The Best Portable Generators

Portable generators are a necessity for many homeowners, campers, and business owners. They provide backup power in the event of an emergency or outage, and they’re perfect for keeping appliances running during a power outage. However, with all of the different portable generator models on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you.

In this blog post, we will discuss the best portable generators available on the market today. We’ll cover what to look for when purchasing a portable generator, and we’ll provide reviews of some of the best models on the market. So if you’re in need of a portable generator, read on!

You and your family will benefit from a portable generator. You can power all necessary appliances and charge mobile phones. You’ll need to invest in a reliable generator. Outdoor tasks such as lawn mowing and residential construction projects are ideal for portable generators.

Because there are various aspects to consider, finding the best portable generator for your individual needs may be challenging. The type of generator – inverter or conventional – the fuel type, the fuel tank capacity, the warranty, the rated and maximum output, and the runtime are all factors to consider. All of these aspects combine to determine the generator’s price, which is a significant consideration. It must be inexpensive while also meeting all of the essential needs. Another thing to consider, especially if you’re shopping for a generator for your RV, is the noise level. It should also be small enough to fit in your RV or tent without too much space.

Top Best 12 Portable Generator

1. WEN 56200i 2000 Watt Inverter Generator – Editor’s Choice

WEN’s 56200i portable emergency generator is the most fantastic for residential use. It is powered by a single-cylinder 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine that delivers 2,000 peak watts and 1,600 operating watts, adequate to start large appliances like an air conditioner and refrigerator. The generator can run for six hours at 50% load. Even though the tank is only one gallon in size, it provides quite a performance. The generator has two 120V 20A 3-prong outlets, one 12V DC 8.3A outlet, and one 5V USB port.

It just has a recoil start option, but it’s simple enough to use without injuring your back or hands. Because the generator is EPA III and CARB certified, it can be used in California and other places across the country. With about 48 pounds, the WEN 56200i is easy to transport in an emergency or when planning a road trip. This generator has been verified as one of the quietest versions on the market by the US Department of Health and Human Services.

Because the generator produces small, consistent amounts of clean energy, you can use it to power your fragile gadgets. If you need extra power, you may connect two of these generators using a Parallel Connection Kit, which can be found online. It has a two-year warranty, which isn’t the finest on the market but is still superior to other models.

2. Honda EU3000iS Best Silent Portable Generator

This model is a famous brand for home generators due to its high quality and long-lasting products. Honda EU3000IS is one of the most significant inverter generators on the market, with a surge wattage of 3,000 watts. It will operate for 20 hours at 25% load before the 3.4-gallon tank needs to be refilled. You can use the generator to power a microwave, refrigerator, furnace, and air conditioner, among other equipment. It operates quietly at 50 dB(A), allowing you to sleep soundly and happily all night.

The generator has two start options: electric and recoil, so you may use whatever one is most comfortable for you. The generator’s advanced inverter technology allows it to create reliable electricity that may be utilized to power sensitive electronics like PCs and laptops. 

It comes with a DC outlet that may charge 12-volt automobile batteries. The generator’s other features include circuit protection, low oil alarm protection, and a USDA-qualified spark arrestor. Aside from that, Honda provides a three-year residential and commercial warranty with each EU3000IS purchase. It isn’t CARB-compliant or EPA-authorized. 

3. NorthStar Portable Generator 13,000 Surge Watt – Biggest Fuel Tank

The NorthStar Portable Generator can be one of the better choices if you want a portable generator that can run for hours on end due to its enormous fuel capacity. The Honda GX630 OHV engine is powered by a tank that can hold up to 11 gallons of fuel. With this configuration, the generator can generate 13,000 watts of peak power and 10,500 watts of continuous running power. As a result, powering your appliances should be a pleasure.

This model’s electric ignition enables more efficient starting and higher power in the early operation phases. You can also use the included meters to track performance. The generator even has several safety features. One is the closure due to low oil levels. The roll cage with anti-trip mounts is another option. You also receive a solid platform to keep the engine clean and debris-free.

