The Craftsman 1/2-hp Garage Door Opener Belt Drive 53914 (Sears item 00953914000) is powered by a fairly wimpy 1/2-horsepower motor, but it does have a few features that make it worth considering. The most notable of these is its drive system, which uses a belt to lift or lower the door rather than a chain or screw drive.

Belt systems are often much quieter than chain drives, and although they're usually more expensive, they're a good choice for homes with a bedroom above the garage. This model, despite its superior belt drive, is actually less expensive than some chain drives. It comes with two remotes, which use a billion rolling codes to reduce the possibility of someone discovering the code to your unit. It also comes with a wireless entry pad so you can activate the door from outside the garage without a remote.

The Craftsman 1/2-hp Garage Door Opener Belt Drive 53914 has two lights and offers a lot more illumination in the garage than some one-bulb models.


Pros: Uses belt-drive system
Cons: Low power

Warranty
3 years, parts; 10 years, motor