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A 50 amp generator is an incredible addition to a big family RV. These generators with 50 Amp outlet also come in handy in several other applications that call for extracting as much power as possible from a portable generator for instance in ranches and large construction sites.
In this article, I’m briefly reviewing the five best 50 amp portable generators on the market according to my personal research and what previous buyers have had to say about them. This will make the choice a lot easier for you. But still, if you can’t decide about the best model then my short buyer’s guide may prove to be very helpful in making the right decision.
Now let’s check which these top 50 amp generators are.
Best 50 Amp Generators (Our Top Picks)
50 AMP GENERATOR | SURGE WATTS | FEATURES | RATING | PRICE |
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12000 (gasoline), 11400 (propane)
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5
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Check On Amazon |
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11000 (gasoline), 9500 (propane)
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4.7
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Check On Amazon |
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10000 (gasoline), 9000 (propane)
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4.5
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Check On Amazon |
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10000 (gasoline), 8000 (propane)
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4.5
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Check On Amazon |
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9375
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4.2
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Check On Amazon |
Check our 50 Amp generator comparison table for more details.
What Is a 50 Amp Generator and Why Should I Buy One?
A 50 Amp generator is basically a generator with a receptacle that allows you to draw 50 Amp of current.
In essence, a 50 Amp hookup has 2 independent hotlines providing 50 amps each, for a total of 100 amps or 12,000 watts (50*2*120). This is over 3 times the amount of power that you’d get from a 30 amp outlet – 3,600 watts (30*1*120).
The ability to output so much power is what makes these generators ideal for large RVs and other situations where you need to run at least 2 high-current appliances simultaneously. When RVing, for instance, a 50 Amp receptacle will allow you to run both ACs together. You also don’t have to switch off the electric skillet to use the coffeemaker. Very convenient, right?
How to Choose the Right Size 50 Amp Portable Generator?
The first thing to decide is whether you really need all that 12000 watts a 50 amp portable generator can output. Think of all the appliances that would need power and how many of them you would like to run at the same time.
Next, consider the starting and running watts of the generator. The starting watts are needed to start your electrical appliances and they are the maximum wattage a generator can produce. And the running watts are the continuous watts needed to keep items running. So, pay attention to these numbers to make sure the generator has enough power to run all your items.
Other important considerations when buying a portable generator include runtime and fuel type (gasoline, propane, or dual). Plus, don’t forget to consider the convenience and safety features that each brand and model offers.
Top 50 Amp Portable Generators: Reviews
DuroMax XP12000EH
SPECIFICATIONS | |
---|---|
Inverter | no |
Running Watts | 9500 (gasoline), 9025 (propane) |
Starting Watts | 12000 (gasoline), 11400 (propane) |
Dimensions (in) | 40 x 29 x 27.5 |
Weight (lbs) | 269 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane |
Starting System | Recoil, Electric |
Run Time (@50% load) | 9h (gasoline), 4h (propane) |
Noise Level | 74 dBA |
Warranty | 3 years |
Aptly nicknamed the Beast, the XP12000EH is fitted with an 18 HP 457cc OHV engine with cast iron sleeves and steel bearings for durability. Something that most people like about this engine is that it is built here in the USA.
The Beast is an extremely powerful hybrid generator that manages 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts on gasoline, and 11,400 surge watts and 9,025 running watts on propane. Regardless of your choice of fuel, these numbers are impressive for powering an entire home, running a number of power tools at an off-grid job site, and even an RV.
It’s undeniable that the control panel looks intimidating at first. But starting it as simple as turning a switch key or pulling a recoil starter.
This generator offers 8.83 hours of runtime from its 8.3-gal tank and 7.2 hours from a 20-pound propane tank at half load.
It also has all the convenience and safety features that you’d want in a beast including a labeled oil lamp, a battery recharge indicator, a series of circuit breakers, and a voltmeter.
It’s on the heavier side at 260lbs but not the loudest at 74 dB.
- Beastly performance
- Reliable construction quality
- Multiple sockets
- Great value
- A bit pricey
WEN DF1100T
SPECIFICATIONS | |
---|---|
Inverter | no |
Running Watts | 8300 (gasoline), 7500 (propane) |
Starting Watts | 11000 (gasoline), 9500 (propane) |
Dimensions (in) | 27.3 x 20.6 x 21.9 |
Weight (lbs) | 214 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane |
Starting System | Recoil, Electric |
Run Time (@50% load) | 8.5h (gasoline), 3h (propane) |
Noise Level | 72 dBA |
Warranty | 2 years |
The Wen DF1100T is a lot more powerful than the Champion 7500, and on top of that, is cheaper.
This generator is powered by a 457cc 4-stroke dual-fuel engine that runs on either gasoline or propane by a simple turn of a selection dial.