Notably, the electric ignition method is a plus, but it necessitates the purchase of a separate generator battery, which might be problematic. In addition, the generator is one of the more robust solutions available. As a result, if you plan to relocate it frequently, the optional wheel kit may be required. Because the gasoline tank is enormous, the NorthStar Portable Generator is ideal for folks who don’t want to continue monitoring the fuel levels throughout use.

4. Westinghouse WGen7500DF – Best Dual-Fuel Portable Generator 

The Westinghouse WGen7500DF portable emergency generator is a powerful and modern 420cc Westinghouse OHV engine, making it the best portable generator for home use. You can use it with gasoline or propane because it is a dual-fuel generator. It has a surge power of 9,500 watts and a running wattage of 6,750 watts with gasoline. It has a surge wattage of 8,550 watts and a running wattage of 6,750 watts on propane.

The generator will run for 16 hours at 25% load on gasoline and 11 hours at 25% load on propane. The 6.6-gallon fuel tank on the WGen7500DF will keep your house running all night long without disturbing your sleep. A three-year home warranty and a one-year commercial guarantee are included. 

It contains five outlets, allowing you to run three large and two small appliances simultaneously. Two duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) outlets, two 5V USB ports, and a 120/240V 30A outlet are included (L14-30R). 

5. Champion Power Equipment 100302 – Most Robust Portable Inverter Generator

Champion Power Equipment has improved its conventional 3500-watt generator to make it 50 percent quieter and 20 percent lighter. It’s an inverter generator with a surge wattage of 4,000 watts and a running wattage of 3,500 watts that’s ideal for starting large appliances like air conditioners, furnaces, and refrigerators. The manufacturer reduced the noise by half by adding Quiet Technology digital inverter components to the generator. It operates at 64 dB(A), similar to two usually conversing. Because of its efficient mechanical design, it has a smaller physical footprint and is lighter.

The Champion Power Equipment 100302 weighs only 81.6 pounds, making it easy to transport on camping excursions or outdoor chores. The generator can run at 25% load for 17 hours when its 2.9-gallon fuel tank is full. You can rest confident that it will never let you down, thanks to its low oil shut-off sensor and 0.6-quart oil capacity. You may safely connect your sensitive gadgets, such as PCs, toasters, and coffee makers, to the generator because it only utilizes clean power with less than 3% THD.

It includes two 120V 20A residential outlets (5-20R), one 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), and one 12V DC automotive-style outlet, as well as battery-charging cables and a dual USB adaptor. You may also use a clip-on adapter to link it to another generator to double the power. With this product, you’ll get a three-year limited warranty.

6. Powerhorse Portable Generator 11,050 Surge Watt – Best value for the money

The Powerhorse Portable Generator is another high-output performer. This is primarily due to the DH457E’s powerful engine. It is equipped with a long-lasting cast-iron cylinder sleeve that protects it from damage. The 6.6-gallon gasoline tank is also noteworthy. The generator should run for roughly eight and a half hours on half load if there is adequate gasoline in the tank. Reduce the runtime by increasing the load.

A fuel gauge is also added to see whether you need to top up the fuel every time you turn on the generator. With the push of a button, the machine can be started electrically. However, if the need arises, a recoil backup can help you get out of a tight spot.

A control panel feature provides real-time feedback on factors like voltage, frequency, and others. You also don’t have to be concerned about tiny surges damaging your gadgets. A voltage regulator and a voltmeter are included in this Powerhouse Portable Generator, ensuring consistent output.

This generator’s outputs are also excellent, and you’ll likely have enough for your homestead or recreational vehicle. The two-year warranty should suffice if you’re using it at home or in your RV. This Powerhorse Portable Generator stands out by combining high power output, high-quality construction, an inexpensive price point, and excellent value for money.

7. DuroMax XP10000EH Dual Fuel Generator – Thickest Rugged Wheels 

In terms of price, the DuroMax Portable Dual Fuel Generator is only slightly more expensive than the Powerhorse Portable Generator. As a result, the performance in terms of peak and rated watts isn’t drastically different. This generator should also be capable of powering some of the house’s more powerful appliances. This DuroMax generator is a dual-fuel option, so the power may vary depending on which fuel you choose. If you’re using gasoline, the peak/rated watts are 10,000/8,000 if its propane output falls to 8,500/6,300 gallons per day.

