There are many brands in the gate automation market. Italian brands are omnipresent and range from mid-range to high-end. These include FAAC, CAME, NICE, and BFT. Two French brands stand out: SOMFY and SCS Sentinel.
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These six brands are renowned for their gate operators. Whether you’re looking for an inexpensive motor or a high-quality one, you’ll find the best gate automation brand.
Somfy
Somfy developed the first tubular motor. Electric roller shutters and blinds were soon introduced into homes. The company has never stood still. The Research and Development Center is a major challenge, and innovation is at the heart of the group’s policy. The connected home challenge has been met.
Somfy guarantees durable and high-performance products. That’s why we recommend
Somfy gate automation systems on this blog. Somfy is the
best gate brand for home automation and connected gates .SOMFY – The best value for money
Slidymoove 300 and Slidymoove 600 for sliding gates up to 8 meters
The Somfy Slidymoove 300 motor is designed for sliding gates up to 5 meters long and weighing no more than 300 kg.
The Slidymoove 600 model, with the same specifications, is suitable for sliding gates up to 8 meters wide and weighing no more than 600 kg.
Whether you have an aluminum, iron, PVC, or wooden gate, this motor is ideal. Thanks to photocells and obstacle detection, the gate stops as soon as an obstacle is detected. Alternatively, the Slidymoove 300 has a partial opening or pedestrian function for use by bicycle or on foot. The motor can also be powered by a solar power kit if you don’t have access to electricity. The 230V Somfy Slidymoove 300 motor is rated for a maximum of 20 openings per day.
A major advantage for DIY enthusiasts is that a 3D animated manual is included and can be read on a PC or smartphone. The remote controls are pre-programmed.
Somfy Exavia actuator motor for swing gates
The Somfy Exavia actuator automation kit is capable of supporting wooden and iron swing gates weighing up to 500 kg (250 kg per leaf) and up to 5 meters wide (2.50 meters wide and high per leaf). The opening angle is 120°. At 90°, the gate opens in 16 seconds. The arms are self-locking. When the gate is closed, it cannot be opened from the outside. If you regularly leave your home on foot, by motorcycle, or by bicycle, you’ll be delighted with the pedestrian opening or partial opening.
The photocells allow the gate to automatically close 5 seconds after someone passes through. They also detect obstacles and stop the gate if a person or object obstructs the opening or closing.
The Somfy Exavia motor requires a 230V power supply.
A backup battery
can be added to take over in the event of a power failure. The motor can be unlocked manually.
As with other models,
stops are integrated
into the mechanism. You won’t need to install stops on the ground. FAACFAAC Company Logo FAAC is a pioneer ingate automation systems. It provides automation solutions in the
residential, collective, and industrial sectors and pedestrian and vehicle access control. See our review of the FAAC brand For the record, it was in 1965, in Italy, that the brand launched into gate motorization after a simple observation: gates always remain open when people are away from home. From this, the first automatic handling system for FAAC gates was born: the 750 underground. Since then, FAAC has filed no fewer than 75 patents and created thousands of products. This makes it one of the most renowned brands in gate motorization.
FAAC is renowned for its hydraulic systems. Innovation and creativity are at the heart of their high-end products. The company is particularly distinguished for its performance and fast openings. FAAC – Robustness and reliabilityFAAC C720 motor for sliding gates The FAAC C720 motorization kit is suitable for sliding gates up to 400 kg. It is very robust and offers a mechanical efficiency exceeding 80%.
This FAAC C720 features magnetic limit switches and a “Master/Slave” function. To increase safety, photocells reverse the gate’s movement when it encounters an obstacle. An anti-crush device is also installed. FAAC 740 Automation Kit for Sliding Gates The FAAC 740 motor is designed for residential sliding gates. It can support sliding gates weighing up to 500 kg.
