When it comes to garage door openers, the Craftsman brand is well-known among homeowners. But who actually makes Craftsman Garage Door Openers, and how good are they? Let’s take a closer look at the brand and its offerings.
Craftsman garage door openers are manufactured by the Chamberlain Group, a trusted name in the industry. Chamberlain is known for producing reliable and high-quality garage door openers and access controls. They own several reputable brands, including LiftMaster and Chamberlain, which are the most popular residential brands in their portfolio.
According to a 2018 report, Craftsman garage door openers account for 5.3% of all opener sales. While Craftsman openers are serviceable, they may not be the best choice compared to other brands like LiftMaster, which offers more popular and highly-rated options.
Key Takeaways:
- Craftsman garage door openers are made by the Chamberlain Group, a trusted manufacturer in the industry.
- Chamberlain also owns brands like LiftMaster and Chamberlain, which are more popular residential options.
- Craftsman accounts for 5.3% of all opener sales, indicating lower market share compared to other brands.
- While Craftsman openers are serviceable, LiftMaster is often recommended as the preferred choice for its superior quality and popularity.
- When considering a garage door opener, it’s important to explore all available options and consult with professionals to determine the best fit for your needs.
Craftsman Brand History
Craftsman, a renowned brand in the industry, has a fascinating history dating back 90 years. Initially, Craftsman emerged as a house brand exclusively available at Sears, where it gained recognition for its exceptional quality tools and machinery. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and durability earned the trust and loyalty of countless customers.
In 2017, Craftsman experienced a significant transition when it was purchased by Black & Decker, a prominent name in the power tools and home improvement industry. This acquisition marked a new chapter for Craftsman, allowing it to leverage Black & Decker’s expertise and resources to expand its product range and reach.
Today, Craftsman continues to maintain its reputation as a reliable and trusted brand, offering a diverse range of products that cater to the needs of DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. While Craftsman initially gained popularity for its tools and machinery, the brand has extended its portfolio to include high-quality garage door openers.
With its rich heritage and commitment to delivering innovative and reliable products, Craftsman stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and excellence.
Availability of Craftsman Garage Door Openers
If you’re in the market for Craftsman garage door openers, you have multiple options when it comes to where you can buy them. Craftsman products are widely available both online and in physical stores. Here are some of the places where you can purchase Craftsman garage door openers:
- Lowe’s: Visit your nearest Lowe’s store to browse and purchase a variety of Craftsman garage door openers. They have a wide selection to choose from, making it convenient for you to find the right opener for your needs.
- Rexel’s: Another reliable option is Rexel’s, where you can find Craftsman garage door openers in their inventory. Their knowledgeable staff can assist you in finding the perfect opener for your garage.
- Crown Hardware: Check out Crown Hardware, a trusted retailer that carries Craftsman garage door openers. They offer competitive prices and friendly customer service to help you with your purchase decision.
In addition to these physical stores, you can also buy Craftsman garage door openers from online platforms like Amazon. Online shopping provides the convenience of browsing and comparing different models, reading customer reviews, and getting your desired opener delivered right to your doorstep.
It’s worth noting that availability may vary based on location and stock levels. To ensure the most accurate information and find a local retailer near you, you can use Craftsman’s dealer locator tool on their website. Simply enter your zip code, and the tool will show you a list of authorized dealers in your area.
Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or want to see the product in person before buying, there are plenty of options available to purchase Craftsman garage door openers.
| Retailer | Availability | Online/In-store |
|---|---|---|
| Lowe’s | Wide selection | In-store |
| Rexel’s | Various models | In-store |
| Crown Hardware | Competitive prices | In-store |
| Amazon | Convenient online shopping | Online |
Table: Availability of Craftsman Garage Door Openers at Different Retailers
Comparison of Craftsman Garage Door Openers
When comparing Craftsman garage door openers to other brands, such as LiftMaster, Craftsman falls behind in terms of popularity and market share. LiftMaster is considered the superior brand, offering a wider range of features and options. While Craftsman openers are serviceable, many builders and homeowners prefer other brands.
