What is the Best Type of Garage Door Opener to Install in 2022?

Are you faced with the task of replacing or installing a new opener? It turns out that choosing these day-to-day use devices is not easy. Because of the various options on the market, it is almost impossible to understand which type of garage door opener is the best.

But when deciding on the one that will be right for you, you need to find out your own needs. You can take a look at the most common features in reviews and decide which of them is the right fit for you.

In this article, we aim to help you. We’ll introduce you to the best-rated garage door opener in 2022, as well as compare the different types and describe the functions they perform.

What You Need to Know When Choosing the Best Garage Door Opener in 2022

You can find a wide range of garage door openers on the market today. They differ in a variety of functions, principles of operation, power, and other features. But what type of garage door opener is the best? Below, we will look into the differences to help you understand which option is the most suitable for you.

• Drive type. Depending on the structure and operating principle, there are four different types. Before you start garage door opener installation, it is important to figure out which type will suit you best.
  • Chain-driven. This type uses a chain to raise and lower the trolley connected to the gates. The chain-driven openers are powerful and durable. They are well suited for large commercial garage doors, but the noisy operation is their main drawback.
  • Belt-driven. The main feature of this opener is a rubber belt that opens and closes the gates by pulling the trolley. It also uses this belt to lower it smoothly. Belt-driven openers usually cost more than other types, but they work quietly and require easier maintenance.
  • Screw-driven. These openers function by using a threaded steel rod and a wire. The steel rod rotates while opening or closing the door. The wire winds up, and the door opens. If the wire unwinds, it lowers. The benefit of a screw-driven opener is quick operation. But consider that they are more difficult to maintain than others.
  • Wall-mounted. Does your garage have a low ceiling? If so, this option is perfect for you. A wall-mounted opener is usually installed against the ceiling on the wall near the gates. This way, you free more space on the top.

• The size. The standard garage door is 7 feet high. Most automatic garage door openers are designed for this size. If you have a taller one, you will need an additional extension kit to install the opener. However, you might need to purchase this kit separately.
• Horsepower. If you want to choose the best type of garage door opener, it is worth paying particular attention to the lifting capacity. Opener motors typically range from 0.5 to 2 horsepower. You should consider the weight and size. A 0.5-horsepower opener will work for most. For heavier doors weighing up to 400 pounds, a 1.5-horsepower opener is a right choice.
• Battery backup. The gate opener requires power to operate. And if the electricity is suddenly cut out, there will be no way to open or close it. But some modern versions are equipped with battery backups with the power capacity enough to raise or lower the gates 50 times.
• Safety. A garage door is a quite heavy construction. Therefore, if it hits a person or animal in its path, it can severely injure them. Modern openers are equipped with laser sensors and a reversing mechanism. The sensors detect an object, animal, or person in the way, send a signal to the opener, and the door immediately rises to its original position. There are also additional safety features such as a deadbolt that prevents the gates from being opened manually, an alert if it’s opened, etc.

• Smart features. Today’s smart garage door openers have various features that make them very convenient to use. For example, it can be monitored and controlled via an app on your smartphone, compatible with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

Now you know what things to pay attention to when choosing an opener.

Below you can find the characteristics of the best garage door openers in 2022.

Genie StealthDrive Connect Smart Garage Door Opener

The Genie StealthDrive Connect garage door opener might be the best rated garage door opener. It’s easy to install, set up, and operate. This opener has a powerful but quiet motor.

The Genie StealthDrive Connect garage door opener works with a lightweight but durable five-piece rail system. This opener is only suitable for doors up to 7 feet high. For taller ones, you’ll need to buy an extension kit additionally.

• Pros
  • High-powered motor
  • Backup battery available
  • Smartphone app available
  • Compatible with home assistant
  • User-friendly design

• Cons
  • Need extra extension kit

Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C 1/2 HPF Garage Door Opener

The Skylink Atoms 1611C garage door opener is a simple and reliable solution for a reasonable price. This opener has no smartphone app, but you can operate it with a remote control and a wall-mounted button. Skylink Atoms 1611C Garage Door Opener fits most 7-foot tall gates. You can also buy 8-foot and 10-foot extension kits from this brand.

• Pros
  • Built-in LED light
  • Easy installation

• Cons
  • Low lifting capacity
  • No smartphone compatibility

LiftMaster Elite Series 8500 Jackshaft Operator

The LiftMaster 8500 mounts on the wall near the gate, thereby allowing you to save some space in your garage. This opener is powerful enough to be used for heavy garage doors up to 650 pounds. Not to mention, it’s quiet running. You can operate it with a button on the wall or using a remote control.

• Pros
  • Operates quietly
  • Takes up little space
  • Fits tall garage doors up to 14 feet

• Cons
  • Not suitable for roll-up doors
  • No smartphone compatibility
  • Bar system is not included

Genie Signature Series MachForce Connect-4063

The Genie Signature Series Mach Force Connect-4063 is the best type of garage door opener in 2022 if you have a large, heavy gate. With high enough power, even a heavy door lifts quickly and smoothly. You can operate the Genie Signature Series Mach Force Connect-4063 using your smartphone or via the remote control.

• Pros
  • Very powerful motor
  • Easy to maintain
  • App for smartphones included
  • Compatible with home assistant

• Cons
  • Needs an extra extension kit
  • No backup battery

BeamUP Everlift BU250 Garage Door Opener with Battery Backup

The main advantage of BeamUp Everlift is the built-in battery backup. In case of a sudden power outage, there’s no need to worry – your garage door will be functioning as if nothing happened. Use this opener for a single or double 7-foot tall door. It has a remote control and a wall-mounted controller.

• Pros
  • Suitable for both single and double doors
  • Built-in LED light
  • Got backup battery

• Cons
  • There is only one remote control

Consider STI Garage Door Your Trusted Partner

Hopefully we’ve managed to shed some light on top garage door openers in 2022. We hope this information will help you make the right choice.

If you need a hand in choosing and installing an opener, we are always at your service. STI Garage Door is a leading specialist in this area for private and commercial businesses. Over many years of work, we have accumulated invaluable knowledge in this market. In addition to installation, we also provide garage door opener replacement and repair services.

You can leave us a request at any time of the day or night. Our experienced specialists will help you right away!

STI Garage Door

Operating in the garage door industry for over 25 years, STI Garage Door is dedicated to quality service and excellence in everything.

The company is a proud partner to the top brands in the field — LiftMaster for commercial door openers and Amarr and Clopay for residential and commercial doors.