In terms of security, it offers the following options:
and an anti-crushing device. This system detects the presence of obstacles using photocells and automatically stops or reverses the gate’s movement. The FAAC 740 operator is equipped with a self-locking system. This eliminates the need for an electric lock. Furthermore, in the event of a power outage, the release device allows the gate to be opened manually. A key is required to unlock the operator.The gate can be fully or partially opened. The partial opening is adjustable during installation. FAAC 391-390 Articulated Arm Motor for Swing Gates After the sliding gate operators, let’s move on to the FAAC 391 articulated arm motor kit.
The FAAC 391 24V motor supports gates up to 4 meters long, or 2 meters per leaf and up to 5 meters with an electric lock.
The FAAC 390 model is powered by 230V.It can support gates with a maximum leaf width of 1.8 meters or up to 3 meters with an electric lock.We also have a self-locking system. This means you won’t have to install an electric lock on your gate. Mechanical opening and closing stops also don’t need to be installed. The FAAC 391 and 390 have integrated mechanical stops.
A backup battery can be added.
optional so as not to block the gate’s operation in the event of a power outage. You can also manually unlock the gate to open it in the event of a power outage.
The FAAC 390 model is the best
swing gate operator.
CAME CAME company logoAfter FAAC, we’re back in Italy with the CAME company. CAME, for Costruzione Automatismi Meccanico Elettronici, was founded in 1972. The company also designs gate automation, access control, and home automation systems. See our review of the Came brand.
Today, the group is a benchmark in
gate motorization.
More than innovation, quality and performance are the brand’s hallmarks. Each product undergoes numerous, extremely demanding tests with the sole aim of providing a reliable, high-performance, and robust product. And for good reason: Came products are subjected to extreme conditions, equivalent to 10-15 years of intensive use. In addition, electromagnetic interference tests are implemented to ensure the product’s perfect operation.
The world-renowned company has expanded its initial offering of gate automation systems to include a more comprehensive range of accessories, including videophones, intercoms, and home automation. CAME: HIGH-END, specific motorization: CAME Fast 70 articulated arm automation system The CAME Fast 70 articulated arm automation system is a benchmark.It can be used to equip gates with complex installation configurations, such as large stone pillars. All gates up to 2.3 meters wide per leaf and weighing no more than 300 kg per leaf can be powered by the Fast 70 motor. End stops are integrated to facilitate installation and masonry work. The CAME Fast 70 motor features integrated slowdown and obstacle detection.
In the event of a power outage, A release lever allows manual opening of the gate.CAME Stylo with compact arms for swing gates
The CAME Stylo motor was designed to be mounted on columns with minimal space requirements. The posts must be at least 8 cm wide. It is the ideal motor for small spaces.
The swing gate leaves can be up to 1.8 meters long and weigh a maximum of 150 kg.
In addition to taking up little space, being discreet and attractive, the CAME Stylo motor can be installed directly against a wall with the STYLO-BD accessory.
Like its counterparts, the device features photocell sensors to stop the gate when it encounters an obstacle and a key release system.
The maximum opening angle is 120°. BX74 motor for sliding gates The CAME BX74 automation kit is a model for sliding gates.
It can support sliding gates up to 400 kg and a maximum length of 14 meters. In addition to its impeccable quality and premium components, the motor is equipped with obstacle detection using photocells. All commands are then canceled if an obstacle is present.It is possible to partially open the gate thanks to the pedestrian opening feature. Very practical if you don’t need to open the entire gate.
Installation is very easy.
Adjustable feet allow for perfect adjustment.
NICE
Nice company logo Founded in 1993 in northeastern Italy, Nice is a company in the home automation sector. Nice offers automation systems for gates and garage doors, alarm systems, solar energy, and blinds and roller shutters. The company has a strong presence in the world of home automation. See our review of the Nice brand Nice France was the first subsidiary created within the Group in 1995. Since then, Nice products have been sold in over 100 countries.
Design, technology, and durability are the brand’s hallmarks. Nice, a globally recognized company, is particularly distinguished by its attention to detail and aesthetics. Indeed, it was the first company to focus on the value of design. Nice has won numerous awards for this.
NICE Robus 400 for sliding gates
The NICE Robus 400 motor for sliding gates is renowned for its robustness and reliability.