The device offers the NorthStar Portable Generator a run for its money in terms of runtime, as they’re both rated to run for the same amount of time at half load. It also begins electrically by pressing a button. Another noteworthy feature is the silent exhaust, including a spark arrestor.

You won’t need to check the oil levels to know you need to refuel because it comes with an oil alarm light. A recharging indicator is also included in the generator’s design. Unlike most generators with optional wheels, this one comes with them as standard, and they’re tough and huge enough to handle whatever you drag it over. Because of the design of the wheels, this generator is ideal for customers who need to move the unit regularly through uneven terrain.

8. Generac GP2200i – Best small Portable Generator 

The Generac GP2200i is the most incredible portable generator for a residential power outage because it can run at 25% load for 10.75 hours. It has a surge power of 2,200 watts and a rated power of 1,700 watts. TruePowerTM Technology allows it to generate clean energy that may power a variety of sensitive devices. It’s a fully enclosed, compact type that only weighs 46.6 pounds, making it ideal for camping excursions and RV use. However, because it is hefty, it is not suitable for long-distance treks, so you will require assistance.

It has LED indicators that begin blinking when oil levels drop, indicating that the engine is about to overheat. It offers several charging ports for mobile phones and laptops. One L5-30R Twist Lock and one TT-30R, built explicitly for RV use, are other outlets. The generator’s choke, run and stop functions are combined on a single dial, making the start process easier.

It comes with a two-year residential warranty on parts and labor and a one-year commercial warranty. Because the generator is parallel-ready, you may link two of them together to double the power and run additional devices simultaneously.

9. Champion Power 100692 Inverter Generator – Best for little Tasks 

Because of its 2,000/1,700-watt power output, the Champion Power Equipment 20949 is ideal for modest chores. It’s a small portable generator device that can be carried in your hands if needed. It’s powered by a Champion 79cc engine and has only 1.1 liters of fuel capacity in the tank. Even at half-load, it still maintains an eight-hour runtime. The machine is equipped with an intelligent throttle that optimizes fuel consumption based on the load.

An electrical overload breaker also protects the generator against overload. Another top-tier feature is a similar function, which allows you to join a similar generator for higher power production.

A muffler is also supplied to keep the generator quiet when in use. A few things ensure that you get the most out of your fuel. This is in addition to the above-mentioned smart throttle. The fuel petcock, for example, prevents problems caused by stale gas. There’s also an oil watch warning system and a fuel gauge. This generator is designed for people who do not require a lot of power and want a very portable system.

10. Generac XD5000E – Ideal Portable Diesel Generator 

The Generac XD5000E is powered by a 435cc air-cooled 4-cycle vertical cylinder diesel engine that delivers 5,500 surge watts and 5,000 operating watts. During a power outage or extended road travels in an RV, you may run the generator for 24 or 12 hours and keep comfortable. It has a 14-inch steel cradle to protect the engine and other components.

The construction includes a lift that allows you to attach the generator to your car or trailer and transport it from one location to another. This model’s True Power Technology generates waves with a total harmonic distortion of 6%, which can power sensitive equipment without causing damage to delicate parts. The package does not include a battery, which must be purchased separately. 

Generac provides a two-year warranty for both commercial and residential customers. A portability kit, which includes handles, never-flat wheels, and a front foot, can be purchased separately to make transporting the generator easier. The one disadvantage of this model is its weight, which comes in at 252 pounds, but the wheels come in useful.

11. Sportsman GEN4000DF – Best 4000-Watt Generator 

The Sportsman GEN4000DF is a traditional generator with a 7 HP OHV engine. It has a peak power of 4,000 watts and a rated power of 3,500 watts. The generator comes with a built-in gasoline fuel tank, but you can also add a 20-pound propane tank with a runtime of 10 hours at 50% load. The tank must be purchased separately because it is not included. It also consists of three outlets, two of which are 120V AC and 12V DC. The generator can only be started by recoil, which might be inconvenient for the elderly or anyone suffering from back or shoulder problems.

