Guiding chickens in and out of the coop has never been this easy—you just need the perfect automatic chicken coop door!
Do you have chickens at home?
Perhaps you engage in some light poultry farming?
Are you worried wild animals will attack your chickens during the night?
If your answer to these questions is – yes. Then, you’ve come to the right place.
I also know for sure that…
You like to let your feathered buddies wander the whole day for the longest time and manually escort them back to their coop.
But in reality…
You’re not always available to check and protect your chickens. Guiding them to and from the coop every day has now become tiring.
Indeed, caring for chickens is a lot of work…
Now is the time to invest in purchasing an automatic door opener to save you time and effort while ensuring the safety of your feathered friends.
So…
Are you interested in looking for one but unsure what to buy?
Worry no more…we got you!
We’ve collected information to help you find the best automatic chicken doors. Read this ultimate review and find out…
- The seven best automatic coop doors,
- Choose between a timer, light sensor door, or both;
- Which ones are the most worthy of your dollar, most affordable, etc.
- And lots more…
Don’t chicken out…
Let’s get scrolling!
INTRODUCTION
Like many people across the globe, maybe you’re also drawn to doing tasks the traditional way.
Sure, you can take care of chickens manually for as long as you like and stick with older, proven methods.
But…
With all the technological improvements, it’s not a sin to try and explore them, right?
If you have the means to stretch your budget and purchase a product that will reduce your work in the long run…why not improve your coop and invest in an automatic coop door? We know you’re now more curious than ever… So let’s go ahead and get started!
Best Chicken Coop Door
Best Technology Automatic Chicken Coop Door – Editor’s Choice Award
RUN-CHICKEN Model T50, Automatic Chicken Coop Door
Material – Aluminum
Dimensions – 13.8 x 9.5 x 1.3 inches
Number of Doors – 1
Lifting Capacity – Up to 10 lbs
Manufacturer – RUN-TIGER LLC
Overall Score:
90
The Bottom Line:
RUN-CHICKEN Model T50 aesthetic communicates their strength and dependability. The rugged design looks robust, and the wider overlapping lip bottom when the door is closed makes it obvious that it’s a predator-proof coop door that will provide your chicken ultimate protection.Pros
- 2 high-quality AA batteries included (1-year battery life)
- Can withstand both low and high temperatures
- Waterproof
- Easy to install
- Has timer settings
- Has light sensors
- Good customer service
Cons
- Door malfunction
- Batteries might have slight problems in cold winter months
Summary
This heavy-duty aluminum door manufactured by Run-Tiger LLC might be the one you’re looking for. There’s a reason why it’s our EDITOR’S PICK!
Its easy installation, battery-powered, easily programmable push button works both in high and low temperatures. Plus its full aluminum doors and slider design add style to your coop.
This is suitable for people who have no patience for complicated installations. It will only take 10 minutes of your time.
It’s that easy!
You can also choose between the timer or light sensor. Then, the door will move by itself. With this, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your chickens are safely located where they are supposed to be throughout the day and at night.
And, you don’t need to worry about predators lurking over your chickens.
Since this beast works in an extreme environment (-10°F to 140°F), you can expect this door to function properly all year round.
Unfortunately…
Like any other great coop door, RUN-CHICKEN Model T50 is not perfect. We encounter problems related to the door not opening or closing on time. This sometimes encounters light sensor issues.
In terms of the battery…
You can use a 6V or AA battery. But, if you’re like us and know the difficulties of battery-powered electronics during the winter months.
Don’t worry!
The manufacturer suggested connecting a solar charger. By doing this, the battery’s internal temperature won’t drop and will continue to function normally in the cold.
Overall…
This beast is worth your penny. It may not be the most affordable, but it works great. Not to mention, it’s a carefully thought-out automatic door opener.
Plus, it has great customer service! Who wouldn’t want that, right?
