While outdoor security cameras and driveway alarms alert you to the presence of visitors on your property, they won’t prevent trespassing or soliciting. And, while a gate will solve this issue, opening and closing a gate manually isn’t practical. Alternatively, an automatic gate opener works with swing-door-style gates and features powerful motors that open or close these gates in seconds.
They allow authorized users to control the gate via keychain remotes, garage-door-style remotes, keypads, and smart devices. This guide includes some important features to consider when shopping for the best automatic gate opener and the top models on the market.
- BEST OVERALL: Mighty Mule MM371W Automatic Gate Opener
- BEST BUDGET: CO-Z Automatic Sliding Gate Opener
- UPGRADE PICK: Ghost Controls Solar Dual Automatic Gate Opener
- BEST FOR SMALL GATES: TOPENS PW502 Automatic Gate Opener Kit
- BEST FOR LARGE GATES: Ghost Controls DTP1XP Automatic Gate Opener Kit
- BEST HEAVY-DUTY: ALEKO AC1400NOR Chain Driven Sliding Gate Opener
- BEST SINGLE-GATE: Ghost Controls TSS1XP Solar Automatic Gate Opener Kit
- ALSO CONSIDER: Gatexpert Automatic Sliding Gate Opener
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Automatic Gate Opener
While gate size and weight capacities are crucial factors to consider when shopping for an automatic gate opener, other characteristics, such as power source and remote controls, are also important when choosing an opener for your driveway or commercial space. Ahead, learn more about these critical factors.
Opener Type
Automatic gate openers come in two varieties, those that swing open and those that slide open.
- Swing gates open much like a door, swinging inward or outward to open. Most swinging gate door openers work with either single gate panels or gates with dual panels. Their controls allow the user to open one panel or both panels simultaneously. Dual versions require two mechanisms—one for each door—and are therefore more expensive. Some swing gate openers allow the door to swing open in either direction.
- Sliding gates consist of a single fence panel that slides open by following a track that runs parallel to the adjacent fencing or wall. Keep in mind that swinging models require more clearance to allow for the gate panel’s sweeping path than sliding models that hug the existing fence or wall line.
Gate Size & Weight
Assessing the gate’s size and weight is crucial to selecting the proper opener, as most electric gate openers are rated to handle specific loads and lengths. The longer the gate, the less weight the opener can handle. For example, an electric gate opener may be strong enough to handle a max weight of 900 pounds for a 5-foot-long gate and 300 pounds for a 20-foot-long gate. Many manufacturers include diagrams listing the weight capacity based on gate length.
Power Source
Automatic gates use a variety of sources to power the gate. Most sliding gate openers are used in commercial and industrial settings to open wide metal gates. As such, they have larger motors that can handle these heavier loads. These motors typically require a hardwired 115-volt electrical connection to power the motor.
Since swinging gates are typically located at the front of larger residential properties or on rural properties such as farms, they are not usually near a power supply, which makes hardwiring more complicated. With this in mind, most swinging door gates use a rechargeable deep-cycle 12-volt battery with a solar panel charger. This type of battery will generally work for about 100 uses on a single charge. In addition to not requiring hardwiring, this setup ensures that the gate works even during power outages.
Frequency of Use
Gate openers open heavy metal gates while enduring all manner of weather, which means these mechanical devices are put under a significant amount of stress and wear and tear. Additionally, it’s important to consider how often the opener will need to perform the task of opening and closing the gate.
Gates that are opened and closed twice a day—once in the morning and once at night—need to endure less wear and tear than a gate that must accommodate numerous daily arrivals and departures. Select a model that can handle the frequency of use of the gate.
Interfaces
Gate controls vary from model to model. Some gates are controlled locally via an adjacent keypad. The gate opens when the visitor or resident enters the correct code. Some gates can be hardwired to the home, allowing the user to control it from an interface inside the house.
Other gate openers connect to a smart device or smart home hub, allowing the user to open and close the gates via a smartphone or voice control when paired with a virtual assistant. While the latter offers convenience, an opener hardwired to independent controls is more secure as it is more difficult to hack.
Additional Features
While automatic gate openers have some very useful attributes, select brands also include some additional features for convenience, versatility, and reliability.
