Best Garage Door Opener

The Clicker KLIK1U Universal Garage Door Opener is our best garage door opener which has a clip that you can use to attach to a visor and it gives you an easy programming setup. It works with LiftMaster, Overhead Door, Wayne-Dalton and others. In fact, with this garage door opener, programming it can take 3 to 5 minutes.

Our step-up pick is the Liftmaster 877max Wireless Keyless Entry System and as a wireless keypad garage door opener, it works on multiple garage doors and it can be used with up to 4 unique pin codes. With a learn button that works on most two-car garage systems, the garage door opener has a backlit keypad so you can use it even in the dark and even in extreme sunlight.

The budget pick is the Chamberlain 953EV 3-Button Garage Door Opener and this garage door opener has the power to open or close your garage door in a remote way. It is compatible with most major brands due to its versatility. With a frequency from 310 to 390 MHZ, this garage door opener makes the use of MyQ light control technology so you can program lights too.

A Little Background

A garage door opener is an automated and usually remote controlled mechanism like a car door remote. The purpose of a garage door opener is to make it convenient for the driver who will go through the garage to park his or her car.
Garage door openers work like a car remote or key fob because it is an automated remote system that is usually in line with your garage door, especially if it is electronic. Most garage door openers are universal but some are a part of a specific garage door brand or product series.
The main purpose of a garage door opener is to open up the door of your garage remotely. Most garage door openers can be kept in your pocket like a car key fob while some are like mobile phones, both of which are quite portable.
Some garage door systems can also keep the garage door locked for a set period of time, especially if you’re going out to the grocery or hardware store and have to leave your home behind for a short period of time. It is also applicable if you’re on a vacation and want to leave your garage and garage doors safe and sound.
Safety features such as the auto reverse can start to disappear or not function well so it is best to still check your garage door and/or consult an expert if you’re unsure whether you need a new garage door opener for your garage’s safety.
Most often, high end garage door openers can be operated remotely even when you are away from home and you forgot to lock your garage. While most garage doors that work this way don’t require a lock, they still need regular maintenance. It is important that you invest with a good garage door opening system if you intend to sell your home at any time soon.

How We Picked

When choosing the best garage door opener, you should look for the following:
Ease of use: a garage door opener should be fairly easy to use and operate so that the person who will use it will not have much problems at all. For instance, the garage door opener should be easy to press on which button is intended to be pressed for opening and locking the door.
Simple installation: consider a garage door opener that will have good user instructions to follow for the opening mechanism. The garage door opener should be a simple setup and is ready to be used. Most people go for a universal version of the garage door opener if they don’t know or see a specific garage door opener that is meant for their garage system.
Effectiveness: you should have a garage door opener that is truly effective. Consider a garage door opener that really opens up the door and then locks it afterwards. This is an important factor because some garage door openers claim to open and lock doors but they really can’t.
Wireless range: a garage door opener should have a given wireless range since you should be able to open it up while you ready to park your car or vehicle. Make sure that the garage door opener functions well at a reasonable distance.
Easy to program: a garage door opener should be easy to program because most homeowners will not be very knowledgeable with garage door systems. The garage door opener can be programmed using the user instructions followed carefully so that the opener will work like it should. You should consider a garage door opener that works flawlessly with sufficient user instructions.
Style of entry: most are in a keychain format while some are in a keypad format. The garage door opener that you want to buy should be just fine for your needs. A keychain style garage door opener is very handy and portable while a door opener that looks like a mobile phone is the keypad type garage opener, which is more suitable for those with the extra need for safety and security. Keep in mind that the garage door opener should be stealthy and easy to hide (but don’t hide it in your car!) for safety purposes.
Number of buttons: most garage door openers should have a corresponding number of buttons depending on its type. Most will have a simple lock and open door mechanism while some will have a digit keypad in which you have to enter a pass code in order for it to work. Some locks can be easily accessed while some may need some additional security checking.
Ability to activate lighting: lighting is important for any garage door opener. This is an important strategy and feature to consider if you have an automated garage door because it will be easier for you to fool intruders that there’s someone in your house even when you’re far away.