Best Budget Automatic Chicken Coop Door – Best Value Award
JVR Automatic Chicken Door Coop
Material – Aluminum and Stainless Steel
Dimensions – 24.49 x 6.69 x 6 inches – Large hinged door: 11 13/16 in. wide, 12 9/16 in. high
Number of Doors – 1
Lifting Capacity – Up to 22lb
Manufacturer – JVR Online
Overall Score:
88
The Bottom Line:
JVR Advanced Technology Automated Chicken Coop Door can make your life easier without breaking your bank. This works using an AC cord and connects to solar power. It’s a great option if you want to cut down on electricity costs or if you experience frequent power outages in your area.Pros
- Large hinged door
- Easy to install
- Waterproof
- Programmable timer
- Product discounts are available
- Has sensor for chickens’ safety
- One year warranty is available
Cons
- Some find it difficult to program
- It’s not a self-locking door
Summary
SUMMARY:
With the product’s affordability, JVR Automatic Chicken Door is sure to give you the Best Value!
It has a large hinged door that could fit almost all of your chickens. It even fits ducks if you have a mixed flock.
With its easy installation and easy-to-understand programming instructions…
…you won’t need to spend much time setting it up. You can automatically set the door to open in the morning and close at night.
Wait, there’s more!
How can I ensure my chickens’ safety? You might ask.
This beast has sensors, so you don’t need to worry. It would immediately stop moving if it detected obstructions like chickens sleeping in the doorway.
In this way, accidents can be avoided.
Suppose you choose to power this device with solar energy?
In that case, you should connect it to a 20-watt solar panel and a 12 V/7 AH rechargeable battery.
However…
Like many automatic door openers sold worldwide, this can work fine while it lasts. It has also faced issues with the sensors failing to detect chickens nearby.
Overall…
This is the cheapest out of all seven featured doors on this list. Unlike our Editor’s Pick, it seems to encounter more problems with sensors and functionality.
Still, this beast does its job well. They also offer discounts, so hurry and check our Best Value!
Best Quality Automatic Chicken Coop Door – Top Pick Award
ChickenGuard Waterproof Automatic Chicken Coop Door
Material – Strong aluminum with 100% tough, durable recycled plastic.
Dimensions -13.5” x 13.39” x 3.9”
Door dimensions: 10” x 12”
Runners length: 23.5”
Number of Doors – 1
Lifting Capacity – Lifts 1kg/2lb up to 4kg/8lb
Manufacturer – ChickenGuard
Overall Score:
86
The Bottom Line:
The amazing automatic door opener keeps chickens safe around the world and gives you peace of mind. You won’t have to go outside in the cold to open and close the coop because this coop door has a controller and self-locking mechanism. Automate the door using both a light sensor and a timer. Meanwhile, push the button to do it manually instead. Lastly, boost your chickens’ safety with their new self-locking door kit.Pros
- Has weatherproof casing
- Low battery indicator
- Has LCD screen
- 4AA batteries are included (long battery life)
- Also include a USB cable connection to the main power
- Easy-to-use programmable timer
- Has easily adjusted light sensors
- A three-year warranty is available
- Comes with a self-locking door kit
Cons
- Difficulty working properly during cold weather.
- Motor functioning issues
Summary
With its superb features, this ChickenGuard’s best automatic chicken door is here to prove its Top Pick Award!
Worry no more!
This beast is easy to set up. Its electronics are fully covered with epoxy resin making it functional even in harsh environments.
It operates with an LCD screen, and it’s easy to use! It has options for setting the timer or using the light sensor (LUX) to make the door open automatically during the day and close at night.
You can still do it manually by simply pressing the button if you like.
But, wait, there’s more…
This battery-operated door opener has a self-locking door kit! It aims to provide additional security in raising chickens.
This door is ideal for you if you reside in harsh weather conditions and numerous predators. The onboard controller will close the predator-resistant self-latching door at night – even on the chilliest nights – to protect your chickens.
The best part…
ChickenGuard is offering their potential customers a three-year warranty plus a 100% money-back guarantee for the auto chicken coop door opener. This could make your purchase risk-free!
