Facing a power outage without backup can be risky. The best portable generators transform these potentially dangerous scenarios into mere inconveniences, powering everything from important medical devices through the night to your coffee maker in the morning.
For this guide, we drew on our experience using standard, inverter, and battery-powered generators for work and our personal lives. We also consulted with a certified emergency manager. The Honda EM5000SX is the best portable generator for most people, combining serious power output with reliability. Costing under $600, our budget pick is the Champion Dual Fuel, which operates using gas or propane — a crucial feature when fuel sources are scarce.
Portable generators aren't just for emergency preparedness. Thanks to their sturdy wheels and smart handle design, you can take them wherever you need power. They're ideal for upgrading your camping, tailgating, or construction experience. Below, we recommend the best solutions based on your budget and power needs.
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Top picks for portable generators
Best overall: Honda EM5000SX Portable Generator - See at Amazon
Best dual fuel: Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12500 Portable Generator - See at Amazon
Best budget: Champion Power Equipment 4375-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator - See at Amazon
Best heavy duty: Honda EB10000 Portable Generator - See at Amazon
Best compact: Honda EU2200i Portable Generator - See at Amazon
Best battery powered: Anker SOLIX F3800 Portable Power Station - See at Amazon
Best overall
This expert-recommended Honda generator is versatile enough for a range of applications, and provides the best balance of performance, reliability and power.
- Convenient electric start
- Carbon monoxide detection system
- Long run time
- Bluetooth connected
- Relatively heavy weight
This Honda generator was specifically recommended by our expert Michael Prasad, a certified emergency manager and senior research analyst at Barton Dunant, who praised its overall reliability. Its functional design hits that user-friendly sweet spot of performance and portability, boasting a powerful 389cc iGX390 Honda engine, intuitive controls, and a pair of beefy rubber wheels for convenient transport.
The 5,000-watt running output is sufficient for powering most household appliances and a great portable option to connect to your home via transfer switch. We're also fans of this model's Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to use the Honda My Generator app (available for iOS and Android). As long as you're within 75 feet, you can use your phone or another connected device to start and stop the machine remotely, as well as monitor its output power, engine operating hours, fuel level, and maintenance reminders.
Best dual fuel
Instead of relying on a single fuel source, this dual-fuel machine accepts both gas and propane, and can seamlessly switch between the two.
- High running wattage
- Versatile fuel system
- Remote start
- Bulky size may not be ideal for storage
Capable of using gas or propane for fuel, this Westinghouse generator is a great choice for those who don't want to be limited to a single fuel source. My favorite feature of this dual-fuel machine is its user-friendly design. A straightforward fuel switch makes it easy to select your preferred option, and since you don't have to shut off the unit to do so, keeps power flowing at all times. Large, color-coded wattage specs for each fuel type are clearly displayed too, so you won't need to go digging through the manual to make sure your appliance is compatible.
A push-button start adds to this hassle-free operation, and the remote start key fob is effective from up to 99 feet away. This generator also includes a propane hose with a regulator, so there is no need to purchase it separately. This model is available in a 15,000-watt option for those who want more power, as well as 4,650, 6,600, and 9,500-watt versions for lighter-duty use.
Best budget
Priced lower than similarly-functional machines, this Champion Power Equipment generator still provides an impressive amount of power, as well as a versatile dual-fuel operation.
- Affordable price compared to similar models
- CO auto shutoff system
- Dual fuel operation
- Relatively limited outlet options
- No electric start feature
- Lacks wheels for rolling transport
Despite its affordable price, this Champion Power Equipment generator provides nearly as much functionality as its higher-end competitors, thanks to a dual-fuel operation, 3500W running wattage, and range of outlets. Although our previous "budget-friendly" pick — the gas-only Briggs & Stratton 3500W Portable Generator — is still a fine option; it's unavailable, and we felt the Champion Power Equipment 4375-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator offered more versatility for nearly the same price.
The running wattage (3500W for gas and 3150 for propane) is sufficient to power larger appliances like refrigerators or washing machines individually or multiple items like well-pumps, coffee makers, and microwaves at the same time. The 4.7-gallon gas tank also provides 14 hours of runtime at 50% load. The covered outlets are also a nice perk, preventing unused ports from being damaged by the elements. Although it's not as powerful as larger options, the 3,500-watt capacity translates to a lower overall weight of just 104 pounds, which naturally increases portability.