Our Pick

Clicker
Clicker KLIK1U Universal Garage Door Opener

Our best garage door opener would be the Clicker KLIK1U Universal Garage Door Opener because it is highly compatible with nearly all garage door brands. As a universal remote control garage door opener, it contains photo-eye safety sensors that work just fine for a variety of brands of garage door openers.
It also adheres to federal safety regulations so it is applicable for garage doors after 1993. Moreover, this garage door opener will work on a Sears opener and it is great for most major garage door brands. With no issues with rattling, the garage door opener contains a coin cell battery.
With a 2-button design, you can be replace a remote control with this garage door opener as it is a dip switch type remote that works with most Legacy doors as well. It is a single-source solution that can work up to 2 garage door opener systems.
As a convenient remote, it is also Genie compatible and it is an ideal for fix code or rolling code openers. If you have a lost remote control then this is the ideal garage door opener to have. It is applicable for families with 2 vehicles or more.
You can use the switch setup inside to set it up and it has a good frequency recognition mechanism. You can use this garage door opener for replacing a broken remote control. Using a cr2032 battery, this door opener can work for different garage door manufacturers so it is a diverse opener.
Highly applicable for Stanley, Chamberlain and Craftsman, the garage door opener also works for a gate opener. Moreover, it has a indicator light if it is transmitting. As a very easy to use option for an additional remote, you can try it for several different brands.
Including simple instructions in its user manual, this garage door opener will be applicable for your existing garage access system, as long as it is from the late 90s. It is backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s limited warranty.

Flaws but Not Dealbrakers

While not really flaws, the Clicker KLIK1U Universal Garage Door Opener does have a couple of small cons but not really enough to break the deal, such as the fact that its instructions for overhead doors might not be as precise as possible.

Step-up Pick

Liftmaster
Liftmaster 877max Wireless Keyless Entry System

Our step-up pick would be the Liftmaster 877max Wireless Keyless Entry System. Also applicable for older models, you can program this remote within seconds. You can also match the settings on your old remote so it is convenient to setup. It works with Linear and Moore-O-Matic.
It also has a visor clip and the included lithium battery at is 3 volts. It only takes 5 minutes of installation so it is quite easy. You can use it in dark or daylight due to its backlighting design. It can be programmed for two doors and it is a great remote control with a 9v battery.
In fact, programming the pin is quite easy about 2 minutes of programming time. Applicable for up to 4 garage door openers, the garage door opener gives you a super easy setup and you can also access the battery due to its convenient location.
It is easy to see numbers on this garage door opener so it is applicable even for people with visual hindrances. It has a color change system that tells you if it is has paired with your garage door. Made of tougher built materials, you can use it in the dark just fine.
Highly compatible with LiftMaster, the directions are easy to follow due to its excellent design and set of instructions. In fact, all you need is a drill and a screwdriver to install it. You can use the garage door opener for most garage door openers from January 1993.
This is a universal remote in which you can program the remote in seconds. Moreover, it works for nearly every door and gate systems. Moreover, it has a smart learn technology which enables it to work effectively as a garage door opener.
It will also work for a sectional door and it functions okay even if your garage is stucco. In fact, syncing to the opener is simple with the garage door opener due to its security+ 2.0 rolling code technology. Including an instruction manual, it also eliminates radio wave interference.

Budget Pick

Chamberlain
Chamberlain 953EV 3-Button Garage Door Opener

Our budget pick for the best garage door opener would be the Chamberlain 953EV 3-Button Garage Door Opener. In fact, any automatic garage door can be opened, closed or locked by the power of this garage door opener.
It will be just fine for your wall-mounted garage door opener and it can accept different number combinations in just one system. This particular door opener can survive up to 4 years or more with proper usage and care.
You can use this garage door opener for Chamberlain as well as LiftMaster and it is also okay to add an extra remote with this system. As a universal remote, it is also made for gate systems and for home interior control as well. With an LED bulb, the programming instructions are well written.
Including a visor clip, this garage door opener is pretty much compatible with security +2.0 and it can also blink in various compatible colors. It takes less than a minute to program and it has a good and functioning indicator light. It can be a replacement for stolen remotes.
As a 3-button garage door opener, it gives the user a multi-car usage with easy pairing setup. You can program the remote in seconds and use the learn button conveniently. Applicable for Liftmaster as a replacement for lost remotes, it will also work for a Chamberlain door opener.
Able to take up to 3 garage door openers all at once, this garage door opener remote can be used for a Craftsman garage and is also compatible with WSLCEV and PILCEV. Working on systems from 1993 to present, the garage door opener has a lithium battery for long life.
Using the safety sensors of your garage door opener system, the garage door opener works well your convenience and it can also control lighting. It cannot be hacked due to the secure coded signal technology and the 3 button design allows enough control. With easy to follow instructions, the garage door opener works well for Craftsman door openers.

