Table of Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 Best Portable Generator Reviews
- 2.1 Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Best Overall
- 2.2 Honda EU2200i Super Quiet Inverter Generator – Runner-up
- 2.3 Firman P03601 Gas Portable Generator – Budget Pick
- 2.4 Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator with Remote Electric Start
- 2.5 DuroMax XP12000EH Portable Dual Fuel Electric Start Generator
- 2.6 A-iPower SUA12000E Gasoline Powered Generator
- 2.7 DuroStar DS4000S Portable Gas Fuel Generator
- 2.8 Briggs & Stratton 30664 8000W Portable Generator
- 2.9 Generac 5735 GP17500E Gas Powered Portable Generator
- 2.10 WEN 56682 7000W Electric Start Generator Generator
- 3 Comparison of the Best Portable Generators
- 4 How to Choose the Right Portable Generator For Your Needs
- 5 Frequently Asked Questions
- 5.1 What type of portable generator is best for home use?
- 5.2 Can I use a portable generator in a vented room?
- 5.3 Can a generator explode?
- 5.4 Can I use a portable generator in wet weather?
- 5.5 Can I connect an emergency portable generator to the main supply?
- 5.6 When should I change the oil in a portable generator?
- 5.7 How long can you run a portable generator continuously?
- 6 Conclusion
Portable generators are commonly used as a power backup solution in case of an emergency outage, or at the constructions sites when electricity from the main power grid is not available. They also allow campers to bring different electronic devices to the campsite.
Now, while these electric generators are engineered with utmost portability in mind, they differ in a whole lot of ways including wattage, runtime, type of fuel and fuel usage, mobility and noise levels. This means that a portable generator that is just right for my camping needs may not necessarily be your perfect go-to if you want something that will power up your entire house during an outage.
To help you find the best portable generator for your power needs, I checked the top-rated generators on the market. In this article, you will find unbiased reviews of the top 10 models as well as a detailed guide that covers all the important considerations that need to be made before buying a portable power generator.
Our Top Picks
Champion 7500-Watt
- Dual fuel functionality
- Powerful
- Easy maintenance
Firman P03601
- Very Affordable
- Long runtime
- Light and easy to move around
The Best Portable Generators at a Glance:
- Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator – Best Overall
- Honda EU2200i – Runner-up
- Firman P03601– Budget Pick
- Westinghouse WGen7500
- DuroMax XP12000EH
- A-iPower SUA12000E
- DuroStar DS4000S
- Briggs & Stratton 30664
- Generac 5735 GP17500E
- WEN 56682
Read the reviews below or check the comparison table for more details.
Best Portable Generator Reviews
Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Best Overall
- Dual-fuel compatibility adds a lot of conveniences
- Although heavy, its wheels and foldaway handle make it easily portable
- Tons of power for its price
- Lots of outlets
- Will require very minimal maintenance if you run it purely on propane
- It’s loud at 74 dBA but not as loud as you’d expect from a 7,500-watt generator
- Its panel lacks a main breaker
| Champion 7500-Watt Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 9375 (gasoline), 8400 (propane) |
| Running Watts | 7500 (gasoline), 6750 (propane) |
| Noise Level | 74 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane |
| Tank size (gal) | 6 |
| Run Time | 8 hrs (gasoline), 5.5 hrs (propane) |
| Dimensions (in) | 27.8 x 28.7 x 26.4 |
| Weight (lbs) | 202.4 |
Champion 7500W is a dual-fuel generator, meaning it can run on both gasoline or propane. This can be very handy in case one of the fuels is not available but you still need backup power for your appliances.
With its 6.0-gallon fuel tank, this generator can run for up to 8 hours non-stop at 50% load on a full tank and provide you with 7,500 running watts when on gasoline.
When connected to a 20-pound propane tank, the Champion can afford you 8,400 starting watts and 6,750 running watts. While these figures tend to change slightly once you switch to propane gas, you’ll still find this generator a real champ when powering a refrigerator, window AC, freezer, fans, hairdryers, and lights among other things.
There are plenty of outlets on the panel to cater to your different needs. You’ll find four 120v 20A household outlets with GFCI protection, one 120/240V 30A (L5-30R) locking outlet, and A 120/240V (L14-30R) locking outlet.
