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Powermate generators are increasingly becoming a common sighting in most homes when the lights go out. Perhaps the major reason for their popularity is their excellent price to power value. But what’s more, Powermate portable generators combine parts from the major generator brands to create a reliable generator at a reasonable price range.
In this Powermate generator review, we’re going to dig deeper into the design, features, and overall performance of these generators. In addition, our team has handpicked top 5 Powermate generators that we believe are the best to buy today.
Distinguishing Features of Powermate Generators
- An easily distinguishable red-black theme and a unique framework that creates dual lifting handles.
- All generators have an Automatic Voltage Regular (AVR) – this device maintains the output wattage at a safe value to prevent damaging high-tech appliances.
- Optimum portability- in addition to the dual lifting handles, most Powermate portable generators have a pair of folding handles and sizable never-flat wheels.
- Electric and recoil start variants- these generators offer both manual and battery-powered electric start options.
- Outlet cover- a common feature in most Powermate generators, this cover keeps debris and dust out, making the generators great for outdoor use.
Pricing
Powermate generators are generally inexpensive, at least compared to other brands, such as Honda and Yamaha. The average cost of a Powermate generator that you can rely on to power the most common household appliances at home is around $625. A cheap Powermate generator for low-power needs goes for around $250 while the priciest models cost about $1000.
Are Powermate generators good?
The key selling aspect of Powermate portable generators is that they combine their components from an array of other big companies in the industry. For instance, most of these generators use engines from other reputable manufacturers, including Yamaha, Honda, Generac, and Subaru. The engine is the single most crucial component in a generator. So, despite their relative affordability, most Powermate generators are incredibly reliable in terms of performance and durability. What’s more, there’s an assurance that you’ll find replacement parts easily even in the years to come.
A common aspect of these generators is that they don’t use sophisticated technologies and features as you will find out in the Powermate generator reviews below. Instead, the company aims at offering you a generator with most of the necessary features at a decent price range.
Most of these generators have an AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator) to protect your appliances and devices. A few of them also have a low-level oil shutdown to protect the engine. Again, depending on your budget, you can get a Powermate generator with recoil or electric starter and single or dual-fuel variants.
These generators aren’t the quietest (see our guide to buying the best quiet portable generator), but they are just as loud as average generators can get. If noise levels matter to you, this brand’s inverter generators are a recommendable option.
Pros
- Affordable
- Designed with excellent portability and maneuverability in mind
- Straightforward to use
- Quality components at a great price range
- Replacement parts are easy to find
Cons
- Some of them can get loud
- Sourcing components from different manufacturers means inconsistent reliability
Powermate Generators Overall Rating: 4.3/5 
Best Powermate Generators Reviews
Powermate PM2200i Inverter Generator
- Quiet
- Compact for easy storage
- Lightweight for portability
- Economy mode lowers noise level and fuel usage
- No fuel gauge or power meter
| Powermate PM2200i Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 2200 |
| Running Watts | 1700 |
| Noise Level | 62 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 1.2 |
| Run Time | 7 hrs at 50% load |
| Dimensions (in) | 29 x 24 x 28 |
| Weight (lbs) | 45 |
| Emissions | CARB |
The PM2200i is one of Powermate’s best-rated generators. This is an inverter generator with a Generac OHV engine that outputs 2200 starting watts and 1800 running watts. This is a recommendable unit for your outdoor and tailgating parties, picnics, and camping trips. It will also come in handy for most of your low power DIY tasks around the home.
Powermate 6957 DF3500E
- Dual fuel versatility
- Recoil and electric start variants
- Has a fuel gauge
- Has a digital multi-meter
- The battery might need replacement sooner
| Powermate 6957 DF3500E Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 4375 (gasoline), 4000 (propane) |
| Running Watts | 3500 (gasoline), 3200 (propane) |
| Noise Level | 68 dBA |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane |
| Tank size (gal) | 4.5 |
| Run Time | 10 hrs (gasoline), 10.5 hrs (propane) at 50% load |
| Dimensions (in) | 26.3 x 23 x 20.7 |
| Weight (lbs) | 118.2 |
The most outstanding feature of the Powermate 6957 DF3500E generator is its dual-fuel technology. The large knob in the middle lets you switch between gasoline and propane. Even better, the control panel also has an electric starter (battery included) for quick and hassle-free startups. The Powermate 6957 DF3500E produces 3500 running watts. The starting wattage is 4375w (gasoline) and 4000w (propane).
