10 Best 12000 Watt Generator 2026 in the United States

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.

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 Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator is a robust and versatile option ideal for home backup power. It offers significant power output with 13500 peak watts and 10500 running watts on gasoline, ensuring it can handle most household needs during an outage. Its ability to run on gasoline, propane, and natural gas adds flexibility and convenience depending on fuel availability.

The generator boasts a respectable run time of up to 19 hours on a 9.5-gallon fuel tank, which is quite impressive for long-term use without frequent refueling. Additionally, the remote electric start with a key fob, along with electric and recoil start options, enhances user convenience, especially during emergencies. It comes equipped with five outlets, including household, transfer switch ready, and RV ready options, all with rubber covers for safety.

The heavy-duty 500cc engine with a cast iron sleeve ensures durability, and features like automatic low oil and CO shutdown add an extra layer of protection. However, weighing in at 230 pounds, it is quite heavy and may not be the easiest to move around, despite its 'portable' label. The generator comes ready to use with minimal assembly and includes useful accessories like a battery charger, oil, and a tool kit. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty, it’s a reliable choice for those needing a powerful and versatile generator, though its weight might be a drawback for some users.