Starting it is via an electric start (the battery is included in the package) and you could also use the pull-start cord. The good news is that Champion 7500W has been engineered with Cold Start technology that enables it to start even in wet weather.
Honda EU2200i Super Quiet Inverter Generator – Runner-up
- It’s very lightweight at 47 pounds and has sturdy handles for easy mobility
- Eco-throttle set up makes it incredibly fuel efficient
- it’s amazingly quiet
- You can connect 2 generators to double the wattage
- Ability to charge a battery directly from the generator is a plus
- It’s very expensive for a generator with its wattage
- 2200 watts may not be enough for most high-power appliances
- Has no fuel gauge to alert you on the remaining fuel
| Honda EU2200i Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 2200 |
| Running Watts | 1800 |
| Noise Level | 48 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 0.95 |
| Run Time | 8.1 hrs |
| Dimensions (in) | 20 x 11.4 x 16.7 |
| Weight (lbs) | 47 |
Dubbed the perfect portable generator for camping, Honda EU2200i might fit the bill if you are looking for a compact and super lightweight power solution that you can take anywhere.
This generator was designed to be a revamped version of its predecessor, the EU2000i. And true to Honda’s intention, this new version now packs more power and it’s quieter and lighter for most outdoor enthusiasts’ power needs.
The Honda EU2200i is an inverter generator. For starters, this is a new class of portable generators engineered to offer optimum fuel efficiency without compromising power output.
This is actually one of the standout features of the EU2200i. With the patented eco-throttle system, the engine speed varies from 4000 rpm to 4500 rpm depending on the power needs of the appliance being used.
Speaking of power, the EU2200i outputs 2,200 watts enough to power your lights, refrigerator, television set, and radio all at once. In case this wattage isn’t enough for your household or job site needs, the good news is that that you can connect 2 of these generators using the parallel ports to produce up to 4,400 watts.
This inverter is fitted with a 0.95-gallon tank and offers a runtime of around 3.2 hours at 100% power and up to 8 hours at 25% load. It has 2 AC 120v 15A outlets plus a DC 12v 8.3A outlet for charging batteries.
Lastly, Honda EU2200i is one of the quietest portable generators that you’ll come across today with an output of 48-57 dBA. Just so you understand how quiet this generator is, a normal conversation is usually around 50-60 dBA.
Firman P03601 Gas Portable Generator – Budget Pick
- Very affordable
- Relatively quiet
- Offers the longest runtime per tankful for a generator its size
- It’s light and easy to move around
- Multi-meter helps keep track of voltage and hours run
- Not enough power for power-hungry tools and appliances like pumps
- Although relatively lightweight, a set of wheels would make moving it around very easy for everyone
- Does not have an electric starter (this is understandable, though, considering the price)
| Firman P03601 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 4550 |
| Running Watts | 3650 |
| Noise Level | N/A |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 5 |
| Run Time | 14 hrs |
| Dimensions (in) | 23.2 x 17.5 x 18.5 |
| Weight (lbs) | 101.5 |
The Firman P03601 tends to tick most of the boxes for anyone who is looking for an affordable, quiet, lightweight, and reliable generator.
Of course, the fact that it is almost 10 times cheaper than the most expensive recommendation here means that you shouldn’t expect an insanely high output performance.
However, with its 4,550 peak wattage and 3,650 running watts, you can still rely on it to power most appliances common in an average-size home including a refrigerator, fridge, several fans, lights, and an AC all running together. You could also use it to run a low-power water pump alone provided its starting watts requirement does not exceed 4,550 watts.
Marketed to homeowners who are tight financially and who want to save as much as possible on gasoline, the Firman P03601 is a direct competitor to the Westinghouse WGen 7500 with regard to efficiency.
While the latter boasts a runtime of 14 hours at 50% load with its 6.6-gallon tank full, the Firman offers you a whopping 15 hours with its 5.0-gallon tank- lesser fuel, longer running time!
It also has a whole lot of outputs; (1) L5-30R 120V – 30A Twist-lock, (1) TT-30R (RV Ready) 120V – 30A, and (2) 5-20R Duplex 120V – 20A ports.