What do you think?
But of course…
Despite its good quality, this beast still faces some issues. It seems that this product has the tendency to not work properly during cold weather. Also, the motor might malfunction after a while.
Overall…
Out of all the seven products reviewed, this product is considered the most pricey.
But hey, it works fine and has a 3-year warranty! Not bad for an automatic chicken coop door.
Weighing all the positive and the not-so-positive traits of this product. The pros still outweigh the cons. ChickenGuard still does a good job and is considered a coop-changing purchase for many.
Best Easy Setup Automatic Chicken Coop Door
ChickenGuard “Extreme” Automatic Chicken Coop Pop Door
Material – Oak & Aluminum
Dimensions -3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches
Aluminum door: 30 cm x 40 cm/ 12 in x 16 in (with a pre-drilled hole for attaching the string)
Oak runners: 60 cm/ 24 in
Number of Doors – 1
Lifting Capacity – Lifts 1kg/2lb
Manufacturer – ChickenGuard
Overall Score:
84
The Bottom Line:
ChickenGuard ‘Premium’ Automatic Chicken Coop Pop Hole Door is here to keep chickens safe and sound, especially during the night. It’s designed with a beautiful white oak for the runners that will last between 8 & 10 years. Easy to use, highly dependable, and reliable to keep your feathered friends from dusk until dawn.Pros
- Weatherproof casing
- Secure and long-lasting
- Programmable timer and built-in light sensor for automating doors’ open & close function
- Easy set up
- Long battery life (4AA batteries included)
- Discounts are available
Cons
- Issues with product longevity
- Relatively pricey
Summary
ChickenGuard will continue to guard your feathered friends with another good quality coop door!
This ‘Premium’ Automatic Chicken Coop Pop Hole Door is another easy-to-use door and operates on an LCD screen.
Again, you can automatically set the door to open in the mornings and close during the night by setting the timer and using its light sensor (LUX).
Simply press the button if you like to do it manually.
Aside from that…
It claims to have a simple setup and longer battery life. This is a low-maintenance coop door as well.
Unlike the self-locking door kit of the previous coop door, this has the ChickenGuard Classic Door Kit that reduces the possibility of snagging due to coop door opening.
While we find this product worth it…
…there are still some who have issues with the product’s longevity. Some of their doors did not work for long.
But…
Like the previous coop door, this ChickenGuard backs this item with a 100% money back guarantee plus a three-year manufacturer warranty.
Many people love it and consider this coop door as something worth every penny. So, now is the time to check out ChickenGuard!
Best Lightweight Automatic Chicken Coop Door
ChickenGuard Waterproof Automatic Chicken Coop Door
Material – Aluminum; 100% tough, durable recycled plastic
Dimensions – 14 x 13 x 4 inches
Door dimensions: 10” x 12”
Runners length: 23.5”
Number of Doors – 1
Lifting Capacity – Up to 2.2 lb
Manufacturer – ChickenGuard
Overall Score:
84
The Bottom Line:
Predators cannot reach your feathered friends by lifting the coop door – thanks to the innovative self-locking wings. The wings are automatically released to lock the door after being fully lowered. Nothing needs to be done other than for you to unwind. This coop door is made of sturdy, resilient runners that are completely recyclable.Pros
- Easy to use
- Simple set up
- Has weatherproof casing
- Has LCD screen
- Has self-locking, predator-resistant, coop door kit
Cons
- Difficulty working in colder climates
- Motor functioning issues
Summary
This third featured ChickenGuard product, just like the others, is easy to use and set up. As usual, it has an LCD screen, options for a timer setting, and a light sensor (LUX) to automate the opening and closing of the door. You may also want to do it manually if you like.
You may ask…
This item and the previously featured ChickenGuard have premium sizes, but what’s their difference?
Hmmm… Good question!
This beast has an innovative self-locking, predator-resistant coop door kit. In contrast, the other has the classic door kit designed to prevent snagging when opening the door.