The DF1100T outputs 11000 surge watts and 8300 running watts on gasoline and 9500 surge and 7500 running watts on propane. Most buyers report that they use it to power several low and high-draw items simultaneously at home during blackouts. Its power output both on propane or gas is also sufficient to juice up most items in most job sites and RVs.
With its 6.6-gallon tank full, you should expect a continuous power output of at least 8.5 hours at 50% load.
The control panel is packed and has pretty much all the outlets you’d ever want. You’ll find four 120v GFCI 5-20R outlets, one 120v 30A twist lock, one 120v/240v 50A outlet, and a 12v DC cigarette-style plug. There’s also an electric start and a recoil starter as well as an hour meter that helps you schedule maintenance.
- Affordable
- Incredible power output for the price
- Relatively quieter
- Dual fuel
- Ill-positioned recoil
Pulsar PG10000B16
SPECIFICATIONS | |
---|---|
Inverter | no |
Running Watts | 8000 (gasoline), 7000 (propane) |
Starting Watts | 10000 (gasoline), 9000 (propane) |
Dimensions (in) | 28.5 x 22.2 x 21.8 |
Weight (lbs) | 209 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane |
Starting System | Recoil, Electric |
Run Time (@50% load) | 8.5h (gasoline), 3h (propane) |
Noise Level | 76 dBA |
Warranty | 3 years |
It’s difficult to discuss the best generators with 50 Amp receptacle without mentioning the Pulsar PG10000B16.
Although its 420cc engine is seemingly smaller than that of the Wen DF1100T above, it still packs a heftier punch in terms of power performance and could actually run up to 5 power tools at a job site without breaking a sweat.
This generator maxes at 10,000w starting watts and 8,000 rated watts on gas, and 9,000w starting and 7,000 rated watts on LPG.
Beyond its dual-fuel functionality, what most buyers appreciate further is the convenience of switching between fuels without having to turn off the engine first.
To add icing on the cake, the Pulsar PG10000B16 has the longest runtime among all the 50 Amp generators that we’ve reviewed so far. With its 6.6-gal tank full, this generator can offer you 12 hours of non-stop power output.
The control panel has a very simple and clean outline and features four 120v AC outlets, one 50A RV port, one 120/240v twist-lock outlet, and a 12v DC charger for powering battery-powered tools and devices.
- Dual fuel
- Lots of power
- Very efficient
- Long runtime
- Uses oil a little bit fast
Firman H08051
SPECIFICATIONS | |
---|---|
Inverter | no |
Running Watts | 9050 (gasoline), 7250 (propane) |
Starting Watts | 10000 (gasoline), 8000 (propane) |
Dimensions (in) | 32 x 29 x 28 |
Weight (lbs) | 221 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane |
Starting System | Recoil, Electric |
Run Time (@50% load) | 12h (gasoline), 5h (propane) |
Noise Level | 74 dBA |
Warranty | 3 years |
Firman H08051 is a dual fuel generator capable of outputting 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts on gasoline, and 9,050 starting watts and 7,250 running watts on propane.
This is a generator that you can comfortably use for any application. It has a simple and neat look and also boasts a sturdy construction from the steel frame and handle, to the 10-inch wheel kit that makes it easy to lug its 221-pound weight around.
The Firman has the largest gas tank in these reviews at 8 gallons. The benefit of its large tank is perfectly manifested in its 12-hour runtime at half load- and this is quite impressive considering the amount of power that it can afford at 50%.
This generator will start at the push of a button. But there’s also a pull cord should the battery run flat unexpectedly.
The Firman is just as loud as the Duromax XP12000EH at 74 dB. Although noisier compared to others here, it’s not the noisiest in the market.
- High power output
- Relatively low priced
- Easy to use
- Brand not well known
- Little info regarding long-term reliability
Champion 100161
SPECIFICATIONS | |
---|---|
Inverter | no |
Running Watts | 7500 |
Starting Watts | 9375 |
Dimensions (in) | 27.3 x 26 x 27.8 |
Weight (lbs) | 207 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Starting System | Recoil, Electric, Remote |
Run Time (@50% load) | 8h |
Noise Level | 74 dBA |
Warranty | 3 years |
Champion 100161 is a generator that you might want to consider if you like the convenience of remote starting. It also promises easy startups even in winters and cold weather thanks to the Cold Start technology that it’s built with.
The Champion 100161 delivers a starting wattage of 9,375 watts and 7,500 watts of running power. This power performance renders it as a great pick for mitigating power loss at home during bad weather. It can also be used to power a number of appliances at a ranch or construction site.
This generator also comes RV-ready, and the good news is that it has a 120v 30A for most pop out RVs and a 120v/240v 50A outlet for large recreational vehicles.
The Champion 7500 has a 439cc gasoline-only engine that can output 50% of its maximum power for around 8 hours with the 6.1-gallon tank full.
