Belt Driven Motor

​A belt drive garage door opener is a type of mechanism used to open and close garage doors. It operates using a rubber belt to move the door instead of traditional chains or screws. Belt drive openers are known for being quieter and smoother in operation compared to chain-driven models. They are often preferred for homes where noise is a concern, such as attached garages or living spaces above the garage.

Chain Driven Motor

Chain drive garage door openers use a metal chain to open the garage door. More specifically, they implement a chain running assembly unit attached to tension springs that lift the garage door up and down. Lastly, thanks to being affordable and readily available, this style is widely used in residential garages.

Jack Shaft Motor

A jackshaft opener, also popularly known as the wall mount opener, ditches this chain and belt system. Instead, it uses a torsion bar system that connects the torsion bar shaft directly to the opener. This is what raises or lowers down the door. 

Chain vs. Belt: Noise

When comparing chain drive and belt drive garage door openers, noise level is a crucial factor to consider. Chain drive openers are known for their characteristic rattling and humming sounds as the metal chain moves along the track. While they provide robust lifting power, they can be relatively noisy during operation, which may be a concern for those with living spaces near the garage. On the other hand, belt drive openers offer a quieter alternative. The rubber belt in belt drive systems operates smoothly and quietly, making them ideal for homes where noise is a consideration. If minimizing noise disturbance is a priority, opting for a belt drive garage door opener may be the preferred choice.

Chain vs. Belt: Price

Chain drive openers tend to be more affordable upfront compared to belt drive openers. This is because they utilize a metal chain to lift and lower the garage door, which is a simpler and more economical design. On the other hand, belt drive openers utilize a rubber belt, which is typically quieter and smoother but may come with a slightly higher price tag. While chain drive openers offer a budget-friendly option, belt drive openers provide enhanced performance and quieter operation, making them worth considering for those seeking added convenience and comfort.

Chain vs. Belt: Strength 

When weighing the options between chain drive and belt drive garage door openers, it's essential to consider their strength. Chain drive openers are renowned for their robustness and durability. Their metal chains provide strong lifting power, making them suitable for heavier garage doors and frequent use. In contrast, belt drive openers utilize a rubber belt, which, although durable, may not be as sturdy as a metal chain. While belt drive openers can still handle most residential garage doors with ease, they may not be as well-suited for exceptionally heavy or oversized doors. Ultimately, the choice between chain and belt drive openers depends on the specific requirements of your garage door and your preferences for strength and durability.

Jackshaft vs Overhead 

When deciding between jackshaft and overhead garage door motors, understanding their differences is key. Jackshaft motors are mounted on the wall beside the garage door, rather than on the ceiling like overhead motors. This configuration frees up overhead space and can be advantageous for garages with low ceilings or limited headroom. Additionally, jackshaft motors offer quieter operation and are often favored for their sleek and compact design. In contrast, overhead garage door motors are mounted on the ceiling and are more commonly used in traditional garage setups. While they may require more overhead space, overhead motors are typically easier to install and maintain. Ultimately, the choice between jackshaft and overhead garage door motors depends on your garage layout, space constraints, and personal preferences.