Best 30 Amp Generators Currently on the Market

30 amp generators are commonly used as a power source for RVs, boats, and construction tools. These generators with a 30 amp plug could also prove useful during an outage when the power requirements don’t go over 3600 Watts.

In this article, I’m bringing you the 5 best 30 amp portable generators on the market according to my research and other users’ feedback and reviews. So, join me as I compare them in terms of power output, fuel type, runtime, and last but not least – reliability!

Best 30 Amp Generators (Our Top Picks)

30 AMP GENERATOR SURGE WATTS FEATURES RATING PRICE

Westinghouse iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Inverter GeneratorWestinghouse iGen4500DF

4500 (gasoline),4050 (propane)
Quiet and compact dual fuel inverter generator with a remote start. With a TT-30R RV ready outlet, two 20A household outlets, and built-in USB ports, this generator is perfect for camping, RVs, tailgating and home backup.
5
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Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter GeneratorChampion 100263

3400 (gasoline), 3060 (propane)
A duel fuel inverter generator with a 120V 30A RV ready outlet, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean power for sensitive electronics.
4.9
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Wen 56380i Inverter GeneratorWen 56380i

3800
A portable inverter generator with fuel shut-off and electric start. Its TT-30R RV ready outlet provides up to 28 amps of queit power. Its digital display helps you montior your voltage,wattage, run time and fuel supply.
4.7
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Champion 4000-Watt RV Ready GeneratorChampion 100302

4000
An open-frame inverter generator that is lighter and queiter thanks to its advanced design. This generator has an extended run time, produces clean power for sensitive electronics, and is parallel ready.
4.5
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DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Portable GeneratorDuroMax XP4850EH

4850 (gasoline), 4608 (propane)
Dual fuel hybrid generator with electric start. This generator is designed with a low-oil shutoff sensor to protect the motor. It can operate at both 120 V and 240 V simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
4.4
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Check the comparison table for more details.

What is a 30 Amp Generator and How Does It Work?

This is a generator with a 30 amp outlet. A 30 amp outlet has 3 lines. One of them is a 120v hot wire, and then there’s a neutral and ground wire. This outlet is capable of supplying 3600 watts (30 amps*120v). This is more or less an estimate, though. Some generators will trip at around 2880 watts, which is 80% of 3600 watts, while others will allow you to draw up to 4320 watts, which is 20% more.

Now, the 30 amp outlet is not the only port that you’re going to find on these generators. As you’ll note in these 30 amp generator reviews, most of the contenders also have at least one 20 amp outlet, a 12-volt DC battery charger, and even a USB port for your low power handheld devices.

How to Choose the Right Size 30 Amp Generator?

When selecting the best 30 amp generator, you should understand that most of them don’t go past 3600 running watts. That being said, I’d advise you first to define where you want to use the generator and what you intend to power with it.

For instance, if you are planning to use it in your RV, it’s paramount that you first consider your appliances and ensure that the generator is able to meet their power needs.

Another important consideration is the type of fuel. Most generators use gasoline. But a few of them also allow you to switch to propane, and I find this super convenient.

Also, don’t forget to consider the runtime in relation to the fuel tank size. A generator that runs for a long time per gallon of gas is not only economical, but it also saves you the inconvenience of regular refills.

Lastly, since portability is of the essence, be sure to consider its physical size, weight, and how easy it is to move around. For instance, is there a handle? Does it have wheels?

Now when you have some idea what to look for in a generator, let’s check which are the top 30 amp portable generators on the market at the moment.

Top 5 30 Amp Generators Reviews

Westinghouse iGen4500DF Inverter Generator

5/5 Our Rating
EDITOR’S CHOICE

Westinghouse iGen4500DF - Best 30 Amp Generator Overall

SPECIFICATIONS
Inverter yes
Running Watts 3700 (gasoline), 3330 (propane)
Starting Watts 4500 (gasoline), 4050 (propane)
Dimensions (in) 24.5 x 17.5 x 20.5
Weight (lbs) 98
Fuel Type Gasoline, Propane
Starting System Recoil, Electric, Remote
Run Time (@25% load) 18h (gasoline), 18h (propane)
Noise Level 52 dBA
Warranty 3 years
Pros
  • Incredible power output
  • Ships RV-ready
  • Quiet performance
  • Remote start technology
Cons
  • Oil drain plug is a tad hard to reach

The best contender in these 30 amp portable generator reviews comes from Westpro Power systems- an iconic generator manufacturer based in Pewaukee, Wisconsin. Utilizing a 224cc engine, Westinghouse iGen4500DF is a dual fuel generator that offers the convenience of running it on either gasoline or propane. On gasoline, the iGen4500 has a peak wattage of 4500w, which is among the highest in these reviews. Its 3700 running watts rating is quite remarkable too for a portable generator with 30 amp plug.