To start it, you can pull the recoil coil, hit the electric start button, or even use a remote to start and stop it from up to 80ft away.
This is a large generator. So, it’s not surprising that reports rate the noise level at 74 dBA at 23 feet. It’s on the heavier side too at 207 pounds. But its 10-inch wheels, sturdy steel frame, and folding handle make it mobile if not so portable.
- Multiple starting methods
- Cold start technology
- Sturdy construction
- Not the most efficient
- Heavy
Best Generators with 50 Amp Plug: Comparison
Generator |
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Rating |
5 out of 5 stars
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4.7 out of 5 stars
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4.5 out of 5 stars
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4.5 out of 5 stars
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4.2 out of 5 stars
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Price | Check On Amazon | Check On Amazon | Check On Amazon | Check On Amazon | Check On Amazon |
Inverter | no | no | no | no | no |
Running Watts | 9500 (gasoline), 9025 (propane) | 8300 (gasoline), 7500 (propane) | 8000 (gasoline), 7000 (propane) | 9050 (gasoline), 7250 (propane) | 7500 |
Starting Watts | 12000 (gasoline), 11400 (propane) | 11000 (gasoline), 9500 (propane) | 10000 (gasoline), 9000 (propane) | 10000 (gasoline), 8000 (propane) | 9375 |
Dimensions (in) | 40 x 29 x 27.5 | 27.3 x 20.6 x 21.9 | 28.5 x 22.2 x 21.8 | 32 x 29 x 28 | 27.3 x 26 x 27.8 |
Weight (lbs) | 269 | 214 | 209 | 221 | 207 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane | Gasoline, Propane | Gasoline, Propane | Gasoline, Propane | Gasoline |
Starting System | Recoil, Electric | Recoil, Electric | Recoil, Electric | Recoil, Electric | Recoil, Electric, Remote |
Run Time @50% load | 9h (gasoline), 4h (propane) | 8.5h (gasoline), 3h (propane) | 12h (gasoline), 9h (propane) | 12h (gasoline), 5h (propane) | 8h |
Noise Level | 74 dBA | 72 dBA | 76 dBA | 74 dBA | 74 dBA |
Fuel Tank | 8.3 gal | 6.6 gal | 6.6 gal | 8 gal | 6 gal |
THD | < 12% | N/A | N/A | < 25% | N/A |
Outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI, 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R), 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R), 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R) | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI, 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R), 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R) | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R), 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R), 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R) | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI, 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R), 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R), 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R) | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI, 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R), 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R), 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R) |
Engine | 457cc | 457cc | 420cc | 439cc | 439cc |
Emissions | CARB, EPA | CARB, EPA | EPA | CARB, EPA | CARB, EPA |
Warranty | 3 years | 2 years | 2 years | 3 years | 3 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many watts is a 50 Amp generator?
A generator with 50 Amp receptacle has the potential to output 12,000 watts (50 amps by 240v). However, not all models are capable of outputting this amount of power continuously. For instance, while Champion 100161 has a 50 amp outlet, it can only output a peak of 9375 watts. On the other hand, the Duromax XP12000EH outputs 12000 watts of starting power before dropping to 9500 running watts.
What is the difference between 30 amp and 50 amp generator?
The main difference is the type of outlets. The one has a 30 amp outlet, and the other – 50 amp outlet. The difference between these receptacles is that a 30 amp outlet has 3 prongs including only one 120v hot wire. On the other hand, a 50 amp outlet has 4 prongs and features two 120v hot wires that supply 2 separate 50 amp, 120v feeds.
Precisely, a 30 amp generator can output a maximum of 3,600 watts at 120v (30 amp x 120v). On the other hand, a generator with 50 amp outlet can deliver 12,000 watts at the same voltage (50 amp x 2 x 120v). More details on how to convert amps to watts here.
Is it possible to plug a 30 amp RV into a 50 amp plug safely?
Yes, it’s very much possible. But keep in mind that these 2 plugs have different configurations. A 30 amp receptacle has a 3-prong design while a 50 amp outlet has 4 prongs. Thus, you’ll need a 30 amp female to 50 amp male adaptor (a.k.a dog bone) to make the connection possible.
Does Honda make a 50 amp generator?
They had one- the 5500 watts EU6500is- but it has been discontinued.
Conclusion
When the need to draw as much power as the generator can produce arises, you can never go wrong with generators with 50 amp outlet. While they are also usable at home, these generators are reliable workhorses for high power demanding projects in job sites, farms and ranches, and for large RVs and buses.
We chose the Duromax XP12000EH as our recommendation for the best 50 amp generator to buy this year. Anyone who is considering a 50 amp generator is definitely in need of power- and this model has it in plenty whether you choose to use gasoline or propane. In addition, the fact that it is built in the USA speaks volume about its reliability.