A swinging or sliding gate enhances home security, but opening the gate requires you to leave your vehicle. This is when gate openers come in handy. We recommend the CO-Z Sliding Gate Opener for most homeowners, but it requires access to electricity. If that’s not possible, the GC GHOST CONTROL Solar Gate Opener is a good alternative, though pricier.
For insights on our top choices, see our reviews of the best gate openers for any property type below.
Key Takeaways
- Our top choice is the CO-Z Sliding Gate Opener, which features a straightforward design and comes with two remote controls that can open a sliding gate from up to 100 feet away.
- Gate openers typically cost between $200 and $1,500 on average, with basic single-swing openers starting around $200–$400. Mid-range dual-swing or sliding gate openers typically cost between $400 and $800.
- Key features to look for when shopping for a gate opener include the gate type and weight capacity, opening speed and duty cycle for usage frequency, remote access options, and safety features such as obstacle detection.
Top 5 Gate Openers
- CO-Z Automatic Sliding Gate Opener: Best Overall
- JIELI JY7 Automatic Sliding Gate Opener: Best Value
- GC GHOST CONTROL Solar Gate Opener: Best Solar-Powered Opener
- TOPENS Automatic Gate Opener: Best for Dual Swinging Gates
- Mighty Mule MM371W Automatic Gate Opener: Best for Single Swinging Gates
Compare Top Gate Openers
The table below highlights our top picks for the best gate openers, along with a few key features.
| Product | Image | Power Source | Usage | Threshold | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
CO-Z Automatic Sliding Gate OpenerCheck Price | | Hardwiring | Single-leaf sliding plates | Up to 1,400 pounds or 40 feet | 1 year |
JIELI JY7 Automatic Sliding Gate OpenerCheck Price | | Hardwiring | Single-leaf sliding plates | Up to 1,400 pounds or 20 feet | N/A |
GC GHOST CONTROL Solar Gate OpenerCheck Price | | Solar battery | Single-leaf swinging gates | Up to 900 pounds or 20 feet | 18 months for the kit, lifetime for the motor |
TOPENS Automatic Gate OpenerCheck Price |  | Hardwiring | Dual-leaf swinging plates | Up to 550 pounds or 16 feet | 1 year |
Mighty Mule MM371W Automatic Gate OpenerCheck Price |  | Hardwiring | Single-leaf swinging gates | Up to 550 pounds or 16 feet | 1 year |
Our Reviews of the Best Gate Openers
Compare the best gate openers with our in-depth reviews below. Each gate opener is easily available on Amazon.
Best Overall
CO-Z Automatic Sliding Gate Opener
Good for: Homeowners looking for one of the most well-rounded sliding gate openers.
This chain-driven sliding gate opener features a powerful 280-watt motor that moves gates weighing up to 1,400 pounds and spanning 40 feet at a speed of 42 feet per minute. These specifications make it ideal for heavy residential or light commercial uses. It includes two remote controls with a nearly 100-foot range and encrypted signals for enhanced security, plus the ability to program up to 25 remotes. You can also enhance the CO-Z Automatic Sliding Gate Opener with optional safety sensors that reverse the gate when detecting people or vehicles.
Pros and Cons of CO-Z Automatic Sliding Gate Opener
- Has an electricity-powered design
- Supports gates up to 1,400 pounds or 40
- Comes with a one-year
- Some customers feel frustrated with the opener’s mobile app
- Reviews mention hard-to-understand installation instructions
Key Features
- Power Source: Hardwired
- Usage: Single-leaf sliding plates
- Threshold: Up to 1,400 pounds or 40 feet
What People Are Saying About The CO-Z Automatic Sliding Gate Opener
Customers say the CO-Z Sliding Gate Opener operates smoothly with a powerful motor. The opener is praised for its easy installation, quietness, and value, but reviewers often criticize the setup instructions for the sensors and wiring. Most customers on Amazon experience smooth operation, but some face closing issues here and there. Tech-savvy users note that installation may need extra troubleshooting beyond the manual because of this problem.
Best Value
JIELI JY7 Automatic Sliding Gate Opener
Good for: A competitively priced gate opener with simple and easy-to-use controls for a heavy-duty, heavily used gate.