Worth noting, this is one of the quietest generators on the market today. And while it does not come with a wheelset, its weight (110 lbs) is easy to lug around with ease for most adults.
Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator with Remote Electric Start
- Requires minimal straightforward assembly
- Has a remote key start that works great all the time
- Packs plenty of power
- Offers a very long runtime per tank
- Lots of certifications; EPA, CARB, and CSA
- Its 3-year warranty is longer than what most brands offer
- It’s quite loud at 73 dBA
- Heavy
| Westinghouse WGen7500 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 9000 |
| Running Watts | 7500 |
| Noise Level | 73 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 6.6 |
| Run Time | 16 hrs |
| Dimensions (in) | 27.2 x 26.5 x 26 |
| Weight (lbs) | 192 |
Westinghouse WGen 7500 is another relatively affordable and yet powerful portable generator.
There are a lot of reasons why this one is among the best portable generators, but its long runtime is what grabbed my attention first.
Boasting 7,500 running watts and 9,500 peak watts, the WGen 7500 can keep your appliances running for a good 16 hours on its 6.6-gallon tank at 25% load and 14 hours on 50% load. Honestly, that’s the longest runtime that we’ve seen for a generator at this price range and I think it’s a good thing economic-wise.
This generator utilizes a 420cc 4-stroke Overhead Valve engine in a long lasting cast iron sleeve for durability. Speaking Of durability, the WGen 7500 has an automatic low-oil shutdown to protect the engine from damage.
Designed to power most of your household essentials and power tools, Westinghouse WGen7500 has one 120/240V twist-lock receptacle and two 5-20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle. In addition, there are 2 GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) that automatically shut off electric power in case of an imbalance to protect your house wiring and receptacles from overheating.
Lastly, this is a plug-and-play thing and has been engineered to start at the push of a button even in cold weathers. The WGen 7500 is quite heavy at around 200 pounds. But its solid frame, foldable handle, and sturdy wheels make it very portable.
Read the Full Westinghouse WGen 7500 Review
or
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DuroMax XP12000EH Portable Dual Fuel Electric Start Generator
- Lots of power for most household, job site, and outdoor fun power needs
- Relatively cheaper compared to other generators with similar performance
- Dual-fuel compatibility ensures non-stop power supply
- A large gasoline tank offering a runtime of up to 8 hours
- Heavy-duty construction for durability
- Electric start for effortless starting (there’s a recoil start for backup too)
- Sturdy wheels and foldable handle for excellent mobility
- It’s on the pricier side
- 269 pounds make it too heavy to move around without help
- Not CARB-compliant (can’t ship to California)
| DuroMax XP12000EH Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 12000 (gasoline), 11400 (propane) |
| Running Watts | 9500 (gasoline), 9025 (propane) |
| Noise Level | 74 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane |
| Tank size (gal) | 8.3 |
| Run Time | 8.83 hrs (gasoline), 7.2 hrs (propane) |
| Dimensions (in) | 40 x 27.5 x 29 |
| Weight (lbs) | 260 |
DuroMax XP12000EH is one of the most powerful portable generators that you’d ever add to your emergency power backup arsenal especially if you live in areas that are prone to hurricanes.
The first standout feature of this beast is its 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts.
The Duromax XP12000EH utilizes an 18HP 457cc OHV engine that makes it a reliable option for most household’s power needs.
To put it into perspective, this wattage is enough to power up several refrigerators, freezers, AC, electric stove, and microwave and lightings.
Although it’s quite heavy at around 269 pounds, it’s still portable as its large heavy-duty wheels and foldable handle depict, and this means that you can also take it wherever portable power is required. On this note, the Beast has a spark arrestor and it’s actually EPA-approved for use in USA parks.
Another great feature that I should mention about this generator is its dual-fuel design. The XP12000EH can use either propane (which is cleaner, quieter, and cheaper) or gasoline (which is always easy to obtain and can be stored for emergencies).