Best Garage Door Opener for a LiftMaster System

LiftMaster371LM
LiftMaster 371LM Single Button Garage Remote

If you want a good garage door opener that is applicable for LiftMaster systems then you can go for the LiftMaster 371LM Single Button Garage Remote. As a very good opener for easy access to your garage, it is also a breeze to get it paired onto your garage door system.
You can use this garage door opener for a great wireless keyless entry system with longer lasting service. The enter button is easy to press on this a garage door opener with a learn function on it. With a rolling code technology that adheres to Security 2.0+, it is a great garage door opener to consider.
Equipped with a purple learn button, you can use this garage door opener for additional vehicles in your house or garage. It can also be used to control your door opener lights and it also comes with a visor clip. Working at 315 MHz in its signal, the garage door opener uses a CR2032 lithium battery.
It works for a single garage door and can work on a craftsman 3/4 hp garage door opener. It is also applicable for almost any garage or gate and it can be used as an extra remote control. It has a great range and it has a remote clicker design and mechanism which also works on blue button models.
With no fuss in installation, the garage door opener works with liftmaster models 893max and 890max. Giving you less troubleshooting overall, it will also work on whisper drive openers and also for the 3280m. it is also highly compatible with model number 139.53753.
The garage door opener has good compatibility and it can also work for a Raynor system and a Sears door opener. You can even control the appliances inside your home with this garage door opener. It is easy to reprogram the opener and it can work on any craftsman garage door opener.
It is super easy to pair and it already comes with a battery. Moreover, it also sends a brand new code so the garage door opener is safe and secure and not susceptible to hacking at all. In addition to that, it works for Chamberlain. The opener remote is also ideal for the 971-315lm.
With a very good signal, the garage door opener uses a security+ rolling code technology and it may also work for an old opener, as long as it is 1993 and above. With an instruction manual, it is backed by a 2 year warranty.

Best Garage Door Opener for an Overhead Door

OverheadDoor
Overhead Door OCDTR-3 CodeDodger Garage Opener

Our best garage overhead door opener would be the Overhead Door OCDTR-3 CodeDodger Garage Opener. Giving you only 20 seconds of setup, the garage door opener can be used on an overhead garage opener while in the comfort of your car.
With a single button design you can make your car enter the garage with a push of a button. Using the CodeDodger 1 technology, this specific garage door opener has a rolling code so it is theft deterrent and is also very easy to program without the compromise of access security.
Your device can be sending a code without the problem of getting easily hacked by others. As a great 390 MHz replacement remote, you can securely close your garage doors with the use of billions of combinations with this unique and reliable garage door opener.
Moreover, this garage door opener is also compatible with the OCDT-3 and ACSCTG Type 3. It is a great overhead door opener and comes with a sun visor attachment so it is very easy to setup. With clear programming instructions, you can use this for an 891LM or 893LM and use the code finder button.
The visor clip works as intended and the battery is included so you can start using the garage door opener right away with its 23AE 12v battery. As a garage door opener remote, it is easy to set up multiple doors with just one remote and it also works for 1998 models.
Even while you are at the bottom of a driveway, the garage door opener works with its stylish design and easy coding. With a pretty good range, it is roughly easier to set up than other garage door openers out there. The LED blinks whenever it works and it is a 3-button remote.
Highly compatible with the GIC90-3 and GIC-3, it comes with a tension clip and can adhere to the ACSCTO type 1 and an Overhead door phantom belt drive. Moreover, it slides easily when you install it. The garage door opener can be programmed in 5 seconds.
Applicable for most 390 MHz models, all of the instructions are included for the ease of setup. The garage door opener is equipped with many easy access buttons to adhere to all levels of users and homeowners out there.

