A simple garage door has undergone several improvements over the past decades. If you already find it convenient to use a motorized, remote-controlled door garage, then the benefits of equipping them with a smart system might make you think twice.
A smart door garage opener is an accessory that attaches to your existing garage door. It comes in a kit that includes the main control that attaches to your garage doors’ open/close mechanism, a sensor (or a couple of them) that lets the main control know the status of the door (open, close, half-way open), a built-in control panel and remote controls.
And for the “smart” part, has integrated Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to control it via your smartphone. Some models can integrate themselves with your smart home system so you can command your smart door garage opener using Siri or Alexa.
One thing you have to take note of about using a smart garage door opener is that since you are using an electronic device, it is heavily reliant on electricity. In the inevitable event that you encounter a power outage, your smart garage door opener should be able to still function. That is, you should look for a garage door opener that has a built-in power backup for times like this.
Why would you need a smart garage door opener? You can add another layer of safety to your home, and peace of mind to yours. You also have the option to close or open the door even you cannot find the remote control. With a voice command, you can close or open with, making it convenient for you when your hands are full at the moment.
In the era of smart appliances, who would have not benefited from the convenience of having these once “lifeless” gadgets at home do as you want them? And you can expect them to do such either automatically, with a press of a button, or with your voice. Now, the idea of making these appliances autonomous may sound weird and a bit scary for some, but, making them smart within your control is undeniably advantageous and helpful.
Are you looking for the best garage door opener? Here’s the result of our research – our three most recommended smart garage door openers that are available on Amazon.
| Name | Key Feature | |
|---|---|---|
| Genie StealthDrive Connect Model 7155-TKV– Editor’s Choice | Powerful connectivity via Aladdin Connect – Alexa, Google Assistant, Smart Things, BenchSentry, Car2U, Homelink, etc. | Check Price |
| Chamberlain B970T Smart Garage Door Opener | Equipped with Max Lift Power System – force equivalent to 1 ¼ HP | Check Price |
| beamUP Volta – BU850 | With motion-sensing technology that activates an LED system when it detects motion in your garage | Check Price |
Genie StealthDrive Connect Model 7155-TKV – Editor’s Choice
This smart garage door opener is pre-programmed to ease you with connecting it to your garage door. It comes in a kit with complete accessories and a detailed installation guide. It also has powerful hardware to boot that can seamlessly connect with your garage door’s mechanism.
The Genie garage door opener is compatible with Alexa so you can utilize its powerful voice command system. It also allows you to centralize your smart devices in one hub and use a system you are already acquainted with. This is possible with the Alladin Connect, the technology that bridges itself towards Alexa and other smart systems like Google Assistant and Smart Things (by Samsung).
In addition, this smart garage door opener is also compatible with Bench Sentry. This authorizes delivery carriers to open your garage door and have your parcels kept safe inside before it automatically closes again.
Aside from those mentioned connectivity options, this smart garage door can also seamlessly connect with both Car2U and Homelink systems. No need for a hub or other peripherals to do this so that you can immediately achieve the convenience of operating your smart garage door opener using your vehicle’s control system wirelessly.
Aside from advanced technologies concerning connectivity, this electric garage door opener also has powerful hardware to support its operation. First, it utilizes a garage door motor called Geniesense DC motor. This allows for a soft start and stops so that it will not easily wear out, therefore, prolonging the life of your smart garage door opener.
Next, the Genie StealthDrive Connect Model 7155-TKV comes with a 5-piece rail system that is made of high-quality and durable materials that work smoothly and quietly. The quiet operation will not interrupt your family’s activities, particularly rest and sleep.
This garage opener also has an integrated battery-powered backup system so it will remain functional in the event of power outages. You can have up to 50 cycles of operation after the outage, enough for a reliable and uninterrupted operation that is not just hassle-free but is also safe.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful connectivity via Aladdin Connect – Alexa, Google Assistant, Smart Things, BenchSentry, Car2U, Homelink, etc. | Commanding the unit through Alexa with extra words mentioning the Aladdin Connect is cumbersome |
| Voice command | |
| With built-in battery-powered backup providing up to 50 cycles | |
| Soft start and stop motor technology for longer motor life | |
| With ultra-quiet belt drive |
Conclusion
The Genie StealthDrive Connect Model 7155-TKV has powerful connectivity that allows you to do more than just remotely controlling your smart garage door opener using your smartphone. The BenchSentry compatibility is a useful feature, too, the same as with the Homelink and Car2U.
Chamberlain B970T Smart Garage Door Opener
This smart garage door opener boasts convenience, power, and reliability. And it is also compatible with several smart applications so you can access it more conveniently.
