What is the difference between chain drive, belt drive, and screw drive garage door openers?

Chain drive, belt drive, and screw drive garage door openers use different mechanisms to lift the garage door. Screw drive garage door openers are still available but are used far less often today. Most homeowners choose between chain drive garage door openers and belt drive garage door openers, with belt drive models being especially popular because they operate more smoothly and quietly while still providing strong lifting performance.