Best Garage Door Opener for a Genie System

GenieGK R
Genie GK-R Intellicode 2 Wireless Keypad

If you want a garage door opener that is compatible with Genie doors then you should go for the Genie GK-R Intellicode 2 Wireless Keypad. It is a wireless solution that the opener will respond in a breeze when you operate it on the garage door frame.
This garage door opener is a great keyless method that uses rolling code technology for anti theft properties. It comes with 2 included mounting screws so it makes it convenient to setup. Equipped with an entry pad, it is suitable for outdoor conditions.
Bearing a broad range of uses, it can be used up to 3 genie operators and it has an auto seek feature. It can work on the model 4024 and the garage door opener can work well on most door openers since 1996. It is also applicable for a wood garage and it has a dual frequency technology.
Highly compatible with genie cm8600ic/a, the garage door opener has a lighted design and it is okay to use with older intellicode models. Including a total of 2 AAA batteries, it has a keyless entry pad design and is an intellicode 2 technology with enough programming instructions.
As a super easy to program garage door opener, it is backwards compatible and it can control up to 3 garage door openers. Moreover, it only requires typing in a code but it is hard to crack for thieves and the like. With illustrated installation instructions, it has a flip up cover.
With a 315/390 dual frequency capability, you can use it while leaving for a walk and it will ensure you stronger signals. You can set it up in less than 5 minutes and the opener’s access code is automatically changing. This garage door opener is also easily compatible with intellicode 1 technology.
Made for security of your garage, it can work well regardless of frequency interference. With compatibility for the overhead door destiny 1200 and on the model 1042, it prevents unauthorized entry. This wireless keypad system is backed by a 1 year parts warranty.

Best Garage Door Opener for a Linear System

Linear3089
Linear 3089 Multicode Compatible Remote Opener

If you want a garage door opener that works with Linear systems, you can try the Linear 3089 Multicode Compatible Remote Opener. As a craftsman compatible garage door opener, it works just like the original remote and also works with a chamberlain garage door opener.
As a garage door opener that works with multi-code 300 MHz products, it can work well for a community gate and it has zero issues overall. As a garage door opener that works for nearly any multi-code digital receiver, it can be a benefit for your garage.
It comes with 10 binary switches and it can last a long time. With dip switch settings that are easy to setup. You can use this garage door opener for a driveway gate. This remote works great and it has a frequency of 300 MHz in total.
It is applicable for a front gate and can work on a Craftsmen 1/2 hp as well as on most guard gates out there. It is also compatible with the Multi Elmac 3089 and has a visor included. It is easy to switch numbers with this garage door opener.
You can use this thing as an extra remote and it also works with the Stanley brand receiver. As a multicode 1089 model, it can be programmed to the correct code in a breeze. As a remote opener, you can just pop the case open for ease of setup.
Compatible with the ACSCTO type 1 garage door opener, it is equipped with a visor clip and you can also put some additional remotes for this system. With just the expected distance working well, it can be used for the liftmaster 375ut as well.
If you have a second vehicle then this is a good garage door opener to consider. Using a 9-volt battery, it is a cheap and reliable solution for a viper gate opener. It is also a remote with just the right radio frequency and it will be working flawlessly for a long time.
Highly compatible with multicode gates, there is no need for shifting a garage door opener. Being very easy to set up, this can be one of the best garage door opener systems possible and a one year warranty is included.

Best Garage Door Opener with a Multi-Code System

Firefly300Multicode
Firefly 300 Multicode Compatible Keychain Remote

The Firefly 300 Multicode Compatible Keychain Remote is a great multicode system capable garage door opener. Coupled with compatibility for nearly any garage system, it is equipped with dip switches and it is perfect for any driveway gate.
With enough distance from the car, the garage door opener is simple to program and to activate as a multicode compatible garage door opener which has a long range. This garage door opener is compatible with models such as 3089, 3060 and 3070 and it has a 10 dip switch style.
This unit has no small battery covers so it is not very likely to get misplaced in terms of battery changing. Working well with the linear 3089, this is a multi-code compatible garage door opener that can work on almost any type of garage door opener system.
Built with quality control in mind, it works on a 303.875 MHz frequency and it has a keychain remote design that is quite compatible with liftmaster 1/2 HP security +. As a really small but really easy to use garage door opener, it lets you program remotely with a good range.
Applicable for a 890max, you get a better range with this garage door opener and it is easy to press a button in this unit. Working well at a slightly longer range than others, it can be programmed and setup from a larger remote as well.
With a sufficient battery life, you pay less and use it more for a longer time and it comes with key chain swivels. With a good construction, the garage door opener is quite lightweight at only 0.2 ounces. The unit can work well on a steel sectional roll-up garage door and is quite durable.
All the batteries are included and it also gives a nice click when you press it. You can use the garage door opener in gated communities and as a rectangular keychain. With this garage door opener, you can put the shell screws together so easily. It is estimated at least up to 5 years on its average battery life.