Unfortunately…
Like the other ChickenGuard, this premium-sized waterproof door faces motor functioning issues and difficulty working in cold weather.
But…
This is a great product, especially if you have problems with predators attacking your chickens at night. Between the two premium-sized doors, you may choose either of them depending on your budget and liking. They’re worth buying anyway.
So, check them out and decide.
Best Durable Automatic Chicken Coop Door
ChickenGuard ‘Standard’ Automatic Chicken Coop Pop Door
Material – Oak
Dimensions – 26.77 x 12.99 x 3.46 inches
Aluminum door: 30cm x 40 cm/ 12 in x 16 in
American White Oak runner length: 60 cm/ 24 in
Number of Doors – 1
Lifting Capacity – 1 kg/ 2 lb
Manufacturer – ChickenGuard
Overall Score:
86
The Bottom Line:
This ChickenGuard ‘Standard’ Automatic Chicken Coop Pop Door is another easy to use and easy to set up. It has options for either programmable timer settings or manual operation. It’s also equipped with its classic door kit to reduce snagging. Indeed, this automatic door is tough and will last long.Pros
- Easy to use
- Has LCD screen
- Simple setting up
- Long battery life
- Low maintenance product
- Offers product discount
Cons
- Lesser product features
- Product longevity issues
Summary
We’re down to our number six coop door on the list!
While the previous items are either sized premium or extreme, this automatic chicken coop door is a standard-sized item.
Just like the other doors mentioned…
This also claims to have a simple setup and is easy to use. This operates on an LCD screen.
Also has the classic door kit, which aims to reduce snagging when opening the door.
Not only that…
This automatic door, compared with the rest of the ChickenGuard products, is the most affordable.
So, if you have a certain budget to spend on an automatic chicken door, this could be for you.
While it’s an affordable option…
…compared with other Chickenguard items sized premium and extreme, this standard automatic chicken coop door is the most basic.
It only has a programmable timer, lifts 1kg/2lb, and has batteries. Light sensors are only available in premium and extreme.
But overall…
If you purposely find the cheapest product on the market, this beast may be the best option.
If you’re okay with its simplicity and not looking for a more complicated one, I don’t see anything wrong if you pick this.
Best Lifting Capacity Automatic Chicken Coop Door
Solar Powered Chicken Coop Door
Material – Aluminum
Dimensions – 19.5 x 14.5 x 6.5 inches
Number of Doors – 1
Lifting Capacity – N/A
Manufacturer – Zogola
Overall Score:
80
The Bottom Line:
This Solar Powered Chicken Coop Door manufactured by Zogola has easy installations and is easy to use. You can control the automatic door in four different ways. Choose the light sensor, timer setting, remote control, or panel button. It can withstand extreme weather conditions. The door is also equipped with a rain shield. This automatic chicken coop door will protect your chickens with all these features.Pros
- It comes with solar panel, power cord and emergency battery box
- Upgraded energy storage battery
- Has timer function and light sensor
- Works in extreme weather
- Easy installation
- Easy to use
Cons
- Slight flimsy accessories
Summary
The last but not least of our featured coop doors is manufactured by Zogola.
This automatic chicken coop door comes with a solar panel. With it comes the power cord and an emergency battery box in case of power failure.
By upgrading their energy storage battery, the issue regarding charging is resolved.
Moreover…
This automatic door can thrive in harsh environments. It can withstand temperatures ranging from -4°F to 122°F. A rain shield is also provided for added protection.
There will be no more complications because this door is easy to use and set up!
But wait, there’s more!
They presented us with four options for automating the door’s opening and closing time. You can either choose the light sensing mode or maybe setting the time using the timer mode. You can also use the remote control or button on the panel to do so.
You might ask…
If I decide to buy it, what can I expect to receive?
For every purchase of this Solar Powered Chicken Coop Door, you will be given a chicken coop door, a solar panel, an adaptor, an emergency battery box, two remote controls, and one rain shield.
