Chain-Drive Openers

Chain-drive garage door openers are inexpensive but noisy

If noise level isn't an issue, the least expensive and most popular garage-door openers are chain-drive models. Most of these come in 1/2- and 3/4-horsepower versions. The 1/2-horsepower motor is the most common type for residential use. It will work on one- or two-door garages. The 3/4-horsepower motor will provide more speed and power, but at a higher cost.

The least expensive garage-door openers start at about $130. We found good consumer reviews for the Chamberlain PD210D (*Est. $135). Most owners find it easy to install and durable. Extra features are limited but include a single-button remote control with rolling code security, which changes the code each time you use the opener so that the garage can't be opened by a neighbor's remote. A wall mount console lets you control the door and the light. Although this model uses a chain-drive motor, reviewers do not complain about the noise.

On up the price scale is the Craftsman 53990 (*est. $230), which, at this price, competes with screw-drive and belt-drive models. The main difference between this model and typical garage-door openers is its more powerful 3/4-hp motor. Owners say this unit is a good choice for larger and heavier doors, but that it works very well for regular doors as well. Overall, this model gets some of the best reviews of any garage-door openers. Owners say it is powerful, quiet and reliable.

The Craftsman 53990 garage-door opener comes with a remote keypad, two remote controls, an infrared safety beam feature and two overhead lights. The remote panel includes a motion detector so the light comes on when you enter the garage. Owners also say it is easy to install. Keep in mind that this model is virtually identical to the Chamberlain 3/4-horsepower Chain Drive (*Est. $170). The Chamberlain-branded model has the same features. Both Chamberlain and Craftsman units include two three-button remote controls that can control up to three separate garage doors. The only real difference between the two is that the Craftsman is a Sears exclusive, whereas the Chamberlain version can be found at Amazon.com, Lowes and other retailers.