The 10 Best Hydraulic Door Closers

The Fortress Hardware Company FS-7600 (about $120) has two speed regulation valves, one to set the rate at which the door closes, and another for the final stage as it latches completely shut, allowing you to customize the experience to your precise wishes.

Despite its low cost, the Modrine XXL (around $32) can handle frames up to 47 inches wide and doors weighing 242 pounds, making it great for both interior and exterior applications. It's also easy to push open, so elderly customers won't have to struggle when entering.

The LCN 1260 (around $148) is available with an aluminum or dark bronze powder coating, so it can match the color scheme of your home or office. A hold open version is also offered for moving days when you're lugging heavy boxes back and forth.

The durable steel arm of the Lawrence LH816 (around $190) offers six levels of power to control the speed at which it returns, accommodating areas of light or heavy traffic. Both wood and machine screws are included to give you options when selecting where to put it.

The Dynasty Hardware 3000-ALUM (around $42) has the capability of a full-strength commercial option without taking up a lot of room, thanks to its compact screw hold spacing pattern. The result is a model that can be used both inside and outside on doors weighing up to 143 pounds

The Onarway Adjustable (appx. $30) allows a swing of up to 180 degrees, so it won't be a hindrance if mounted on an emergency exit, where it's important to use the entire opening. The low price is great, but it does require a lot of tools to set up.

The Fortress Hardware Company FS-1306 (around $26) comes with a life-size fitting template and video to walk you through the process of setting it to your desired specifications. However, be mindful that it is only suitable for regular arm installation.

If this is for the interior of your residence, you don't have to go with an expensive model. The Signstek Hinge (about $16) works for weights of 55 to 99 pounds, and the unit itself isn't heavy, either, so you won't need to hire a handyman to get it set up for you.

The extra-wide hook of the Kason 1094 (around $283) helps to overcome alignment problems and ensures the roller won't slip out of position. This model is ideal for a walk-in cooler or freezer, where you can't afford to make the mistake of leaving it open overnight.

For situations where employees are carrying heavy loads in and out of the office, it's a waste to keep one person on door duty. Luckily, the Dorence Modern (appx. $70) can be held in the open position, so you don't have to push it every time you want to walk through.