You can connect a backup battery in case of a power outage. It will take over until the power returns to normal.
A temperature sensor adapts the motor’s power to the weather conditions. Thermal protection is automatically adjusted. The NICE Robus 400 automation kit has a master/slave function and allows you to synchronize two gates. This is very useful if you have a sliding gate with two opposing leaves.
Like the other models, it features obstacle detection, end-of-travel slowdown, and a self-diagnostic system.
The Robus model is the best for sliding gates. It offers excellent value for money and high reliability.
NICE PopKit arm-operated motor for swing gates
The NICE PopKit arm-operated motor supports all swing gates up to 4 meters long, or 2 meters per leaf, and up to 200 kg per leaf, or 400 kg in total.
The aluminum anti-shear arms make this model very robust. The motor features obstacle detection and end-of-travel slowdown.
The NICE PopKit model allows for full or partial opening, like most of the models presented here. It can be manually disengaged with a personalized key in the event of a power outage. Backup batteries can also be housed inside the motor as an option.
The NICE Road 400 entry-level motor for sliding gates
The NICE Road 400 automation system, or RETROKIT, is an entry-level motor designed for sliding gates. All sliding gates up to 400 kg are compatible, and all standard options are included. All at a reasonable price. You’ll find the option to add a backup battery, full or partial pedestrian opening, obstacle detection using photocells, and a release system for power outages. Automation for swing gates: NICE Aria 400The NICE Aria 400 actuator motor kit is suitable for double-leaf gates up to 9 meters long and weighing up to 900 kg. This means a maximum length of 4.5 meters for one leaf and up to 450 kg for one gate. It opens in 18 seconds
and opening and closing stops are integrated into the system. No additional installation is required. Release keys
are included to open the gate in the event of a power outage.
A solar panel
can also be installed if you don’t have access to electricity.
Installation is simple: the motor is pre-wired and no soldering is required.
The NICE Aria 400 motor is compatible with windy areas.
SCS SENTINEL SCS Sentinel brand logo
SCS Sentinel is a French company located in Cholet and specializing in gate automation, intercoms, video surveillance, intrusion detection systems, alarms, home automation, and lighting. See our review of the SCS Sentinel brand
Newer than its peers, the SCS Sentinel brand was launched in 2002. It belongs to the Urment France Group. The consumer is at the heart of the company’s projects. The brand has made this its primary objective: to make everyday life easier for individuals by offering simple, high-quality products.One of SCS Sentinel’s flagship ranges is the OpenGate gate automation system. The brand offers high-quality motors accessible to the general public.
SCS Sentinel: The least expensive, high-quality system
The OpenGate 2 automation kit
SCS Sentinel offers its OpenGate 2 articulated arm motor, combining robustness and simplicity.The automation kit comes with a mounting template to facilitate installation.The kit’s remote controls allow for full or partial opening of the gate, also known as “pedestrian opening.” This is very practical if you don’t have a gate and the only entrance is your gate.
If you have children or pets, you’ll appreciate the photocells. This system automatically locks the gate when it is moving and an obstacle is detected. This SCS Sentinel OpenGate 2 motor is very smooth and quiet. It features a slowdown system at the end of the travel. All swing gates are compatible, whether made of aluminum, wood, iron, or reinforced PVC. The length must not exceed 5 meters (2.5 meters per leaf) and 500 kg, or 250 kg per leaf.
The Opengate 3 rack and pinion motor for sliding gates
All sliding gates, whether solid, openwork, or semi-openwork, can be motorized. Whether they are made of PVC, wood, wrought iron, or aluminum gates. The motor can support gates up to 5 meters long and weighing up to 500 kg. The gate can open to the right or left. And the motor allows pedestrian access.In addition, the OpenGate 3 rack-and-pinion system closes automatically after opening and a vehicle passes through. You can rest assured that your home is always secure and safe.