The Chamberlain garage door opener is a Wi-Fi-enabled smart garage door opener. With the MyQ technology, you can receive real-time notifications when your garage door is open or has closed, including a time-stamp. This wifi garage door opener can also be controlled remotely with your smartphone by up to three of your most trusted family members. Designating access to trusted people can help you during emergencies, as well as convenience you when you have them as your guests at home.
This smart garage door opener comes with a powerful software encryption system that prevents unauthorized access and hacking. The included wireless keypad comes with the Posilock anti-theft system that keeps the garage door locked without your command or correct password.
Aside from the MyQ app in your smartphone, you can also use the 3-button remote control (2 pieces included) to open or close your garage door if you are within the 1,500-foot range. This remote control is tri-band.
Further, this smart garage door opener utilizes smart sensors that feedback the system when there is an obstruction below and automatically retracts the door before damaging anything or harming someone. A smart motion-sensing control panel is also included in the kit where it helps you interconnect the parts together (remote control, hardware, keypad) wirelessly. You can also use it to automatically open the lights when it receives your command to open the garage door.
Meanwhile, aside from convenience from smart features, the Chamberlain B970T Smart Garage Door Opener is also powerful enough to lift heavy garage doors. This automatic garage door opener is equipped with the Max Lift Power system that exhibits one of the highest lifting capacities (1 ¼ HP) in its league. And this smart garage door opener retains this kind of performance despite the harshest weather and climate conditions such as rain or snow.
Also, this smart garage door opener comes with a steel-reinforced belt drive. The materials are made to last and withstand time and outside elements. The belt drive is also quiet and works with the garage door seamlessly and smoothly.
For safety and increased reliability, the Chamberlain B970T Smart Garage Door Opener comes with a battery power backup that allows your smart garage door opener to remain functioning in the event of power interruptions or outages. You do not have to worry about being locked in your home during these times.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi enabled smart garage door opener | Isn’t compatible with Alexa |
| With built-in battery backup | A paid subscription to IFTTT is required |
| Quiet and smooth belt drive | |
| Equipped with Max Lift Power System – force equivalent to 1 ¼ HP | |
| Comes with remote control with a 1,500-foot range | |
| Compatible with Google Assistant and IFTTT | |
| Can work with Key (Amazon) and Wink |
Conclusion
The Chamberlain B970T Smart Garage Door Opener is easy to install and configure and with enough power to effortlessly bring the garage door up and down. Wireless connection is a breeze. Having motion-sensing lights is also a nice feature.
beamUP Volta – BU850
All of the products on this list are within the same price range with more similar features and a few different ones. This smart garage door opener is compatible with most smart home systems and requires no annual subscription fees.
The beamUP Volta – BU850 is powered by beam Home technology that allows it to be accessed and commanded via your smartphone and your home’s and vehicle’s smart systems. First, it is compatible with HomeLink, allowing your vehicle’s smart control system to integrate into your smart garage door opener. Next, this smart garage door opener works with Alexa, IFTTT, and Apple Watch and does not require annual fees to work.
Meanwhile, this smart garage door opener also uses a garage door sensor. Beam Home sends you a notification on your smartphone when the garage door closes or opens. It also utilizes motion-sensing sensors that scan your garage. When it detects motion, it automatically emits 3,000 lumens of illumination. You are not just getting a smart garage door opener but also an additional security device.
This automatic garage door is also equipped with a built-in battery backup in case of power interruptions to keep it working. You can also share access to an unlimited number of users.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Works with Alexa, IFTTT, and Apple Watch and does not require annual fees to work | Has a short Wi-Fi range so it needs to be close to your Wi-Fi source |
| Compatible with HomeLink | |
| Lifting power equivalent to 1 ¼ HP | |
| With built-in battery backup | |
| Quiet belt drive | |
| With motion-sensing technology that activates an LED system when it detects motion in your garage | |
| Allows you to authorize access to an unlimited number of users |
Conclusion
The beamUP Volta – BU850 is your multi-functional smart garage door opener that can also act as a garage security system.
Final Verdict
Electric garage doors make it easier for us to park our cars. But, smart garage door openers make it more convenient. They also add a level of security to your home by making sure no unauthorized persons will open your garage door. Therefore, the best one should have all the features related to convenience and security, which are both non-negotiables.
The best smart garage door opener on this list is the Genie StealthDrive Connect Model 7155-TKV.
The Genie StealthDrive Connect Model 7155-TKV is compatible with a lot of powerful smart home systems increasing your convenience. It works with voice command, connects with your vehicle’s smart control system, and has long motor life. This smart garage door opener also has a powerful built-in power backup battery.