However…
Even with great quality products, this automatic chicken coop door is not spared from issues concerning functionality, etc.
Others experienced faulty units, while some find it difficult to navigate the product because of the little to no instructions provided.
But the best part is…
They care about you. That’s why they have set up a 24-hour online service and a 90-day exchange service to cater to all your concerns. Your satisfaction as their customer is their priority!
Section 3: Why Trust Us?
We know how much you value your chickens. You may have also invested much of your time and money for them.
For whatever reason you may have for owning chickens, the possibility of losing them due to predators is what we expect the least. Their safety is our top priority!
Plus…
We also know how tiring it can be at times. You should definitely get that extra hour of sleep in the morning!
We know of your struggles, so we collate opinions and give each product scores depending on how well they performed. So, we hope that this ultimate review will help you decide on your next purchase.
Section 4: Buyers Guide: How To Choose The Best Automatic Chicken Coop Door
What are the different types of automatic chicken coop doors?
In this review, we featured automatic doors made of aluminum, stainless steel, oak, durable recycled plastic, or even a combination of any of these materials.
You may also choose between solar-powered or battery-operated automatic chicken coop doors.
ChickenGuard automatic doors come in 3 different sizes. You can choose between their standard, premium, or extreme. Each of them has its highlights and limitations.
While the rest of the featured items have programmable timer settings and light sensors, only the ChickenGuard’s standard size is not integrated with any light sensors.
Moreover, these ChickenGuard products offer two options: classic door kits that aim to reduce snagging and the innovative, self-locking coop door that claims to be predator-resistant for added security.
Features to look out for
Many automatic chicken coop doors nowadays come with a lot of added features that are meant to help you take care of chickens more easily. Still, you should look for the following features when purchasing one.
- Weatherproof
You should look for this one, especially if you live in colder environments. You will want that automatic door functioning any time of the year.
- Power Source
Would you like your automatic door to be solar or battery powered? Choose what will work best for your coop.
- Materials
Do you have any specific product material in mind? You can choose between a single material or a combination of materials.
- Door automation
Do you want both programmable timer settings and light sensors? Or maybe only the timer settings function is what you prefer for your automatic chicken coop door?
These are things to consider
Aside from the budget, product dimensions should also be considered. Then again, the coop and the automatic door size should match.
Ask yourself…
When you decide to look for an automatic chicken coop door, what features do you really need?
Do you want a specific color? Will you need the fanciest ones available on the market? Or are you okay with anything simple yet functional enough to do the work?
Best Automatic Chicken Coop Door Top Tip(s)
Remember, not all cheap items flop. You can still get good-quality automatic chicken coop doors for a reasonable price.
In contrast, an item expensively priced also does not equate to an outstanding quality. The bottomline here is – to choose wisely.
You might want to check the available reviews, both good and bad. It will give you an idea of the product’s overall performance.
Of all the product listings, and after laying out all the available information we can find per item, the most important consideration in choosing the perfect automatic chicken coop door is still your preference…
At the very start of your hunting journey, what expectations do you have in mind?
After all, you know what’s best for your chicken coop.
We can only give you suggestions; in the end, you will still decide.
Section 5: FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q – Are automatic chicken coop doors safe?
A – Generally, all automatic chicken coop doors are safe. Like all great products sold worldwide, faulty and defective ones can also appear. You just have to carefully choose, so you do not waste money and lose chickens in the long run.
Q – When should I set my automatic chicken door?
A – It depends on you. When do you usually guide your chickens to and from their coop? You may use the timer to set up the exact time you want it to open during the mornings and close during the night. Depending on the type of automatic chicken coop door you have purchased, there are light sensors embedded in the chicken door that would automatically open once it detects morning light and closes when it’s already dark.
Q – How do I set my automatic chicken coop door?
A – Depending on your purchased automatic chicken coop door, a timer will be set to choose when it opens or closes. You can also rely on the light sensors to open the door once morning light is detected or close once it’s already dark. Some have remote controls on them or if you want, simply press the button to manually let the chickens out. With all these options, you can choose whatever fits you.