The inverter technology used on this generator varies the engine speed to match your load, thereby cutting back on fuel usage. That’s why it’s capable of running up to 18 hours at quarter load from its 3.8-gallon tank.

For RVers, you’ll be excited to learn that this portable 30 amp generator comes already fitted with a TT-30R RV ready outlet. The iGen4500DF is a reliable workhorse for household use and powering low power construction tools too. This is an excellent generator for tailgating also, thanks to its compact size, clean power, and USB outlets.

Its other noteworthy feature is the wireless remote start that works within a range of up to 109 yards. You also have the option of using a button electric start or recoil.

I wouldn’t call the iGen4500DF a lightweight generator at 98 pounds. However, its telescopic handle, coupled with a sturdy pair of wheels makes moving it around incredibly easy.

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Champion 100263 3400-Watt Generator

4.9/5 Our Rating
RUNNER-UP

Champion 100263 3400-watt - Best 30 Amp Portable Generator for RV

SPECIFICATIONS
Inverter yes
Running Watts 3100 (gasoline), 2790 (propane)
Starting Watts 3400 (gasoline), 3060 (propane)
Dimensions (in) 25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3
Weight (lbs) 95.7
Fuel Type Gasoline, Propane
Starting System Recoil, Electric
Run Time (@25% load) 7.5h (gasoline), 14.5h (propane)
Noise Level 59 dBA
Warranty 3 years
Pros
  • Comes RV-ready
  • Has dual-fuel technology
  • Compact
Cons
  • Can be loud at higher loads

The Champion 100263 is an incredible choice for individuals looking for the best 30 amp inverter generator for RVs. In fact, we can easily say that it is the best RV generator overall.

The Champion 100263 boasts 3400 watts of starting power and 3100 running watts. This power output makes it a good bet for running most of the crucial appliances in your recreational vehicle, including a 15000 BTU conditioning unit, freezer, refrigerator, and TVs, among others. You can also use this 30 amp portable generator to power essential appliances at home during a blackout.

Besides its compact size, the other thing that I like about this generator is its dual-fuel usage. Depending on what fuel is available to you, you can use gasoline or hook it up to a propane tank.

This generator is quite efficient too. It can manage up to 7.5 hours at quarter load from its 1.6-gal tank and up to 14.5 hours from a 20-pound propane tank. Its 192 cc engine starts with ease too, and you have the option of an electric start or the traditional recoil.

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Wen 56380i Portable Generator

4.7/5 Our Rating
VERY QUIET

Wen 56380i Inverter Generator

SPECIFICATIONS
Inverter yes
Running Watts 3400
Starting Watts 3800
Dimensions (in) 23.2 x 18 x 20.1
Weight (lbs) 99.2
Fuel Type Gasoline
Starting System Recoil, Electric
Run Time (@50% load) 8.5h
Noise Level 57 dBA
Warranty 2 years
Pros
  • RV ready
  • Quiet
  • Fuel efficient
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Relatively low run time

The Wen 56380i is one of my recommendations for individuals looking for an affordable 30 amp inverter generator. We also believe that it is the best generator for a travel trailer.

Although cheaper than other inverters here, what I like about this model is that it doesn’t compromise features that make a reliable generator. Actually, compared to the Champion 3400-watt generator, the only thing that you’re missing with the Wen 56380i is the dual-fuel compatibility. And this isn’t a big deal in my opinion.

This generator utilizes a 212 cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a rated output of 3800 surge watts and 3400 continuous wattages. It distributes this power via a NEMA TT-30R outlet, two 15A 5-20R ports, a 12v DC outlet, and a 5v USB port. This power has less than 1.2% THD, and it’s, therefore, perfect even for the most sensitive electronics and appliances.

