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A CNET hands-on review names Chamberlain’s $379 Premier Smart Garage Door Opener with Camera as the most advanced home device tested this year. The unit combines an AI-equipped security camera, 2,000-lumen LED lighting, and extensive MyQ app controls, but requires professional installation and a subscription for advanced features.
A hands-on review published by CNET concludes that the Chamberlain Premier Smart Garage Door Opener with Camera ($379) is the most advanced home device its reviewer tested this year, combining a smart opener, an AI-equipped security camera, and 2,000-lumen LED lighting in a single unit. Reviewer Tyler Lacoma reported that the device improved his garage’s security, lighting, and door performance, though it requires professional installation and a subscription for its advanced features.
The unit, which runs on Chamberlain’s MyQ technology, is a replacement system rather than an add-on: the motor, at least some of the railing, the aligned sensor, and the wired-in controller all need replacing, while the garage door itself stays unchanged. Lacoma wrote that DIY installation is technically possible but that he “wouldn’t recommend it,” and that Chamberlain connected him with a local installer. That installer found the included railing was too short for his garage and swapped in compatible railing before completing what Lacoma described as a quick and smooth installation.
The system offers multiple control options: a wall-mounted controller, remotes, an outdoor keypad, and the MyQ app for remote operation from anywhere. The app supports alerts for door activity, timers that close the door after a set period ranging from a few minutes to an hour or two, and scheduled opening and closing. The system also works with HomeLink, allowing connection to compatible car dashboards, and supports Amazon Key-In Garage Delivery for one-time access so deliveries can be placed inside the garage. Lacoma noted he had not yet tested the Amazon delivery feature during his review period.
The reviewer’s test model included two LED lights rated at 2,000 lumens each, which he said were bright enough to light the entire garage on their own and could replace existing overhead lighting. Brightness cannot be adjusted, but users can toggle motion detection and set how long the lights stay on. The camera offers AI detection and adjustable motion zones covering the car, garage door, and side door. The new 1.4 HP motor and revised railing made the door noticeably quieter and smoother, according to the review. Lacoma also flagged drawbacks: some users may not want a garage security camera, advanced features require a subscription, and the unit is not suitable for side-mounted garage motors.
Why an All-in-One Garage Opener Matters
The review reflects a broader shift in smart home hardware toward multi-function devices that bundle security, lighting, and automation into a single purchase and app. For homeowners, the practical appeal is consolidating what would normally be three separate products — a garage opener, a security camera, and overhead lighting — into one professionally installed system, which Lacoma described as “a particularly potent home upgrade.”
Garages are also a common weak point in home security: they house vehicles and often connect to the house through a side door. The device’s alerts, timers, and automatic closing rules directly address the recurring problem of doors left open, while the Amazon Key-In delivery option targets package theft. However, the subscription requirement for advanced camera features means the full cost of ownership extends beyond the $379 purchase price, a factor buyers should weigh.
Chamberlain’s MyQ Ecosystem So Far
: “Chamberlain is one of the largest garage door opener manufacturers in the United States, and its MyQ platform has long offered app-based garage control, including integrations with delivery services and vehicle systems. The Premier Smart Garage Door Opener with Camera represents the company’s effort to fold AI recognition cameras and high-output lighting into the opener itself rather than selling them as separate accessories. Chamberlain offers several similar models in the line, including versions with one LED light instead of two. The review follows months of CNET testing across home AI products, security cameras, and sensors, which shaped Lacoma’s comparison.
“The most high-tech product of all ended up transforming my garage – and it could do the same for yours, if you’re willing to commit to an overhaul of your garage door and home security at the same time.”
— Tyler Lacoma, CNET
Untested Features and Open Questions
Several aspects remain unverified. Lacoma did not receive any Amazon Key-In garage deliveries during his testing window, so the real-world performance of that feature is unknown; he said he would test it later. The review does not specify the cost or terms of the subscription required for advanced camera features, so the total cost of ownership is unclear. Long-term reliability of the motor, rail, and camera was also outside the scope of a months-long review. Results may additionally vary by garage layout — the reviewer’s own installation required different railing than the kit included — and the system is incompatible with side-mounted garage motors.
What Buyers Should Watch For
Lacoma said he plans to test the Amazon Key-In delivery feature and report back on how it performs. Homeowners considering the system should first confirm their garage is compatible with a ceiling-mounted motor, budget for professional installation, and compare Chamberlain’s model variants — including single-LED and dual-LED versions — before purchasing. Prospective buyers should also verify the current pricing and requirements of the MyQ subscription for camera features, as those details were not covered in the review. Anyone replacing an older opener should have a qualified installer handle the motor, rail, sensor, and wired controller replacement, since the work involves heavy moving hardware and electrical wiring.
Key Questions
How much does the Chamberlain Premier Smart Garage Door Opener with Camera cost?
The reviewed model is priced at $379, according to CNET. Chamberlain offers several similar models in the line, and advanced camera features require an additional subscription whose cost was not specified in the review.
Can I install it myself?
DIY installation is technically possible, but the reviewer recommended against it. The motor, railing, aligned sensor, and wired controller all need replacement. A professional installer is advised, particularly because the included railing may not fit every garage.
Does the garage door itself need to be replaced?
No. According to the review, the garage door remains unchanged — only the opener motor, rail, sensors, and controller are replaced.
Can the LED lights replace existing garage lighting?
Yes, according to the reviewer. The dual-LED model he tested produces 2,000 lumens and lit his entire garage on its own, though brightness cannot be adjusted.
Does it work with cars and delivery services?
It is compatible with HomeLink for compatible car dashboards and supports Amazon Key-In Garage Delivery with one-time access codes. The reviewer had not yet tested the Amazon delivery feature.
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