The OpenGate 3 has other options such as
slowing down at the end of travel
or manual unlocking in the event of a power outage. The two SCS Sentinel motors are the best value.BFT
BFT is a world-renowned Italian company. It was founded in Thiene, Italy, in 1981 and is now present in over 120 countries. BFT offers electromechanical and hydraulic automation systems for swing gates, automation systems for garage doors, sliding gates, and roller shutters, as well as access control, hands-free control devices, and parking bollards.
The company strives to be close to its customers and partners. It offers high-end, high-quality products. BFT has been part of the Somfy Group since 2004, a year since which the company has experienced a meteoric rise abroad.
Visit our detailed page on the BFT brand to learn more and discover our selection of the most renowned models.
BFT: performance and aesthetics
See our review of the BFT brand The BFT Virgo automation kit for swing gates The BFT Virgo 24V motorization kit is suitable for swing gates for residential use. Your gate must not exceed 2 meters in length and 200 kg per leaf. If you have a solid gate, be aware that the surface area of ââa leaf must be a maximum of 2.5 mÂČ.Thanks to a lever system, the BFT Virgo kit can be installed on large posts. It’s the ideal system.
Its opening angle is 120° and the operating time is 14 seconds. The motor has numerous options, such as end-of-travel stops and mechanical stops. This eliminates the need to install floor stops. The control unit
integrated into the motor provides slowdown management and pedestrian opening, allowing you to open only one leaf if you’re traveling on two wheels or on foot. In terms of security, the BFT Virgo automation system locks after each maneuver, preventing the gate from opening or closing. In addition, the motor is equipped with photocells. Thus, if an obstacle is encountered, the motor stops and reverses its movement. It is also possible to manually release your gate using a release key in the event of a power outage.
BFT ELI underground motor designed for swing gates
The BFT ELI motor is highly regarded and appreciated for its aesthetic appeal. Indeed, the motors are buriedand therefore invisible. It’s the ideal system if you value discretion
and don’t want to opt for an unsightly arm motor. The BFT ELI underground automation kit is suitable for all swing gates up to 4 meters long, or 2 meters per leaf, and weighing up to 400 kg (2 x 200 kg).
The electromechanical motor is equipped with a magnetic limit switch system for precision and use in all conditions. It also features integrated mechanical stops for even greater discretion.
Equipped with the BFT ELI motor, your gate will open in record time: 10 seconds at 90°. Underground motors require relatively extensive masonry work, and the purchase price is higher than arm or cylinder motors. This is a factor to consider when making your purchase. The ELI motor is the best underground gate automation. Hydraulic motor for swing gates: the BFT GiunoThe BFT Giuno hydraulic cylinder motor kit is perfect for intensive use. It is compact and robust and fits all swing gates, even the largest! The hydraulic cylinders are capable of operating a gate weighing up to 800 kg and 5 meters in length (2.5 meters per leaf).The cylinders open up to 110°. The opening time is quite long, at 20 seconds.
Like the brand’s other models, this BFT Giuno motor is equipped with magnetic limit switches, a self-locking system, and can be manually disengaged in the event of a power outage. In this regard, in the event of a power outage, it is possible to connect a backup battery to the brand’s 24V motors to ensure gate operation in all situations. BFT Deimos Motorization Kit for Sliding Gates Finally, let’s discover the Deimos motor for sliding gates with rack and pinion transmission. Suitable for residential use, this 24V motor is capable of supporting a sliding gate weighing up to 400 kg and measuring up to 8 meters. It features a mechanical lock for opening and closing, a magnetic limit switch, and a slowdown device at the end of the cycle. The photocells allow the gate to reverse its travel if an obstacle is encountered.
Pedestrian opening is standard and allows the gate to be partially opened for walking, motorcycling, or cycling.
Conclusion
FAAC
and CAME are the two
best brands for gate automation
. Their reputation is well established. All their products are reliable and robust.
Somfy targets a wide audience with motorization kits, as well as its ecosystem and home automation.
BFT , now part of the Somfy Group, offers high-end motorization solutions. The NICE brand focuses on the design and aesthetics of its gate motors. Finally, SCS Sentinel
focuses on the ease of use of its automation kits. The prices are affordable.