I also made sure not to skimp on safety when choosing this lower-budget option and that, like every model on our list, this machine automatically shuts off when harmful levels of CO are detected.
Best heavy duty
With a robust one-piece frame and 9,000-watt running capacity, this model is designed to stand up to emergency conditions, and still deliver a ton of power.
- Huge AC output
- Large fuel tank
- Durable one-piece welded frame
- Very heavy
- Noisier than smaller machines
This 10,000-watt Honda generator is beefy enough to deliver large power loads, and its robust frame is well-suited to heavy-duty use. Whether you're using it to power table saws, air compressors, and bench grinders on a rough job site, or just want to make sure it can withstand the damaging effects of a natural disaster unscathed, this is a great option.
The Honda GX630 commercial engine provides 9,000 running watts, and the 8.1-gallon fuel tank has an impressive runtime of 7.9 hours at half-load capacity. This machine is naturally louder than smaller models, although not by a huge amount. Its 73-decibel level is only marginally louder than the 66-decibel level of our top pick, the Honda EM5000SX.
Not surprisingly, this heavy-duty machine is, well, pretty heavy. Its 403-pound weight is beefier than any other option on our list, although the convenient lift-hook handle and wheel kit make this less of an issue.
Best compact
This compact generator weighs just 47.4 pounds and features a top-mounted carrying handle for one-handed transport.
- Light enough to carry one-handed
- Compact size for storage
- Long runtime
- Not powerful enough to run multiple large items
If portability is your top priority, and don't have the need or space for a large-output machine, look no further than this compact Honda generator. Another Honda model recommended by our expert Prasad, this 47.4-pound generator features a top-mounted carrying handle for convenient transport and storage. This compact design is also well-suited for emergency evacuation situations, and much easier to toss into the bed of a pickup truck than a 200-pound machine.
Despite its small footprint, this model's 2,200 starting wattage is sufficient to run a full-sized refrigerator or freezer, or multiple smaller appliances like microwaves, electric skillets, coffee makers, or small air conditioners. Depending on the load, this generator can run continuously for up to 9.6 hours. If you need more power but don't want to worry about transporting and storing a full-size machine, you can simply purchase a second unit and use a parallel cord to combine their outputs.
Best battery powered
This solar generator provides just as much power as the gas guzzlers, and with no harmful fumes or noise to worry about, you can use it indoors.
- Impressive running wattage
- Wheeled base and built-in handles make it convenient to transport
- Can be used indoors
- Solar panels eliminate the need to prep or store fuel canisters
- Solar charging can be affected by the weather
- Solar panels can be inconvenient to store or operate
- Less durable than metal-framed options
Although the Anker SOLIX F3800 is technically considered a "power station" on its own, by including two solar panels — allowing it to "generate" energy instead of just storing it — it serves the same function as the gas and propane-powered options on our list. Essentially a giant rechargeable battery, the Anker's 3840Wh capacity provides an impressive amount of power for its size, capable of charging a smartphone 465 times, running a mini fridge for 30 hours, or a full-size refrigerator for 14.9 hours. You can also string together multiple units and connect it to your electric panel with a home backup kit for expanded functionality.
Its 6000W running wattage is much higher than our previous "Best Solar" pick, the Anker F2000, which increases the size and quantity of items you can connect at once. It also powers high- and regular-voltage appliances at the same time without issue, ensuring your 240V oven and 120V refrigerator continue to function in a blackout.
The Anker's gas-free operation is also virtually silent, and with no harmful fumes or CO risk, can be used indoors. Thanks to its two 200W solar panels, you're also not reliant on fuel sources like gas or propane that may become unavailable or expensive in an extended emergency situation. Anker claims that these two panels — when used in ideal conditions — can charge the unit from 0 to 80% in just 1.5 hours. Of course, that rate will significantly decrease in less-than-ideal conditions, like in overcast or rainy weather. Also, it isn't designed to be charged in freezing conditions.
Fortunately, you can also charge Solix F3800 by plugging it into a wall socket. In our tests, it only took about two hours to charge from empty to full.
Another useful feature of this generator is its wide variety of output ports. In addition to six standard 120V AC ports and a 12V option for car charging, you also get three USB-C and two USB-A ports. Plus, NEMA 14-50 and L14-30 ports allow for convenient RV and EV connections.
