10 Best 12000 Watt Generator 2026 in the United States

The DuroMax XP15000HXT is a robust 15,000-watt generator designed to power an entire home or jobsite, making it a strong choice for those needing a reliable backup during outages or heavy power demands. It runs on three types of fuel—gasoline, propane, or natural gas—offering great flexibility depending on what you have available. With a large 13.2-gallon gas tank and the ability to switch fuel types quickly from the front panel, it provides good run time and convenience.

Starting the generator is easy with its push-button and remote start options, eliminating the hassle of manual pulls. The generator includes a well-equipped power panel with multiple outlets, including 120V and 240V options, and a 50 amp output ready for transfer switches, which is perfect for home backup setups. It features advanced safety with a CO Alert system that automatically shuts the unit down if carbon monoxide is detected, adding peace of mind for indoor use near living spaces. The digital display shows important info like fuel level and power load, helping you monitor performance at a glance.

At 362 pounds, it’s on the heavier side but the included wheel and handle kit help with moving it around, so it’s portable enough for occasional relocation but not something you'd want to move daily. This generator suits anyone needing a heavy-duty, versatile, and user-friendly power source that can handle large loads with multiple fuel options. Its size and weight mean it’s best suited for stationary or semi-permanent setups rather than frequent transport.

The DuroMax XP13000E is a strong and reliable gasoline-powered generator that delivers a high starting wattage of 13,000 and a running wattage of 10,500, making it suitable for powering large appliances, power tools, and even whole-home backup during outages. It runs on gasoline, which is easy to find but requires careful storage. With a 0.5-gallon fuel tank, it provides about 8 hours of runtime at half load, which is decent but may need refueling for longer use.

This model includes an electric start, making it easier to power up without pulling a recoil cord. It also features a low oil shutdown and a carbon monoxide sensor for added safety, which is a thoughtful inclusion. The generator offers a versatile selection of outlets, including heavy-duty 120/240V and household 120V outlets, allowing you to connect a variety of devices. Portability is supported by foldable handles and a wheel kit, but at 236 pounds, it is quite heavy, so moving it might require some effort.

This unit is well-suited for residential or commercial use where strong, reliable power is needed, especially in emergencies or outdoor work. However, its weight and fuel capacity make it less ideal if you need a lightweight or extended runtime solution.

The Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Generator is a strong choice for reliable power backup at home, especially during outages. It runs on both gasoline and propane, providing flexibility depending on fuel availability. With 9,500 running watts on gas and 8,500 on propane, it can handle most household essentials like refrigerators, lights, and small appliances. Its 6.6-gallon tank supports up to 12 hours of runtime, which is convenient for extended use.

Starting the generator is easy with a remote electric start and a manual recoil backup, making it user-friendly. The generator has multiple outlets, including standard household plugs, a transfer switch ready outlet, and an RV outlet, allowing safe connection of various devices. Safety features such as automatic low oil shutdown and a carbon monoxide sensor enhance user peace of mind. The noise level is around 74 decibels, which is typical for this power class—noticeable but not overly loud.

On the downside, the unit is quite heavy at over 225 pounds, making it less portable for frequent moving without assistance. While it includes a handle for maneuvering, it is better suited for stationary or occasional relocation rather than daily transport. Some users may find the size and weight challenging if they desire a lightweight generator. This generator serves well for homeowners seeking a dependable, versatile backup power source with easy start options and solid safety features, though moving it requires some effort due to its weight.