Imagine your dog waiting at the back door, tail wagging, but you are stuck in a meeting or running errands. A smart pet door solves that, giving your pet the freedom to go in and out while you control access from anywhere. In this guide, we compare two leading brands: High Tech Pet and PetSafe. We will look at their flagship models the Power Pet Smart Roll Up Automatic Dog Door and the PetSafe SmartDoor Connected Pet Door, along with their companion collars and the classic PetSafe Electronic Pet Door. Whether you prioritize ultrasonic sensing, app control, or selective entry, this comparison will help you decide which smart door fits your home and your pet. For more context on how we evaluate pet tech, check out our Comparisons index.

Buying Guide

Access Control and Security

The core of any smart pet door is how it decides who gets in and out. High Tech Pet uses the MS-5 ultrasonic collar, which communicates only with its own doors. The Power Pet Smart Roll Up model offers four access modes: Enter Only, Exit Only, Full Access, or Locked. It also has Smart Detect, which senses your pet approaching and activates the door automatically, and Safe Return to prevent accidental lockouts. On the PetSafe side, the SmartDoor Connected Pet Door uses a SmartDoor Key or your pet’s microchip for selective entry. You can set custom schedules per pet and lock the door remotely from the My PetSafe app. The classic PetSafe Electronic Pet Door uses a collar key sensor and can program up to five keys. If security is your top concern, the Power Pet door also includes an added security panel for when the door is not in use and electronic locking that resists forced entry.

Smart Home Integration and App Features

Both brands offer app control, but the experience differs. The Power Pet Smart Roll Up works with an optional WiFi app that lets you open, close, lock, or manage access remotely. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Siri, so you can voice control the door. It also supports 24/7 weekly schedules for both entry and exit. The PetSafe SmartDoor comes with the My PetSafe app, which enables remote locking and unlocking, custom schedules per pet, and notifications when your pet uses the door. It also integrates with smart home platforms. The PetSafe Electronic Pet Door, however, is battery operated and lacks app connectivity. If you want full smart home synergy, the Power Pet and PetSafe SmartDoor are the ones to consider. For more on integrating pet tech into your home, visit our Pet Tech Guides.

Installation and Fit

Installation complexity varies. The Power Pet Smart Roll Up is designed for door mounting and includes a roll up panel that fits standard door sizes. The PetSafe SmartDoor and Electronic Pet Door are designed for interior or exterior doors, with wall installation possible via a separate kit. The PetSafe models use a flap style, while the Power Pet uses a rolling panel that lifts up. Consider your door thickness and material. All models require some DIY, but the Power Pet’s roll up design may be easier for those who prefer a motorized solution. The High Tech Pet MS-5 collar is a one size fits all with a 27 inch nylon strap, while PetSafe keys are waterproof and come with a collar strap.

Pet Compatibility and Range

Which pets can use these doors? The Power Pet Smart Roll Up uses the MS-5 ultrasonic collar, which works with dogs and cats that can wear the collar. The door senses the collar from a few inches up to 20 feet, with dual range control for entry and exit. The PetSafe SmartDoor works with cats and dogs up to medium size (the large smart door model is also available, but we have the medium here). It can be used with a Pet Door Key or your pet’s microchip, making it ideal for multi pet households with chip registered animals. The PetSafe Electronic Pet Door is designed for dogs up to 100 lb and can program up to five keys. The High Tech Pet MS-5 collar is compatible with all Power Pet doors as well as Sound Barrier and Yard Barrier sonic fences. Choose based on your pet’s size and your preference for collar based vs microchip based access.

Final Thoughts

Deciding between High Tech Pet and PetSafe comes down to your priorities. If you want a top of the line roll up door with ultrasonic sensing, smart home integration, and advanced safety features like obstical detection and safe return, the Power Pet Smart Roll Up Automatic Dog Door is an outstanding choice. For a more affordable, reliable app controlled flap door that works with microchips and offers remote scheduling, the PetSafe SmartDoor Connected Pet Door delivers excellent value. Both brands have companion collars that keep unwanted animals out and give your pet the independence they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a High Tech Pet door without the MS-5 collar?

No. The Power Pet door’s performance warranty only applies when using the genuine MS-5 collar transmitter. High Tech Pet does not certify third party transmitters, and the door may not work properly without the authentic collar. You can purchase the High Tech Pet Genuine MS-5 Automatic Smart Pet collar separately if needed.

Does the PetSafe SmartDoor work with existing microchips?

Yes. The PetSafe SmartDoor Connected Pet Door (medium) can pair with your cat’s or dog’s microchip. It also comes with a Pet Door Key for collar based access. This allows selective entry for up to multiple pets without needing extra collars.

How do I set a schedule for my pet door?

Both the Power Pet Smart Roll Up and PetSafe SmartDoor allow weekly schedules through their respective apps. For the Power Pet, you use the WiFi app to set 24/7 schedules for entry and exit independently. For the PetSafe SmartDoor, the My PetSafe app lets you create and change schedules per pet. In 2026, both apps have matured with reliable cloud syncing.

What size pet fits the PetSafe Electronic Pet Door?

The PetSafe Electronic Pet Door (large) is designed for dogs up to 100 lb. The door opening accommodates most medium to large breeds. For smaller pets, consider the PetSafe SmartDoor (medium) or a small model. Always measure your pet’s height and width before purchasing.