- Stop-and-reverse functions: This feature is critical to safety. An automatic gate opener should sense resistance when the gate is closing and respond by stopping and reversing. This safety mechanism prevents the gate from potential crushing injuries to animals or people in the path of the gate.
- Remote functions: Automatic gate openers use various remote controls, ranging from keychain remotes to garage-door-style remotes. Some models are even controllable via an app on a smart device.
- Infrared photo beams: An infrared photo beam detects approaching vehicles, automatically opening the gate in anticipation, and then closing the gate behind the exiting car. This technology is also used in stop-and-reverse functions, as described above.
- Auto-close: Some automatic gates close via a programmable automatic timer. The user sets the amount of time that should pass after the gate opens before it closes, allowing enough time for someone to pass through it but not so much time that it leaves the property unsecured.
- Loop detectors: Loop detectors are lengths of wire embedded in the ground or driveway that can sense the metal of a vehicle that drives over them. Once the loop senses the car, it sends a signal to the gate-opening mechanism. Loops are typically used on the ground inside the fenced or walled area to automatically open the fence when a vehicle is exiting the property. Safety loops are installed close to the gate to instruct the gate to stop or close if a vehicle drives into the path of a swinging gate to prevent the gate from hitting the car.
Our Top Picks
The products below take into account the above considerations to narrow the field to some of the best automatic gates on the market. They have large size and weight capacities and can be installed by a competent do-it-yourselfer.
Photo: amazon.com
With smart technology that allows the user to operate it via a smartphone app and ample weight capacity that makes it usable for most home applications, this automatic gate opener is one of the best on the market.
These days, most home security ties into smart devices, so it only makes sense that an automated gate should too. Mighty Mule’s model works with the Mighty Mule app, which uses Bluetooth technology to control the gate up to a half-mile away. When it’s coupled with a camera, the user can see who is at the gate and open it from a smartphone.
In addition to smart controls, this swing gate opener includes a small remote that operates the gate. It is also compatible with keypads and other types of remotes, which are sold separately. The Mighty Mule can handle gates weighing up to 550 pounds up to 16 feet long and is wireless, using a 12-volt battery and solar panel charger for power.
Product Specs
- Type: Swing gates
- Weight Capacity: 550 pounds
- Size Capacity: 16 feet
- Power Source: 12V battery and solar panels
Pros
- Smart technology integrated; Bluetooth connectivity and Mighty Mule app
- Controls the gate at up to half a mile away
- Remote included
- Wireless design
Cons
- Cranking amps and battery not included
- Some users have reported manufacturing defects
Get the Mighty Mule gate opener at Amazon, Tractor Supply, or The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
With its ability to handle long fences and a high weight capacity, this automatic sliding gate opener can carry big loads without asking for a significant investment. This affordable model will open a 40-foot gate weighing up to 1,400 pounds, making it suitable for commercial use. A powerful 280-watt motor smoothly opens the fence at a pace of 43 feet per minute.
Once open, the user can set it to close after 12, 24, or 36 seconds to maintain security. It comes with two keychain remote controls, which have a range of 100 feet. This system will support up to 23 remotes, making it ideal for businesses and small communities. This gate runs off of 110-volt power and must be hardwired.
Product Specs
- Type: Sliding gates
- Weight Capacity: 1,400 pounds
- Size Capacity: 40 feet
- Power Source: Plug-in 280-watt motor
Pros
- Suitable for commercial use
- Opens quickly at 43 feet per minute
- Programmable close timer
- Two keychain remote controls
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty with installation
Get the CO-Z gate opener on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
With its ability to open two gate panels without the need for wiring, this automatic swing gate opener is a worthy option for residential homes or rural farms. This setup includes two separate control arms, each of which can handle gates up to 20 feet long. Weight capacity varies depending on the gate’s length, from 300 pounds for a 20-foot gate to 900 pounds for a 5-foot-long gate.
Ghost designs its gate openers for DIY installation. This one runs off of a 12-volt battery charged by a 10-watt solar panel, so there is no complicated wiring involved. And universal brackets make attaching the controls to the gate easy. This model includes two two-button remote controls that can open one gate panel or both gate panels simultaneously.