The generator weighs 88 pounds and can be moved around on wheels, which you must purchase separately. It’s EPA-approved, but it’s not CARB-compliant, so it can’t be used in California or national parks. Putting 10 feet away from your home creates less than 69 dB(A) of noise. The generator produces a sound similar to two individuals chatting at an average volume.

12. DuroStar DS4000S – Budget Pick 

DuroStar’s DS4000S is a conventional generator with a 12.3-hour runtime at 50% load. It features a four-gallon fuel tank that will last for the entire night once filled. Two 120V 20 Amp 60 Hz-NEMA 5-20R outlets and one 120V 30 Amp 60 Hz-NEMA L5-30 outlet are available on the power panel, allowing you to run two large and one small appliance simultaneously. It is constructed with lightweight materials to be carried about in an emergency. You’ll need another person to assist you in lifting it because it’s 105 pounds.

The device has a peak power of 4,000 watts and a running power of 3,300 watts, enough to power large equipment like lawnmowers, refrigerators, and air conditioners. You can power any gadget, from the most delicate to the most powerful, without fear of hurting any sensitive components.

It can only run on gasoline, which can be inconvenient in an emergency. It’s also EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. The EPA-approved and CARB-compliant DS4000S generator, like all other DuroStar generators, is designed to be as ecologically friendly as possible. DuroStar gives a three-year home guarantee and a one-year commercial warranty on the purchase of the product. The box includes the oil funnel, spark plug wrench, toolset, and user manual.

Buying Guide

Choosing the best generator is challenging since you want a dependable device that is sturdy, operates all night, and is environmentally friendly. Most people use generators during large storms when there is a power outage, but some also use them for lawn mowing and outdoor DIY tasks. Others utilize portable generators when they go camping or RVing. The needs of each situation vary, and one generator may be acceptable for you but not for your friend’s home. Here is an in-depth shopping guide to assist you in making the best decision possible.

Type of Portable Generator: Inverter or Traditional

You can select between two types of portable generators: inverter and conventional. Each variety has its advantages and disadvantages, so the choice is entirely yours. In comparison to traditional generators, portable inverter generators are quieter. They usually produce noise of fewer than 60 decibels (A), which is quite enough for you to sleep through the night. With traditional generators, you’ll have to put up with more than 68 dB(A), which isn’t best if you have young children or older adults who have difficulties sleeping.

On the other hand, a traditional generator can be the best option if you’re on a tight budget. It’s also heavier, so you won’t be able to take it camping. Traditional generators are less environmentally friendly and aren’t always the safest option for powering sensitive electronics. On the other hand, big businesses have developed more environmentally friendly and discreet device-safe generators that you can use.

Honda EU3000IS, Champion Power Equipment, and WEN 56200i are among the most efficient inverter generators on our list. If you’re looking for a traditional generator, the best diesel generators are the Westinghouse WGen7500DF and Generac XD5000E.

What You Should Pay Special Attention to:

Output of Power

The amount of power output you choose is a personal option determined by your location. For example, if you reside in a remote area or in a place where there are frequent power outages, you’ll need at least 10,000 watts of power to run a typical family. The Westinghouse WGen is the best 10,000W generator available.

If you only require a generator for modest DIY projects or sporadic outages, a 2,000 to 5,000W generating generator will suffice. For such users, the Honda EU3000IS and DuroStar DS4000S are excellent options.

Fuel

Because these are portable generators, most of the models included on our list run on gasoline. Because gasoline is readily available, you won’t have any trouble finding it in an emergency. The fuel also extends the generator’s life, and if you’re interested in other alternatives that aren’t covered here, look into A-iPower generators since they have a lot to offer.

