10 Best Gate Openers – Buyers Guide and Review
We all know that opening and closing gates is a thing of the past. After all, why you would do such a thing when you can get a best gate opener, a unit that will do this type of work instead of you. However, there are a lot of models out there, and each one is unique. That’s why you need help in making the right choice. This is going to be our mission, and we will reveal all the facts and recommendations you will ever need.
We went into deep waters to help you find the best options for everything in and outside your garage.
Top 10 Gate Opener models
Here is the comparison table showing the first 5 gate openers and how they compare one to another:
Here is the second table showing gate openers and how they compare:
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USAutomatic 020320 Sentry 300 Commercial Grade Automatic Gate Opener
The unit we have here is simply the best we were able to find. There are a lot of features you are going to appreciate. First of all, the gate opener can be powered using pure solar energy. If you install it in this way, you will get up to a 30% tax deduction. Sounds good because it is a stunning feature.
Keep in mind that the gate opener can be used for all gates up to 20 feet in length. The package is excellent and includes all the elements you will need. Besides, there are 2 remote controllers included. The warranty is impressive as well, and it is 3 years long.
Pros:
- Tax deduction advantage
- 2 remote controllers
- Easy to set up
- Warranty
Cons:
- A bit expensive
- The user manual is complicated
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Mighty Mule MM562 Automatic Gate Opener for Heavy Duty Dual Swing Gates
It isn’t difficult to understand why this model is so popular. The main benefit of having it is the heavy-duty capability. This means that the gate opener can be used for massive gates up to 850 pounds in weight (a single gate leaf). Installation is simple, and you can do it all by yourself. There is no need to hire a professional or anything similar.
The customer support is one of the best we encountered. They are helpful and always available. The unit is compatible with all gates up to 18 feet in length and supports 5W or 10W solar panel connectivity. You can get a tax deduction if using this power source.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty design
- Installation
- Customer support
- Weight load limit
Cons:
- Warranty
- Requires frequent adjustment
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Ghost Controls TDS2XP Heavy-Duty Solar Dual Automatic Gate Opener Kit
As you can see, this model comes as a kit rather than as a separate unit. What this means is that all users get all they will ever need. Let’s start with the basics. The gate opener is ideal for tube swing gates, and it comes with its own solar panel and a cable. Installation is reasonably simple, and you probably won’t need additional help.
The kit is massive and powerful. It can be used on all gates up to 20 feet in length. The warranty is decent, 18 months but if you register online, you will get 24 months warranty period. The model is available in several options suitable for single gates, dual gates, etc.
Pros:
- Massive package
- Value for money
- Powerful motor
- Several versions available
Cons:
- Weight load limit
- Basic warranty
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Mighty Mule EZGO-Solar Automatic Gate Operator
For some of you, this brand comes with an exciting name and decent gate openers. For others, it is the brand to consider. The bottom line is that all gate openers made by this manufacturer are powerful, come with the best customer support, and they are regarded as a shrewd investment. There are a few more things we must include regarding this model.
First and foremost, the gate opener is suitable for all gates regardless of their construction or material up to 18 feet in length. The weight load is 550 pounds. All of you will get a DVD with instructions on how to install the unit and what it can do. In the package, a 10 W solar panel is included.
Pros:
- Customer support
- DVD for installation
- Weight load
- Versatility
Cons:
- Battery compatibility issues
- Some hardware is made from cheap materials
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E8 400MM Stainless Steel Automatic Dual Swing Gate Opener
The value for money is one of the best we saw in the recent period. The gate opener is so powerful that it can be used for gates up to 1000 pounds in weight and up to 22 feet in length. We also liked the keypad, which is included and makes the overall unit look and perform a bit better. The exit push button is added as well.
The main elements are made from stainless steel so you can get a clear idea of how strong and durable they are. The model is suitable for most gates and considered a tax-free investment due to the fact it is a solar power source compatible.
Pros:
- Value for money
- Weight load
- Stainless steel construction
- Keypad included
Cons:
- Remote controllers
- A bit complicated to install
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Ghost Controls TSS1XP Heavy-Duty Solar Single Automatic Gate Opener Kit
It is a heavy-duty gate opener that comes with superb compatibility. You can use it as a replacement model for GTO, Mighty Mule, and many other brands. Installation is so simple that you don’t need advanced tools or anything like that. You will need a few minutes of your time.