Here are some notable differences between Craftsman and other top brands:
| Features | Craftsman | LiftMaster |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone Activation | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Backup | Some models | Most models |
| Noise Reduction | Decent | Quiet |
As the table shows, while Craftsman offers some desirable features like smartphone activation and Wi-Fi connectivity, LiftMaster surpasses Craftsman in terms of features and performance. LiftMaster also provides excellent noise reduction and includes battery backup functionality in most of its models, ensuring convenience and security even during power outages.
Durability and Reliability
When it comes to durability and reliability, LiftMaster has a stronger reputation compared to Craftsman. LiftMaster garage door openers are known for their heavy-duty construction and long-lasting performance. On the other hand, although Craftsman openers are serviceable, they may not offer the same level of longevity and reliability as LiftMaster.
Features and Technology in Craftsman Garage Door Openers
Craftsman garage door openers are equipped with a variety of impressive features and advanced technology to enhance your garage door experience. Whether you’re looking for convenience, security, or ease of use, Craftsman has you covered.
Smartphone Activation
With Craftsman garage door openers, you can now control your garage door using your smartphone. Simply download the Craftsman app and enjoy the convenience of opening and closing your garage door from anywhere, anytime. No more worrying about whether you left the door open or closed—it’s all at your fingertips.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Craftsman openers are designed with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing seamless integration with your home network. This feature enables you to monitor and control your garage door remotely, receive real-time notifications, and even connect with other smart home devices for enhanced automation.
Advanced Security Options
Your safety and security are paramount. Craftsman understands this and incorporates advanced security options into their garage door openers. These may include features such as rolling codes, encrypted communication, and multi-layer authentication to protect against unauthorized access and ensure peace of mind.
Quiet and Smooth Operation
Craftsman openers are engineered for smooth and quiet operation, minimizing noise and vibrations. Say goodbye to disruptive clanking and rattling noises when opening or closing your garage door. The precision-designed components provide a smooth and efficient performance, with minimal maintenance required.
Battery Backups for Added Convenience
Power outages can be inconvenient, especially if they occur when you need to open or close your garage door. Craftsman openers often come with battery backup systems, allowing you to operate your door even during power failures. You won’t have to worry about being locked out of your garage when the electricity goes out.
Comparison of Craftsman Garage Door Opener Features
| Feature | Craftsman | Competitor A | Competitor B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smartphone Activation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Advanced Security Options | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Quiet and Smooth Operation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery Backup | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
As shown in the table above, Craftsman garage door openers offer a comprehensive range of features that align with and often surpass those of their competitors. With Craftsman, you can enjoy the convenience, security, and peace of mind that their advanced technology provides.
Considerations When Choosing a Garage Door Opener
Choosing the right garage door opener is essential for the smooth and efficient operation of your garage. To ensure you make the best choice, consider the following factors:
1. Price
Garage door openers come in a range of prices, so it’s important to establish your budget beforehand. Determine how much you are willing to spend and look for options that fit your price range.
2. Noise Reduction
If noise is a concern, opt for a garage door opener that offers noise-reducing features. Look for models that promote quiet operation, minimizing disturbance to your household and neighbors.
3. Overhead Clearance Space
Ensure you have enough overhead clearance space in your garage to accommodate the specific type of garage door opener you choose. Some models require more vertical space than others.
4. Frequency of Use
Consider how often you will be using your garage door opener. If you anticipate frequent usage, it’s advisable to invest in a more durable and reliable model that can withstand the wear and tear.
5. Consult with a Professional
When in doubt, consult with a garage door professional. They can assess your specific needs, provide expert advice, and recommend the best garage door opener for your requirements.
By considering these factors and seeking professional guidance, you can make an informed decision and choose a garage door opener that meets your needs in terms of price, noise reduction, overhead clearance, and frequency of use.
LiftMaster vs Chamberlain vs Craftsman
When it comes to choosing a garage door opener, three popular brands often come to mind: LiftMaster, Chamberlain, and Craftsman. Each brand has its own unique features and advantages, making the decision-making process a bit overwhelming. In this section, we’ll compare these brands and highlight the differences between LiftMaster and Chamberlain.