Best Garage Door Opener with a 2-Button Design

Marantec
Marantec M3-2312 2-button Garage Door Opener

The Marantec M3-2312 2-button Garage Door Opener is our best bet as a garage door opener with a 2-button system. It is also mostly compatible with most digital receivers and you can use a mini flathead screwdriver to open it up for troubleshooting.
You can use it if you have the Marantec 315 MHz system and it is also compatible with Q-line and M-line systems as well. If you have older remote models such as the ML-1312V, you can use this as a replacement. It comes with programming instructions so it is simple to setup.
A programming cable is also included with this remote for your ease of use. The visor clip that comes along with this unit makes it easy to set it up. Those garage systems that are manufactured 2004 up to present are compatible with this unit.
Using only a CR2032 battery, it is quite easy to maintain and replace the battery system. Its LED flashes just fine to alert you if it is working. The garage door opener is a good match to factory remotes. If you ever lost or broke your old remote then this is a good replacement.

Best Garage Door Opener that is Universal

Multicode
Multicode Gate or Garage Door Opener

The Multicode Gate or Garage Door Opener is a 300 MHz frequency garage door opener remote that is ideal for those who want a universal remote. It can install on any brand possible because of its multicode technology. It is also equipped with 10 dip switches for easy programming and coding.
It works with the Liftmaster 390 MHz and even on most systems that use a 315 MHz remote. If you have the DC 3700 model then this garage door opener is also compatible. Its signal adapter works just intended and is an upgrade from the old version.
Quite compatible with most garage door opener systems out there, it is easy to find a replacement for the battery and it can be applicable for complex uses as well. Programming is simple with this garage door opener and it can work as a keychain remote and a gate opener as well.