One of the significant advantages is the low noise level the unit makes. It is extremely quiet regardless of with which size gate you paired it. The package includes 10 W solar panel and all the components you need for installation. Also, it can be used for gates up to 20 feet in length.
Pros:
- Quiet operation
- Compatible design
- Solar panel included
- Massive package
Cons:
- Not suitable for windy areas
- Poor customer support
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Mighty Mule Automatic Gate Opener for Heavy Duty Single Swing Gates
The unit in question can be paired with any gate up to 18 feet in length. The weight load limit is 850 pounds, which is impressive. The next best thing is the solar panel compatibility and the DIY installation. All of this means that you can get a 30% tax deduction.
You will like to know that in the package, you get a DVD with all the installation steps you need to take. The operation is quiet, and the attention to detail is at the highest level possible.
Pros:
- DVD with instructions
- Solar power compatible
- Massive weight load
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Slow
- Complicated adjustment
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Mighty Mule MMDIA30D Diamond Series Automatic Opener for Heavy Duty Dual Swing Gates
The model here has a lot to offer. Keep in mind that it is a bit smaller unit than others on the list, so it can be used for gates up to 16 feet in length. The maximum weight is 550 pounds. However, the gate opener is super-fast, and it will provide a 20% faster operation than most other units available on the market. It is an exclusive model designed and made for the 30th anniversary of the company.
Installation is simple and considered as DIY. You get all the elements in the package, so you will need a bit of time and nothing more. The gate opener can be used for all types of gates (wooden, steel, tube, etc.), and the overall installation process is the same. In a nutshell, the unit is a great alternative and suitable for most homeowners who want a reliable and durable gate opener.
Pros:
- Fast operation
- Comparability
- DIY installation
- User manual
Cons:
- Lack of advanced features
- For gates up to 16 feet only
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TOPENS A8 Automatic Heavy Duty Swing Gate Opener
The weight load limit is 850 pounds, and the gate opener can be used for all gates up to 18 feet in length. It is sturdy, durable, and considered as one of the best models out there. Installation is rated as DIY, and we didn’t have any issues installing the unit all by ourselves.
There are a few advanced features here. The first one is an automatic stop system that will stop the gate from opening or closing in the case of an obstacle. Then there is a reverse option. The last but not least important is the rolling code. The codes on the remote controllers are changed in real-time, and this makes it impossible for the burglars to get the code.
Pros:
- Rolling code
- Reverse operation
- Weight load limit
- Solar panel compatible
Cons:
- The solar panel isn’t included
- You may need help for the installation
10. TOPENS AD5S Solar Automatic Swing Gate Opener
There are no a lot of things we can say about this particular model. The first and the most important is the 40 seconds closing time with the obstacle detection. If there is an obstacle, the process will stop. The next best thing is a DIY installation. It is one of the simplest models out there when it comes to installation.
The safety is at the highest level. You get the rolling code capability, so the codes are changed after each use. We also liked the presence of 2 solar panels and eco-friendly ability. The last thing to add is the overall quality of the gate opener.
Pros:
- 2 solar panels included
- Rolling code
- Installation
- Obstacle detection
Cons:
- Slow
- Confusing instructions
First 5 best gate openers comparison chart
| 1. US Automatic 020320 Sentry 300 | 2. Mighty Mule MM562 | 3. Ghost Controls TDS2XP | 4. Mighty Mule EZGO-SOLAR | 5. E8 400MM | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | |
| Maximum Door Size Suitability | 20 feet(L) | 18 feet(L) | 20 feet(L) | 16 feet(L) | 26 feet(L) |
| Battery Type | 12V DC | 12V | 12V Lead Acid | Solar Powered | Solar Powered |
| Features | Comes with 2 remote transmitters | Solar capable if you buy a Mighty Mule solar panel separately | Comes with two standard remote transmitters | Perfect for single swing gates | Designed to work with dual gates |
| Maximum Door Weight | 1000 pounds | 850 pounds | 300 pounds | 550 pounds | 1200 pounds |
| Warranty | 3-Years | 18-Months | Lifetime warranty on motor and gear assembly, and 18 months for the remaining parts | 1-Year | 1-Year |
Buyers guide for the best gate opener
So how would you know is that specific gate opener the best for your home and your gate? One option is to purchase several models and then find the right one or to use our help. Below we will help you by revealing all the main factors that need to be considered when looking for a new gate opener. The same factors have been used in the reviews you saw earlier.
