openers. It features a lighting system with a 200 watt light bulb. The side, wall mount panel is designed for easy access to the remote control, which features light and an alert warning system. Meeting the required specifications by the UL325, this unit is a very reliable garage door opener.

Check Price from

LiftMaster 3800 Residential Jackshaft Door Garage Opener

The LiftMaster residential garage door opener 3800 Jackshaft uses the 24V DC motor. This type of motor can operate and lift any size of residential garages with doors as high as 14 feet. This also fits sectional doors only. The Jackshaft motor is quiet and smooth and is backed by the most reliable EverCharge batteries, which means that you can still use the unit even during power outage.

The remote control can access the system programmed in the wall control, which is wired to the motor. This unit is torsion-spring compatible, which means you need to have a horizontal torsion spring on a torsion shaft bar.

Check Price from

LiftMaster 3265 Premium Series

The LiftMaster 3265-267 uses the 1/2 Horsepower motor Premium series. This type of motor is built to be heavy-duty and can lift any standard size garage doors. It also uses the chain drive system, which operates powerfully, although there is a bit of the noise. Offering an excellent performance through its powerful motor and reliable system, this unit is a premium when it comes to security. It includes two remote controls with 373 LM and three buttons. The control panel is built and designed as multi-functional for the maximum security of the property.

Check Price from

Genie 1022 

The Genie 1022 uses the 1/2 Horsepower motor, which is a 600 Newton Motor. It also uses the AC Chain Lift drive system that is quiet and powerful to lift the garage door. This type of AC Chain lift drive is operating at such a slow rate of speed at first, but gradually speeds up upon operation, and it is quiet when in operation. With its power and excellent performance, the motor is capable of lifting a 7 foot high garage door with a weight of 350 pounds. It also uses the Genie Intellicode for the security. The code that changes after being used is not just to secure the premises, but also to secure the system so that no intruder can have an access to it.

Check Price from

Marantec Synergy 270
Marantec Synergy 270 HP DC Motor 7' Belt Drive Garage Door Opener

The Marantec Synergy 270 uses the 3/4 horsepower DC motor, with the motor head that can be rotated to 90 degrees to any side for better performance. This type of motor, combined with the power of the belt drive, can actually lift heavy garage doors. It operates very smoothly and the sound is barely heard. This is an ideal garage door opener for residences with rooms adjacent to the garage. It has the LED light bulb for its lighting system, and the LCD display allows you to program your security access and make each code unique for each operation. And since it is designed with the Marantec Synergy 270, this unit is very sensitive to allow the unit to function excellently all the time.

Check Price from

Marantec Synergy 380

Marantec Synergy 380 1.1 HP DC Motor 8' Belt Drive Garage Door Opener

The Marantec Synergy 380 uses the powerful 1.1 HPcs motor, combined with the industrial-strength and an ever quiet belt rail drive. This unit is ideal for any of the sectional garage doors as high as 8 feet tall. Among its features are the LED lighting, LCD display, 2 remote controls that are equipped with radio frequency, and the multi-functional wall control panel. This unit is designed with safety features, as well, with its photo eye safety system. The Synergy system is an advantage of the unit when it comes to the exact calculation of the force of the performance of the garage door openers.

Check Price from
Garagly