Garage Door Openers ----- Help me decide between two! (installed, compare, better)

[Thinking-man]

Hi,
as some of you may know, I'm working on a new garage and will have an 18x8' door installed.
Now is time to pick a garage opener!

help me decide between choice 1: Chamberlain's Power Drive® 1/2 HP Chain Drive Garage Access System and Accessories

or choice 2: Chamberlain's Whisper Drive 3/4 HP Garage Access System and Accessories

[Moby Hick]

I think 18' garage doors are hideous, but I like my Whisper Drive opener. It is indeed very quiet compared to the chain drive. Mine isn't so fancy (no smartphone app) and only lifts a decent 8' door, but still so much nicer than the chain drive. I can't say anything about longevity as I've only had it two years, but so far it is great.

[chet everett]

The belt drive setup is awesome, especially if there is living space above the garage -- HUGE reduction in noise & vibration with the belt.

[davebarnes]

More horsepower is better.

[sj08054]

If your door is wider than 16', I would go with 3/4hp. Even if it was only 16', I would go with 3/4 if it's a wooden door.

[caspian65]

I have 2 Liftmaster 3800 garage door openers, very quiet and flush mounted on the wall. No need for chains or belts.

[K'ledgeBldr]

Originally Posted by caspian65

I have 2 Liftmaster 3800 garage door openers, very quiet and flush mounted on the wall. No need for chains or belts.

I love jack-shaft openers-
Headroom is your friend especially if you use a lift!

[dedratermi]

more HP is not necessary when the door is installed and balanced properly. It does not matter the door size; only a single hand should be needed to manually open/close a door. Having said that I prefer the Chamberlain belt drive which uses a DC motor because it is so quiet and the belt-drive units are generally faster than chain.