We're also big fans of the large, bright display, which gives you a lot more data than the gas-powered generators on this list. The Anker app also allows you to monitor the operation from afar, check real-time charging status and remaining battery, and even customize power usage.
What to look for in a portable generator
If you're not familiar with these machines and how they work, purchasing the best portable generator for your needs can be an intimidating process. Keep these factors in mind as you're shopping:
Type
There are two main types of portable generators, conventional (or "standard") and inverter generators, which generate electricity in slightly different ways.
- Conventional generators have an engine that powers a motor, which uses an alternator to generate alternating current (AC) electricity. These generators are relatively simple to repair and maintain, but since their energy output is directly coupled to their engine RPMs, they aren't as efficient as inverter generators. The majority of the picks in our guide are conventional generators (apart from the inverter and solar-powered models).
- Inverter generators are more complex, and instead of just outputting the AC electricity straight from the engine, use two additional steps to better regulate their electrical output. After generating AC from the motor, inverter generators then convert that electricity into a more stable direct current (DC), and then back into AC — calibrating it to the required output of the specific device being powered. So, instead of running the engine at the same RPM regardless of the electrical load required, an inverter generator only produces the amount of electricity being drawn, allowing it to be much more fuel efficient than a standard generator.
Fuel
All portable generators require some kind of fuel to convert into electricity. While most run on gasoline, others use propane, and larger full-house generators can also use diesel or natural gas, so make sure you choose the one best suited to your situation. Prasad says you should consider where you would store the fuel for your generator, and where you plan on obtaining it in your local area. Gas is a popular option because of its availability, but you'll need to have a supply on hand if you want to be fully prepared for an emergency. If you wait until you're ready to use your generator, you may be standing in long lines with everyone else at the gas station.
"Dual-fuel" generators are becoming more common and can accept multiple fuel types, typically gas and propane. Dual-fuel models aren't just convenient, they're invaluable during extended power outages when gas stations have run dry, since you can seamlessly switch over to propane. "After a major storm with multi-day power outages, it is easier to get a tank of propane than it is to get a gallon of gasoline," said Prasad.
Solar-powered portable generators only require sunlight to convert to electricity. Although they take longer to charge up, these models have essentially an unlimited fuel supply (as long as the skies are clear of course) and are the best portable generator options if you're totally off the grid.
Wattage (starting and running)
Portable generators have two wattage outputs, starting and running. The starting (or "surge") wattage is typically only for a few seconds, while the running wattage is what it can sustain for long periods of time. To make sure your generator meets your needs, Prasad advises that you calculate the total amount of energy used by whatever you plan on powering. Larger appliances like refrigerators typically state their required starting and running wattage information on their data plates, and for smaller items you may need to consult the product's instruction manual.
Outlets
To ensure your generator is compatible with the type and quantity of items being powered, make sure it has enough outlets, as well as the correct type. While standard 20A 120V duplex three-prong outlets are fine for smaller appliances, high-wattage applications typically require larger 30A outlets.
Weight
Even though portable generators are designed to be transported, they're not exactly lightweight. Prasad recommends that you consider your physical capabilities when choosing a portable generator. He adds that you'll need to be able to move it from a safe storage area to where you want to run it, reiterating that it needs to be positioned outside in an open area, and away from windows and doors where fumes might enter the home. If you want the capacity of a larger generator, but aren't able to move it safely, consider purchasing two smaller ones that can be paired together.
Noise
Portable generator engines can be loud, and if you plan on running them for long periods of time, can get a little irritating, especially at night. If maintaining a low noise level is a priority, compare the decibel (dBA) specs on your potential generators to choose the quietest option. Inverter generators are almost always quieter than standard generators, and solar-powered models are silent.
Safety
Safe generator usage "is one of the most critical aspects those of us in emergency management and public safety want to relay to the public," said Prasad. Portable generators that use combustion fuel, gas, and propane must be used outside — at least 20 feet from your home — to avoid deadly carbon monoxide buildup. All of our picks for the best portable generator have carbon monoxide detection and automatic shut-off features.
How we chose portable generators
When selecting the best portable generators for this article, I called upon my own experience as a general contractor using standard and inverter models, and also consulted with Michael Prasad, a certified emergency manager and senior research analyst at Barton Dunant, an emergency management training company.