As mentioned before, this is a gasoline-only generator. It features a 2.2-gal tank with which it’s capable of running for up to 8.5 hours on half load while keeping the noise level at around 57 dBA.

At around 99.2 lbs and with a size of 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 in, the Wen 56380i is right within the ballpark range for most 30 amp portable generators. Overall, this is a good bet for backup during outages as well as tailgating, camping, and hunting.

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Champion 100302 4000-Watt Generator

4.5/5 Our Rating
LONG RUN TIME

Champion 100302 RV-Ready Generator

SPECIFICATIONS
Inverter yes
Running Watts 3500
Starting Watts 4000
Dimensions (in) 21 x 18 x 18
Weight (lbs) 81.5
Fuel Type Gasoline
Starting System Recoil
Run Time (@25% load) 17h
Noise Level 64 dBA
Warranty 3 years
Pros
  • Long runtime
  • Relatively quiet
  • Versatile power outlet kit
  • Produces pure sine wave energy
Cons
  • No electric or remote starter
  • Lacks wheels

At the surface, the Champion 100302 looks like a typical traditional open flame generator. However, digging into its specs reveals that this is a hybrid engine that combines open flame style with inverter design. By combining these two technologies, Champion is able to use a large engine (224 cc) on this generator while ensuring that you get pure sine wave electricity with less than 3% THD.

This generator produces 4000 surge watts and 3500 rated watts. This power output makes it one of the best generators with 30 amp receptacle for use at home, camps, and tailgating parties.

Again, its high peak wattage enables it to start most high-power tools in construction sites. What’s even more impressive is its parallel capability that allows you to connect two generators for even higher power output.

Now, unlike my first 2 recommendations, the Champion 100302 uses gasoline only. What I like about it, though, is its fuel-efficient smart economy mode that offers up to 17 hours of runtime on quarter load.

This isn’t the quietest generator in this list. But at 64 dB, its noise level falls right within the range of a normal human speech.

Besides its 30A RV outlet, the Champion 100302 also brings two 120v 20A outlets, a 12v DC port for charging batteries, and a dual USB adapter.

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DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Generator

4.4/5 Our Rating
BUDGET PICK

DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Generator

SPECIFICATIONS
Inverter no
Running Watts 3850 (gasoline), 3658 (propane)
Starting Watts 4850 (gasoline), 4608 (propane)
Dimensions (in) 24 x 17 x 17
Weight (lbs) 127
Fuel Type Gasoline, Propane
Starting System Recoil, Electric
Run Time (@50% load) 10h (gasoline), 9h (propane)
Noise Level 69 dBA
Warranty 1 years
Pros
  • Sturdy construction
  • Plenty of power
  • Dual fuel compatibility
  • Versatile usage
Cons
  • Short warranty
  • Heavy

For a much more powerful and affordable 30 amp generator, make sure that you check out the Duromax XP4850EH. This is a traditional open flame generator fitted with a 212 cc OHV engine that can run from either gasoline or propane.

The chief benefit that you’re getting from this generator is its high power output. When running on gasoline, it can reach a peak wattage of around 4850w and 3850 running watts. This is the amount of power that you need to run pretty much all essential household appliances, including a small window air conditioning unit, sump pump, microwave oven, and a small heating system.

Its high surge power also makes it a reliable generator for most off-the-grid job sites. At about 69 dB of noise level, I believe most people won’t have issues running this generator in tailgating parties and camps too.

To start this generator, you have the option of pressing an electric button or pulling the starter rope. Its control panel, on the other hand, offers one 120v/240v 30A twist lock and two 120v 20A household outlets.

Its 23.2x17x17 inch size is quite impressive for a classic open flame generator. And although it’s on the heavier side at 142 lbs, it has enormous wheels and a sturdy pair of foldable handles for portability.