Product Specs
- Type: Swing gates
- Weight Capacity: 300 to 900 pounds
- Size Capacity: 20 feet
- Power Source: 12-volt battery and 10-watt solar panel
Pros
- Universal brackets included
- Two two-button remote controls included
- Easy to install
- Opens one to two gate panels simultaneously
Cons
- Pricey
- Battery not included
Get the Ghost Controls gate opener on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Spending a lot of money on heavy-duty gate openers for smaller lightweight gates is overkill. This set of two gate openers is well suited to lighter duties. Each arm can handle a swing gate up to 16 feet long with a maximum weight of 550 pounds. This gate is also a good option for do-it-yourselfers with a kit that includes multiple brackets for installation on various gate types, ranging from wood to steel and vinyl in panel, tube, and chain-link shapes.
This versatile gate will also open inward or outward and offers several options for power. It includes a power supply that plugs into a standard outlet and works with a 12-amp battery and solar panel. Other features include a sensor that stops the gate if it encounters an obstruction and an adjustable auto-close feature with a range of 3 to 120 seconds.
Product Specs
- Type: Swing gates
- Weight Capacity: 550 pounds
- Size Capacity: 16 feet
- Power Source: Standard outlet, 12-amp battery, and/or solar panel
Pros
- Suitable for light-duty use
- Easy to install
- Suitable for multiple gate types
- Opens inward and outward
Cons
- Battery not included
- Solar controller not included
Get the TOPENS gate opener on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Large gates require a system that can handle longer spans and heavier weight. This model from Ghost boasts a max weight of 900 pounds, making it suitable for wood, steel, or iron gates, with a maximum length of 20 feet. Like Ghost’s other models, this automatic gate is ideal for DIY installation. It functions off a 10-watt solar cell that powers a rechargeable 12-volt battery, so no wiring is required.
A universal mounting kit fits most gate styles. This model also includes a remote with several useful features, including buttons that open one or two gate panels and a “Party” button that leaves the gate open for more extended periods to facilitate partygoers coming and going. This gate also has load-sensing technology, which causes the gate to stop in the event of an obstruction.
Product Specs
- Type: Swing gates
- Weight Capacity: 900 pounds
- Size Capacity: 20 feet
- Power Source: 12-volt battery and 10-watt solar panel
Pros
- Universal mounting kit; suitable for multiple types of gates
- Easy to install
- Remote control included
- Load-sensing technology
Cons
- Pricey
- Battery not included
- Conductor wire not included
Get the Ghost Controls gate opener at Amazon, The Home Depot, Tractor Supply, or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
For those that live in the wilderness or need a gate opener that can handle heavy-duty use, the aluminum allow ALEKO Chain Driven Sliding Gate Opener uses a socially-designed, 20-foot gate chain drive for opening and closing. Supporting gates of up to 1,400 pounds and 40 feet in length, this opener can operate with over 100 programmable remote codes with a wide distance range.
With its touch construction, this opener is resistant to corrosion and the elements while remaining lightweight and easy to install. This gate will stop automatically if there is an object or obstruction to prevent any unwanted damage and comes with automated vacuum cleaners that wipe the sliding gate panels clean of dust and debris. This model also includes a AC 110V motor, 2 remote controls, and a user guide.
Product Specs
- Type: Sliding gates
- Weight Capacity: 1,400 pounds
- Size Capacity: 40 feet
- Power Source: AC 110V motor
Pros
- Very durable design
- 100 programmable codes available
- Two remote controls included
- Automated vacuums and obstruction sensors included
Cons
Get the ALEKO gate opener at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
While many have a dual-gate opener setup in their driveway or commercial space, the Ghost Controls Solar Automatic Gate Opener Kit is for those that have single-gate panels only. Relying on a power supply from a 12V battery and a 10-watt solar panel, this option can be controlled via the three-button remote control from over 1,000 feet away. Supporting up to 900 pounds of weight, this opener can easily open gates of 20 feet long.
This model also includes Tube Gate Brackets for easy installation, a control box with a system controller, and opens and closes your gate quietly. As with some Ghost Control gate openers, this model also has GhostCode software to prevent unwanted interference from transmitters, keypads, or vehicles.