This sliding gate opener features a 280-watt alternating current (AC) motor with pure copper for smooth operation of gates weighing up to 1,400 pounds and measuring up to 20 feet in length. The opener uses Hall sensor technology for precise control without you having to install a complex limit switch to help performance. The system features thermal protection that shuts off power in the event of overheating and a manual clutch for emergency use. Remote controls have a 100-foot range, slide covers, and support up to 300 remotes. Installation provides 19.68 feet of roller chain to give extra wiggle room, and a side-mounted control board that minimizes magnetic interference for stable operation.
Pros and Cons of JIELI JY7 Automatic Sliding Gate Opener
- Exceeds some competitors with its 1,400-pound capacity
- Uses Hall sensors without requiring upper or lower limit adjustments, eliminating a common reliability issue
- Ideal for multiple users, with the availability to use up to 300 remotes
- No backup power
- Customers have reported difficulties with customer service
Key Features
- Power Source: Hardwiring
- Usage: Single-leaf swinging gates
- Threshold: Up to 1,400 pounds or 20 feet
What People Are Saying About The JIELI JY7 Automatic Sliding Gate Opener
This JIELI gate opener offers smooth, quiet operation, easy do-it-yourself (DIY) installation, and reliable weather performance, according to Amazon reviews. While considered good value for decent long-term use, some customers report that units stop working within a year or get stuck. Customer service from China is reportedly hard to reach, with email replies taking 1–3 days.
Best Solar-Powered Opener
GC GHOST CONTROL Solar Gate Opener
Good for: Homeowners who want a renewable-energy gate opener that doesn’t require hardwiring.
The GC GHOST CONTROL Solar Gate Opener manages single swing gates up to 20 feet long or 900 pounds, powered by a 10-watt solar panel and a 12-volt battery system. It operates with chain link, wood, or tube materials and includes smartphone control with compatible third-party devices. The opener offers up to 1,000 feet of remote range and installs without welding or high-voltage work, using standard tools and included brackets. This opener also carries an 18-month warranty on components and lifetime coverage on the motor and gear assembly.
Pros and Cons of GC GHOST CONTROL Solar Gate Opener
- Has a solar-powered design for eco-friendly homeowners
- Supports gates up to 900 pounds or 20 feet
- Comes with an 18-month kit warranty and a lifetime gate motor warranty
- Less useful for homeowners not interested in solar energy
- Customers have mentioned inconsistent performance and a difficult installation
Key Features
- Power Source: Solar battery
- Usage: Single-leaf swinging gates
- Threshold: Up to 900 pounds or 20 feet
What People Are Saying About The GC GHOST CONTROL Solar Gate Opener
Customers mostly leave positive reviews of the GC GHOST CONTROL Solar Gate Opener, praising its easy installation, clear instructions, and reliable operation over a 2–5 year period. Users appreciate the strong remote range, solar power, and customer support, though some have encountered minor alignment issues. Most reviewers consider this opener a good value and praise its build quality, but a few have reported durability problems or failures within months, resulting in mixed opinions on long-term reliability and warranty coverage.
Best for Dual Swinging Gates
TOPENS Automatic Gate Opener
Good for: Someone looking for a quiet gate opener with flexible installation and power source options for dual swinging gates.
Pros and Cons of TOPENS Automatic Gate Opener
- Has an electricity-powered design
- Supports gates up to 550 pounds or 16 feet
- Comes with a one-year warranty
- Customers have mentioned that the installation manual is missing some instructions
- Some reviewers have experienced long wait times with technical support
Key Features
- Power Source: Hardwiring
- Usage: Dual-leaf swinging plates
- Threshold: Up to 550 pounds or 16 feet
What People Are Saying About The TOPENS Automatic Gate Opener
Customers on Amazon find the TOPENS Automatic Gate Opener offers smooth, quiet operation, a great remote range, and sturdy build for extreme weather, even at -47 degrees Celsius in Canadian winters. However, reliability concerns include jamming arm assemblies, uneven closure in high winds, and occasional failures of the limit switch or control board. The manufacturer’s warranty service usually resolves these issues.