Round-Up
Section 6: Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
Keep scrolling for more details about why we chose each metric. This will explain why we gave such scores to the automated doors.
And if there’s a particular metric that you prioritize. In that case, the following tables will show you what coop door would work best for you.
Value for Money
We know that one of the biggest considerations is the budget.
And based on experience…
Not all expensive automated doors have the best quality. So, in this metric, we gave the highest scores to the doors that exceeded our expectations.
We’ll pay more if the product scores perfect Value For Money. That’s the kind of overall quality that we’re looking for.
In this case…
Our Best Value JVR Automatic Chicken Door Coop fits the bill!
Operating Mechanism
For a well-controlled opening and closing of the coop door, always choose a motorized lift and close.
The motorized lift and close should incorporate an electric eye or positive stop to protect your feathered friends from harm or injury.
To avoid predators from sliding open the coop door, it should ideally also have a little lip in front of the positive stop.
If this is your priority…
…our Top Pick by ChickenGuard, our Editor’s Choice by RUN-CHICKEN, and other ChickenGuard of different sizes might appeal to you.
Durability
Manufacturers claim that this is a top priority when designing their products.
But is it?
As much as we could, we tried to expose the automated doors to possible causes of damage.
Those that endured got the highest scores.
Namely…
… our ChickenGuard ‘Standard’, our Top Pick by JVR Online, ChickenGuard Waterproof (Premium), and Solar Powered Chicken Coop Door.
Size and Weight
For the door to operate smoothly, the motor shouldn’t be overworked.
Be certain of the door size you need before purchasing because some versions have varying sizes for the door entrance.
You’ll need a bigger door if you keep larger breeds of chicken.
Typically, a less expensive automatic door opener can lift and lower doors that weigh up to 1kg. Better, more durable motors can lift a 4kg coop door without exerting too much effort.
As you can see…
Our Best Value by JVR Online and ChickenGuard “Premium” towered over the others in this metric.
Features
You’ll find a lot of automated doors for chickens on the market that are high-quality, durable, and may come at affordable prices.
But only some of them have additional features that don’t only look cool but are also very useful.
You can find these features in our Editor’s Choice, RUN-CHICKEN Model T50, and Solar Powered Chicken Coop Door.
Our Final Verdict: Best Automatic Chicken Coop Door
Each of these automated chicken coop doors has its strengths and weaknesses. They excelled in some metrics but not so in others.
But overall…
The RUN-CHICKEN Model T50 gave us our best experience. It’s our Editor’s Choice because of its strength and dependability to provide your chicken ultimate protection.
In terms of price, however, our Best Value by JVR Online impressed us. It offers durability for such an affordable price.
Also…
Don’t forget about our Top Pick by ChickenGuard (Extreme) with its high-quality build and additional features – designed for any weather condition.
The others on this list have unique features and advantages, so make sure you check them out also!
Conclusion: Best Automatic Chicken Coop Door
Congrats. You’ve reached the end of this review!
Have you made your choice?
If we are to choose, we suggest you pick either the RUN-CHICKEN Model T50, Automatic Chicken Coop Door, or ChickenGuard ‘Extreme’ Waterproof Automatic Chicken Coop Door.
The former is our Editor’s Pick, while the latter is our Top Pick. They both scored the highest in our ratings.
But what sets this RUN-CHICKEN item apart is its great customer service.
Product malfunction can be masked by good customer service. You can gain loyal customers because of this.
But of course…
If you’re tight on your budget but still want a good quality item, this JVR Automatic Chicken Coop Door might be the best option. This has earned our Best Value Award.
Indeed, choosing the best product is time-consuming.
But whichever product you choose, we hope we can help you make a decision.
Now that you’ve decided (“Cock a doodle do… Cock a doodle do…” ), maybe your chickens are now needing your attention. You can shift your focus back to them.
Best of luck to you and your chickens.
Adios!