A-iPower SUA12000E Gasoline Powered Generator
- Lots of power at a reasonable price
- Offers a long runtime per tankful at 9-11 hours at 50% load
- Has an easy-reach and easy to use panel
- Lots of running power to prevent tipping of current as additional appliances are added
- Seems to be solidly built
- Does not have a load metering
- It’s loud at 78 dBA
| A-iPower SUA12000E Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 12000 |
| Running Watts | 9000 |
| Noise Level | 78 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 7 |
| Run Time | 9 hrs |
| Dimensions (in) | 27 x 27 x 27 |
| Weight (lbs) | 206 |
Our next recommendation is from a brand that you don’t get to hear about every other day -A-iPower. This is an American manufacturer based in Los Angeles, California with a wide range of high-quality, powerful, and relatively affordable generators, pressure washers, and tillers.
What I have here is their largest portable generator, the SUA1200E- an underrated yet capable generator that packs a hefty punch in terms of power at a reasonable price.
One of the most impressive features about this generator is its 12,000 starting watts and 9,000 running watts at 100% load.
Generally, A-iPower SUA12000E is powerful enough to power up most average household items like fridges, pumps, fans, ACs, and TV at the same time. Its extra 3,000 starting watts offer you a good give and mean that it won’t trip the current as you start appliances with high starting wattages such as refrigerators or a jigsaw, band saw, and ½’’ drill at a construction site.
The generator weighs 206 pounds which is admittedly on the heavier side for a portable power solution. It has, however, been mounted on a rigid tubular frame with two 9-inch never-flat tires and a solid factory-installed fold out handle that make it good enough to power up your weekend getaways and camping trips.
The generator also has a decent panel with four GCFI-protected 120V outlets and a DC adapter plug for low-power gadgets.
To ensure that everyone including the elderly folks has an easy time turning on its 459cc/16 HP OHV engine, A-iPower SUA12000E is blessed with an electric starter. There’s also a recoil starter should the electric option fail you.
DuroStar DS4000S Portable Gas Fuel Generator
- It is quite cheap compared to most of its equally rated competitors
- Has a sturdy frame with 4-point motor mounts for quiet operations
- Features 3 power outlets in case there are several appliances to power simultaneously
- A low-oil light warning and low-oil automatic shutdown protects the engine from premature wearing
- There’s a fuel gauge to keep you posted on the remaining gas
- Has a muffler system that keeps the noise level down to 69 dBA
- It’s quite heavy at 90 pounds
- Does not have a set of wheels to boost mobility
| DuroStar DS4000S Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 4000 |
| Running Watts | 3300 |
| Noise Level | 69 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 3.96 |
| Run Time | 12 hrs |
| Dimensions (in) | 23 x 18 x 17.5 |
| Weight (lbs) | 105 |
Durostar’s best portable generator is DS4000S. It is a great recommendation for homeowners who are looking for a generator with a good balance between power and affordability.
This portable generator uses a 4-stroke 7.0 HP engine that outputs a maximum of 4,000 watts of surge power before stabilizing it to around 3,300 running watts.
While it’s not the most powerful generator in these reviews, it still packs enough juice to power up a small AC, a sump pump, and a full-sized refrigerator alongside other small wattage appliances like lights during a power outage at home. It is also a good option for RVs as it is it’s powerful enough to run even the most powerful RV cooling or heating units that demand upwards of 1800 watts.
The Durostar DS4000S uses a 4-gallon fuel tank and offers an 8-hour runtime at 50% of its maximum rated load.
For versatility and convenience, this generator has 3 power outlets comprising of two 120V 20 Amp outlets, and another 3-pronged 120V 30 Amp outlet for use with 30 Amp generator cords.
Its panel also houses a low-oil light warning to attract your attention when it’s time for oil change, and an automatic low-oil shutdown feature in case you don’t add the oil on time.
Briggs & Stratton 30664 8000W Portable Generator
- Very easy to start
- Easy to set up
- Outputs lots of power for a generator at its price
- Lots of convenience features including an electric starter, low-oil shutdown, and fuel gauge
- A few complaints about mishandling during shipping
| Briggs & Stratton 30664 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 10000 |
| Running Watts | 8000 |
| Noise Level | N/A |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 7.5 |
| Run Time | 9 hrs |
| Dimensions (in) | 34.7 x 26.7 x 23 |
| Weight (lbs) | 246 |
Compared to the Westinghouse WGen 7500, the first thing that I loved about this Briggs and Stratton generator is its simple control panel.