However, if you want to switch between fuels, the Westinghouse WGen7500DF, which runs on both gasoline and propane, is a good choice. You can easily swap between energies. Propane has a shorter runtime than gasoline, so it shouldn’t be your first choice. The Sportsman GEN4000DF is the most excellent propane generator on the market. Unfortunately, like any other propane generator, it uses a lot of fuel, so it isn’t the most environmentally friendly option, but it is still one of the best Sportsman generators.

The Capacity of The Fuel Tank

A good generator should operate all night so you don’t have to wake up to refill the tank in the middle of the night. We computed runtime at 50 or 25 percent load in our paper, assuming the tank is fully loaded. The Champion Power Equipment 20949 is a compact 2,200-watt portable generator that can run at 25% load for 10.5 hours. The Honda EU3000IS is another good generator that can run for 20 hours at 25% load.

Features that Ensure Safety

Low oil shut-off to prevent the engine from overheating, CARB compliance, and EPA approval are all essential safety features to look for in a generator. You can only use a generator in national parks and California if it complies with CARB regulations. Both signs indicate that the generator generates environmentally beneficial energy. Another sign of a safe generator is the amount of noise it makes. From a distance of 10 feet, it should be less than 60 dB(A). If the generator is too loud, it might generate noise pollution, which will bother you and the people around you.

Electric, recoil, and remote start are the three types of start choices available. Avoid recoil start generators because they need you to pull a cord to start the machine, which might strain your arm and back muscles. Another excellent alternative is the Generac XD5000E, which has two start options: electric and recoil. The Honda EU3000IS, which has two start options, is also good.

Ideally, the generator you choose should have an LCD that allows you to examine the amount of gasoline left in the tank, oil levels, and the number of watts utilized by various appliances. It should also make it simple to refill the tank and dispose of the used oil.

Noise

Generators produce a lot of noise, but some come with a muffler to help minimize it. Inverter generators are a great alternative if you wish to sleep all night soundly. At 53 decibels, the Champion Power Equipment 20949 is one of the quietest on the market (A). The Generac GP2200i, one of the top Generac generators, and the Honda EU3000iS are two more low-noise inverter generators. If you must buy a traditional generator due to price limits, get a muffler to lessen the noise.

Weight and Dimensions

Because we’re discussing portable generators in this article, the ideal weight is under 50 pounds. Because you’ll be taking it on road trips and camping, you’ll need a portable generator. The Yamaha EF2200iS is one of the lightest generators on our list, weighing 55.2 pounds. Regardless of the weight, you’ll need assistance carrying it.

More minor variants, such as the Champion Power Equipment 20949, are a good option if you don’t plan on taking the generator on camping excursions and just want to use it around the house. Larger generators, such as the Westinghouse WGen7500DF and the Honda EU3000IS, are designed for fixed use and weigh over 130 pounds. It can still be dragged around on its wheels to neighboring spots, although it isn’t suitable for camping vacations. Alternatively, because they feature RV-ready outlets and are fuel-efficient, you can mount them in your RV for long-term use.

However, if you believe that a portable generator is still not mobile enough for you, you may always explore portable power stations to see whether they meet your output requirements.

Customer Service and Warranty

Obtaining the warranty terms is the best approach to determining whether the generator is a good fit for you. Residential warranties should last three years, and commercial warranties should last one year. The generator is more robust if the warranty is longer. Because it comes with a three-year domestic and commercial guarantee, the Honda EU3000IS is the best portable 3,000-watt inverter generator. The domestic warranty on the Champion Power Equipment 100302 is only three years. The DuroStar DS4000S is another excellent option, with a three-year home guarantee and a one-year commercial warranty.

The quality of customer assistance you receive during and after the warranty is essential. Before you finalize the generator, you should ask yourself the following questions:

• Is there a network of service centers for the company around the country?
• Is the customer service department open 24 hours a day?
• Is on-site repair available from the manufacturer?
• What is the manufacturer’s guarantee policy?
• Is there appropriate training for the manufacturer’s or dealer’s workers to fix generators?