I based my selections on several criteria, including portability, performance, user-friendly interface, and safety features. Due to Prasad's emphasis on safety, we made sure that all of our picks (apart from the solar-powered option) feature some kind of carbon monoxide detection and shut-off system.
Portable generator FAQs
What size generator do I need to run my house?
To calculate the size of the generator you need, first add up the wattage requirements for all the items you plan on powering at the same time.
The Home Depot has a convenient formula to determine the total wattage needed for each item: Running Wattage (R) + Starting Wattage (R x 3) = Total wattage needed.
Keep in mind that even the best portable generators are really only meant to run a few core items at a time. "If you plan on running all of the appliances, heating/air conditioning, and lights in your house during a hurricane when the power goes out, a portable generator is not the answer," said Prasad. To continue running everything as usual, you'll need a much larger whole-house generator.
How much power does a portable generator provide?
Power in portable generators is measured primarily in watts (W), which indicates how much electrical load they can handle at once. This wattage varies from one generator to another, with smaller units delivering 1000 - 3000 watts, midsize models with 3000 - 5000 watts, and the largest machines pumping out up to 9000 watts.
It's important to note that most generators advertise two different wattages: their "starting" (or surge) watts—which indicate the maximum power available for a few seconds to handle motor startup—and "running" watts—which is what they can continuously supply. Similarly, the items being powered have their own "starting" and "running" requirements, so make sure to take these numbers into account when calculating your needs.
How long can a portable generator supply power?
Whether you're choosing a portable generator for recreation or emergency planning, it's important to have a clear understanding of its runtime. The first factor to consider is the fuel type and tank size. Gasoline generators (the most common) with a 5-gallon tank typically provide 7 to 10 hours of runtime at 50% load, while a 20-lb propane tank can deliver 5 to 10 hours depending on demand. Naturally, the larger the fuel tank, the longer it can run. The load placed on the generator also affects its runtime, with higher loads consuming fuel faster than partial loads. While most generators can run continuously as long as you keep refueling, it's crucial that you stay on top of any maintenance requirements like oil and air filter changes. These maintenance intervals will be detailed in your generator's user manual, as well as any cool-down guidelines.
Fuel accessibility is another factor to consider, especially in emergency situations. In a natural disaster, gas or propane may not be convenient to find (due to logistical issues or hoarding by others) making a dual-fuel machine naturally more valuable. This way you can switch over to whichever fuel you can more easily find. It's also worth noting that stored backup gas can start to degrade after 6 months to a year, while propane stays stable indefinitely.
What can I use a portable generator for?
You can use a portable generator to power a wide range of items, from small electronics like smartphones and laptops, to large draw appliances and power tools, and even RVs and electric vehicles. This versatility makes portable generators useful for off-grid recreation activities like camping or RV excursions, or as a backup power supply in the event of a natural disaster (allowing you to keep your fridge, smartphones, and medical equipment up and running). They're also useful for powering tools and equipment (such as lighting and air compressors) on a construction jobsite, as well as outdoor events, powering sound systems, food service equipment, or inflatable attractions.
Is an inverter better than a generator?
Inverter generators aren't necessarily better than other types of generators, but they do have their advantages. They have superior fuel efficiency, and are also typically lighter and more compact than standard generators, which makes them more convenient for transport and storage.
What are the disadvantages of an inverter generator?
Inverter generators tend to be more expensive upfront than conventional options, and have a lower power output.
Should I choose a power station over a portable generator?
You can't beat the raw power and convenient fuel-to-power operation of a portable generator, but certain situations would be better served by a power station. Power stations are essentially big rechargeable batteries with built-in charging ports, providing a supply of usable, portable power that you can save for a power outage or bring along on an off-grid excursion. Although power stations typically lack the power output of a portable generator, their smaller size and lighter weight are more convenient to transport, making them ideal for short-duration trips to the beach, tailgate, campsite, or off-grid cabin. They also don't produce harmful emissions like most portable generators, so you can use them inside a house, RV, or tent without issue. When depleted, you simply plug them into your wall outlet at home to charge them back up.
So, if portability is a priority, and your power needs are limited to smartphones, laptops, and smaller appliances like a fan or blender, a power station is probably a more practical choice than a generator. If you're still not sure which option is best for you, this breakdown of portable generators vs. power stations discusses the topic in much more detail.
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