Product Specs
- Type: Swing gates
- Weight Capacity: 900 pounds
- Size Capacity: 20 feet
- Power Source: 12V battery and 10-watt solar panel
Pros
- Remote control included
- Can be controlled from over 1,000 feet away
- Ample installation hardware included
- Quiet operation volume
Cons
- Pricey
- Battery and AC transformer not included
Get the Ghost Controls gate opener on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
With its high weight capacity and ability to handle long gates, this stout opener is an excellent pick for sliding models. Gatexpert boasts a 1,800-pound weight capacity and 26-foot maximum length, making it suitable for heavy metal gates. The gate works via a single-button remote control with a 100-foot range that opens and closes the gate and will support up to 25 remotes.
An infrared sensor will stop the gate from closing to prevent injury or damage to property, and programmable controls let the user set an auto-close time of 12, 24, or 36 seconds. This model uses 115-volt power, requiring a hardwired electrical connection. A detachable clutch that disengages the gate from the motor serves as a backup, enabling the user to open the fence manually in the event of a power outage.
Product Specs
- Type: Sliding gates
- Weight Capacity: 1,800 pounds
- Size Capacity: 26 feet
- Power Source: 115-volt hardwiring connection
Pros
- Single-button remote control included; 100-foot range
- Can support up to 25 remotes
- Infrared sensor built-in
- Programmable auto-close timer built-in
Cons
- Some users report issues with the instruction manual
- May be tricky to install
Get the Gatexpert gate opener on Amazon.
Our Verdict
For a reliable option that works with swing gates, the Mighty Mule automatic gate opener is our top pick. The gate opener can support gates of up to 550 pounds and 16 feet in length, with smart technology integrated for wireless control and a remote control included.
The CO-Z automatic gate opener is a worthy and affordable alternative for sliding gates up to 40 feet in length, featuring a 1,400-pound weight capacity and 2 keychain remote controls.
How We Chose the Best Automatic Gate Openers
We researched the most sought-after automatic gate openers for your home security in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their type, weight and size capacity, power source, control type, ease of installation, and other special features included by top brands.
To ensure our list included the best automatic gate openers for multiple gate types, our selected picks are made for swing and sliding gate varieties, with options for single or double-gate systems. Whether you are looking for a light or heavy-duty opener, our featured picks can operate gates of 250 to 1,800 pounds and lengths of 12 to 40 feet. Many of our selected openers are powered by 12V batteries which can be charged hands-free with solar panels, while others must be hardwired or plugged in.
While some of the best automatic gate openers have wireless Bluetooth, smart connectivity, or apps, most come with remote controls that have wide ranges of up to 1,000 feet. Installation is simple for most of the gate openers listed above (except for those that require hardwiring) as many come with manuals for step-by-step help.
FAQs
If you have questions regarding operating an automatic gate opener, read on for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about these devices.
Q: Is a swing or sliding gate better?
While both gate types are viable for certain needs, sliding gates take up less space while opening and closing and they are harder to force open than swinging gates. However, swinging gates may be a better choice for residential or frequent use as they easily open and close quickly.
Q: Can I automate my gates?
Automatic gate openers function via remote control. Some models have an app, which allows the user the option to see an incoming guest through their hidden camera and open and close the gate with a smart device, such as a smartphone.
Q: Do electric gates have a manual override?
Some electric gate openers have a manual override, allowing the user to release the gate from the motor and open and close it manually. Keep in mind that electric gates with a manual override can also be easier to disable for unauthorized users.
Q: How do you install an automatic gate opener?
Many automatic gate openers are designed for installation by DIYers. They include universal mounting kits that attach the controller arms to many fencing styles, ranging from tubular metal farm fences to decorative wood and wrought-iron fencing.
Q: How much does it cost to automate a gate?
When installed professionally, a programmed and pre-assembled automated gate can cost $2,000 to $7,000 depending upon the size of the gate and the type. If you intend to automate a manual gate yourself, the cost for installation may be the price of the unit itself. If you intend to install it with professional help, it can cost $1,400 to $3,500.