Powermate PM0103007 Vx Power Series
- Impressive design
- Relatively power efficient
- Starts easily
- Notably loud
- Questionable durability
- Not CARB compliant
| Powermate PM0103007 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 3750 |
| Running Watts | 3000 |
| Noise Level | N/A |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 4 |
| Run Time | 12 hrs at 50% load |
| Dimensions (in) | 27.6 x 19.1 x 19.7 |
| Weight (lbs) | 117 |
Besides its attractive design, the Powermate PM013007 Vx offers incredible fuel efficiency and power output. This generator has a Powermate 212cc OHV engine capable of outputting a maximum of 3750w and 3000 running watts. This engine offers up to 11 hours of runtime at 50% load from the 4-gallon gas tank. The control panel has an hour meter and two 120v 5-20R duplex outlets, one 120/240v L14-30R outlet, and one 12v battery charger.
Powermate PM0141201 Portable Generator
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Fuel efficient (10 hours at half load)
- Starts and runs nicely
- It’s a little loud
- Power output can be limiting
| Powermate PM0141201 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 1500 |
| Running Watts | 1200 |
| Noise Level | N/A |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 1.5 |
| Run Time | 10 hrs at 50% load |
| Dimensions (in) | 19.8 x 15.9 x 15.6 |
| Weight (lbs) | 60 |
The Powermate PM0141201 is among the most affordable generators from this brand. Its 98cc engine produces 1500 starting watts and 1200 running watts. That said, we’d recommend this model for your low power needs both indoors and outdoors. This generator is very easy to move around thanks to its small size and weight (60 lbs).
Powermate PM0601258 Portable Generator
- Generates tons of power
- Has a fuel gauge
- Low oil shutoff for long engine life
- Foldable handles and large wheels boost maneuverability
- Heavy at 360 lbs
- Non-CARB compliant
| Powermate PM0601258 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 15625 |
| Running Watts | 12500 |
| Noise Level | N/A |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Tank size (gal) | 8 |
| Run Time | 14 hrs at 50% load |
| Dimensions (in) | 39 x 22 x 30 |
| Weight (lbs) | 360 |
With a starting power of 15625 watts and a continuous power output of 12500 watts, the Powermate PM0601258 is an all-in-one generator for all household and commercial needs. It packs enough power for most small-to-mid range job sites and homes. This generator uses a 22 HP Subaru V-twin engine fueled via an 8-gallon gas tank with fuel gauge. The Powermate PM0601258 has four 120v 20A outlets, one 120/240v 50A outlet, and one 120v 30A twist-lock outlet.
About Powermate Brand
Powermate generator brand has been around for over 40 years. This brand is located in Marietta, Georgia, where it designs and inspects its quality.
Powermate sources most of its generator’s components from other manufacturers, including Generac, Honda, Yamaha, and Subaru. Besides generators, this brand also sells other items, including water pumps.
In 2009, Powermate entered into a collaboration with Pramac, a European brand with its US headquarters in Long Groove, Illinois. Pramac is responsible for marketing Powermate generators outside the North American Market.
| Company name | Powermate LLC |
|---|---|
| Address | 1300 Gresham Rd, Marietta, GA, 30062-4072 United States |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 800-445-1805 |
| Website | www.powermate.com |
| https://www.facebook.com/powermateproducts/ | |
| https://twitter.com/powermateusa |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Powermate generators?
Powermate generators are owned by Powermate LLC, which is located in Marietta, Georgia. However, most of the components that go into these generators are sourced from top generator manufacturers, such as Honda, Yamaha, Generac, and Subaru.
Where are Powermate generators made?
Powermate manufactures some of its generators in the USA. However, most of the components sourced from other companies are engineered in China.
Where to buy Powermate generators?
Powermate does not sell its products off their main website. But you can purchase these generators from most brick and mortar and online stores, such as Amazon, Home Depot, Walmart, Alibaba, eBay, and other retailers.
What warranty does Powermate generator come with?
Most Powermate portable generators come with a 2-year limited warranty.
Which is the best oil for Powermate generators?
Powermate recommends SAE 30 in temperatures above 32°F. If you live in areas with temperatures between 40°F and -10°F, use 10W-30 oil. Synthetic 5W-30 oil is usable across all temperatures.
Conclusion: Should You Buy a Powermate Generator?
As a conclusion to our Powermate portable generator reviews, we could say that most of these generators are generally well made, and they make a good purchase. However, keep in mind that Powermate sources most of its major components from other manufacturers. That said, these generators differ in reliability and durability. So, do some research and see what previous buyers have to say before investing in a given model.
All in all, we think that PM2200i and DF3500E are one of the best Powermate portable generators. The DF3500E is a dual fuel generator that will cover most of your emergency and portable power needs. And PM2200i is worth considering if you want a compact, quiet, and fuel-efficient generator for your camping and outdoor parties.
Lastly, if you want to compare Powermate generators with models from other brands, check our Powerhorse portable generator reviews or A-iPower generator reviews. For more portable generator reviews and recommendations, see our website’s menu.
