These days, just about everything in your home can be controlled from your phone. And, thanks to some forward-thinking companies, that list also includes your garage door.
In this article, we'll tell you exactly how these smart garage door controllers work, give you the lowdown on our favorite garage door opening apps, and dive into just how safe these devices are.
Disclosure:It is important you understand that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. All opinions are our own we pride ourselves on keeping our articles fair and balanced. For more info see our disclosure statement.Can You use your phone to Open a Garage Door?
Yes! You can open your garage door via your smartphone - assuming you have the right app and connected devices.
Most garage door opening apps utilize a small wifi-enabled device that you can wire or wirelessly connect to your existing garage door opener box. More complete systems require a new smart opener box to be installed in place of your old one.
Both types connect to a specific app you can download to your smartphone. You can use these apps to open and close your garage, schedule openings and closings, and get notifications when your door is opened or closed.
This is a great home automation idea that has a lot of practical uses.
Check out the video below for more information on wiring a simple smart garage door opener into your existing box.
Phone App Controlled Garage Door Openers
Several companies make smart garage door systems now, with more jumping on the bandwagon every day. Below, we've outlined some of our favorite companies, including two simple add-on types and one complete system.
Best Smart Garage Door Openers
How Much Are App Controlled Garage Door Openers?
Smart garage door openers range in price depending on the system type.
The simplest systems wirelessly connect with your opener. These are the easiest to install and the cheapest but have limited features. They typically cost around $20 for the full package and app.
Wired-in systems that work with your existing opener are a little more expensive. These will typically cost between $50 and $60. Some installation is required, but it is still fairly simple to set up without professional help.
The most expensive option is a full smart garage door opener system. These typically include a wifi-enabled opener, safety sensors, remote controls, and a wall control that connect with a compatible smartphone app. These generally are more expensive than standard opener systems and run about $250 to $300.
Are Phone App Garage Door Openers Safe?
In general, yes, app-controlled garage door openers are safe. This is true whether you opt for a wireless, wired, or full smart opener system. Most of these products use advanced encryption for data transmission to keep unwanted guests from accessing your controls.
That said, wifi-connected openers are more at risk of being hacked than standard openers simply because they are connected to the internet. Bluetooth openers are the safer option but will not allow you access to your door unless you are close to home.
In either case, it is still much more likely that someone will break into your garage using brute force than by hacking your smart device.
Bottom Line: Phone App Garage Door Openers
When it comes to opening your garage door with your phone, you have plenty of safe, functional, and easy-to-use options.
For a full system upgrade, we recommend the Genie StealthDrive. This smart opener is wifi connected so you can control your garage door from anywhere. Plus, it comes with a battery backup and the reliability of one of the most popular garage door companies.
For something a little easier to install that still features all the great functionality of a smart opener, the Remootio system is the way to go. Turn your old opener into a smart opener in a few easy steps and control it from anywhere.
Have questions about garage door opening phone apps? Post them below!
