Chain drive and belt drive garage door openers are high-power mechanisms that allow your garage door to lift and lower when using your keypad, remote, or mobile app. Although both of these garage door opener types do the exact same job, they do that job differently. We’ll go over some of the key differences below. However, one aspect that these garage door opener types have in common is their durability. Many of the leading garage door opener manufacturers offer belt drive and chain drive openers because they are dependable and long-lasting.
As far as cost is concerned, belt drives typically cost a bit more than chain drive garage door openers. This is due to the differing elements that make up each operating system. Our expert team breaks down some of the key differences between a belt drive opener and a chain drive opener in our chart below.
Chain Drive
Belt Drive
Material | Chain drive openers operate on a metal chain, similar to the one found on a bike. | Belt drive openers operate on a steel-reinforced rubber, fiberglass, or polyurethane belt. |
Noise | Chain drive openers operate more noisily due to the metal chain-linked components rubbing against one another and producing a rhythmic vibration. | Belt drive openers operate significantly more quietly. This is a direct result of a lack of vibration and fewer metal parts. |
Strength | Sturdy chain drive openers provide extra strength and can be used to lift heavier doors. | Belt drive openers come with steel stands that equip them to lift heavier doors as well. |
Speed | Chain drives usually produce a slight bouncing motion before moving which slows down the opening or closing process. | Belt drive openers open and close very smoothly which allows them to open and close faster. |
Price | Chain drives are standard garage door openers and are cheaper in cost. | Belt drive openers are typically more expensive due to the varied materials used in their construction. |
Maintenance | Since chain drives are metal on metal, they require routine lubricating to ensure they are not generating too much friction and rust. | Belt drive openers do not require as much maintenance as chain drives. They only need to be lubricated once a year. |
Belt Drives vs. Chain Drives: Which is Better?
Both chain drive openers and belt drive openers offer many benefits. Your choice between the two is solely based on your home’s needs and your desired functionality in a garage door opener. If you want something that costs less and can lift a heavily insulated door, then a chain drive garage door opener is best for you. Conversely, a belt drive opener is a great choice if you need a garage door opener system that is quieter and requires less maintenance.
No matter what type of garage door opener you choose, Good Guys Garage Door Solutions would be happy to provide your garage door opener installation or repair. Our team is knowledgeable on all garage door systems and accessories, and can help you find the best opener for your home.
We love installing LiftMaster Garage Door Openers because they offer a wide range of high-quality belt drive and chain drive solutions. Ask us about their available products when you schedule your service! Are you ready to upgrade your home with a new garage door opener? Call Good Guys Garage Door Solutions to get the job done!