This portable power generator also brings a lot more power to your home, job site, or campsite with its 2100 series 420cc OHV engine that generates 10,000 watts of start power and 8,000 watts of continuous power.
While Briggs & Stratton 30664 is almost two hundred bucks pricier than the WGen 7500, the extra 500 watts might be just what you need for your high-power tools and equipment.
This generator has a 7.5-gallon metallic fuel tank and will offer you over 9 hours of continuous runtime at 50% load. While this is notably shorter than what the WGen 7500 offers, don’t forget that this Briggs & Stratton outputs more power.
Just as you’d expect from a generator this size, this model has four 120v outlets for most of your household items and one 120/240 volt 30-amp outlet that most power tools require.
Other great features that you’ll definitely appreciate here include a key electric start for effortless powering, a fuel gauge and an hour meter to help you monitor the gas level with ease, and an onboard circuit breaker for protection.
In addition, I like that Briggs & Stratton 30664 comes with a 3-year warranty which is considerably longer than the 1-year warranty that most models come with.
Generac 5735 GP17500E Gas Powered Portable Generator
- Massive power for a generator at its price range
- Heavy-duty engine and frame for longer life
- Decent value for wattage output
- OHVI engine requires low maintenance
- Electric start for easy startups
- At 390 pounds, you’ll need several people to lift it up and push it around
- Requires a good amount of fuel due to its high output
- It’s loud
| Generac GP17500E Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 26250 |
| Running Watts | 17500 |
| Noise Level | N/A |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 16 |
| Run Time | 10 hrs |
| Dimensions (in) | 48.5 x 31 x 39.5 |
| Weight (lbs) | 390 |
Boasting an incredible running power of 17,500 watts and a startup wattage of 26,260 watts, you won’t be wrong to refer to the Generac 5735 Generac GP17500E as a portable ‘standby’ generator.
Honestly, this is just as powerful as a portable generator can get, and it’s a highly recommendable option for powering up a large mansion and a small commercial outlet during prolonged blackouts. It’s also a very reliable option for contractors with several types of equipment that run at high power settings that low-power generators can’t offer.
Unlike the Duromax XP12000EH that restricts you on what appliances to power with it, there are virtually no limitations as to what electric equipment you can use with the Generac GP17500E- yes, including your power-hungry electric on-demand water heater and 5-ton AC!
Generac is a brand of Briggs and Stratton and the excellent craftsmanship that this American manufacturer is known for is reflected here.
This power generator is fitted with a 992cc OHVI engine. But what I find so fantastic is that this engine is served by a pressurized oil lubrication system similar to what you’d find in your car. This is a promise of a significantly longer and stress-free life.
This enormous engine is also accompanied by a beefy power panel consisting of four 120v, one 120v 30A, one 120/240v, and one 12VDC outlet.
Now, featuring a large 16-gallon tank, Generac GP17500E is rated at 10 hours at 50% load. Of course, not most American homes use 8,750w in a span of 10 hours. So you can expect to get close to 15 hours for your average-sized home.
WEN 56682 7000W Electric Start Generator Generator
- Relatively affordable
- Lots of power
- Strong frame and durable tires
- Foldable handles for portability
- Very easy to put up together with all the necessary tools included in the package
- Lacks a wattage output display
| WEN 56682 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 7000 |
| Running Watts | 5500 |
| Noise Level | 74 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 6.5 |
| Run Time | 11 hrs |
| Dimensions (in) | 28.4 x 22.4 x 26 |
| Weight (lbs) | 200 |
How about a portable generator that costs a few hundred dollars but is designed to offer the power, reliability, and portability that most homeowners operating a tight budget look for? Enter the Wen 56682.
This model uses a 390cc 13 HP air-cooled OHV engine that outputs 7000 watts of power at peak, and 5500 watts of continuous power.
Carrying a 6.5-gallon fuel tank, Wen 56682 generator can keep your home appliances and job site tools running for up to 11 hours at half load.
This portable generator is designed to offer versatility at its best whether at home or in the wilderness. Its panel features a Twist-Lock 120/240V 30A receptacle for high-power 120V tools, four 120V 20A three-prong outlets, and one car-charger-style 12V DC outlet for most of your handheld portable devices.