The Cost of a Portable Generator

Portable generators range in price from $300 to $1,000, depending on peak wattage and runtime. The price varies by brand, the amount of gasoline tank, and the number of outlets. Because selecting an inexpensive model can jeopardize your safety, customer service, and fuel efficiency, price should be your last consideration. 

Other elements influence the price, such as this. The generator should start large appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners with a high surge power and sustain a similar running wattage output.

Tips

Best generators for hurricanes, cyclones, and rainstorms and run various appliances such as air conditioners, freezers, heaters, and fragile electronics such as computers, mobile phones, and laptops; you’ll need a reliable generator.

Keep in mind when buying a portable generator:

• Determine your power needs before purchasing a generator 

The first step is determining your condition for buying a generator. Some may need it for camping or RV use, while others may use it as a backup in a power outage. Because larger generators are more difficult to transport, you’ll need two different models if you require one for both uses.

• Add the wattage of the items you want to operate on the generator to the equation.

For an hour, an average-sized refrigerator uses 700–1,200 watts of power, whereas a microwave requires 600–1,200 watts. 

• Look for a generator that can run for at least 10 hours.

Look for a portable generator that can run for 10 hours at 25% load, so it can run all night without needing to be refueled. If you intend to use it commercially, you’ll need something that doesn’t require frequent refills.

• At least four outlets are required on the generator.

The generator you choose should have at least four outlets, two each for major and minor appliances. You’ll need a transfer switch to use in your motorhome because it should have RV-ready outlets. Look for a generator with five or more outlets if you wish to power many appliances at once.

• Transportation Convenience

You’ll need a lightweight, portable generator with never-flat wheels and a handle to haul it around, whether you’re repairing a fixer-upper or going on frequent camping vacations. The weight of a competent portable generator should never exceed 45–50 pounds.

• Invest in a generator that has an electric start.

Electric start is a feature on modern generators that allows you to start the generator with a simple button push. If you buy a generator that only has a recoil start, you risk injuring your back and arm muscles. Some models include remote control, which adds to the cost.

Things to Look For When Using a Portable Generator.

A portable generator is designed to save your life in a power outage; therefore, use it with caution and prudence to avoid disasters. Here are a few things to hold in mind when utilizing one:

• It is critical to perform manual maintenance regularly.

Clean the spark arrestor screen and change the spark plugs regularly. Even if the oil tank isn’t in use, make sure there’s enough oil in it. 

• As soon as you purchase the generator, put it to the test.

Don’t put off testing the generator until an emergency arises. Test the model as soon as you get it. For safe conduction, always use heavy-duty extension cords with 12-gauge wire.

• To keep it working, run it regularly for a short period.

During power outages, a generator that hasn’t been used in a long time can’t be trusted, which is why you should start it a few times every two weeks.

• Never connect it to the electric service panel in your home.

A generator is designed to run on a limited amount of power and is powered by electric cords. The generator can fry sensitive devices if connected to your house’s electric service panel. Connect the generator to your house’s main service panel with the help of an expert. 

Conclusion

We’ve reviewed some of the best portable generators on the market and come up with three top picks for you to consider. OUR TOP PICK IS the WEN 56200i, a 2,000-watt generator with a two-year limited guarantee. The generator is light and portable, weighing only 48 pounds and including a handle for a secure grip. It’s also one of the silent models on the market, producing less than 50 dB(A) of noise so you can sleep well all night.

This leads us to our second recommendation, the Honda EU3000IS. It’s an inverter generator, similar to Yamaha’s initial model, with a surge power of 3,000 watts and an operating power of 2,800 watts. It is equipped with a powerful and long-lasting 196cc Honda GX200 engine that allows the generator to run for 20 hours at 25% power. The EU3000IS is the best home use, with two start options and a three-year domestic and commercial guarantee. The only disadvantage of this model is its 131-pound weight. It may be challenging to transport, but you can add wheels to make it more convenient.

The NorthStar Portable Generator is our next pick, and the power output alone demonstrates how powerful this gadget is. There’s also the larger fuel tank, which translates to a longer running time. Finally, you’ll find it easier to use this single device to power all of your appliances because of the outlets.

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