The Competition

Other garage door openers did not match our criteria because they lacked in user friendliness and instructions. When you consider on buying a garage door opener, make sure that it is of high quality. Also, they lacked in durability and in ease of entry and setup. When you want to consider a garage door opener, you have to make sure that it is easy to use, convenient and that it really works to open up your garage door.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a garage door opener and why is it important?
A: The is a remote controlled device that is used to open an electric or electronic garage door. While most of these garage doors are automated in terms of locking and opening, a handy remote is needed whenever you need to access the garage door from the distance of your car or vehicle.
Q: Which kind of garage door openers work for a smart or electronic garage door?
A: If you have a
garage door opener that is Wi-Fi enabled or uses some similar connectivity method, it is the applicable garage door opener for your needs.
Q: Is it required to replace your garage door opener?
A: If you value your safety then it is recommended to replace your garage door opener to the more modern automatic version, especially if your garage door opener was issued before 1993. This ensures that your garage door opener adheres to the latest federal safety standards so that it will be safer and much more effective at locking up your garage door from thieves and intruders alike.
Q: What are the different kinds of garage door opening mechanisms?
A: The garage door can be usually opened in three common ways: the screw style drive, chain drive and belt drive. The screw style drive is more ideal if you want a garage door that is very quiet and low in maintenance. The chain drive is a little bit noisier but it is also cheaper than a screw style drive. If you want a garage door with reduced vibration then you can go for the belt drive, which is also the most quiet of all, but can be pricey.
Q: Does an automatic garage door opening system require a lock?
A: Most automatic garage doors that come with a garage door opener might already come with a locking mechanism for you to use, eliminating the need to install costly locking mechanisms for your garage door.
Q: Can a garage door opener system increase the property value of your home?
A: The garage door opener and its entire system of garage door mechanisms can also potentially increase the property value of your home, just like how a home and garage security system would power up your property value as well.
Q: Can a garage door opener be used in the rain and the elements?
A: Yes, most garage door openers are built to withstand the elements. The purpose of a garage door lock is to provide an easy access to your garage door even during the sun and rain due to its superb durability. It is not just weather resistant but also protected against intruders.
Q: Can a garage door opener activate lights?
A: Yes, most modern garage door openers are also associated with and can be configured to connect with the lighting system of your house or garage. Most universal garage door openers can be setup so that it can not only open or close your garage door but also activate garage elements such as the lighting.
Q: What’s the difference between belt drive and screw type drive garage door openers?
A: The screw and belt drive garage doors have big differences. For instance, if you have a screw type drive garage door opener, it is more suitable for ease of maintenance but they are not recommended for highly humid places because of the corrosion threat. On the other hand, if you own a bigger garage door then you can go for the belt drive garage door opener which is ideal for those who want a quieter door opening mechanism.
Q: Are garage door openers energy efficient?
A: Yes, most modern garage door openers and garage door mechanisms are designed to be cost effective and energy efficient due to the super secure locking style which is applicable for those who want to save up on their heating bill or want to keep the air conditioning intact in the garage.
Q: Can a smartphone be able to open up your garage door as a garage door opener?
A: The average smartphone does have the ability to open up a garage door and function as a garage door opener, if the garage door is compatible with your smartphone. Most of them use WiFi technology in order to connect wirelessly from your phone to your garage door.
Q: How long should a garage door opener function and be used before you replace it?
A: Typically, the garage door opener should be used for at least 20 years before you replace it. This is only applicable if your garage door went under normal usage and hasn’t gone through rough times or had some malfunction in it.
Q: Is it possible to open up a garage door even during a blackout or power outage?
A: Yes, most garage doors have an emergency cord that can be pulled during the times when the power is out and you need to access your garage door to use some items or get your car or vehicle out. This emergency cord is usually red in color and can be pulled to open up your garage door if it is an automated or electric garage door system. If you can’t find this cord, you can consult your user’s manual on where to find it.
Q: What should I do if my garage door opener remote control no longer works?
A: In this case, you can test the garage door opener with the use of small switches within the remote and the receiver. You can compare the switches between the two units to make sure that they are the same and not different at all. You can also consult your user’s manual for more details as not every manufacturer of garage door opener remote has the same method of troubleshooting the remote control. This is also the case if you have a universal garage door opener.
Q: Why is it important to lubricate a garage door opening mechanism?
A: If you have a chain style garage door opener then it should be lubricated because it will rust and will not function smoothly if not properly lubricated due to being made of metal or steel parts. The lubrication process can vary depending on the climate where your garage door is situated in or depending on the recommended amount indicated in the user’s manual of the garage door itself.
Q: What should I do if my garage door opener doesn’t open the door and the emergency cord also can’t open it up?
A: You can check your tracks to make sure that your garage door works smoothly. You can also check other parts such as springs and rollers and many other parts of your garage door to see if there is any malfunction. If this happens, you can opt for a tune-up for your garage door system.
Q: How often should a garage door system be inspected?
A: At least once a month, you should do a thorough visual inspection of your garage door to look for signs of wear and tear. Focus on the springs, rollers, pulleys, tracks and cables. If you don’t know how to repair a garage door opening mechanism then it is best to let a repairman do the job properly in order to repair your garage door opening system and have it perform at its best.
Q: Does a garage door opener transmitter require a battery to work?
A: Yes, most transmitters used in a garage door opener system require batteries so make sure you check the voltage of the battery from time to time if it is low on battery. Without the battery to power up your transmitter, the garage door opener will not work at all to open or close your garage door.
Q: Is it more applicable to buy a new garage door opener or stick to your old one and have it repaired?
A: You should look at the costs first and also consult the user’s manual if your garage door trouble can be solved with just a quick read of the manual. Some small problems can be resolved with just the end user while some may take a repairman to fix. However, if you figure out that the garage door opener is beyond repair or would take a lot of dollars to fix then it is more advisable to go for a new garage door opener instead.
Q: Should I do the installation for the garage door opener myself or have a technician do it for me?
A: It depends on your mechanical skills so it is only advisable to do it yourself if you have prior knowledge to installing things in the house and you feel like the user’s manual is quite easy to follow. Otherwise, it is still the best to get a door technician to do the job for you.

Wrapping It Up

Overall, the Clicker KLIK1U Universal Garage Door Opener is our best garage door opener if you want a pretty universal system for Overhead DOor, LiftMaster, Stanley and the like.