Other great features that give it the upper hand when compared to other generators in its class include an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) that stabilizes the voltage produced in various load conditions, and a Digital Hour Counter to keep you posted on the amount of time remaining till the need for refueling.
The Wen 56682 has the most coveted keyless electric start, and it also has a backup recoil starter in case the electric start battery is low on power.
Weighing around 200 pounds, this is not a generator that you’ll easily grab and throw at the back of your pickup truck. Nevertheless, its never-flat wheels and foldable handles make it very easy for almost any capable adult to roll it around.
Comparison of the Best Portable Generators
| Preview | Generators | Rating | Starting Watts | Running Watts | Noise Level | Fuel Type | Tank size (gal) | Run Time (hrs) | Dimensions (in) | Weight (lbs) | Engine Displacement | Starting Method | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Champion 7500 Watt DF | 5/5 | 9375 | 7500 | 74 dBA | Gasoline, Propane | 6 | 8 (gasoline), 5.5 (propane) | 27.8 x 28.7 x 26.4 | 202.4 | 439cc | Electric, Recoil | 3 years |
 | Honda EU2200i | 4.9/5 | 2200 | 1800 | 48 dBA | Gasoline | 0.95 | 8.1 | 20 x 11.4 x 16.7 | 47 | 121cc | Recoil | 3 years |
 | Westinghouse WGen7500 | 4.8/5 | 9000 | 7500 | 73 dBA | Gasoline | 6.6 | 11 | 27.2 x 26.5 x 26 | 192 | 420cc | Electric, Remote, Recoil | 3 years |
 | DuroMax XP12000EH | 4.7/5 | 12000 | 9500 | 74 dBA | Gasoline, Propane | 8.3 | 8.83 (gasoline), 7.2 (propane) | 40 x 27.5 x 29 | 260 | 457cc | Electric, Recoil | 3 years |
 | Firman P03601 | 4.6/5 | 4550 | 3650 | N/A | Gasoline | 5 | 14 | 23.2 x 17.5 x 18.5 | 101.5 | 208cc | Recoil | 3 years |
 | A-IPower SUA12000E | 4.5/5 | 12000 | 9000 | 78 dBA | Gasoline | 7 | 9 | 27 x 27 x 27 | 206 | 459cc | Electric | 2 years |
 | DuroStar DS4000S | 4.4/5 | 4000 | 3300 | 69 dBA | Gasoline | 3.96 | 12 | 23 x 18 x 17.5 | 105 | 208cc | Recoil | 3 years |
 | Briggs & Stratton 30664 | 4.3/5 | 10000 | 8000 | N/A | Gasoline | 7.5 | 9 | 34.7 x 26.7 x 23 | 246 | 420cc | Electric, Recoil | 3 years |
 | Generac GP17500E | 4.2/5 | 26250 | 17500 | N/A | Gasoline | 16 | 10 | 48.5 x 31 x 39.5 | 390 | 992cc | Electric | 2 years |
 | WEN 56682 | 4.1/5 | 7000 | 5500 | 74 dBA | Gasoline | 6.5 | 11 | 28.4 x 22.4 x 26 | 200 | 390cc | Electric | 2 years |
How to Choose the Right Portable Generator For Your Needs
Different portable generators are made to serve different needs and this can easily be seen in the reviews above. The following lines will help you understand what to look for to find the best portable generator for home use, recreational activities, or work. Here are the steps to follow:
- Determine what size generator you need
- Determine what type of generator you want
- Consider the portable generator’s features and specifications
Determine what size generator you need
The very first thing that you need to consider when choosing a portable generator is whether it packs enough juice to power up all the appliances and lights that you’ll be using simultaneously.
Here are common watt ranges depending on the generator’s use:
- Emergency power backup for home– a generator in the range of 3000-6500 watts should be enough to power several devices, such as a TV, AC, laptops, and kitchen appliances. Aim for the upper range if you have household appliances that require significant amounts of power, such as a furnace, water pump or electric heater.