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Best 30 Amp Portable Generators: Comparison

Generator

Westinghouse iGen4500DFWestinghouse iGen4500DF

Champion 100263 3400-Watt GeneratorChampion 100263

Wen 56380i Inverter GeneratorWen 56380i

Champion 100302 4000-Watt GeneratorChampion 100302

DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Portable GeneratorDuroMax XP4850EH

Rating
5 out of 5 stars
4.9 out of 5 stars
4.7 out of 5 stars
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.4 out of 5 stars
Price Check On Amazon Check On Amazon Check On Amazon Check On Amazon Check On Amazon
Inverter yes yes yes yes no
Running Watts 3700 (gasoline), 3330 (propane) 3100 (gasoline), 2790 (propane) 3400 3500 3850 (gasoline), 3658 (propane)
Starting Watts 4500 (gasoline), 4050 (propane) 3400 (gasoline), 3060 (propane) 3800 4000 4850 (gasoline), 4608 (propane)
Dimensions (in) 24.5 x 17.5 x 20.5 25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 21 x 18 x 18 24 x 17 x 17
Weight (lbs) 98 95.7 99.2 81.5 127
Fuel Type Gasoline, Propane Gasoline, Propane Gasoline Gasoline Gasoline, Propane
Starting System Recoil, Electric, Remote Recoil, Electric Recoil, Electric Recoil Recoil, Electric
Run Time @50% load 15h (gasoline), N/A (propane) N/A (gasoline), N/A (propane) 8.5h N/A 10h (gasoline), 9h (propane)
Run Time @25% load 18h (gasoline), 18h (propane) 7.5h (gasoline), 14.5h (propane) N/A 17h N/A
Noise Level 52 dBA 59 dBA 57 dBA 64 dBA 69 dBA
Fuel Tank 3.4 gal 1.6 gal 2.2 gal 2.9 gal 4 gal
THD < 3% < 3% < 1.2% < 3% < 12%
Outlets 2x 120V 20A (5-20R), 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R), 2x 5V USB ports 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R), 2x 120V 20A (5-20R), 1x 12V 8A DC outlet 2x 120V 20A (5-20R), 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R), 1x 12V 8A DC outlet, 2x 5V USB ports 2x 120V 20A (5-20R), 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R), 1x 12V 8A DC outlet 2x 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI, 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R), 1x 12V 8A outlet
Engine 224cc 192cc 212cc 224cc 208cc
Emissions CARB, EPA CARB, EPA CARB, EPA CARB, EPA CARB, EPA
Warranty 3 years 3 years 2 years 3 years 1 years

Frequently Asked Questions

How many watts is a 30 Amp generator?

Theoretically, a 30 amp generator outputs 3600 watts of continuous power. However, depending on the size of the engine, some generators may supply as low as 2800 watts while others go slightly higher to output up to 3800 watts.

What is the difference between 50 Amp and 30 Amp generators?

The primary outlet in a 50 amp generator has 4 wires that comprise two 120v live wires, a neutral wire, and a ground wire. As such, it’s possible to pull up to 12000 watts from a 50 amp outlet (50 amp*120*2). On the other hand, the main outlet of a 30 amp generator has 3 wires; one 120v live wire, a neutral wire, and ground wire. The highest number of watts that you can draw from this outlet is 3600 watts (30 amps*120v).

What can you run on a 30 amp generator?

A generator with a 30 amp plug will power pretty much anything provided it does not exceed the generator’s stated running watts, which is usually around 3600 watts. You can run a 15000 BTU AC in your RV and even a freezer and a refrigerator at home.

What size wire for a 30 amp generator plug?

In generator wire sizing, the rule of thumb is a 10-gauge 3-conductor wire for a 30 amp generator.

Are 30 amp generators suitable for commercial use?

Yes, some generators with 30 amp outlets are usable in commercial outlets. However, since you’re likely to be dealing with medium-to-heavy duty appliances, I’d advise you to consider a more powerful generator that is capable of handling higher power loads safely.

Conclusion

So, what is the best 30 amp generator to buy this year? This boils down to personal preferences, and I believe there’s a perfect generator for your needs in the reviews above. However, if you’re open to suggestions, I would highly recommend the Westinghouse iGen4500DF.

First, the versatility of switching from gasoline to propane alone is priceless. But what’s more, is the 18-hour runtime that this generator offers when running on gasoline. Regarding ease of use, this generator is a breeze to set up, and it has a LED display for all the information that you need. Lastly, if the ability to switch ON/OFF remotely sounds good, this is the only 30 amp generator that offers this versatility in these reviews.

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