Gate length
The first factor to consider is the length of your gate. It can be 10 feet or 30 feet, and this is an important thing to know. Some gate openers are made for smaller gates up to 10 feet. Others are more suitable for more massive gates up to 20 feet. You need a gate opener that can be paired with your gate. If it is 10 feet in length, you don’t need a gate opener that is designed for 30 feet gates. If you have 20 feet gate, you cannot use a model with 10 feet limit.
Weight of the gate
Weigh of the gate is equally essential as the length. The same rules apply, and they are easy to comprehend. A bigger gate will have a higher weight, so you need a more powerful gate opener. A smaller gate is lighter, and it will require a more modest gate opener.
Type of the opener
Some gate openers are designed for sliding gates only. Others are made for swing gates. Take a look at your gate and determine its type. Choose the suitable gate opener. It is a simple process.
Power source
In essence, you can choose between two main types here. The first one is a power source gate opener, which will require a power outlet near the gate, and the second is solar power. Most new models can be operated with both power sources, and this is a significant advantage.
Keep in mind that you will need the power source near your gate. If there is no one, you will need a solar panel. Also, consider the solar panel wattage. Higher wattage is better.
Battery compatible
We liked gate openers that come with battery compatibility. What this means is that the energy will be stored in that very battery and used when there is no electricity. You won’t need to open or close the gate manually during the power outage.
Rolling code
Rolling code is essential if you want the highest level of safety. What this means is that the code used to ‘’tell’’ the gate opener to open or close the gates will be changed after each use. This makes it impossible for the burglars to get their hands on the code and open the gate.
Installation
You will need a simple to install gate opener if this is your first unit. If you have experience already, then you can get a more advanced and more complicated model. It is up to you. A useful addition is a CD or DVD with detailed instructions and all the steps you need to take.
How do gate openers work?
It is an impressive piece of technology, a gate opener. It is so useful so simple and so desirable. But how they work? Now we will help you understand this. The first thing to remember is that all of them can be divided according to the operational type. We have:
- Hydraulic gate openers- They use fluids to open and close the gate. The process is similar to hydraulic pistons or presses use, and they are more powerful.
- Electro models- Models of this kind use electricity and have an electric motor. They are newer and the most common type.
But, gate openers can be divided according to the type of opening or closing procedure. In this case scenario, we have three main types. They are:
- Articulated
They have the arm and open and close the gate precisely as you would. They will pull it out and push it back in place. The gate opener can be installed on the base or in the middle of a gate. Keep in mind that if you have a sectional gate, you need a model; with this compatibility.
- Underground
As the name suggests, these models are placed underground, and they can be installed in the idle or at the beginning of a gate. They are not very stable, but they are hidden, which makes them ideal for a specific type of user.
3. Sliding
They will slide the gate rather than pull or push it. These gate openers are extremely popular at the moment, and they are very desirable due to overall simplicity and practicality.
Each type of gate opener we have mentioned is different and will suit a specific type of homeowner. They all do the smoothing but in a different way.
Reasons to install a gate opener
Why would you install a gate opener in the first place? There are so many reasons, and probably you know a few of them already. But, there are a few of them you still don’t know about.
- Improved safety
A gate opener is the safest alternative at the moment. It can’t be opened accidentally or by burglars, which makes your home a much safer place. This is the first and for most of us the main reasons why we need a gate opener. To get the ultimate safety, look at the models with rolling code. They can’t be hacked or opener by anyone except you.
- They are convenient
Let’s imagine you are tired and you are heading back home from work. You must stop, open the gate, pass and then close it. This is an annoying and time-consuming task. Instead of this, you can use a gate opener and simply press a button.
- They increase property value
Yes, all gate openers will increase the value of your home. On the market in 2021, a simple gate opener can increase the value for up to $2000 or even more. On the other hand, they are simple to install, and they are more than just affordable. The same advantage applies if you pay for the installation, which can cost up to $100.
- A gate opener is an investment
A new gate opener will last for a decade or even more even if you use it every single day. As such, it is considered as an investment rather than a simple purchase. Add all of the reasons we have mentioned before, and you can get a clear idea of how and why a gate opener is essential.
Here is the video showing you how to install gate opener:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VfSuPvF2Zg
The final word
We helped you by revealing the best gate openers the safest and the most desirable models at the moment and also help you by showing which factors you need to consider to get the best one for your home. Now is your time to make the decision and get the best gate opener for your requirements. We believe it is going to be an easy task. After all, today you have learned all you need to know and something more.
Last update on 2023-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API