- RVing– a portable generator with at least 3000 starting watts and 2000 running watts should suffice to power a 10,000 BTU RV air conditioner (2000 starting watts), a small TV (120-200 watts), slow cookers (170-200 watts) and a typical RV fridge that requires around 600 watts to start up.
- Camping/tailgating/boating– a generator with at 2000 starting watts and a continuous running output of at least 1000 watts
- Construction and power tools– between 5000 and 8000 watts depending on the power tools that need to be used concurrently.
How to determine your wattage needs?
To determine your ideal size of generator, you need to calculate your wattage needs.
When calculating the number of watts that your appliances will require in total, there are 2 measurements that you need to consider:
- Running watts– this refers to the watts that a given appliance requires to continue operating under normal load.
- Starting watts– this refers to the number of watts that some appliances require at startup and when running at their peak. Most appliances require 1.5-2x their running watts to start up.
To determine your power needs, calculate the total running watts of your appliances then add the highest starting watts. It’s also important to add 10% to your total wattage needs to allow for error.
For instance, here are a few basic appliances that you might need when camping:
| Appliances | Running watts | Starting watts |
| Cell phone charger | 10 | 0 |
| Inflator pump | 50 | 150 |
| TV 42’’ | 240 | 0 |
| Electric Griddle | 1200 | 0 |
Your total wattage needs in such a scenario would be 1815W – the sum of running watts, starting watts and the additional 10%.
How to determine how much power your appliances require?
Most appliances will have an energy label either at the back or around the base. Others will also have it included in the name tag or embedded on the motor. If you can’t locate the number in any of these locations, then you might need to look for it in the user’s manual.
In case the power requirements are indicated in amps, not watts, then simply multiply the number of amps with the voltage that the appliance runs at – Watts= Amps x Volts.
Here are our recommendations for the best portable generators depending on their wattage output:
- 2000-watt generators
- 3000-watt generators
- 4000-watt generators
- 5000-watt generators
- 10000-watt generators
Types of portable generators
There are different types of generators depending on the fuel type they require for operations. Each of these types operates differently and comes with its pros and cons. Therefore, it is important to understand the difference between them in order to make an educated choice when selecting the best portable generator for specific power needs. Here are the different types of power generators:
Gasoline-powered generators
Gas-powered models are the most popular type of generators. They run on gasoline which is cheaper than other fuels and it’s also widely available. Unfortunately, the gas generators are poor performers in terms of efficiency. In addition, they release a lot of emissions and tend to be a tad hard to start in cold weather.
Diesel-powered generators
Fuel efficiency is the major advantage of the diesel-powered portable generators. They also last longer under severe use if maintained properly and can generate a lot of power. This makes them perfect for powering heavy-duty tools. However, diesel generators are quite noisy although manufacturers have put a lot of effort into curbing this issue in recent years. Also, they tend to come at a higher price than gasoline generators.
Propane gas-powered generators
Propane-powered generators are known for their affordability and lower noise emissions compared to other types of generators. Propane is readily available and has a longer shelf life than gasoline and diesel. These generators are ideal as an emergency backup power solution or for powering up small appliances. One major drawback of propane generators is related to their complex fuel system which tends to fail frequently.
Dual Fuel Generators
Dual fuel generators, as the name suggests, use two types of fuel (usually, gasoline and propane). These generators give you the option to choose what fuel to use depending on the situation. They also provide extended run time considering that you switch over to propane when the gasoline runs out or vice versa. However, this convenience has its price, as bi-fuel generators tend to cost more than one fuel models.
Solar-powered generators
Solar-powered generators produce electricity from the sun and store it in batteries for later use. Since there is no engine in them, they don’t emit any noise when operating. This makes them perfect for camping. However, solar portable generators don’t generate much power. Most of them have a power storage capability of 1kWh to 2kWh, which is hardly sufficient to power a full-sized fridge for 2-3hrs. Therefore, they are not suitable for large appliances or heavy-duty tools.
Inverter generator
Inverter generators are very quiet, fuel-efficient, and portable. Unlike conventional generators, they can adjust the speed of the engine to match the power requirements, and thus, reducing fuel consumption by up to 40%. They are also much quieter and lighter, which makes them a prefered choice for camping or tailgating. However, inverter generators have lower power output and are more expensive than regular portable generators.