LiftMaster: The Professional Brand
As a professional-grade brand, LiftMaster is known for its superior performance and durability. It offers a one-piece, solid steel T-rail that can handle heavy-duty garage doors with ease. LiftMaster is often the go-to choice for professional installations due to its reliable parts and labor support.
Chamberlain and Craftsman: Residential DIY Brands
Both Chamberlain and Craftsman fall under the residential DIY category, catering to homeowners who prefer to install their own garage door openers. These brands use a multi-piece drive rail, which may not be as sturdy as LiftMaster’s solid steel T-rail, but is still suitable for most residential applications.
While Chamberlain and Craftsman are popular choices for DIY installations, it’s worth noting that they don’t offer the same level of support and durability as LiftMaster.
Differences Between LiftMaster and Chamberlain
| Aspect | LiftMaster | Chamberlain |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | LiftMaster | Chamberlain |
| T-rail | One-piece, solid steel | Multi-piece |
| Parts and Labor Support | Excellent | Good |
| Professional Installations | Preferred choice | N/A |
While Chamberlain and Craftsman are suitable for most residential applications, if you’re looking for a garage door opener with superior performance and support, LiftMaster is the brand to choose. Its solid steel T-rail and excellent parts and labor support make it the preferred choice for professional installations and heavy-duty doors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Craftsman garage door openers are serviceable options, they fall short compared to other brands like LiftMaster. Craftsman lacks the popularity and market share that LiftMaster enjoys, which is a testament to LiftMaster’s superior quality and reliability. When choosing a garage door opener, it’s crucial to carefully consider the features, technology, and support offered by different brands.
While Craftsman openers may come with features like smartphone activation, Wi-Fi connectivity, and advanced security options, LiftMaster offers a wider range of options and better overall performance. Additionally, LiftMaster’s one-piece, solid steel T-rail ensures durability, particularly for heavy-duty doors.
For professional installations, LiftMaster also provides better parts and labor support, making it the preferred choice. Therefore, it is highly recommended to explore other brands, like LiftMaster, for the best performance and longevity in garage door openers.
FAQ
Who makes Craftsman garage door openers?
Craftsman garage door openers are made by the Chamberlain Group.
Are Craftsman garage door openers good?
While Craftsman openers are serviceable, they are not recommended compared to other brands like LiftMaster.
What is the history of the Craftsman brand?
Craftsman started as a house brand for Sears and was later bought by Black & Decker in 2017. The brand has a rich history dating back 90 years.
Where can I buy Craftsman garage door openers?
Craftsman garage door openers can be purchased from various retailers, such as Lowe’s, Rexel’s, Crown Hardware, and online platforms like Amazon.
How do Craftsman garage door openers compare to other brands?
Craftsman falls behind in terms of popularity and market share compared to brands like LiftMaster. Many builders and homeowners prefer other brands.
What features and technology do Craftsman garage door openers offer?
Craftsman garage door openers come with features such as smartphone activation, Wi-Fi connectivity, advanced security options, quiet and smooth operation, and battery backups for added convenience.
What should I consider when choosing a garage door opener?
Factors to consider include price, noise reduction, overhead clearance space, and desired frequency of use. Consulting with a garage door professional is recommended to explore all available options and identify specific needs and preferences.
What are the differences between LiftMaster, Chamberlain, and Craftsman garage door openers?
LiftMaster is the professional brand, while Chamberlain and Craftsman are residential DIY brands. LiftMaster offers a one-piece, solid steel T-rail for heavy-duty doors, while Chamberlain and Craftsman use a multi-piece drive rail. LiftMaster also provides better parts and labor support, making it the preferred choice for professional installations.
What are the final thoughts on Craftsman garage door openers?
Craftsman garage door openers are serviceable but fall behind in popularity and market share compared to other brands like LiftMaster. Consider factors such as features, technology, and support when choosing a garage door opener to ensure the best performance and longevity.