Best for Single Swinging Gates
Mighty Mule MM371W Automatic Gate Opener
Good for: A homeowner who prioritizes smart home integration.
Pros and Cons of Mighty Mule MM371W Automatic Gate Opener
- Has an electricity-powered design
- Supports gates up to 550 pounds or 16 feet
- Comes with a one-year warranty
- Some customers have reported that the opener broke after six months of use
- Reviews have mentioned finding the range of use shorter than advertised
Key Features
- Power Source: Hardwiring
- Usage: Single-leaf swinging gates
- Threshold: Up to 550 pounds or 16 feet
What People Are Saying About The Mighty Mule MM371W Automatic Gate Opener
The Mighty Mule has mixed customer reviews on Amazon. Many praise its easy installation, faster gate operation, and improved mounting system that simplifies programming and maintenance. Accessories like exit sensors and keypads are popular, and their cold-weather performance is reliable, especially when paired with solar panels and marine batteries. However, many customers have reported control board failures, short lifespans of 6–18 months under heavy use, and quality issues, such as poorly soldered antennas and units failing after the warranty period. Some recommend commercial-grade options for high-usage.
Gate Opener Buying Guide
This buying guide can help you gather important information about your driveway gate to choose the right opener. Learn more about the most important factors to consider when buying a gate opener.
Power Source
You can power automatic gate openers in several ways:
- Battery: These openers use a battery for power. They’re easy to install, but require the occasional recharge.
- Hardwired: Some openers use a powerful motor to move your gate. However, you must connect these heavy-duty openers to an electrical power source, which requires some electrical knowledge and more installation time.
- Solar: Solar-powered gate openers are eco-friendly because they turn the sun’s energy into power. The downside, however, is that the solar panel may not always collect enough energy to power the opener throughout the day and evening.
Some gate openers also come with several power options. For example, you may find a hardwired or solar-powered opener with a backup battery in case the power goes out or the solar panel doesn’t collect enough light on a given day.
Opener Type
Gates are divided into two categories: swinging and sliding. Most automatic gate openers are optimized to work with only one of these types.
- Sliding: Sliding gates move horizontally along a track. Openers for this type of gate utilize chain links to pull the gate.
- Swinging: Swinging gates feature one or two leaves, or the separate parts of the gate, that swing forward and backward, similar to a door. Openers for swinging gates frequently use arms or pistons to push the leaves open.
Gate Size
Automatic gate openers feature a gate size rating that indicates a maximum length in feet and a maximum weight in pounds the opener can safely control. If you don’t know the size of your gate, contact the manufacturer to obtain this information so you can make sure the opener you purchase can handle your specific model.
Frequency of Use
Before purchasing an opener, ask yourself how often you need to open and close your gate. Gates that open multiple times a day require a stronger opener than those that only open once or twice.
Interface
You can control gate openers in various ways. Some work using a keypad next to the gate itself. Others work with a gate opener remote control, a control panel in the house, or a mobile app. Generally, smartphone apps offer more convenience, while physical control systems, such as keypads, are considered more secure. Some automatic swing or electric gate openers offer multiple control options, allowing you to select the one that best suits your needs.
Many homeowners integrate these automated systems with doorbell cameras to create a comprehensive property entrance monitoring solution.
Home Security Tips
An automatic gate is not only convenient, but it’s also important for home security. Whether you already have multiple home security solutions or you’re beefing up your home’s security after a break-in, check out our home security pointers below.
- Always keep your doors and windows locked, even when you’re home.
- Choose a gate that’s made of strong and durable material, such as steel or iron. Burglars often use brute force to compromise gates. The heavier and stronger the material, the better.
- Don’t forget to lock sheds, unattached garage doors, and other auxiliary structures around your property, especially if they’re not fenced.
- While you’re out of town, enlist a trusted individual to look after your home. Common house-sitting responsibilities include collecting mail, watering plants, and feeding pets to give the appearance that someone is home.
- If you’re traveling, keep an eye on what you and your family post on social media. Sharing an itinerary for your upcoming trip or uploading a photo of your home with the house number visible are details burglars can use to plan a potential break-in.