Features to look for in a portable generator
Runtime
This refers to how long in hours a generator can run when set at either 25% or 50% of its total power. While some portable generators will run for over 15 hours, others take only 4 hours to conk out.
Generator runtime depends on the size of its fuel; the more fuel it can hold, the longer it will run before the need for refueling.
Noise
A generator’s noise level may not be at the top of your priority list, but this is an important consideration especially when living in a neighborhood with strict noise regulations on generator usage, or when camping. The quietest portable generators produce noise in the range between 50 and 60 dBA. This is as noisy as a normal conversation.
Here are some noise-reducing features to consider when hunting for a quiet generator:
- Completely enclosed casing
- Rubber feet
- Noise suppressor
- Internal silent muffler
- Quality construction
Easy starting
Depending on the manufacturer and brand, a portable generator may use either a recoil cord or an electric start to start. It goes without saying that the latter is the easiest to use especially if you are dealing with arthritis.
Ease of mobility
Although portable generators are meant to be moved around, they differ considerably with regard to the ease of mobility. On this issue, consider the weight of the generator and whether it has handles and/or wheels to make it easy to move.
Fuel-gauge
A fuel gauge keeps you posted on how much fuel is left in the tank without having to open the lid. It is a very useful feature if the generator will be running for prolonged periods of time. Some of the latest portable generators have a digital timer that shows how long in minutes or hours the remaining fuel will last.
Built-in low oil shut-off
This feature will shut down the engine if the oil falls below a certain level to prevent permanent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of portable generator is best for home use?
There are inverter and regular generators powerful enough to run all your home’s essentials. And while inverter models are quieter and more fuel-efficient, they are also more expensive. Therefore, the choice of a portable generator for home use will strongly depend on your wattage needs and requirements. However, if you are looking for a whole-house power backup solution then Duromax XP12000EH might be the model for you.
Can I use a portable generator in a vented room?
No. Portable generators are meant to be used outside in areas with lots of fresh air due to the high levels of carbon monoxide that they produce. This gas is invisible and has no smell, but it kills within minutes. The generator should be placed at least 20 feet away from your home and far from windows and vents.
Can a generator explode?
Yes, it could but such occurrences are rare provided the manufacturer’s instructions are followed to the latter. Remember that your portable generator runs on very flammable and explosive fuel that can lead to fire or explosion in case it comes into contact with a hot surface, for instance, the engine or if the gasoline fumes reach an open flame. To learn how to prevent a generator from exploding, check our in-depth article on how to use a generator safely.
Can I use a portable generator in wet weather?
It is not safe nor recommended to use a portable generator in wet weather because not only water can easily get into the outlets and damage the generator but you also run the risk of electrocution. Use a tent or other type of shelter to protect your generator if you have to use it in wet conditions.
Can I connect an emergency portable generator to the main supply?
It’s possible to connect your portable generator to your electrical outlets so it takes over in case of an outage. But there are several precautions that you need to put in mind. Generally, this should only be done by a qualified electrician and a transfer switch should be installed. Otherwise, there is a risk of back-feed, i.e, feeding power to your main’s utility lines which could electrocute employees trying to restore the power.
When should I change the oil in a portable generator?
Always follow the manufacturer’s guide on matters regarding oil type and how often you need to change or top up it up. Generally, most small, portable generators will require an oil change after every 50 hours but keep in mind that the first oil change may be sooner than this.
How long can you run a portable generator continuously?
From a few hours to a day or two at most. Portable generators are not designed to run continuously without a stop. They have a lifespan of 10,000 to 25,000-hours if used moderately and with proper maintenance. If you leave the generator running forever, the engine is going to fail at some point.
Conclusion
The market has a whole lot of options for generators and they widely differ by type, size, and functionality as it comes clear from the portable generator reviews in this article.
Now, while it’s difficult to pick just one generator and crown it as the best portable generator overall, I feel that the Champion 7500-Watt generator is the leader here for a couple of reasons: it is relatively affordable, has enough power to run most of the home appliances, and can run on both gasoline and propane. Although it may not be a good fit for camping because of its weight and noisiness, Champion 7500-Watt is still a fantastic all-round portable generator you can rely on whenever power is needed.