- Install motion-detecting lights around the exterior of your home. Trespassers rely on darkness to sneak up on your home. Illuminating entry points can steer them away.
- Place your most important valuables in a fireproof and waterproof safe.
- Consider a security camera or smart doorbell to see who’s at your front door from your smartphone.
For a complete security approach, consider the following guides for DIY security system installation that can integrate with your gate entry system.
You can also install your own at-home security system.
Gate Opener Installation Guide
Installing an automatic gate opener improves security and convenience, typically taking 4–6 hours. The process involves attaching hardware, running electrical connections, and programming. Most modern openers are DIY-friendly, with pre-assembled parts and guides, and require only basic tools and skills.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Most homeowners can install automatic gate openers, especially for simple single or dual-swing gates near power sources. However, professional help is recommended for heavy commercial gates weighing over 800 pounds, complex electrical work such as new circuits or underground wiring, welding for custom brackets, or advanced safety features like vehicle sensors and intercoms. If your gate needs major structural changes or if you’re uncomfortable with electrical work, hiring a professional guarantees proper setup and maintains your warranty on your gate opener and even your gate itself.
Basic Installation Steps
The gate opener installation process typically follows similar steps regardless of the model you buy, starting with foundation prep and ending with programming and testing. It typically requires the use of simple tools such as drills, wrenches, and wire strippers, although the specific requirements may vary by manufacturer and gate type.
- Prepare the foundation: Pour concrete footings or install mounting plates according to the manufacturer’s specifications, checking for level surfaces and proper alignment with your gate’s swing path.
- Mount the opener mechanism: Attach the motor unit or actuator arms to the prepared foundation, following the specific mounting instructions for your gate type (swing, sliding, or dual gates).
- Install the control box: Mount the control panel in a protected location, typically within the recommended distance from the opener, on a nearby post or wall with easy access for programming.
- Run electrical connections: Connect the opener to the control box using the provided cables, and establish a power supply through either an AC connection, a battery backup, or a solar panel system, as specified.
- Attach gate hardware: Install mounting brackets on your gate and connect the opener arm or chain system, checking for proper alignment and clearance throughout the gate’s travel path.
- Install safety devices: Mount any included safety sensors, emergency release mechanisms, or obstruction detection systems in accordance with local safety codes and the manufacturer’s requirements.
- Program the system: Set limit switches or magnetic stops to define the gate’s open and close positions, program remote controls, and adjust the opening and closing speeds and delay timers.
- Test operation: Perform multiple open and close cycles to verify smooth operation, proper alignment, and safety feature functionality before putting the system into regular use.
FAQs About Gate Openers
Do gate openers work in extreme weather conditions?
Quality gate openers operate reliably in temperatures from -40 degrees Fahrenheit to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, with many units featuring weatherproof housings and thermal protection systems. Snow, ice, and heavy rain can affect performance, but most modern openers include safety features that prevent damage during adverse conditions.
What happens to a gate opener during power outages?
Most gate openers include manual release mechanisms that allow you to disconnect the motor and operate the gate by hand during power failures. Battery backup systems and solar panels can provide continued automatic operation during outages, though this equipment is typically sold as separate accessories.
What maintenance do gate openers require?
Basic maintenance includes monthly visual inspections, quarterly lubrication of moving parts, annual battery replacement (if applicable), and periodic cleaning of sensors and tracks. Most systems also benefit from professional servicing every 2–3 years to achieve optimal performance.
Do I need permits to install a gate opener?
Permit requirements vary by location, but most residential gate opener installations don’t require permits unless significant electrical work or structural modifications are involved. Check with your local building department and homeowners association for specific requirements in your area.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best gate opener recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
- Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of gate openers with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars on Amazon. We examined both positive and negative reviews, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers to understand real-world performance across various gate types, weather conditions, and usage patterns.
- Expert insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team reviewed and analyzed reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, consulted with subject matter experts in gate automation and security, and drew insights from reader contributions about their gate opener experiences.
- Final product selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued gate opener models. From there, we pared the list down by comparing each model’s feature set—including weight capacity, remote range, safety features, and power options—and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and gate installation scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY enthusiasts for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
